Serendipity Gourmet is a hidden gem for a quick, satisfying lunch in Wilmington. I ordered the hummus wrap with beef, and it was honestly one of the better wraps I've had around here--fresh ingredients, good portion, flavorful hummus, perfectly seasoned beef, and a nice mix of veggies and feta that all came together without being soggy or skimpy. The side of ridged chips with a little cup of sauce was a nice touch too. For the price, it's excellent value; you feel like you got a full, quality meal without it breaking the bank. The service was outstanding--the young woman at the register was super friendly, helpful, and genuinely nice. She answered questions, made recommendations, and just made the whole experience feel welcoming. No rush, no attitude, just good people. The place itself is clean and comfortable, with unique indoor and outdoor seating options that feel cozy and relaxed. It's not fancy, but it's well-kept and has a nice vibe for eating in. Big bonus points for no tipping culture here--no awkward tip screen shoved in your face, no guilt-tripping prompts. I appreciate when a business pays their staff fairly and doesn't put that pressure on customers. It's refreshing and makes me want to come back even more. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Hummus Wrap - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

Loved the small feel of the restaurant. Stood in line for a while. But honestly the speed of them making the food was worth it. The egg salad was delicious. The Greek grilled cheese came with a good size salad. Not too sure about the actual grilled cheese. read more

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I stopped in for lunch. The staff were matter of fact but seemed annoyed by my tip. I was surprised that the chicken wrap was hot. Nowhere on the menu did it state it would be served warm. It was fine, but I would have preferred it to be cold. It was a large wrap. Inside was not busy. I decided to eat on the patio. The price was a tad high for me. It was fine, but nothing worth returning to if I were to revisit the area. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - chicken wrap - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

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Cute and tasty casual lunch spot before a walk-about downtown Cary. Fresh made and flavorful sandwiches. Staff handles the busy lunch hour great, with little wait time. read more

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Serendipity Gourmet is an excellent location right next to where the annual Lazy Daze art fest is held in Cary by the Town Hall. It appears like a small house turned into a restaurant with a country home, mom and pop diner exterior and interior. It has a cute patio under umbrellas right on a lively suburban main street. And indoor seating which is more cramped, but still has plenty of seating. Today was 84 degrees in the summer and it was fine inside. But a little humid (all the cook prep is also done behind the open counter), and probably wouldn't want to be there when it's in the 90s. I really liked the ambiance and the bustle of people. It's not the prettiest of interiors (not the brightest light, darker wood). But it does feel comfortable anyway. I ordered the chicken salad plate ($9) and my sister ordered the gyro with chips. We shared a slice of carrot cake ($4.50). Chicken salad plate ($9): said to be the best chicken salad in town and in the menu. It has a pleasant, light, refreshing taste. But I guess there's not many ways to improve chicken salad. It was a classic taste, doesn't have a twist. I did enjoy it though. Finely shredded chicken pieces, a mild mayonnaise (not too vinegary), hint of salt, hint of sweetness, celery. Basic, classic, but nice. The three scoops seemed larger in pictures but smaller on the plate. A decent amount though. The salad was shredded lettuce. Also pleasant, refreshing. But I did want a bigger bed of lettuce. I don't think this was a super filling salad. It had sides of carrots, cucumber, bean sprouts, tomato. I loved the sprouts the most as it added a unique flavor. The vegetables were not mixed in which I didn't quite understand--but eventually I made chicken salad crackers with the cucumber and lettuce. Maybe that's the intention? I did not mind that. The sauce was a home made ranch dressing (done right!). Overall I would say the chicken salad plate is reasonably priced for the restaurant experience, but I would likely feel it was overpriced if I just got it at a deli. I liked the atmosphere and location though, so I thought it was a fair trade. Carrot cake ($4.50): Actually the best carrot cake I've eaten. A real star! Super moist. Very tasty. Has golden raisins. And what tastes like a homemade cream cheese buttercream with the sugar crystals. I loved this cake. 100% would buy again. My sister isn't a big sweets fan but she loved this cake too. Sweet, rich, very balanced, and a great bake. Gyro: I tried some of my sister's gyro. The lamb had a good peppery flavor. Packs a punch. Seemed like a good but not noteworthy experience. Though maybe a bit plain with the amount of sauce. Her chips were definitely chips out of a store bought bag. Nice crunch. But I thought it didn't really go with the gyro. Not very original? But did at least make service quick. Yes I would return to Serendipity Gourmet especially to try the home baked cakes. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Chicken salad plate $9, carrot cake $4.50 - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

I has the Pastrami Ruben sandwich. Excellent! A generous portion of tender pastrami on grilled bread. Friendly service, plenty of table space and nice tunes over the intercom system. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

Excellent choice for a deli in Cary, NC. Convenient location on Academy Street. I parked in a nearby lot and walked over for a takeout sandwich. They offer numerous sandwich options and list daily specials on a white board. I decided on the pastrami and corned beef with a side salad for $10.99. The sandwich was packed with ingredients, enough for a meal and a snack. I ordered at the counter, waited at a table inside, and my meal was brought to me. Overall, I had a positive experience here and recommend this deli to others! read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

