San Diego is a city that is home to a diverse and thriving food scene. While there are many different types of cuisine available, Italian food is always a crowd favorite.
From pizza to pasta, Italian cuisine is beloved for its rich flavors and hearty portions. One of the best ways to experience authentic Italian food is by visiting a local deli.
Italian delis are known for their fresh ingredients, homemade sauces, and delicious sandwiches. They offer a wide variety of meats, cheeses, and other Italian specialties that are hard to find elsewhere.
Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a place to stock up on ingredients for a homemade Italian feast, delis are the perfect destination.
San Diego is home to some of the best Italian delis in the country. Whether you are a local or a visitor, it is worth exploring the city's many delis to find your new favorite spot.
From old-school delis that have been around for generations to new, trendy spots, there is something for everyone in San Diego's Italian deli scene.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best Italian delis in San Diego. We will highlight their unique offerings, the history behind each deli, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Whether you are a die-hard sandwich lover or just looking for a taste of Italy in San Diego, this guide will help you find your next favorite deli.
1. Beyer Deli
Beyer Deli is a family-run Italian deli that serves up delicious sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients.
The staff are friendly and welcoming, treating customers like family.
The dining area is clean and well-maintained. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.
Note that Beyer Deli only accepts cash. This hidden gem is definitely worth a visit!
2. The Market Place
The Market Place is an Italian deli that offers a great selection of food and drinks. They have a wide range of sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and convenience items.
The deli is known for its made-from-scratch soups and custom-made sandwiches.
They also have vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based options. The staff is friendly and provides excellent customer service.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. The Market Place is a great spot for a quick lunch or to pick up items for home cooking.
3. Poma's Italian Deli
Poma's Italian Deli is a long-standing Italian-style deli that serves up classic pizzas, pasta dinners, and subs.
The deli is known for its authentic Italian recipes that have been passed down through generations. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and attentive to orders.
The Torpedo sandwich and Eggplant Parmesan are highly recommended by regulars. The deli also offers deli-prepared salads and entrees.
Parking can be a bit of a hassle, but calling ahead for take-out is a great option. If you're looking for a no-nonsense, old-school sub and pizza shop, Poma's Italian Deli is definitely worth checking out.
4. Hungry Lu's
Hungry Lu's is a must-visit Italian deli and bakery for anyone who loves a great sandwich.
Their bread is made fresh daily and their sandwiches are packed full of flavor. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the experience even better.
Don't forget to try their homemade cookies and pastries, they're absolutely delicious.
If you're looking for a laid-back spot to grab a sandwich or dessert, give Hungry Lu's a try.
5. Assenti's Pasta
Assenti's Pasta is a family-owned Italian deli that offers a wide variety of fresh and frozen pasta, homemade sauces, and Italian wines.
Customers rave about the delicious prosciutto and cheeses, as well as the helpful and friendly staff.
The store also carries unique and natural Italian food items, making it a great place to stock up for an authentic Italian meal at home.
The fresh pasta is a standout, with customers calling it the best in San Diego. Parking can be a challenge in the area, but it's worth it to support this local gem.
6. Rubicon Deli Mission Hills
Rubicon Deli Mission Hills is a must-visit for anyone craving a delicious sandwich. This Italian deli offers a wide variety of freshly baked breads and quality ingredients that make each sandwich unique and flavorful.
The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is laid back, making it a great spot for a quick lunch break.
Prices can be a bit high, but the generous portions and high-quality ingredients make it worth it. The deli also offers creative soda options and a few draft beer taps for those looking to enjoy a drink with their meal.
With a focus on quality and flavor, Rubicon Deli Mission Hills is a local hotspot for sandwich lovers.
7. The Deli Llama
The Deli Llama is a quirky Italian deli that offers a variety of gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The shop has a neighborhood vibe and is a great place to grab a quick lunch.
The sandwiches are fresh and delicious, with a good selection for vegetarians and custom orders. The bread is amazing and the cuts of meat are great.
The shop also has a good selection of beer, sodas, and other drinks. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food justifies it.
The shop is clean and airy, and there are outdoor tables for customers to enjoy their sandwiches. The Deli Llama is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a unique and delicious sandwich experience.
