Carmen's Deli
Call now
Call now
Website
Call
Carmen's Deli
Carmen's Deli opened at the beginning of the great recession of 2009 in downtown Dayton in a building pending bankruptcy with a high vacancy rate. Thanks to new owners of the Kettering Tower, Carmen's was given the opportunity to move across the street and continue to build on the tradition- expanding to serve dinner, spirits and become a bistro.

Chef Imam is a graduate of the culinary and hospitality program at Sinclair Community College. He's proud to be living the American dream as naturalized citizen, working in the same community where he received his education. We thank our customers everyday for their support, because ultimately, without you, we couldn't do what we love.
Services
Hand-formed beef patty blended with Mediterranean spices, & topped with feta cheese, roma tomatoes, crispy Romaine lettuce, red onion & drizzled with herb olive oil. Served on a warm pita. Grilled sirloin burger with chipotle BBQ sauce, seasoned bacon, pepperjack cheese, roma tomatoes, crispy romaine lettuce.
Carmen's Deli and Bistro can cater your event, party or function - big or small! With 30 years of catering experience, we can help you customize your food selection to fit your needs. We specialize in foods with a Mediterranean flair and will be happy to create mouth watering dishes your guests will love!
Reviews (27)
John Louie
John Louie
Jan 28, 2022
Report
Rated Memorable by Roadfood. Tasty cheesesteaks and hoagies with infinite topping options. Local-brand sodas. Probably one small sandwich is enough for two old geezers. The premises have expanded so even in Covid limited dine-in and restrooms are available.
C. R.
C. R.
Jan 28, 2022
Report
Looking for a place to have lunch on our way to the Packard Museum and came across this amazingly delicious deli. We ordered burgers and they were absolutely delicious. The owner knew everyone coming in by name. We will definitely be back and highly recommend you trying it if you are in the area
Anthony P. Mozzo
Anthony P. Mozzo
Jan 22, 2022
Report
Pizza was very good little stingy on the toppings as far as no personality from the older man or the boy making the pizza, no thanks for patronize them. It's a wonder they were not busy.
Natalie Pergola
Natalie Pergola
Jan 03, 2022
Report
We decided to stop here on our way back through to NC because of the rave reviews. I ordered the Caprese vegetarian and this is what I got. I know times are tough but presentation is everything. Honestly worst sandwich I have ever had!
Aaron
Aaron
Jan 03, 2022
Report
Sometimes you just crave the classics. Here is an oven roasted turkey hoagie from @carmens_deli_nj and the Bellmawr location. As I mentioned, oven roasted turkey, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, oil, and vinegar on a @del_buonos_nj roll. Doesn't get much simpler and better than that for a hoagie. Meat cut sandwich thin, no shortage of fresh crispy water veggies, and I am a lover of onions as well. For additional price, you can add pickles and peppers which I wish I would had done.
Robert Britland
Robert Britland
Dec 27, 2021
Report
Place has gone down hill,steak sandwich is terrible meat doesn't even fill the roll,,for the price it's a rip off miss old Carmen's
Kodi Petroski
Kodi Petroski
Dec 26, 2021
Report
Cheesesteaks we’re the BEST in the area no question but apparently something changed w the company because they’re now the WORST in the area . I could make better cheesesteaks in my house ! Needs to go back to how it used to be. Only reason this gets 2 stars is because the breakfast sandwiches are still pretty decent . That’s it though !!
La Reyna
La Reyna
Dec 16, 2021
Report
The fries are extremely salty and unedible. When I contacted the place, I was told that's how the fries are. Are u kidding me?! You can't even eat them! Will never order again from here. I was asked to cut to the chase? Oh what do u want a new order? Really?! Instead of apologizing and checking in on the cook to see how much seasoning he is using. Offended much? Positive criticism should always be valued n used as a learning experience so that u don't push customers away. CUT BACK ON THE SEASONING!
John Cella
John Cella
Dec 15, 2021
Report
Don't be misled by negative reviews..... I have been everywhere from New York to Philadelphia, this is the best hoagie on the planet period.
This is what I reviewed years ago, then it changed hands, I waited. It's only a matter of time before a new owner puts profits above product. Rather than raise prices they lower product. For me January 6th 2022.... I received a lettuce sandwich with hardly any meat.... So long Carmen I'm going to miss you!!!!! Don't waste your time with this place you get more meat at Subway....
Dave K.
Dave K.
Dec 14, 2021
Report
We met our son for lunch in downtown Dayton and a quick Yelp review led us to this 5 star find and it did not disappoint! From the moment we entered, we were warmly greeted by Carmen the owner. This man was uber friendly, and was carrying on conversations with all customers who were coming and going! The food was served in quick fashion and was excellent (we had a chicken BLT wrap, a grilled tuna melt and the day's special, a fried chicken jalapeño sandwich). So if ever in downtown Dayton at lunch, don't hesitate to give Carmen a visit- he will become a friend by the time you are ready
Omar Osorio
Omar Osorio
Dec 05, 2021
Report
Very disappointed with their cheesesteaks. My girlfriend n I came in 11/14 to try their big daddy Cheesesteak b/c my girlfriend is Obsess with chs steak. When I was unwrapping it to take a whole bite out of it. Couldn’t even pick it up bread was very soggy and then when you did take a bite everything would fall of the bread. They remodel everything witch looks good. but can’t seem to make a great cheesesteak. Tbh these didn’t even deserve a 1 star.
Ian Joyce
Ian Joyce
Oct 01, 2021
Report
A must eat local deli! Got the Big Daddy, great kick and taste. Our BLT was loaded with bacon, and the Reuben had solid proportions. Healthy side of fresh french fries in a bucket with awesome seasoning
Tyler S.
Tyler S.
Aug 23, 2021
Report
Owner Haitham is an amazing & friendly host who tries to greet guests, even introducing himself with a huge smile and asking new guests' names. For a couple who were from out of town, he politely shared some recommendations & even provided a free dessert.