I've been wanting to try out Serendipity ever since my friend recommended it and I loved it! I went twice in the span of two days during my visit to NC lol. I ordered the Lamb Gyro and it was probably the best gyro I've had, the meat was so tender and juicy and I love how you get served a pickle with every sandwich order. The egg sad sandwich was very creamy and slightly salty, and again the pickle was a nice palate cleanser that added some acidity to the meal. The owner was very polite and welcoming, and he did a wonderful job with the gyro! Everything from the seating to the little paintings on the walls and menu board is very cozy and adds so much character to this sandwich shop! read more

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Came in here today and was super excited because of the crowd and line but left a little disappointed. My egg salad sandwich was really good and well priced, however a few things made this a nit so great experience. The chips were advertised as house chips but def came from a store bought bag. The Mac and cheese was kraft and for $4 I was really disappointed. My husband was looking forward to the steak and cheese but it couldn't be customized because the meat, onions and peppers were all premixed. Service was fast and they cranked everything out quick but just nothing special for me. read more

I've driven by so many times and finally stopped in for lunch. The interior reminds me of a cabin, very homey and cozy vibes. I got the chicken salad plate, which was three scoops of chicken salad on a bed of lettuce and sesame crackers. The chicken salad was good. The lettuce was just shredded iceberg, I think I was expecting something more substantial. Overall it was good, but nothing super special. I will come back again and try their sandwiches. read more

The broccoli cheddar soup was amazing! Was busy but still very fast service. Ate here with my toddler, will return!

The grilled chicken wrap was saggy and tasted the overwhelming perfume inside the restaurant. Disappointed and dissatisfied

I love this little gem! This is my go-to place for lunch with friends. It's fast and always delicious!

If grandma made sandwiches every day for my neighbors ... With plenty of seating, inside and out, you are sure to find a comfy seat to enjoy downtown Cary for lunch. The deli has a menu full of hot and cold sandwich options, friendly quick service, daily specials and a local spot since 1975! Great location and easy parking. Highly recommend shop local! read more

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I've lived in Cary my whole life and never stopped in to try this cute sandwich spot! The lunch items while simple and classic are done right and give much to be desired. You have your pick from specials and desserts. Service is very friendly and inside while small provides a laidback weekend atmosphere for quick lunch. Can't wait to stop in again to try some of their weekly specials. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Greek Grilled Cheese Sandwich - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

If you want a sandwich that's always fresh, always loaded and always yummy, yep, this is a GREAT place in downtown Cary! Sit outside and enjoy the pitter patter of the locals walking by and you'll enjoy a wonderful dining experience. I'll continue to come back ...... it's worth it! read more

Lamb gyros! Best I've had in a long time....go sit outside, weather permitting. I wish I lived closer yo I could eat here more frequently.

We came here for a light lunch. We ordered a reuben and pastrami sandwich, a Philly steak sandwich and a veggie sandwich. All came out pretty fast and tasted good enough. When we ordered an order of chocolate chips and pecan pie, it was out from freezer and it was impossible to eat so we had to request to be heat up 10 seconds in microwave for it to get softer. The kitchen should have done that without us asking though. Ambiance is casual, they have outdoor and indoor seatings. Overall, food and service is good and the prices are just right. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Lovely place for lunch - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

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I would not call Serendipity Gourmet "gourmet." Walking around before work, I decided to grab a quick sandwich. I went with the build your own sandwich and got a turkey on pumpernickel bread. The sandwich came out quickly, and since it was so nice outside, I decided to grab a seat outside. Once I opened my box, I was sad to see not only my sandwich was just thrown in there, but no condiments to be seen. So, I went back and got a couple of packets of mustard and mayo. My return to the restaurant did not go unnoticed with the lack of smiles and three frowns from the staff members. When I asked for a knife, I did not receive any warmth as well. As I continued to eat my sandwich, I noticed even more lack of care as the tomatoes I requested not to be there were there. And even with the condiments added, the sandwich was just not good. For $11, especially, the quality of meats and toppings are just not there, which is sad because there are not many grab and go places in this area. For the future, I will make sure to either bring my own food for or budget enough time to sit down and eat at another restaurant. The lack of care and poor customer service is a big red flag. I just did not feel welcome. I won't be back. read more

In the 80s, Serendipity was my go to when I lived in Cary . I have visited a few times over the years and it was great. Recently, I met a friend for lunch and the food is not the same. The menu looks pretty close to their old one. The chicken salad was always a highlight but it tastes nothing like the famous original. Also ordered a side salad and it was all iceberg lettuce with a few small cucumber pieces. It tasted like the bagged kits you buy in Food Lion. My friend's food was also nit fresh & tasteless. We overheard someone talking about new owners. We were sad our once favorite spot in Cary has changed so much. read more

Great service, very good food, and interesting cabin-like interior. There is a nice exterior patio where you can dine amongst the elements. It is nice. read more

Good food, good vibes. staff was friendly and brought the food out to us on the patio. chill spot. also had bottled soda. seemed like a good old fashioned deli. the bread was eh but not terrible- got a kaiser roll but it seemed just like a hamburger bun lol read more

