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Best Family Friendly Italian in Downtown LA
Best Lasagna in Downtown LA
Best Sandwiches in Downtown LA
Best Date Night Italian in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Eastside Italian Deli
8.3
A 1929 holdover from LA's original Little Italy that still builds oversized Italian sandwiches around housemade Maestro sausage—a recipe that started inside the market and never left. The draw is old-line deli craft at counter-service speed and price, landing it squarely in the pre-game Dodger Stadium rotation for anyone who wants a real sandwich without a real wait. Expect a no-frills storefront, street parking that thins out fast at lunch, and portions that make splitting reasonable.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami Sandwich, Spicy Italian Cold Cuts Sub, Italian Meatball Hot Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Family-run since 1929 in LA's original Little Italy, still slinging enormous Italian sandwiches with housemade Maestro sausage from a recipe born inside the market itself.
Who should go: Sandwich lovers craving old-school Italian deli portions near Dodger Stadium
When to visit: Weekdays only, 9 AM–4 PM; go early to avoid lunch rush
What to order: The pastrami sandwich is the signature; the #7 (roast beef and pastrami) is the power move. For the full experience, grab a side of macaroni salad. The D.A. Special piles sausage, meatball, roast beef, and pastrami into one sandwich if you're hungry enough.
Insider tip: They're closed weekends — plan accordingly, and bring cash for the fastest service
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only on residential Alpine St—easy on off-hours, a fight during weekday lunch rush. Arrive before noon or expect to circle the block.
Weekend wait: Closed weekends—open Mon-Fri 9am to 4pm only
Weekday lunch: Expect a line at peak lunch (noon-1pm) but it moves fast—rarely more than 5-10 minutes. Arrive before noon to skip it entirely.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options: Eggplant Parmesan hot sandwich, Caprese sandwich (fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, balsamic), dedicated Veggie sandwich (avocado, cucumber, carrots, provolone), and a Cheese Cold sandwich. Green salad also available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — this is a casual counter-service deli on a quiet Chinatown side street, not a sit-down restaurant with mood lighting. You order at the counter and grab a table. The sandwiches are legendary and the vibe is charming in a no-frills way, but it's better for a low-key daytime hangout than a romantic evening. Closes at 4pm and is only open weekdays, so dinner dates aren't an option.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-in, order-at-the-counter deli. No reservations needed. It's a neighborhood spot, not a high-demand reservation restaurant. The lunch rush can get busy given its cult following, so arriving before noon or after 1:30pm on weekdays gives you the best shot at an open table. Open Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm only.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual counter-service format and laid-back atmosphere make it easy with kids. No formal dining rules, generous sandwich portions that are easy to share or split, and the relaxed vibe means no one will mind a noisy toddler. No dedicated kids menu has been confirmed, but the straightforward sandwich and sub menu works for most ages. High chair availability not confirmed — call ahead if needed.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 4-6 given the indoor and outdoor seating, but this is a compact neighborhood deli, not a banquet hall. For larger gatherings, they do offer catering services which may be a better fit. No private dining rooms. Best approach for groups is to go during off-peak hours (before 11:30am or after 2pm) so you can push tables together.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor seating is available. Specific details on whether it's covered, heated, or the exact number of tables are not confirmed online. Given the deli's modest neighborhood character, expect a simple outdoor setup rather than a designed patio experience. Call ahead to confirm availability and conditions, especially in cooler months.
Best For
Better for: A quick, affordable, no-frills Italian sub with old-school character—grab a massive sandwich for under $15 and eat standing at the counter or take it to go. Great for families who want to order fast and keep it simple.
Skip if: You want a sit-down dinner or weekend plans—they close at 4pm weekdays and are dark Saturday and Sunday.
Hours
Monday9am - 4pm
Tuesday9am - 4pm
Wednesday9am - 4pm
Thursday9am - 4pm
Friday9am - 4pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed