Originally established in 1995, this spot is best known for its supreme bread offerings. There are more than 30 varieties to choose from (including gluten-free options), all handmade and stone ground on the premises each day. As such, the sandwiches are stellar, as are the baked goods and salads. With additional locations in Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage, Apsen Mills is a true desert stalwart.
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A newer addition to the Coachella Valley restaurant scene, this gourmet deli promptly became an area staple and THE premier spot for sandwiches in the desert. Offering the very best in hand-crafted hoagies, artisanal coffees, and fresh cuts of meat, it is upscale in every way and a delightful place to dine! Be sure not to miss the fabulous goods offered in the onsite market.
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This new gourmet deli/market serves up some of the best sandwiches in town (the Turkey & Brie and French Ham & Brie are my personal favorites), alongside truly stellar salads, pinsas (Roman-style pizzas), and cheese and wine pairings. The establishment also sells a highly curated selection of fromages and charcuterie boards to enjoy at home. The deli is adorable, welcoming, and oh-so delicious!
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As the name implies, this establishment is a truly authentic Italian deli and, as such, is stocked with a nice collection of European fare, including homemade noodles of every variety, imported meats, fine cheeses, gourmet olive oils, delicious baked goods, and a stunning array of deli sandwiches (all bread for which is baked on the premises daily). Not in the mood to cook dinner? The Real Italian Deli has plenty of to-go options, as well, like the Lasagna Bolognese, which is stacked about 12 inches high and, per the menu, is a “mouthwatering trip to Italy without the jet lag.” Indeed! (Bonus – there’s also a sister location in Palm Springs.)
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A true hidden gem, this tiny sandwich shop sits tucked away in a retail strip in the middle of Palm Desert’s industrial center. Despite being rather hard to find, The Lunch Spot quickly became a local favorite upon its inception in 2020. Featuring an extensive menu (there are even gluten-free options!) made with the freshest of ingredients, not to mention extremely friendly service, it is not hard to see why this place is so beloved.
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A little slice of the Big Apple in the heart of the Coachella Valley, Manhattan in the Desert is a genuine New York-style Jewish deli specializing in lox, homemade soups, hot dogs and sandwiches, the latter of which are all served “mile-high,” stacked to perfection and with a free sampling of delicious pickled goods.
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Founded by Sherman Harris in 1953, this spot is a Palm Springs institution, with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Bob Hope to Rita Hayworth popping by in its early days! Still going strong more than 70 years later, the eatery’s signature Club (pictured) is hands-down one of the best.sandwiches.anywhere. But there are countless other offerings to be had, such as salads, pasta, incredible baked goods, and pretty much anything else you could ever hope to order, including gluten-free dishes. The deli also boasts a sister location in Palm Desert (which was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives!”), but the original is the best.
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While this place whips up some spectacular sandwiches, On the Mark is so much more than just a deli. A relative newcomer, the upscale market is also stocked with shelf upon shelf of gourmet goods, including small batch olive oils, select wines, unique spices, exceptional desserts, a plethora of culinary-related gifts, and an overwhelming assortment of meats and cheeses, sure to elevate any charcuterie board. Bonus – sandwich offerings can be ordered to go or enjoyed on the front patio.
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