They say you should never judge a book by its cover and that is very true for these five Palm Desert lunch spots – who may not look like much from the outside, but are serving up some tasty lunches inside.

Listed in no particular order.

5Alkobar Quick Stop & Deli

A Philly Cheesesteak from Alkobar (Instagram: @doimakeyourandy21)

From the outside, Alkobar looks like any other liquor store.  But inside, they offer a big menu full of subs, burritos, fried chicken, and more.  Then there is their famous cheesesteak, which is pretty damn delicious.

Alkobar Quick Stop & Deli, 42005 Cook Street # 110, Palm Desert, (760) 773-3359

4The Lunchbox

A ham sandwich from the Lunch Box in Palm Desert, California
A sandwich from the Lunch Box in Palm Desert (image: Casey Dolan)

Located in an industrial area chock full of mechanics and body shops, the Lunchbox is home to a menu full of sandwiches, soups, salads, hot dogs, and more served up weekdays by the always nice duo of Kari and Steve.

The Lunchbox, 74868 Joni Drive, Palm Desert, (760) 610-1136

3Real Italian Deli

The Toscano sandwich from the Real Italian Deli (Instagram: @joshmun)

The deli, located between a laundromat and a somewhat sketchy Circle K, has been a Cactus Hugs fave for some time now – because they are just so darn good!

The Real Italian Deli, 44795 San Pablo Ave, Palm Desert, (760) 836-1493

2El Rodeo Cafe

Tacos, rice, and beans at El Rodeo Cafe in Palm Desert, California
(Instagram: @brandaid81)

Directly across San Pablo from Real Italian Deli is some of the best Mexican food in Palm Desert.  El Rodeo Cafe serves up tacos, burritos, tostadas, some really good chilaquiles, and has their breakfast menu available all day.

El Rodeo Cafe, 44820 San Pablo Ave, Palm Desert, (760) 346-5046

1Jensen’s Minute Shoppe

A sandwich and side from Jensen's Minute Shop in Palm Desert, California
(Instagram: @iheartbape)

Head to the back of this mini version of the Jensen’s grocery store for a deli filled with lots of options for sandwiches, burgers, and Mexican food – including a really tasty carne asada burrito that might just be big enough to hold you over for both lunch and dinner.

Jensen’s Minute Shoppe, 42150 Cook St, Palm Desert, (760) 837-1877

Enjoy your lunch in Palm Desert!

 

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