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Alex's Brown Bag - CLOSED
Category: Restaurants Sandwiches Sandwiches [Edit]
2550 5th AveSte 171
(between Laurel St & Maple St)
San Diego, CA 92103
Neighborhood: Banker's Hill
(619) 231-2912
Announcement
We have closed the Bankers Hill location.Our new location is at 5019 Cass St. Pacific Beach (858)273-0502 HopeTo See YouSoon! Open 7 days!
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
134 reviews for Alex's Brown Bag
Review Highlights
"The philly cheesesteak was delicious."
(in 49 reviews)
"...I think they have Amoroso rolls shipped in from Philly..."
(in 7 reviews)
"The food is great in that Philly East Coast Style."
(in 3 reviews)
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134 reviews in English
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Review from Holly R.
San Diego, CA
11/15/2011
Check Out Alex's Brown Bag at Latitude 32
5019 Cass St (between Loring St & Opal St)
San Diego, CA 92109 Neighborhood: Pacific Beach
Don't miss out on the BEST Philly ever! -
Review from Dean P.
11/4/2011 2 photos
I don't get it. I see peoples reviews stating that they are from Philly or lived there and don't eat at Pat's or Geno's because they are tourist traps and there are better Philly Cheese Steak shops out there...
I walked in and waited while being ignored. I am not adverse to a little east coast attitude and find that it can be enduring but being an ass is not the same thing. This guy was clearly having a bad day with all the f-bombs and such being tossed about. No offense taken, but damn, dude, be happy you have a job and are busy! I ordered a basic Philly...
...and then I saw it....
On the wall to the left of the register was a huge picture of Pat's, a letter from the person who took the picture stating "Here's to the Pat's of the West Coast"... Famous last words...
A crunchy roll? How do you screw up an Amoroso's Roll? They flash freeze them before shipping so they do NOT get soggy and many people - Eddie's, Gaglione Brothers, Giorgino's, and others use them just fine and they are soft and fresh. I think it is intentional.
The meat had little flavor and was chewy, fatty and had onion skins, the hard outer layer of onion, I had to pull out of my mouth. It did remind me of the one time I had Pat's... It wasn't horrible, but I wont' be back.
Maybe it was just a bad day at Alex's today, sure sounded like it. I would not say it's the worst in San Diego but it is nowhere near the best...Listed in: Where's the CHEESE (steak)
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Review from D G.
San Diego, CA
10/28/2011 1 photo
I have been grappling with this review for a while. I don't like to give 3 stars or less without seriously considering why I would give such a rating especially when fellow yelpees have given such excellent reviews.
So let me break it down:
- The people that work here are super friendly and looked super busy.
- The philly cheesesteak was delicious. There's no doubt about it.
- Was it worth the 15+ minute wait? No.
- If this is lunch hour cuisine I would be in big trouble time-wise.
- If this was just a normal, casual day then I would be annoyed to have to wait this long for something that can technically be called fast food. -
Review from Randy R.
San Diego, CA
1/14/2012
The best place for a Phillie cheese steak or Chicken cheese steak!! Oh well guess I'm going to your new location. Just glad you didn't shut down completely!!
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Review from Ellen B.
San Diego, CA
12/21/2011
Not only is Jim a fantastic bball player, he and his staff make the real deal philly! I believe, although I have to admit I am from MA, this is the best philly in San Diego. I can tell you my PA buds 100% agree. My friends and I are very excited about the relocation to Latitudes. Perfect for sunday funday football watching. Jim and team, keep doing what you're doing and don't change a thing!
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Review from Alicia S.
9/16/2011
I was seriously concerned that they would go out of business given their hard to find location, but whew! They have a 2nd location!
The bread is what separates good cheesesteaks from GREAT ones. And Alex's Brown Bag has seriously quality bread, so fluffy, yet firm enough to hold cheesy steak. It's the kind of bread that means you eat the entire sandwich cause if you try to re-heat or toast any leftovers, you are left with a droopy mess. And no one likes that.
Everything on the menu is under $10 and they have tons of drinks to choose from. They also have butterscotch KRIMPETS, the most fantastic snack cake of ALL time. I don't of any where else in San Diego, let alone CA, where you can get this life changing wonder in (sorry Twinkie).
Things to do:
1. Eat at Alex's Brown Bag #2
2. Eat a cheesesteak, then take the elevator to Mister A's for a drink and watch the planes.
3. Order something else besides the cheesesteak
4. Have breakfast at Alex's Brown Bag -
Review from Michael W.
La Verne, CA
"Cue Mission Impossible theme song".
Find a cheap non breakfast breakfast for a breakfast hater in SD.
See this place on Yelp.
Look forever before cursing the heavens for hiding its location from me.
Finally a local store employee has mercy on me and tells me its in the finical building.
Come on Yelpers! How many people would think to look in a finance building for a sandwich shop???
But I digress.
My three dollar grilled cheese was awesome.
I got it on sourdough with grilled onions. Because I can.
http://www.yelp.com/us...
I have never had the grilled cheese truck but the cook here lovingly put this together for me by hand.
All those onions and the cheese and the buttery bread....ummm..
A perfect non breakfast breakfast. -
Review from Eva H.
8/5/2011
[Full disclosure: I know Yelper Chris V, and practically his entire family works here (slight exaggeration). However, I came in without them knowing this and waited 'til I finished my sandwich before asking which one of 'em spawned Thread Killer.]
I lived in Philly for 10 years. I don't think I ever had a cheesesteak craving, really, and I sure as hell didn't crave Pat's or Geno's which are pure tourist traps. (Note, SD: Go to Jake's Sandwich Board or John's Roast Pork when in Philly for a good sammich.)
However, today I woke up, pulled a brush through my hair, and set off on a trek. A mission, if you will. I was needing me some Philly. Bad.
So, good luck finding this place. After getting some kind of directions, I managed to find it inside a building i had walked around...twice. If you do, however, manage to locate it, you'll be rewarded with a taste of Philly. Hell, the place just SEEMS like it's in Philly (except for that whole in-a-financial-building-shit). Wood paneling, lots of Philly sports memorabilia barely hanging onto the wall, gruff construction clientele, and grouchy-friendly staff who are totally kickass. Oh, and they have Tasty Kakes. Why they're in the fridge I have no clue, but it's Tasty Kake and that is awesome.
I got a cheesesteak. No, I didn't get "their" cheesesteak. I got an actual cheesesteak--with just fried onions and Whiz. (Most people hate the Whiz--I secretly love it.) I'm sure their version is delicious but a sandwich with green peppers and mushrooms and mozz on it is not a cheesesteak. The steak was good. Legit Amoroso roll and Philly-imported meat, though I have a feeling they're getting both frozen, which sucks but is likely a necessary evil. The meat was properly chopped, the onions fried to perfection, and I had a bit of a happy dance moment.
Overall: it was a damn find cheesesteak, and SD, lemme tell ya: if you're wanting a proper cheesesteak that's actually better than the tourist shitholes in Philly, Alex's is your spot.
One boo--the fries. Straight out of the bag, sans salt, frozen crinkle cuts. Pout. The onion rings looked legit. Next time.
Overall, a great place, but beware: this place has hella phone orders so you may be waiting for a bit, even if you get there early. And apparently at noon this place explodes into Grand Central. Be warned.Listed in: Hillcrest Hits, Outside the 'Crest
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Review from Bill B.
9/5/2011
I couldn't find a Yelp page for their Latitude 32 spot, so I'm leaving a review here.
Alex's Brown Bag is now running the kitchen @ Lat's. Never having been to the one in BH, I can't comment on if the food is different, but I can tell you it's awesome.
Super legit cheese steaks, served quickly, really hot with massive portions. If you come for food, come hungry or be prepared to share. -
Review from BEN K.
