Compagno's Market & Deli
A Monterey institution known for its colossal sandwiches and friendly owner, offering a unique deli experience with military flair.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Compagno's Market & Deli
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Monterey institution known for its colossal sandwiches and friendly owner, offering a unique deli experience with military flair.
"Literally the BEST deli in America. You will not be disappointed."
Save Room for Cake!
Their cakes are delicious! German chocolate is best on Wednesdays.
Split a Sandwich
These sandwiches are huge! Perfect for sharing with a friend or loved one.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Deli
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colossal & Delicious Sandwiches
Indulge in massive, flavor-packed sandwiches, perfect for splitting. Named after military branches, each is a hearty delight.
Decadent Homemade Cakes
Don't miss their incredible cakes, especially the German chocolate and peanut butter chocolate. A sweet ending to a savory meal.
Unique Military Memorabilia Ambiance
Soak in the cozy atmosphere adorned with military memorabilia, a tribute to owner Bennett and local heroes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Save Room for Cake!
Their cakes are delicious! German chocolate is best on Wednesdays.
Split a Sandwich
These sandwiches are huge! Perfect for sharing with a friend or loved one.
Visit Mid-Week for Cake
For the freshest German chocolate cake, try visiting on a Wednesday.
Embrace the Vibe
Appreciate the military memorabilia; it's part of the unique charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
Save Room for Cake!
Their cakes are delicious! German chocolate is best on Wednesdays.
Split a Sandwich
These sandwiches are huge! Perfect for sharing with a friend or loved one.
Visit Mid-Week for Cake
For the freshest German chocolate cake, try visiting on a Wednesday.
Embrace the Vibe
Appreciate the military memorabilia; it's part of the unique charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Compagno's Market & Deli is lauded for its incredibly generous sandwich portions and the friendly hospitality of its owner, Bennett. Diners rave about the fresh ingredients and the unique, military-themed atmosphere. However, a few reviewers have found certain sandwich combinations and other menu items to be less satisfying.
"This is my favorite place to go for their broccoli salad. German chocolate cake is usually fresh on Wednesday, so had to settle for carrot cake which was also very good. They make amazing sandwiches, but you write down your exact order before you enter the store and they are definitely large enough to split"
Gina Hinds, REALTOR
"Love the classic vibe of the deli, real sandwiches no fuss. Had the veggie #20 and the #26 deviled eggs going to back for more. This place is where locals go :)"
Ryan Lama
"We absolutely loved this place. The sandwiches are incredible. They were fresh and massive, even if you get a half. Kids could easily split one. The cookie dough cake was delicious and a generous slice. Bennett is hilarious and really kind...he made us laugh the whole time we were in there, and we had a great conversation. They have a solid drink selection and stocked things you can't find everywhere. You won't regret going here!"
Liz Costello
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers frequently praise the Air Force Special, Navy Special, and Marine Special for their generous portions and unique flavors.
Yes, the sandwiches are described as 'aircraft-carrier-size' and are definitely large enough to split.
Yes, they offer gluten-free bread for their sandwiches, which is a great accommodation for dietary needs.
The German chocolate cake is usually fresh on Wednesdays, making mid-week visits ideal for this popular treat.
The deli is adorned with a wide array of military memorabilia, celebrating local heroes and creating a distinct, cozy ambiance.
No reservations are required. It's a classic deli experience where you can walk in and order.
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31 BEST Restaurants In Monterey, California [2023 Guide]
Best for: Delicious sandwiches for your beach picnicAddress: 2000 Prescott Ave, Monterey, CA 93940Contact info: (831) 375-5987Cuisine: SandwichesDon’t miss: The hot pastrami sandwich No reservations No online menu available. Campagno’s Market and Deli is a great place to go when you’re hungry for a freshly-made sandwich. It’s popular with locals, especially the military members based in the area, and many sandwich names honor their loyal fans.
The seven biggest/most absurd sandwiches in Monterey County. | Eat + Drink
7 • Pick any of the sandwiches at Compagno’s Market and Deli (375-5987) and it’ll be absurdly scaled—plenty enough for two—whether it’s the Air Force Special turkey breast with Philly cream cheese and cranberry sauce or the reigning people’s choice #27, a thick stack of juicy breaded chicken breast, bacon, avocado and cheese. This would rank higher on sheer size, but doesn't carry the ridiculous diversity of meats the others do.
Lunch, the Local Way
The deli serves a takeaway menu of build-your-own sandwiches and house favorites named for Coniglio family members and friends. The Uncle Philly, with dry coppa, provolone, lettuce and pepperoncini on a seeded role, honors their uncle who first established the Mediterranean Market. The Uncle Peter, piled high with Black Forest ham, Emmentaler Swiss, lettuce and pickle, is named for another uncle, the former mayor of Monterey.
Affordable Eats Near Monterey
Compagno's Market & Deli is a must-visit for satisfying stacked sandwiches and fresh salads in Monterey. Go for the Navy Special: prosciutto, hot coppa, and salami layered with provolone, avocado, pepperoncini, and veggies on Dutch crunch bread—a flavor-packed choice. Another standout is the Crazy Reuben, featuring tender pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, peppers, and pepper jack on soft marble rye that holds its own.
The Top Eateries in the Lighthouse District in Monterey
Compagno’s Market & Deli is easily among the best hidden-in-plain-sight locations on the entire bay. If you aren’t aware of its exact location (right by the Taylor Gate entrance to the Defense Language Institute,) chances are you’d drive right by it. This military-themed sandwich shop, market, and deli has everything you need to be full…for a week.
Delicious Places to Eat in Monterey on a Budget
This beloved Monterey market has been keeping Defense Language Institute students and Monterey regulars well fed for over forty years. What to order: I recommend the Hoagie with salami and mortadella or the chicken salad with almonds on either the soft baked or Dutch crunch bread
Where to dine in Monterey County? Chefs tip diners
He acknowledges he still loves the aircraft-carrier-size sandwiches like the Navy Seal (with chicken, hot wing sauce and blue cheese) at Compagno’s Deli in Monterey. “There’s not a whole lot of places where you can get something that big for a modest price,” he says.
Best Restaurants in Monterey, CA
Compagno’s Market & Deli is a Monterey institution known for its incredibly generous portions and friendly staff. Compagno’s sandwiches – we recommend the specials – are stacked with premium meats, cheeses, and fresh ingredients.
The Best Things to do in Monterey with Kids
Compagnos Market: Compagnos is a true hidden gem inside of Monterey. It’s tucked away inside of a neighborhood and they are so low-key, they don’t even have a website. While you’re in Monterey, you can not miss a stop here.
Best Lunch in Monterey, CA (2025) — 15 Top Places!
2000 Prescott AveMonterey, CA 93940(831) 375-5987 Visit Website Open in Google Maps. Compagno is a long-running business that serves traditional sandwiches in the Monterey area.
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