San Diego is a city that is well-known for its delicious and diverse food scene. From tacos and burritos to burgers and sushi, San Diego has something to offer for every foodie. However, one sandwich that often gets overlooked is the meatball sub.
This classic Italian-American dish is a true comfort food that can satisfy any craving. Whether you prefer your meatballs smothered in marinara sauce or covered in melted cheese, San Diego has plenty of options for you to choose from.
Meatball subs are a staple in many Italian-American households, but finding the perfect sub outside of the home can prove to be challenging. That's where we come in. We have scoured San Diego to find the top places to grab a meatball sub.
Our list includes everything from classic delis to trendy restaurants, so there's something for everyone. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you won't want to miss out on these delicious sandwiches.
So, get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food and check out our list of the best places for meatball subs in San Diego.
You won't be disappointed!
1. Mona Lisa Italian Foods
Looking for a delicious meatball sub in town that won't disappoint your taste buds, head to Mona Lisa Italian Foods.
This veteran Italian eatery, market, and deli has been serving up old-world Italian cooking in an old-school setting for years.
The meatball sub here is a crowd favorite, made with juicy meatballs, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese on a fresh baguette.
The deli counter is always hopping, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the imported Italian ingredients and wines available for purchase. Don't miss out on this Little Italy gem for a satisfying meatball sub experience.
2. The Market Place
The Market Place is a no-frills corner store that serves delicious meatball sub sandwiches.
Their deli counter offers a wide range of sandwiches, salads, and pizza, but the meatball sub is a must-try.
The sandwich is made to order and packed with juicy meatballs, melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce. The Market Place is perfect for a quick lunch or takeout meal.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. If you are in the mood for a tasty meatball sub, The Market Place is the place to go.
3. Poma's Italian Deli
Poma's Italian Deli is a must-visit for meatball sub lovers. The sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and top-quality bread.
The portions are huge, and the flavors are great. The deli also offers other sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.
The service is friendly and fast. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Poma's Italian Deli is an old-school sub and pizza shop that has been serving delicious food for decades.
4. Surf Side Deli
Surf Side Deli is a must-visit place for meatball sub lovers. The meatballs are perfectly seasoned and the bread is soft and fresh.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.
The deli also offers a variety of other delicious sandwiches. The cozy atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
If you're craving a tasty meatball sub, Surf Side Deli is the place to go.
5. Massachusetts Mike's Pizzeria
Massachusetts Mike's Pizzeria is a local favorite for their amazing meatball subs.
The subs are packed with flavor and served on fresh, delicious bread.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making the overall experience top-notch.
Stop by and try one for yourself today!
6. Hungry Lu's
Looking for a place to satisfy your craving for a delicious meatball sub in San Diego, California?
Look no further than Hungry Lu's! This Italian deli and bakery is a hidden gem offering freshly baked bread, homemade meatballs, and a variety of toppings to make the perfect sandwich.
The friendly staff is always happy to help you customize your order to your liking.
And make sure to save room for dessert – their Italian cookies and cannoli are a must-try!
With indoor and outdoor seating, Hungry Lu's is the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely afternoon snack. Don't miss out on this delicious deli!
7. Volare Italian Restaurant
Volare Italian Restaurant is a hidden gem for meatball subs. The small, unpretentious eatery serves up traditional Italian fare with generous portions and great prices.
The meatballs are perfectly seasoned and smothered in a delicious marinara sauce.
The bread is fresh and the cheese is melted to perfection. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a comfortable dining experience.
Don't miss out on this hearty and satisfying meal at Volare Italian Restaurant.
8. Giovanni's Italian Restaurant
Giovanni's Italian Restaurant is a must-visit place for meatball sub lovers.
The staff is attentive and the ambiance is chill. The menu has a lot of options and the food is of top-notch quality.
The restaurant also offers great wine and beer selections. It's a fun place to watch the game and catch up with friends.
The prices are reasonable and the service is competent. Highly recommended for a great Italian dining experience.
9. Pizza Bella Italian Bistro
Pizza Bella Italian Bistro is a great place to grab a meatball sub.
The sandwich is served on a whole loaf of Italian bread and is packed with delicious meatballs and cheese. The price is reasonable and the serving size is large.
The restaurant also serves amazing pizza and pasta dishes, and has a friendly and attentive staff.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner. If you're in the mood for Italian food, Pizza Bella Italian Bistro is definitely worth checking out.
10. Grab & Go Subs
Grab & Go Subs is a great spot for those looking for a quick and tasty meal. Their meatball sub is a must-try and is sure to satisfy any cravings.
The sandwiches are made fast and simple, perfect for those on the go. The service is friendly and efficient, making for a seamless experience.