San Diego, CA
9/28/2011
Alex's Brown Bag is an East Coast Style Sandwich shop. The food is great in that Philly East Coast Style. Sandwichs are both hot and cold. They cost a little more than a Subway but the quality is worth the extra couple bucks.
They have a full menu of different subs and "Hoagies" They are a real treat. -
Review from An P.
San Diego, CA
7/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Amazing cheese steaks!
Of course, since I have never been to Philly I can't comment on the authenticity. I can comment on how much I enjoyed this sandwich.
The sandwich itself is simple enough: meat, cheese, onions, peppers, and bread. Alex's Brown Bag does this simple sandwich to perfection.
I love that when I took a bite, a long string of cheese followed. The sandwich was huge and one half was more than enough for my lunch.
The guy working was super sweet and even wrapped my sandwich up for me without me having to ask.
Side-note: I love that they have hot sauce bottles on the table.
Its located in a finance building on the same street as Mandarin House.
A bit difficult to find but is definitely worth the trip. -
Review from Grant E.
Temecula, CA
11/19/2011
I got the regular Philly Cheesesteak and it was very good. Definitely worth what you pay for, about 7 bucks.
-
Review from Jeff S.
San Diego, CA
10/20/2011
I don't see what all the fuss is about this place. I went at 2:30 in the afternoon and there was a guy insisting on mopping the entire floor with amonia over and over again, practically mopping over my feet. I asked what time they closed and they said around 5pm. So why is the guy mopping the floors at 2:30 with sudsy, smelly water and causing a slip and fall hazard while paying customers are trying to order their food???
Anyway, decided to take my Philly Chicken sandwich to go (to get away from the smell of the floors). It wasn't anything special. The meat was dry, the bread and sandwich were dripping (oil and juices I assume). It didn't taste anything like I'd expect a Philly chicken cheesesteak to taste. Ate half of it and threw the rest away. Oh, and you have to pay to park if you drive there. I'll stick with Gaglione Bros. in OB or The Marketplace (a block away from Alex's) has free parking, great sandwiches, and a much bigger variety of cold beverages and side items than Alex's does. Meh. -
Review from Dave B.
San Diego, CA
3/14/2011
YES! I finally found it. The best Philly in SD.
This place is incredible. Great location up on Banker's Hill in the Mister A's building. With so much claim to their Philly Cheesesteak, I had to begin my journey there. No mods, just the way they want me to enjoy it. I was impressed before the plate even reached my table, with the great vibes, endless beverage selections, and aroma of good appetite.
The sando was huge. Gotta note the authentic bread that actually tastes like it was just baked in Philly and rushed to my table in SD. Everything was extremely fresh to order and steaming hot. Definitely be careful with that first bite. It's hard to explain the perfection of this cheesesteak. The meat was perfectly tender and seasoned, and you could just taste the quality. I love Gaglione Bro's but this is different and is now my #1.
The owner is a very nice guy and made sure we were taken care of. He even spoke to my group and I enough to find out we work downtown, and offered delivery on the days we can't make it out of the office. All of the staff was great and I'm ready to go back ASAP.
I bet everything on the menu is incredible, but definitely start with the Philly. It will be hard for me to get anything else. EVER. -
Review from Rob M.
San Diego, CA
5/4/2011
Usually I get the philly steak. Today I got the meatball. I took one look and said, "that's what I'm talkin about!" No one here to hear me say it either.
Seriously, what a sub should be. Oh, and their Philly steak sandwich is 5 star legit too. Best sandwiches I've had in SD. -
Review from Brevemike C.
Chandler, AZ
3/7/2011
The cheesesteak by which others are measured!
Even the *chicken* philly is awesome.
The food gets five stars, when it's right. :-/
I've had my order screwed up enough times here that I had to take off a star. Parking is sometimes difficult to find on the street, and it's metered.
There is always a line at lunch, so come before noon or after 1:30p -
Review from Us Two S.
Del Mar, CA
11/1/2010 4 Check-ins Here
So good. So huge. So convenient to work. I am so going to get fat thanks to this place.
