Mama Mia! Whether you’re craving an Italian sub so good it could solve the world’s problems or you want mouthwatering meatballs that’ll make you ugly cry with delight, we’ve put together a list of the best Italian delis in LA to take the kids. These tasty eateries will fill your belly and soul with great food and warm service that feels like family. Mangia!
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
All hail "The Godmother"—Bay Cities's signature sub and after one bite, you'll realize why. Stacked high with ham, capicola, mortadella, genoa salami, provolone cheese and the works, it rates as one of the top sandwiches in town. In addition to the classic sub, Bay Cities serves up dozens of amazing hot and cold sandwiches and sides, along with fresh sliced meats and cheeses that will make your mouth water. Hot Tip: Bay Cities only accepts cash or debit cards—no credit cards.
What to Order the Kids: We’d be remiss if we didn’t strongly recommend ordering the iconic sandwich, The Godmother, but kids might also enjoy the Caprese sandwich or the hot chicken parmesan.
1517 Lincoln Blvd.
Santa Monica
Online: order.bcdeli.com
Ggiata Delicatessen
Drawing inspiration from traditional East Coast neighborhood delis, Ggiata Delicatessen features some of the most incredible Italian-style deli fare this side of Jersey. Their success comes from a great blend of culinary talent and high-quality ingredients sourced from local vendors. With a fantastic selection of sandwiches, salads and sides, it’s no wonder they’ve become one of the most well regarded delis in town. Don’t miss their Rainbow cookies either—they’re some of the best.
What to Order the Kids: The Chicken Parm (order the Spicy P for yourself!), a side of Arancini (fried risotto cheese balls) and of course Rainbow cookies for dessert!
5009 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: ggiata.com
Eastside Italian Deli
A DTLA staple for over 90 years, award-winning Eastside Italian Deli is known for its rich family history and its to-die-for sandwiches—the most popular being the #7 Roast Beef, Pastrami & Cheese. Can't make it downtown? Another storefront location is open in Los Feliz, where even more folks will have an opportunity to find out why this deli is consistently ranked as one of the tastiest in town.
What to Order the Kids: The Italian Meatball with cooked peppers and cheese is a good choice if little ones are super hungry or, for something lighter, order the turkey and cheese sub.
1013 Alpine St.
Los Angeles
Online: esmdeli.com
Mario’s Italian Deli & Market
Voted one of the best delis in LA year after year, you can see why Mario’s Italian Deli & Market gets raves with their impressive selection delicious subs, hot sandwiches, Italian wines and rare imported items. Also, they put together incredible catering spreads, so definitely keep them in mind for the upcoming holiday season.
What to Order the Kids: You can’t go wrong with their Spaghetti and Meatballs or for more daring kiddos, check out their Spicy Combo Sub which is big enough for two to share.
740 E Broadway
Glendale
Online: mariosdeli.com
Cavaretta’s Italian Deli
Holy cannoli, Cavaretta’s Italian Deli in Canoga Park truly has some of the best cannolis in town, hands down. Serving the community since 1959, Cavaretta’s is known for its super friendly hospitality where everyone is treated like family and of course they're known for their amazing food. From fresh Italian subs and hand-rolled meatballs to a great selection of curated items throughout the store, it’s an experience not to be missed.
What to Order the Kids: Their famous cannolis of course!
22045 Sherman Way
Canoga Park
Online: cavarettasdeli.com
—Jennifer O’Brien
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