Lil’ Pickle, Costa Mesa

Several months ago I decided that I didn’t have enough stress in my life so I made the choice to go back to school. While driving to Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, I happened upon Lil’ Pickle, A crowded little restaurant with a really endearing logo:

Don’t ask me why, but I am a big fan of Anthropomorphic vegetables.

Despite the fact that the name Lil’ pickle made me feel a bit self conscious about myself, I decided to walk in and give it a shot. Turns out Lil’ Pickle has been around since 1962 and has been an active part of the community for years. There are photos peppering the walls with local sports teams, newspaper articles, and memorabilia throughout the years.

I find myself being charmed by sandwich shops that look like they are from another time. The interior may be old and rickety, but it’s a good sign that you’re going to have something worth the trip. Usually if a sandwich shop lasts decades in a community it means there’s something about it that the locals love.

The Original Lil’ Pickle Sub

• Ham
• Salami
• Capicola
• Mozzarella
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Oil
• Italian Dressing

I was told that the Original Lil’ Pickle Sub was one of their most popular sandwiches, I can understand why. I’m not usually one to order cold sandwiches with salami in them (I think it tastes better hot), but I was pleasantly surprised when the bread came out hot. The bread wasn’t toasted, it was warm and soft with the salami’s juice lightly soaking into it.

You don’t see shredded cheese on sandwiches very often, I like it, it’s a little messier but I think I taste the cheese more when it’s shredded. Overall, Lil’ Pickle seems like a classic no frills Orange County sandwich shop, but it is a solid place to try when you’re in Costa Mesa. I’ve been told that their Avocado spread is famous locally, so I have another excuse to go back.

Plus, I really like their logo.

-Vy

Lil’ Pickle 
2985 Fairview Rd
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Sun – Mon 10:00AM – 7:00PM

Delivery: DoorDash

More in Costa Mesa

Baba’s Hot Chicken Costa Mesa, CA

The city of Costa Mesa has a pinterest-laden dreamland called The Lab, a modern take on the traditional shopping center ...

Read More

The Crack Shack, Costa Mesa CA

The Crack Shack in Costa Mesa has been suggested to me several times on instagram. It took me longer than ...

Read More

The OC Night Market 2018

Every year in Costa Mesa there is a gathering of some of Southern California's most interesting food stalls. The OC ...

Read More