Lucky husband of mine had today off, so he came to see my new office and take me to lunch. I'd heard good things about this place from my co-workers, so off we went. We ordered a cheese steak with wiz, a mushroom burger, and an order of fries. Awesome burger. juicy, great flavor, and big. The sandwich was so freaking good that I would have eaten the whole (massive) thing, but I figured if I have to share with anybody, it would be my husband. Begrudgingly I gave him his 1/2. I didn't want to. The guy behind the counter was really friendly, and we got the impression that the guys who run this place remember their regulars, yet treat even the newbies as if they've been coming here forever. -
Review from Danny W.
6/29/2010
The only thing that soured me on this experience was the soul-less meter maid who ticketed me 30 seconds after expiration. Can they really camp out like that?
Either way the extra 30 bones that this lunch break cost was totally worth it. The place is legit. While they're known for Philly cheese steaks I rocked a turkey sub that http://www.youtube.com... Fresh ingredients with all the fixens including peperoncini peppers for an extra zip that truly satisfied. I also got a cup of chili in anticipation of the OB cookoff I was to attend a day later. Really...this chili was... silly. Silly delicious! A perfect combination of beans, meat, peppers and spice that makes my mouth water just thinking of it.
Service was pretty friendly as well. The gent who took my order explained that they run an order up the street to an older couple every day even though they don't deliver. I've always had a soft spot for the elderly so this made me happy to hear.
All in all...you can usually chalk up a place as being solid if you loved the two things you ordered and they weren't even what the joint is known for. I guess that means I'll have to be back sooner than later. Next time I'm got a lil sumthin for that meter maid.Comment from Jim M. of Alex's Brown Bag 6/30/2010
Danny, Glad to hear you were happy! We cant wait to see… More » -
Review from JR F.
San Diego, CA
3/14/2011
In West Philadelphia born and raised, in the playground was where I spent most of my days. No, actually I'm from Escondido. But if I was the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, I'm sure Alex's Brown Bag would be the joint I'd want to get a Philly Cheesesteak from.
I'll get straight to the point here (after my theme song intro of course). I ordered a standard Philly Cheesesteak, just how they normally make it. First off, this thing was pretty big. Cut in half, it stretched the distance of the paper plate they brought it out on.
Love at first bite, without a doubt. The mozzarella was melted perfectly and the steak was seasoned to perfection. I feel like I'm over-using the p-word (perfection), but I don't know if any other word will do this sandwich justice.
The service was excellent, Dave who I'm assuming must be one of the owners came out and introduced himself to us and chatted for a moment. He seemed like he was truly concerned with our dining experience. My two co-workers and I gave him our glowing reviews in person, since they were both as satisfied with their meals as I was with mine.
You know how you have those places that you like, but you're not really sure if you should recommend it to a friend because you're not really sure if they'll like it? This isn't one of those places. I would recommend ABB (Yes, this place is cool enough that it should have its own acronym I just decided) to anyone, anytime, from best friend to stranger. If someone asked me where to get a Philly or even a sandwich in general? ABB is the place to be. -
Review from Alisa M.
6/30/2010
Placed a pick up order for me and my crew. Was told 15 minutes and we arrived 15 minutes later and our orders were ready to go.
On to the important part. The sandwiches are huge and I thought "Oh good I will save half for dinner" BUWHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA Who was I fooling? The chicken cheese steak I had was so ridiculously delicious i just had to eat the whole thing.
Perfect balance of chicken, cheese, peppers, onions and mushrooms. My coworker was making small mewing noises while he was enjoying his. He said it was the best Philly cheese steak that he has ever had. I haven't had many but this is definitely one of the best sandwiches I have ever had the pleasure of eating. -
Review from Jessica Q.
San Diego, CA
7/17/2011
The best Philly in San Diego, hands down. This sandwich is melt in your mouth giant meaty goodness. If you can ever get past the deliciousness of the Philly, which I cannot, I am told that the other sandwiches are fantastic too. The fries leave something to be desired, but then again, wrinkle cut fries just aren't my style. Delivery is fast and always friendly. Overall this place is on my list with Bronx and Hodads as San Diego staples.