With plenty of seating options, it's a great spot for a quick lunch break or to grab a bite to eat before heading back to work.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic Italian sub or something new like their Grilled Cheese Feta, Grab & Go Subs has got you covered.
11. RoVino The Foodery
RoVino The Foodery is a must-visit spot for anyone craving a delicious meatball sub.
The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make this Italian deli and restaurant a great place to grab a quick bite or sit down for a meal.
In addition to their amazing meatballs, they also offer a variety of other sandwiches, antipasti, and prepared foods. And don't forget to try their gelato for dessert!
With a great wine selection and a variety of Italian groceries available, RoVino The Foodery is a true gem for foodies in the area.
12. Giorgino's
Giorgino's is a must-visit place for anyone looking for a delicious meatball sub.
The meat is juicy and flavorful, and the creamy cheese on top is the perfect complement. The bread is fresh and soft, and the onions add a nice crunch.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The restaurant is clean and comfortable, making it a great place to grab lunch or dinner. If you're in the mood for a satisfying meatball sub, Giorgino's is the place to go.
13. Leona's Cucina Italiana
Leona's Cucina Italiana is a must-try for anyone who loves meatball subs. The spices used in their meatballs are exceptional and the toasted bun is the perfect complement.
The restaurant also offers a dinner for two special that is worth the price.
The staff is attentive and the service is quick. Apart from meatball subs, they also offer delicious pizza and pasta dishes.
Leona's Cucina Italiana is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
14. The Pizza Joint
The Pizza Joint is a great place for meatball subs. The subs are made with high-quality ingredients and are packed with flavor.
The serving size is generous, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
The atmosphere is casual, and there are also options for pizza, wings, and salads.
If you're looking for a delicious meatball sub, The Pizza Joint is definitely worth checking out.
15. Rosaria's Pizza
Rosaria's Pizza is a small counter-serve joint that serves up tasty Italian fare. While their pizza is a fan favorite, their meatball sub is also worth trying.
The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, and the bread is toasted to perfection.
The portions are generous, making it a filling meal. The restaurant itself is small but cozy, with appropriate Marvel and DC decor.
The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. For a no-frills spot for a delicious meatball sub, Rosaria's Pizza is definitely worth checking out.
16. Gaglione Bros
Gaglione Bros is a casual sandwich shop that specializes in Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks and subs.
Their meatball sub is a must-try, with juicy and flavorful meatballs sandwiched between warm and chewy bread.
The fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making for a perfect side dish. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of food you get.
If you're in the mood for a delicious meatball sub, Gaglione Bros is definitely worth a visit.
17. City Pizzeria
City Pizzeria is a great place for those looking for a delicious meatball sub. Their subs are made with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor.
The staff is friendly and provides quick service, making it a great option for a lunch break.
City Pizzeria also offers a variety of other menu items, including pizza and salads, all at reasonable prices.
If you're in the mood for a meatball sub or just a quick bite, City Pizzeria is definitely worth checking out.
18. Little Sam's Pizza
Little Sam's Pizza is a cozy pizza spot that also serves up a mean meatball sub.
The sub is packed with juicy meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese. It's a classic combination that never fails to satisfy.
The bread is fresh and fluffy, and the portion size is just right. Little Sam's Pizza is a great spot to grab a quick and delicious meal, whether you're in the mood for pizza or a sub.
The friendly staff and casual atmosphere make it a comfortable spot to dine in or order takeout.
19. Filippi's Pizza Grotto
If you're in the mood for a delicious meatball sub, Filippi's Pizza Grotto is a must-visit spot.
This Italian restaurant offers a half and half option with meatball and sausage, which is a unique twist on the classic sandwich.
The portions are large, and the service is quick and attentive. The atmosphere is family-friendly, and the staff is courteous and professional.
Filippi's Pizza Grotto is a hidden gem that's definitely worth checking out for their amazing Italian food.
20. Caps Pizza & Bar
Caps Pizza & Bar is a great spot for a delicious meatball sub. The sub is made with fresh ingredients and the meatballs are perfectly seasoned.
The bread is soft and the cheese is melted to perfection. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of pizzas, pastas and sandwiches.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a full bar and plenty of TVs to catch the game. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience.
If you're in the mood for a tasty meatball sub, Caps Pizza & Bar is definitely worth checking out.
21. Firehouse Subs Kearny Mesa
Firehouse Subs Kearny Mesa is a counter-serve sandwich chain that offers a variety of hot and cold subs, including their sweet and spicy meatball sub.
The sandwiches are made-to-order with fresh ingredients and the portions are great.
The service is top-notch, with attentive and friendly employees. The restaurant is clean and well-stocked, making for a pleasant dining experience.
Parking may be a challenge during busy hours, but it's worth it for the delicious subs.
