Erik’s Delicafe

Erik’s DeliCafé is an independent quick-service restaurant group specializing in sandwiches, soups, salads, and baked goods, with a long-standing presence in Northern California. The company was founded in 1973 by Erik Johnson, who opened the first shop in Scotts Valley, California. What began as a single neighborhood sandwich spot quickly earned a reputation for fresh, made-to-order food and a welcoming, community-oriented feel.

Over the years, Erik’s DeliCafé has grown steadily, expanding its reach throughout the Bay Area and the Central Coast. By the mid-2010s, the brand had become a familiar choice for lunch and casual dining across the region. As of November 2025, Erik’s DeliCafé operates 32 locations, with its stores concentrated in Santa Cruz, Monterey, Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties. The company’s footprint includes a mix of suburban and retail center sites, often in established neighborhoods and high-traffic corridors.

During the past five years, Erik’s DeliCafé has focused on operational stability and selective infill growth, adding new stores in existing markets rather than pursuing rapid expansion. The company remains open to strategic opportunities that fit its suburban and retail center model, but it is not aggressively seeking new markets. Leadership continues to be held by members of the founding family, and there is no parent company or franchising activity.

For property owners and leasing professionals, Erik’s DeliCafé stands out as a reliable, regionally recognized operator with a proven track record of adapting to a variety of retail environments. The brand’s flexible store format, consistent customer base, and commitment to quality have made it a sought-after tenant in neighborhood centers and mixed-use developments. Its continued relevance and stability offer confidence to landlords and developers seeking established food service concepts for their properties.