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 💕
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First time, won’t be our last. The gentleman who rang up our order names the following numbers as the top 4 most popular in his opinion:
The Reuben’s (#3 & #8), The Country Club (#23), and The Hot Heidi (#20). He also named The Crab and Artichoke (#6) one of his favorites. That’s what I ordered because I love crab, I love artichoke, and I love croissants - but sadly I didn’t ‘love’ this sandwich…it’s probably just me but the texture sort of put me off to it which was a bummer. I got a few bites in and had to stop. I don’t fault them though, I would just give a heads up to you that it is imitation crab and a pretty slimy sandwich. My husband got the #18 and it was delicious!! We also got a side of their ranch pasta salad, it was okay but I wouldn’t get it again. They have great pickles! Crunchy and delicious! Overall, I’d definitely recommend giving this place a try. We’ll be back to try some more of their sandwiches! A true deli with a massive array of options, I’d be surprised if they didn’t have something everyone loved. Great staff. The menu was a bit overwhelming at first but when I told them it was our first time they were more than helpful and made some great suggestions. They have a fridge with a decent selection of beverages, alcoholic included. They also have ice cream!
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 good
Carl's Deli is the way a "deli" is supposed to be! Tremendous selection of meats, salads, cheeses, toppings, and drinks. The service was perfect. Food was just as perfect.
Stopped at this place with the family before visiting the zoo. We were disappointed there were no seats to eat at after traveling, but it’s a true deli and that is understandable. The food did not disappoint, everything was fresh and the staff was exceptionally friendly. We were not sure what we wanted and the staff was extremely accommodating and patient. We have already discussed going back to this place next time we are in Cincinnati. Can’t say enough good things about this place but be prepared for takeout only.
Tough to find a truly good Deli in Cincinnati. They exist, but are few and far between.
Carl's is without a doubt at the top. It's my go-to every time. Solid crew behind the counter, quality meats, breads, soups and sides. Killer menu and variety.
There's a line forming outside for a reason!
Best sandwiches around, with lots of other fun goodies. My only quibble is that even if you order something that is specifically described as “hot” on the menu, you do have to remind them to toast your sandwich, because if I order a hot sandwich from the menu and don’t specify to toast it, about 75% of the time it won’t get toasted (sad face). Still a 5-star establishment and my go-to for sandwiches.
Fantastic staff, 10/10 ambiance and aesthetic, and delicious sandwiches. You can’t ask for more. This is a staple of Cincinnati and for very good reason.
This place is awesome sandwiches are fantastic. Each one is made to order and you can add or subtract items without a fuss. During lunch there is a line that flows outside but once you taste the food and experience the service you will know why. It's worth the wait and you will love this place.
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.
The staff and ordering experience is wonderful! I am updating my review to remove a star, as the sandwich portions (or ratios?) have gotten noticeably smaller in the last year or so at Carl’s, and I no longer feel like most of the menu has a great value as it once did. Everything still tastes amazing with a great selection.
Finally got a chance to try this place and had one of the best sandwiches Ive had here in Cincinnati. The bread it came on was the best hoagie roll I have had. I wish they did a cheesesteak or roast pork sandwich on it and I would be there multiple times a week! I got the #17, basically an Italian hoagie and wont hesitate to get it again!
I’ve not had the pleasure of visiting a deli in NY, but I have in Italy. And the smell of meats, cheeses and fresh bread as you enter through the doors of this deli, is nothing short of nostalgia. Takes one back to the way it should be. Fresh, locally sourced goods, friendly staff equals a wonderful experience.
Got the focaccia special and can say it was easily the 2nd most filling sandwich I’ve ever had (1st - Primanti’s). The bread was nice and airy, the meat and veggies were extremely fresh and I have a feeling I’ll be back soon.
First trip to Carl’s yesterday. Columbus native, moved to Cinci fall of 2021. Have been looking for a good deli and this is it! Got the #17 Italian and it was very good. Staff was friendly and one of the owners, Cameron introduced herself. Definitely will be headed back soon!
Carl’s is a classic neighborhood deli with very solid sandwich choices, aside from the build-your-own method. My personal favorite is the “Gayle” roast beef and egg salad on salted rye. Plenty of salad types (pasta, broccoli, etc) as well. A great lunch spot.
Hubba Hubba Special today… I would compare it to the “Oh My!” from the Wizard of Oz after they say lions and tigers and bears. One of the best sandwiches I’ve had. Been in Cincy 36 years and just now hearing about Carl’s Deli in 2022. I need to start living better, treating people better…
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