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Review from Christina D.
Irvine, CA
10/25/2010
It's like this place doesn't want to get found because the public might just eat up the whole shop! I LOVE this place.
Grab a couple of sandwiches from here and walk over to the park. Perfect picnic!Comment from Jim M. of Alex's Brown Bag 10/26/2010
We are open on Saturday from 11 to 3 for you to come and get… More » -
Review from Juje J.
San Diego, CA
10/1/2010
Realistically, I wanted to give Alex's Brown Bag only a 4.5 star rating when I ate there over the weekend (because the place was well hidden...there are no signs outside the building to indicate where the place is at) but I gave in because the great services they give to their customers and the food was excellent.
I heard about this place through a friend of mine and I love Philly Cheesesteaks to a passion so we went there to try our hand at what a lot of people tell me are the best Philly Cheesesteaks in San Diego.
The sandwich was huge and I loved the bread that it was served on. It was so huge that I had to take half the sandwich home with me, which was pretty good because that meant one thing for me...leftovers :)
Alex's Brown Bag makes one of the best Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches in San Diego and if you are looking for a good cheesesteak, I highly recommend Alex's Brown Bag....
Remember...it is huge and very tasty.Comment from Jim M. of Alex's Brown Bag 10/1/2010
Thank you so much for the great review. We truly appreciate… More » -
Review from Lindsey M.
San Diego, CA
6/16/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Great sandwiches. I only get the trukey and provolone but still. Its good.
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Review from RON C.
In the words of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
The Rock arrives to San Diego International Airport; while picking up his baggage from the baggage claim he senses a rumbling in his belly. He proceeds outside to his limousine, and then asks the limo driver "Do you know any good Philly cheese steak places here in San Diego?" Limo Driver say's "Yes Sir, I know a very good spot"
The limousine arrives at Alex's Brown Bag.
"The Rock has come back to Alex's Brown Bag in San Diego"!
*Crowd chants "Rocky, Rocky, Rocky!"
*Raises the People's Eyebrow"
The Rock entered the building and orders the Philly Cheese steak sandwich. Within minutes his order was ready for pick up. Rock sits quietly as he examines his sandwich then takes a bite; as his eyes are enlightened on how delicious his sandwich is.
The Rock walks over to Dave the owner of Alex's Brown Bag
*Raises the People's Eyebrow*
"What is your name?" Dave say's Hello Rock my name is.."It doesn't matter what you're name is; but I do congratulate you on a very delicious spot in San Diego"
*shakes Dave's Hand*
Dave say's Rock thank you, with my gratitude I would like to present you a chocolate cupcake tasty kake, you can only get this in Philly. "Oh thank you Dave" The Rock takes chocolate cupcake and takes a bite; with shock in his eyes of how good this lovely dessert is. "mmmm, so good"
"To all you Jabroni's who haven't tasted Alex's Brown Bag's delicious Original Philadelphia Cheese Steak Sandwich don't make me layeth the Smackethdown on your Candyasses!"
"So not only is the food awesome but they provides great friendly customer service as soon as you walk in; the atmosphere inside makes Will Smith feel like he's at home"
"Please check out their menu at the below link if you disagree. The Rock is gonna go down to Know Your Role Boulevard, hang that right at Jabroni Drive, and proceed to check your candy ass in at the Smackdown Hotel"
"If you SMELLLLLLLLLL!!!!"
*Closes his eyes raises head smells the air*
'What Alex's Brown Bag is cooking!"
*Raises people's eyebrow*
The Rock departs leaving very satisfied.
http://www.alexsbrownb... -
Review from David G.
10/19/2009
Once again, Yelp works its magic and helps me find a hidden gem of a place that I would never have heard about otherwise. I'm especially fond of this particular spot, because it's within walking distance of my place. In fact, I'd walked by it countless times and never known that it was here. Thank you Yelp for helping me discover Alex's Brown Bag.
