A refined take on the lunch counter classic. The tuna salad is seasoned precisely with a hint of lemon and fresh herbs, mixed with plenty of crunchy vegetables. Like the Dill Party, it features a thick layer of potato chips for maximum crunch. Reviewers highlight the lack of 'fishiness' and the quality of the bread which holds up to the generous filling. It is widely cited as the best tuna sandwich in Ridgewood.
Tips from diners
The portions are huge. One sandwich is easily enough for two light eaters to share. Pair it with their daily 'Lil Salad' to balance the saltiness.
The quintessential 'Salty Lunch Lady' creation. It features high-quality ham and a mountain of fresh dill butter on a sturdy, crusty roll. The signature touch is the addition of salty potato chips inside the sandwich, providing a significant crunch that contrasts with the soft meat and rich butter. It's a favorite for texture lovers and has become a neighborhood icon. Reviewers consistently highlight the intensity of the dill flavor.
Tips from diners
Eat this immediately. The chips are the secret, and they will get soggy if you wait too long or take it to-go. The dill butter is remarkably rich.
The required side dish at Salty Lunch Lady. The salad changes daily based on what's fresh, often featuring interesting ingredients like pickled rhubarb, shaved fennel, or rare herbs. It is a favorite for regulars looking for a refreshing acidic counterpoint to the heavy, buttery sandwiches. Reviewers consistently praise the creativity of the dressings.
A robust and flavor-dense lunch option. Tender roasted chicken is layered with creamy avocado and thick-cut smoky bacon, dressed with a bright house-made herb mayonnaise. It represents the heart of the luncheonette's 'high-end comfort' style, providing a more substantial but still refined meal. Reviewers mention the quality of the chicken as being superior to standard deli versions.
Founded by Dria Atencio, Salty Lunch Lady started as a cult-favorite catering operation before opening its 'Little Luncheonette' in Ridgewood. The space is a charming, low-key spot decorated with vintage knick-knacks and a bright yellow counter. It is celebrated for its creative, often humorous approach to comfort food, using top-tier ingredients to elevate simple sandwich formats into destination-worthy meals.
It's a tiny spot and can get very crowded during the peak lunch hour (12-2 PM). Arrive for an early lunch at 11:30 AM or a late lunch at 3 PM to walk right in—the vibe is much more peaceful then.
There are only a few stools at the counter and a couple of small tables. If it's a nice day, take your sandwich to the nearby Cleveland Park for a scenic Ridgewood lunch.
Check their chalkboard for the 'Sandwich of the Day.' They often experiment with limited-run creations that aren't on the regular menu—those are usually the most exciting things to eat.
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