Carl's Deli

2836 Observatory Ave # A, Cincinnati
(513) 871-2275

Recent Reviews

Jacob C

It’s my go to sandwich spot ever since I moved into the area. The staff is awesome, the food is amazing, and they’re really professional about what they do. I recommend anyone to give this place a chance. Absolutely the best around.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Andrew Abu-Ghazaleh

Really a gem that can easily be overlooked. I get a NYC deli feel, the staff is friendly and quick. Food is very reasonably priced and absolutely tasty. Grateful!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Sandwiches, Roast Beef Sandwich, Chicken Salad

Shivam Joshi

Average food, but decent prices. Good spot for a quick lunch but I wouldn’t go out of my way to try their sandwiches.Vegetarian options: Limited options

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Veggie Sandwich

Todd Barton

Great deli I stumbled across today! I ordered the pastrami reuben with no slaw and it was delicious. Side of macaroni salad on point. Staff was extremely happy and welcoming when I walked in. Offered plenty of suggestions for my lunch as they have a ton of options.I'm so happy that I stopped by.You should, too!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

zoyinez

I must’ve not gotten the most popular sandwich from here but it was a regular tasting ruben. The pickles had no crunch. The drink selection however was the most impressive part. Don’t forget, TakeOutonly.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 4

Service: 4

Bill Franer

Feels like home. Great selections Great values.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Karin Langner (Rin)

Tiny gem of a deli with ample street parking on side street. My 84 year old Mom’s favorite local deli. She loves the chef salad. I tried No. 23 (club sandwich basically) as is & it was absolutely delicious! This place has been tasty for decades ?Dietary restrictions: Lots of healthy fresh optionsParking: Side street right around corner had ample parking at peak lunchKid-friendliness: Completely family friendly but no bathroom

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: The Carl's Country Club, Cheesecake

Livia Weingarten

LOVE! I’d suggest looking at the menu online before you go because you could get overwhelmed while looking at their menu board!Even if you get overwhelmed and pick the first one you look at, you can’t go wrong!You get a lotttt of sandwich so I think the price is fair.They have a little market set up to finish off any little picnic needs you have like chips and drinks.My go to plan is pick up and go eat and enjoy it in Ault Park which is just right up the road!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Turkey Sandwich

Amanda Myrick

Wow! So good! Only complaint is no dining area. It's all to-go. We got soup and sandwiches. Soup is definitely homemade. It's so

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Pc M.

Had heard quite the rave about Carl's so we decided to try it this past Saturday. I chose the #8 - the food was good and I was comfortable with the price / value but am taking the time and effort to write the review because of the service. The wait to order was extensive. The team working moved at a snail's pace and although they could easily see the growing queue, they operated nonchalantly without regard to wait time. As this was a Saturday, I doubted the owners were present. If you are near and see the line extend out the door, I recommend you choose another time to visit Carl's.

Heather Bogan

The wait for a sandwich is ridiculous. If there’s 3 people in line expect to be waiting 20 minutes. Don’t even think about going there during the lunch hour. It’s simply not set up to serve several customers.. wish they’d figure out a way to be quicker behind the deli. Great food, would love to eat there more often but an hour lunch break won’t get you fed there

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 5

Service: 1

Chris Whiteford

This place is phenomenal! It is a must go to place when you are in Cincinnati. It's got a great neighborhood vibe and can get very busy. I don't think there's a single thing on the menu that wouldn't be worth ordering.

Alex D.

I really wanted to like this place, but after getting food poisoning from the sandwich I ate I can't say that I will ever come back. It was the only thing I ate that day and the next morning I was sick. It's so unfortunate because it's such a cute place and the people were very nice.

Kim S.

With sandwiches stuffed and dressed to the nines, this is truly the one and only delicatessen Cincinnatians need to know about. It embodies the heart of a true deli, with the freshest meat, bread, and topping options ready to pair with a variety of salads, soups, and sides. They have 33 sandwich options that are tried and true, but you can always create your own custom sandwich as well. No matter what you try it's sure to be delicious.As they are takeout only, you can be in and out in a flash as they'll quickly serve up your sandwich with a smile. Perfect for lunch on the go, or you can sit on one of their cute tables right outside.

Chaney Gipson

I was in Cincy for a Reds game and this place was incredible. I envy the neighborhood around it, I'd be here constantly

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