First thing you need to know is that, despite the 5th Ave address, the entrance is on Maple St between 4th and 5th, but closer to 4th. If you're directionally-challenged like I am, every little bit of guidance helps. The shop is in the lobby of a large office building -- look for the sign pointing you toward the glass double-doors.
I decided to go the classic route and ordered a cheesesteak with provolone. I'm not exaggerating when I say that this is the tastiest cheesesteak in San Diego, and perhaps the best one I've had in all of southern California. The roll was perfect (I think they have Amoroso rolls shipped in from Philly), the meat was piled high and perfectly cooked (and not too greasy, which is how I like it), and the cheese, onions, and mushrooms were hot and yummy. I dare say that Alex's cheesesteaks taste even better than those from Pat's or Gino's.
Between the cheesesteak, the Eagles memorabilia strewn around, and the photos of Center City, Ben Franklin Parkway, and South Philly lining the walls, I felt like I was back in my old stomping grounds on the east coast. It's a good, comfortable feeling that I haven't had in a while. -
Review from Tiffany S.
San Diego, CA
10/27/2007
Hey Alex cheesesteak filling, listen up! Yeah you, You're pretty good shit. You meat, melted cheese, peppers, all dripping all over my shirt. You think you're hot stuff. No, literally, you are hot stuff.
But you're kinda selling yourself short when it comes to partners, namely da bread. You'd be so so so much better if you picked a better roll, nothing too flashy. We're not talking asiago ciabatta here, just something a little fluffier, a little fresher. I know Costco bulk rolls are cheap and easy, but you deserve yourself a classy lady. Something you could take to, oh, say upstairs at Mr. A's. Instead of rude looks and gossipy whispers, people would offer you a table, lay out the charm, and eat you.. ummm, did I say that? Anyways, back to the subject-- dump that old roll and settle down with some nice, soft, tasty bread with a wild streak.
Everything else at ABB is really nothing special. Go down the street to the Marketplace instead.
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EDIT 5/21/08
I've gotten two messages from ABB folks telling me they took my comment to heart and are looking for roll alternatives. I no longer live in SD so it will be a while before I can give them a second chance, but I commend them for their interest in my cheesesteak experience. Go give em a chance! -
Review from Jesus D.
Poway, CA
12/6/2010
Finally, Great Philly cheesesteaks!!!
I like this place and I'm a lover of these small independently owned delis.
I ordered their original Philly cheesesteak, hot Italian, and a side of onion rings.
The portions are generous and they definitely make it fresh to go. I actually burned my tongue when I took my first bite. My gluttonous side takes over quite often. What I like about their cheesesteak is that its not super oily and has a decent between meat, veggies, and cheese. The bread they chose was also very soft. I hate eating off of hard rolls that try to rob me of my teeth. The hot Italian was a surprise for me since I'm normally not a fan of Italian subs, but they managed to make me love it. Onion rings wasn't something spectacular, but they were very large.
Even though i consider myself a glutton with a big appetite, the portion was still big for me. So if you have a small appetite, I suggest sharing.
The staff is incredibly congenial, courteous, and down to earth. They just seem like your average guys doing their jobs, but also having fun. -
Review from Austin D.
10/17/2009
Having recently anointed myself "Turkey Reuben hunter", the focus of the review is on this glorious sandwich. But keep reading, there's more info on Alex's, better known for their Philly fare.
This is one of the better TR sandwiches I've had in town.
- Nicely grilled bread, I tasted some spicy seasoning I never had before, which was quite good!
- The meat was tender and the right proportion. The sauerkraut was good, but I could have used a bit more (I loves me the stuff).
- Thousand island was also abundant and uniformly spread onto the bread. I did not have to order an extra side of it, which is my normal custom. I did, mind you, I just didn't HAVE TO because it was properly applied.
- Served with a dill pickle spear. Bonus.