8. Sandwich Stop Deli
Sandwich Stop Deli is an Italian deli that offers delicious food and outstanding customer service.
The meat and bread are always fresh, and the staff is friendly and polite. Their hot pastrami sandwich on rye bread is a must-try and is sure to make your mouth water.
The location may be a bit hard to find, but it's worth the effort. The deli offers a variety of options, including sandwiches, salads, wraps, and more.
If you're in the mood for some basic deli food with a little twist, Sandwich Stop Deli is the place to go.
9. Big Front Door
Big Front Door is a small Italian deli that offers a wide variety of sandwiches and salads.
The sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and are served on delicious bread. The staff is friendly and provides quick service.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a few tables available for customers to dine in.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered. If you're looking for a quick and tasty lunch, Big Front Door is definitely worth a visit.
10. J & Tony's
J & Tony's is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
This Italian deli has a wide selection of delicious sandwiches and snacks that pair perfectly with their outstanding cocktails.
The atmosphere is funky and cool, with interesting decor that keeps you entertained. The staff is friendly and helpful, making sure that every customer feels welcome.
If you're looking for a great spot for aperitivo, J & Tony's is the perfect place to go. Don't miss out on this amazing spot!
11. Kearny Mesa Deli
Kearny Mesa Deli is a hidden gem for Italian deli lovers.
The sandwiches are a must-try, and the prices are very reasonable. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service.
The cleanliness of the place is impeccable, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or breakfast.
If you're in the mood for a bagel, their breakfast bagels are a must-try as well. All in all, Kearny Mesa Deli is a great place to satisfy your cravings for Italian deli food.
12. Lit'l Pepper Gourmet
Lit'l Pepper Gourmet is a must-visit for anyone who loves delicious, fresh, and affordable Italian food. Their sandwiches have a homemade taste with a high-end restaurant quality feel.
The Spicy Gumbo Soup is a must-try with its good cajun or old school southern taste. The service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and quick.
They offer a wide variety of options, including vegetarian choices, pasta, brisket, ahi salad, and many different soups. The deli is always busy during lunch hours, but the wait is worth it.
The seating may not be the best, but they have added more tables and chairs outside. This deli is perfect for anyone who wants to tickle their taste buds with some mouth-watering sandwiches, salads, and soups.
13. Aimee's Deli
Aimee's Deli is a hidden gem that serves some of the best Italian sandwiches in town.
The deli offers a wide range of sandwiches made with quality bread and fresh ingredients. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring customers receive their orders quickly.
The menu also includes açaí bowls, poke bowls, and salads for those looking for healthier options.
If you are in the mood for a delicious Italian sandwich, Aimee's Deli is definitely worth a visit.
14. PB's Market
PB's Market is a hidden gem for Italian deli lovers. Their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and the variety of options is impressive.
The staff is fast and friendly, making the experience even better.
This market has everything you need, from beer and wine to salads and smoothies.
The prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is cozy. PB's Market is definitely worth checking out for a quick bite or a grocery run.
15. Creative Deli
If you're looking for a great Italian deli with delicious food and friendly service, Creative Deli is a must-visit.
This family-owned business offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and homemade food that is always fresh and tasty. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
The chicken chipotle sandwich and the ATC sandwich are highly recommended. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the staff is always ready to help you with your order.
Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or looking for a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family, Creative Deli is definitely worth checking out.
16. Plaza Deli
Looking for a delicious and affordable Italian deli in a casual setting with outdoor seating options available?
Plaza Deli is a family-owned and operated deli-cafe that offers a variety of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, soups, and light fare that will satisfy any appetite.
Their food is always fresh and consistently delicious, and the friendly staff makes you feel like family.
17. Summer's Deli & Catering
Summer's Deli & Catering is a delightful Italian deli and sandwich shop.
With a great variety of options to choose from, their meatball sandwich is a must-try.
The BBQ Beef and BLT sandwiches are also highly recommended. The staff is friendly and provides great service.
It's a go-to place for lunch, and the food is delicious. Summer's Deli & Catering is definitely worth a visit.
