Portland is a sandwich town. You can’t walk two blocks without hitting a sourdough starter or a fermented aioli. But East Side Deli on Lombard is just... different. It doesn't try to be a five-star bistro. It’s a deli. A real one. Located at 4623 N Lombard St, this North Portland staple has been feeding the University of Portland crowd, the St. Johns locals, and the weary commuters for years. Honestly, if you grew up in PDX or moved here before the housing prices went completely nuts, you probably have a specific memory of sitting at one of those outdoor tables, clutching a massive sub while the traffic hums by.
It’s easy to overlook. The building isn't a modern architectural marvel. It’s a simple, blue-and-yellow spot with a vibe that says "we care more about the meat-to-bread ratio than the lighting." People go there because they want a sandwich that requires two hands and maybe a nap afterward. It's about the customization. That's the secret sauce. While other shops have "curated menus" where you can't swap the Swiss for Provolone without getting a dirty look, East Side Deli lets you go wild.
The Customization Trap and How to Win at East Side Deli on Lombard
Most people walk in and panic. The menu is huge. You have the "Build Your Own" option which is basically a choose-your-own-adventure novel but with more pickles. You pick the bread, the meat, the cheese, and then the long list of veggies. It’s a lot.
But here’s the thing about the Lombard location specifically: the staff has seen it all. They know when you’re about to make a mistake. Adding three types of mustard? They might give you a look. They’ve perfected the art of the stack. If you’re a first-timer, you have to try the "Field Roast" options if you’re plant-based, because Portland basically invented the high-end vegan deli meat game. The Field Roast dip is legendary. It’s salty, savory, and actually has texture, which is a miracle in the world of meat substitutes.
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If you're a meat-eater, the "East Side Club" or the "Italian" are the standard-bearers. They don't skimp. You aren't getting those paper-thin, translucent slices of ham you find at grocery store chains. These are thick. They have heft. You feel like you're getting your money's worth, which, let’s be real, is a rare feeling in 2026.
Why the North Portland Location Feels Special
Every East Side Deli has its own soul. The Hawthorne one is great for people-watching. The downtown spots are for the office hustle. But the Lombard shop? It’s the neighborhood anchor. It feels like part of the North Portland fabric. You see construction workers in high-vis vests standing in line next to college students arguing about philosophy. It’s a great equalizer.
The seating is mostly outdoors. On a rare sunny Portland day, it’s the best seat in the house. On a rainy day, you’re probably taking that bag to go, and the paper bag will be slightly translucent by the time you get home because the ingredients are so fresh and juicy. That's the mark of a good sandwich. If the bag isn't a little greasy, did you even eat?
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Getting the Most Out of Your Order
Don't just stick to the basics. People get weirdly loyal to one sandwich and never branch out. That's a mistake.
- The Bread Choice Matters. Most people default to the sourdough. It’s fine. It’s classic. But the Dutch Crunch? That’s where the magic is. It adds a structural integrity and a localized "crunch" that offsets the softer fillings.
- The "Secret" Toppings. They have a massive array of peppers. Don't just ask for "peppers." Ask for the hot peppers if you want a kick, or the sweet ones to balance out a salty pastrami.
- The Side Game. Look, the deli sandwiches are the stars, but the potato salad is surprisingly home-style. It’s not that neon-yellow stuff from a tub.
People often ask if it's worth the drive if you aren't already in St. Johns or Portsmouth. The answer is usually yes, especially if you're heading toward Kelly Point Park or Sauvie Island. It’s the ultimate "adventure fuel." Pack a couple of subs in the cooler, and you’re set for the day.
Addressing the Consistency Question
Is it perfect every single time? No. No deli is. Sometimes when the line is out the door on a Friday at noon, the assembly might be a little rushed. You might get a bit too much mayo. It happens. But the floor for quality at East Side Deli on Lombard is still higher than the ceiling for most other sandwich shops in the city.
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The complexity of a deli operation is underestimated. You’re balancing dozens of ingredients, varied bread textures, and the specific whims of "no onions but extra-extra pickles" customers. The crew at Lombard handles the volume with a sort of weary, professional grace. They aren't there to be your best friend; they’re there to build you a structural masterpiece of deli meats.
Practical Steps for Your Next Visit
If you want to avoid the wait, use their online ordering. It’s 2026, and the "walk-in and wait" method is basically a hobby for people with too much free time.
- Order 20 minutes ahead. Especially during the lunch rush (11:30 AM to 1:30 PM).
- Check the daily specials. Sometimes they rotate in something unique that isn't on the standard printed menu boards.
- Grab extra napkins. You think you won't need them. You're wrong. The Lombard sandwiches are notoriously messy in the best way possible.
- Parking can be a pain. There's a small lot, but it fills up fast. Be prepared to park a block away and walk. It’ll help you work up the appetite you'll need to finish a whole sub.
If you haven't been in a while, the prices have crept up—just like everywhere else—but the portion sizes haven't shrunk. That's the real win. You're still getting a meal that can easily be split into two if you have even a shred of self-control. Most of us don't, and that's okay too.
Go for the Dutch Crunch. Get the extra peppers. Sit outside and enjoy the North Portland vibe. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense experience that reminds you why Portland's food scene became famous in the first place: good ingredients, massive portions, and a complete lack of pretension.