Ate there with a friend who's from PA (I get 1/2 street cred for that, right?) He really enjoys the cheesesteak, claiming it's second only to Philly Frank's in San Marcos (in San Diego, that is). They also sell Tastykakes, a fact which my PA-friend informs me makes Alex's LEGIT.
The entrance is on Maple betw 4th & 5th. You have to enter through the gloomy 70's midrise's glass double-doors, and you'll see Alex's on the right.
TIP: Super-friendly owner LOVES Yelpers and Tweeps!Listed in: Turkey Reubens
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Review from Jason S.
Solana Beach, CA
7/6/2011 2 photos
I am on a mission to find the best Philly Cheesesteak in SD. So far, I have been to all of the major players - and I can honestly say that Alex's is the best. It's hard to find on your first visit, but its so worth it! I have been going here for about a year now, and I can't stop going at least twice a month. If you want a good Philly, do your self a favor and get over to Alex's Brown Bag! I haven't tried one other thing at Alex's, and I doubt I ever will. The Philly rules! Ask for it with whiz - there's no other way to go if you want it authentic.
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Review from Dan D.
San Diego, CA
12/2/2008
3.5 stars. It maybe that their phillies were hyped way to much on here, but I was pretty disappointed. The were still good and better than about half the ones I've ever had, but I don't think they hold a candle to Gaglione's or Girgino's. I will definitely say that the bread was great, but that's all that was memorable.
The owner/guy at the front was incredibly friendly and that gets good marks for me. Its refreshing to see someone enjoying what they are doing and sharing that with other people.
I think that if you go in with realistic expectations, you will enjoy yourself. -
Review from Jory J.
San Diego, CA
10/18/2008
I can't believe I have lived in San Diego for 11 years and hadn't heard of this place until Dave brought in 45 feet of pure deliciousness to the Yelp party last weekend. Thank YOU Dave!
So- I am all about a good philly- and haven't found "the one" until now.
GOD it's good. I was SO in love with the "Chico-" (a chicken philly) that I went there Tuesday to get my grub on.
Not only was I completely satiated and loving it- I got an education about a TRUE Philly. Thank god they don't use the Cheez Whiz here and keep with the true roots of this bad ass sammich.
The bread is the best, the chicken is all white meat, the cheese is all melty and gooey, mmmmmm... I love this place.
Great sandwiches, great owner, and great place. 5 freakin' stars from me. -
Review from MIREYA P.
San Diego, CA
10/13/2008
I was impressed with their Philly steak sandwich at the yelp event. I personally met the owner he is cool and cares about what you think.
The bread is what really makes a good sandwich I told him and he agreed. He also told me that he changed the bread because he read several reviews regarding the bread. He sure did good job with the new bread.!
Too bad I don't work in San Diego otherwise I would eat there all the time. -
Review from Jenny B.
San Diego, CA
4/13/2009
The BEST PHILLY CHEESE STEAK SANDWICH I've encountered here in SD.
I used to work nearby this place, and what really got me was that they delivered for orders that were 5 bucks over!! So convenient! But I started to get my lazy ass up and walk the 3-4 blocks down the street for lunch. They serve breakfast too and I like the Early Bird with bacon. They have daily specials for different sandwiches and they also have a lunch special of half sandwich and soup. AWESOME. You've got to check out the brown bag if you're in the area. On 5th and Maple inside the building! -
Review from Darren S.
9/15/2009 5 photos
After reading Ron C.'s review of Alex's Brown Bag, I had to give it a try for an early lunch. So far, my San Diego County cheese steak standard is Philly Frank's in San Marco's with Gaglione Bro's at Mission Beach in second place. I was thrown off by the financial building setting and wondered if I was in the right place, but ABB is really easy to find once you catch the scent of steak.