This downtown eatery is welcoming and always serves up yummy lunch items.

Definitely try the gyros, Reubens, & the baklava!!!
Luke C.
Luke C.
Aug 01, 2021
Report
This is in the 1st floor of the stratacache tower. They are trying to open back up for dinner time but it was very empty when I got there. It was a strange vibe because the place was so empty.

I wish there were a few more affordable items on the menu. I think the minimum price for anything was $8. Maybe offer some sides - like just a few falafels or something.

I got the falafel wrap. It includes Falafel, tahini, tomato, red onion, romaine lettuce, cucumber, and pickle. Overall I enjoyed the wrap. This wrap had a good amount of tahini and not too much wrap, so it wasn't dry like some wraps
Jessica W.
Jessica W.
Aug 07, 2020
Report
Excellent lunch spot located on the first floor of the Stratacache Tower (formerly Kettering Tower.) Carmen's is locally owned and offers breakfast, grab & go salads, hot sandwiches from the grill and their famous baklava for dessert.
Dine inside or on their patio.
Diamond M.
Diamond M.
Mar 11, 2020
Report
Located inside of the Kettering Tower.
Initially I had a hard time finding this place.
When I walked in I was greeted by the owner and his amazing staff.
Instantly felt welcomed! I asked the owner what was his recommendations and he said the croissant and egg sandwich and the ciabatta and egg sandwich. (I went during breakfast time)
I got the Ciabatta & Egg Sandwich with turkey sausage. It was (inserts chefs kiss) exquisite! I grabbed a side of the house salsa that's freshly prepared daily! And whew! My taste buds where in love!
I'll most definitely be returning when I'm in
Luke D.
Luke D.
Feb 01, 2020
Report
Go in to talk to the owner, stay for the delicious fresh food! Customer service is their number one priority and it shows.
Alexandria W.
Alexandria W.
Feb 01, 2020
Report
Good food, great service! Everyone is very helpful on your first visit. I had the chicken shawarma the first time and it was excellent. The baked goods are great as well.
Hannah P.
Hannah P.
Jan 25, 2020
Report
Carmen's has added a Saturday brunch from 10 am to 3 pm on the Fourth Saturday of each month. Full regular breakfasts and lunch menu available as well as the special brunch menu. Includes french toast, omelet bar, eggs Benedict, Jerusalem breakfast platter with scrambled eggs, fried Halloumi, falafel, smoked meat, olives, veggies with hummus and pitas. Full bar is open with mimosas, bloody Mary's, coffees, etc. A great new brunch addition for downtown Dayton.
Ella E.
Ella E.
Dec 21, 2019
Report
The staff is so friendly and the food is amazing. I go to a convention in Dayton once every year and this place is what I look forward. Hands down is one of my top 5 favorite restaurants. The fries are amazing the sandwiches are to die for. It's just a wonderful experience.
Paul N.
Paul N.
Oct 29, 2018
Report
We love to eat at local places around Dayton for staff lunch using Yelp.
The great ratings and our love of sandwiches lured us in.
I had the Philly and my friend had the club- both were awesome!
The owner is uber friendly. I look forward to returning sometime to enjoy one of their desserts.
Only downside- downtown parking.
Steve A.
Steve A.
May 28, 2018
Report
Carmen's isn't bad for a deli tucked away inside a big corporate building. It of course is popular for lunch. They do get many off the street. It has healthier food than the average deli. The hours are kind of limited because it targets downtown workers.

Being located in the Kettering Building, it's kind of easy to find but still hidden away. It's tricking getting into it because you have to go past several doors until you can get into the center, then walk a ways over to the deli. The menu has a strong Greek influence. It's because the owner is Greek, so he knows authentic
Christopher S.
Christopher S.
Nov 02, 2017
Report
This is a great place.

The owner makes sure that everyone is cared for.

Very clean place.

Best philly I have ever had.

Service is nice.
Matt C.
Matt C.
Jun 06, 2017
Report
Great chicken shawarma wrap, and great service and hospitality. As a visitor to Dayton they made me feel at home.

Wide range of deli items on menu including breakfast.
Marcela W.
Marcela W.
Mar 09, 2017
Report
Love this place !
The Santa Fe chicken wrap is my favorite with the French fries that are Yummy
Eric M.
Eric M.
Dec 03, 2016
Report
Quick service during the lunch rush with no compromise in quality. As a resident of New York who has spent some time in Philly, I'm always skeptical of places I travel that advertise New York Style Pizza or Philly Cheesesteaks, especially in the Midwest. Nonetheless, the cheesesteak was great, with a nice little twist using banana peppers.
Kevin L.
Kevin L.
Jul 20, 2016
Report
Because my job is so busy, I tend to skip lunch and deal with the void and headache but something just kept nagging me to go in. I am so glad I did! The menu looked so amazing that I could not decide so I asked the Manager and staff. They suggested the Falafel Wrap "Jerusalem Style". It's like they read my mind because that's what I secretly wanted after asking haha.

I got it with the Garlic wrap (I love Garlic) and it was the best Falafel wrap I've ever had. I normally refrain from saying something is the best but it was. I also got the Bakalva and it was the perfect