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Good lunch pick - lots of basic sandwiches and some creative options. Order a cup of the soup as the weather gets chilly. I have been here twice. Great local place read more

Visited this cafe a couple weeks ago with a friend and we both really enjoyed our lunch! Such a cute & quaint place with yummy food and great service. Can't wait to be back soon! read more

I really like this place for their Reuben. It's a traditional no frills deli with a beautiful terrace. You order at the counter and they bring the food to you. Their sandwiches are delicious. I'm really glad that they keep their sandwiches simple without adding a ton of twists in it to make them fancy with "new sauces" etc. every sandwich comes with some chips that are also pretty tasty. My main critique point is that they use styrofoam containers for all their orders and drinks. There's so much waste that accumulates. I wish they would switch to reusable baskets/plates for dine-in orders and/or move to lore sustainable containers. read more

Yellow rice and chicken soup is awesome. Also love their veg, tahini dressing pocket.

I wanted to wash my hands before eating. I went to the restroom, but it did not have any soap so I went to the other restroom, even though it was for a different sex, and it had no soap. This is unacceptable. I should be able to wash my hands after using the restroom or before eating if I so wish. Also, the front door was left ajar the entire time I was there, allowing insects to freely enter. Someone should make sure the door closes when not being used. Step up your game, Serendipity! read more

I went for the first time today after voting. The place is cute with a good menu, but the chef that prepares food by hand came outside and used the public door several times in the space of a few minutes and did not wash her hands or change her gloves. With so much food insecurity already, this made me cringe. read more

I love this little restaurant, I only wish there was more seating because it's always packed! This is a no frills joint but food is so great, ingredients are fresh, and you can tell it has been made to order. For a delicious, quick, and easy lunch spot stop in here!! read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Gyro - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

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Yummy lunch. We had the lamb gyro and pastrami Reuben. The lemon meringue pie was off the hook! read more

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We used to go here every week or so before Covid. We finally came back and I'm pretty sure there are new owners. The food was awful. Such a bummer read more

I always enjoy a quick lunch at Serendipity. This most recent visit my mom and I split the smokey cowboy sandwich, crown club sandwich, a side of potato salad and a few desserts. My favorites were the smokey cowboy, potato salad and carrot cake. If you are in downtown Cary, this place is a good option for an affordable lunch. read more

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Serendipity has changed. The food is the same but the owners/workers are difficult and snippy when you place an order. They seemed annoyed that they either can't stand you or aren't ordering quickly. Everything is still served in styrofoam snd plastic utensils. They said it was for Covid but it's forever. The outside area is nice and some dishes are still yummy but its just not the same. Only fast food restaurants use single serve dishes and utensils when dining in, not "gourmet" places. read more

Cutest hallmarky deli with such good sandwiches and they have amazing crushed ice!! And great soda options! The patio is so nice to sit in & the people who work there are always friendly/kind. read more

Love this place!!! Food is so fresh. Always good and quick service no matter how busy! I've been there 3 times this month. Bringing a new customer with me everytime. My personal favorite is the lamb Gyros with salad/ balsamic dress! Enjoy read more

I really enjoyed my lunch at Serendipity Gourmet! It's such a cute spot located in downtown Cary and it's got a quaint, home-y feel. I love the classic deli menu that is reminiscent of places I went when I was younger in the small town my grandparents live in. You just feel at home here. I ordered the club and it was so good! A triple decker with tons of meat and mayo? Yes please. I think for the price you pay, they give you a great value. I'd definitely stop back in here the next time I'm looking for a sandwich for lunch. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Crown Club Sandwich - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

The reviews about customer experience are spot on. Given the other options in town I say skip this place and enjoy better atmosphere elsewhere. Academy Street Bistro is only steps away and much better. And they allow dogs on their patio. Why any business with a patio in a quaint, up and coming town would restrict this is lunacy. read more

Tucked in downtown Cary is an unassuming Deli. With bargain pricing the menu boasts Mediterranean specials and American delights for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the Greek Veggie Wrap. It's delish! read more

My wife and I have always wanted to stop by this place and check it out. We love trying out new spots. I'm glad we got to check it off our list. However there was nothing to write home about. I really wanted to like the place. The food wasn't bad, but it wasn't exceptionally good either. We tried the hummus sampler platter, which was smaller than the norm. It came with freshly toasted pita and a side salad. I'm used to getting other veggies to dip into the hummus. I tried the Greek grilled cheese. It sounded better than it was. Feta should never be in a grilled cheese. My wife got the quiche of the day, which she liked. It was spinach, tomato and feta. read more

Serendipity Gourmet - Greek grilled cheese with cheddar, provolone and feta. Would have been better without the feta. - Delis Near Me - Cary, North Carolina

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I have been going there for 15 years and my wife for 50 years. Always loved it. Today I was greeted by obviously new owners or managers. They spent the entire time yelling at each other and a radio blaring some kind of indistinguishable babble. I feel sad as I love this place but would not come back to that atmosphere. Not the serendipity I have come to know and love anymore. read more