I ordered the cheese steak, small fries, peanut butter Tastykakes and a drink. The fries were crisp, tasty and light on the salt. Upon first viewing, the size of the sandwich was substantial, there wasn't enough cheese for my liking but overall it looked fabulous. The mushroom and onions were cooked and mixed into the meat perfectly. Maybe I like my cheesesteaks a little greasier or it was the lack of cheese, but the sandwich wasn't moist enough for me. Next time, I'll try it with the Cheez Wiz instead of the provolone to even it out. The Amoroso roll was also a bit too crispy with the tenderness of the bread not quite there.
The net result of my whole meal though was: outstanding... definitely a top contender for the best in SD cheesesteak crown. Philly Frank's is still my gold standard, but I'll be back to Alex's for more.Listed in: Lunch spots, Inner fat kid, WAYPH?
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Review from Sandwich Love r.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 5/26/2010 2 photos
That's It!!! These guys get a 5!!!
They hold the Belt for Best Sandwich Shop in SD (for now :)...)
I have gone back a few more times and the Service and Sandwiches keep getting better... and I love the Cherry Coke.
The Peppered Beef sandwich was super flavorful. The Beef, Onions, Mushrooms, Peppers and Mozzarella - Freakin' Awesome!
I have had the Hot Italian and the Alexander - Both equally delicious.
No matter what you are in the mood for; these guys have a sandwich that will knock your socks off!
I will be venturing back over to the Cheese Steak side of the menu for a while...
Awesome job guys!!!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/2/2010
I give it a 4.5... My favorite Philly spot now...
The sandwich was very good and the service was… Read more »
Comment from Jim M. of Alex's Brown Bag 5/6/2010
We are proud to be your number one Philly Spot! Thanks so… More » -
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Review from Amy C.
San Diego, CA
10/20/2008
We were also first introduced at the Yelp Elite event and promised that we would go and check the location out after the event since we really didn't get to try the food,
I must have driven by this place a million times and never knew it existed-- its on the ground floor of an office building right across from the Market Place. Luckily we went on a Saturday and parking was easy!
All I can say is GO HUNGRY! The sandwiches here are HUGE! I am a big steak and cheese fan, so there were no doubt I was going in for the traditional steak and cheese. YUM! The bread was awesome (I forget where the owner said he gets it) and I love sandwiches where there is so much it doesn't even fit the roll. AND they have crinkle fries and Tastycakes. I love this place! -
Review from Chris A.
San Diego, CA
5/8/2009
Driving back downtown after coming to Alex's on a coworkers tip I said, "I can't believe I ate the whole thing."
A truly delicious sandwich and one of the best Philly's I have ever had. The meat to veggie ratio was perfect. Where some places load up on veggies and hardly any meat this sandwich had the perfect mix.
The rolls were soft and fresh, and the sandwich had just the right amount of cheese.
I definitely will come back from downtown on my lunch break for this sandwich!Listed in: Get out of my dreams and into…
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Review from Stacey R.
Costa Mesa, CA
7/19/2010
Oh goodness. I had no idea.
My bf and I went here because I had an Entertainment Book coupon, and we were in the area. I was skeptical upon entry; it's in a financial building, menus were xeroxed, no one was around, and sandwiches were around $8 a piece. We ordered anyway and waited for what seemed like forever (I was hungry), and I couldn't help but wonder, "Are they slaughtering the cow back there?". Once I got the food though, I SO did not care.
The sandwiches are big. I actually expected them to be about half that size - no wonder the heft price tag. The bread was flaky and pretty much awesome. The meat was done just right, and the cheese was melted to beautiful perfection. I was able to try both the traditional Philly Cheesesteak as well as the pizzafied version (Pizzioli or something like that). Both were AWESOME. I will DEFINITELY be back. Maybe today.Comment from Jim M. of Alex's Brown Bag 8/11/2010
FYI, we do a trade for food in exchage for menu copies. So,… More » -
Review from Vitaliy L.
San Diego, CA
8/30/2010
4 1/2 Stars.
This place is really, really good.
Got a Philly cheese steak and a meatball sub before a Padres game.
Both sandwiches were really good. You get a huge sandwich for $8 so you'll be stuffed for cheap.
