Prunedale Market & Deli in Salinas

Review №1

2023-07-04 00:48:51

I recently visited the Prunedale Market and Deli and had mixed feelings about their renowned tri-tip sandwiches. While the meat was tender, it lacked that distinctive grilled flavor that one would expect from a properly cooked tri-tip. The sandwich left me wanting more in terms of taste and authenticity.On the positive side, the owner of the establishment was incredibly friendly and outgoing. He even offered me a complimentary bowl of chili, which turned out to be delicious. It was a nice gesture that added value to the overall experience.However, I was disappointed by the addition of hot Fritos to the sandwich. It didnt contribute anything special to the flavor profile and seemed unnecessary. Additionally, I personally believe that adding BBQ sauce to steak is a misstep, as it tends to overshadow the natural flavors of the meat.In summary, the Prunedale Market and Deli falls short in delivering an exceptional tri-tip sandwich. While the owners hospitality and the tasty chili are noteworthy, the lack of grilled flavor and questionable sandwich toppings leave much to be desired.

Review №2

2023-11-21 23:20:10

Heard about this place . the best sandwiches in California, and they did not disappoint.As soon as we turned on the street, we could smell the bbq and got that much more excited. As soon as we walked in we were warmly greeted with a hello and where you guys coming from making it feel that much homier.We all placed our order for the Tri-tip sandwich and grabbed a drink. The owner then offered a sample of the corn chowder of the day while we for the sandwiches to be ready. If the soup was any indication of hiw the sandwiches were going to be we were in for a treat becuase it was that good.Once the sandwiches were ready, we took them and grabbed a table, and sat down to enjoy. The size of the sandwich was a little intimidating and can definitely be shared, Im no small man but even I had difficulty finishing off this sandwich and ended up using a fork to eat the rest of the tri-tip.The meat of the sandwich was stack thick and covered with bbq and fritos which i must admit i was a little hesitant of at first but they offered a nice complimentary little spice to the sweetness of the bbq sauce. The meat itself was tender and smokey just how i would expect good tri-tip to be.Overall a fantastic experience and a place I will definitely visit again and take my friends too.Things to note, you cannot turn directly off the freeway into the parking lot anymore you have to take a few side streets.It is a cash only place but definitely worth the stop to grab some cash before heading over.

Review №3

2023-04-19 22:57:30

Good BBQ. Had the Wednesday Chill beans, tritip, ribs, and sausage. Owner is super great guy. Come and check it out. Very affordable for authentic BBQ.

Review №4

2023-02-17 02:01:06

Food was super delicious! It is Cash only but there is a Safeway about 1.5miles away that has an atm. The owner was super friendly and even offered samples while we waited for our sandwiches. Definitely looks like a mini market but it’s worth the drive to get the food. The sandwich is huge so you can share it with someone. Can’t wait to come here again!

Review №5

2023-09-23 21:19:52

I do NOT normally give out FIVE stars, an establishment needs to knock my socks off in a few ways to deserve that, andI am very particular.Well, Martin (long term owner) you get my🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟One can either be a jack of many trades or master of one. Martin, you are the master of the BBQ, your Tri Tip sando did not disappoint. It lived up to readings I did before visiting for the first time. 🌟🌟🌟 for you. The rack of ribs, confident they will be on point (dinner tonight! 😋😋😋). The corn chowder, what you dont use butter??? Howd it taste so damn good? Healthy for customers, another 🌟 for you.We have met many business owners in our travels - Martin, is top tier. Very down to earth and friendly, hard working, and the repeat local customers we spoke with couldnt be more positive. The last 🌟.Wife was very satisfied with my choice - I wish I could give another 💫, how about a 👍Well done - customer for life here.

Review №6

2023-09-25 04:53:04

The owner now only does one sandwich, thats all you need - the Tri Tip, enuf said. Youre missing out if you did not try this at least once in your life if you are anywhere within a one hr drive. I know its good when a few hours later my burp smells of the BBQ pit 😉

Review №7

2019-05-11 04:12:38

If I could give this place six stars I would. GREAT BBQ tri-tip sandwich. Off the charts! You drive down this residential street and think this can’t be right... it is. Trust your GPS. The place is cheap, but CASH ONLY... and yes, it’s fantastic. So good! Insanely good. Needless to say, I highly recommend!!!!!

Review №8

2021-07-03 22:08:24

Owner is super nice and offered us a bunch of free stuff. Bring cash as theres no ATM/credit card on site. Safeway is the closest place to get cash. The ribs were amazing quality especially for a small business. Would definitely return.

Review №9

2023-09-15 19:23:48

First time there but let me tell you the owner Martin has great customer service!!!!! good food especially the clam chowder . For all the bad reviews I have left on other businesses I suggest you come out and LEARN what great customer service is and treat a client

Review №10

2023-08-12 23:59:30

What a gem! This place was the perfect place to discover before we hit the sand. Warm welcome and delicious BBQ and soup! Bring cash and you will want to tip heavily!