Deluca's Italian Deli

2 stars for the food, additional star because of cleanliness, location, and politeness of staff. As usual, before I begin, Italian delis are my thing. As a child I grew up in Brooklyn. As an adult I worked in Manhattan and Jersey. I understand what a real Italian deli is supposed to be. This ain't it. First off, the bread is all wrong here. I knew I was in trouble the moment I stepped in. Half the sandwiches were paninis. The other half were on toasted bread. Let me explain what kind of bread they're serving their sandwiches on. You know the free bread sticks at Olive Garden? Yeah, that. Same doughy texture, same cakey soft density. It's not real Italian bread with the thick, firm, flavorful crust, and the hearty but soft innards. The only reason this bread is even firm is because it's been pressed in a panini grill. I was disappointed at the size of the sandwich, the dryness of the filling, and the overall experience of eating it. I ordered their version of an Italian sub, called the "Misti", (Panino Agli Affettati Misti). The cheese was a Swiss cheese (not provolone or mozerella), the ham and salami were good, the mortadella was actually excellent but they add a coleslaw into my sub that had no dressing or flavor, which makes no sense because coleslaw has no place in an Italian sandwich. Matter of fact, the entire sandwich had no flavor. No oil and vinegar, no dressing, no mayo, no acidity/pickles etc to make the sandwich bite or compliment the cheese. What a weird sandwich. Anyways, this place also has Italian market goods but I didn't see anyone buying any of it during my hour spent there.

Love Deluca's Deli! When you want quick bite and don't want hassle of large crowd or long wait, this is great option. I've been here a few times and experience has been consistently good each occassion. They're located next to Trattoria Amici Restaurant at Americana on Brand. It's combination of gourmet store/food eatery. Place offers array of cold/hot sandwiches, pastas, soups and salads, including daily specials. Their cases are filled with colorful and delicious looking pastries, cookies, and baked goods. Looks amazing and fresh. Food is reasonably priced too. Atmosphere and decor reminds me of an Italian country kitchen which is very welcoming. Both indoor and outdoor seating is provided. We came here over the weekend for lunch and sat al fresco at the side walk patio, gorgeous weather. We ordered Panino al Pollo, Pigs and Figs sandwich and lemon bar for dessert. Both sandwiches were amazing. They use cibatta bread for sandwiches and pressed under panini grill, resulting in perfect crisp and warm texture. Flavor profile on pigs & figs sandwich was excellent. The perfect balance of savory and sweet. We enjoyed the lemon bar immensely, so much better than Corner Bakery's version. Overall, great sandwiches and helpful service. I would definitely come back to try a different sandwich, or pick up some prepared foods.

Small place with limited choices of “Italian food”. Mainly hot/cold sandwiches and sides. Cheese jams sausages drinks are limited. Table is dirty so make sure to ask someone to wipe it down. Walk in and order at the front, then go to the back with the number card they give you and pay in the back. Open seating so sit anywhere. Free water at the entrance and restroom you’ll need to walk next door’s restaurant to use. Ordered a caprese (tomato to cheese ratio is heavy on tomatoes) and vegetarian panini.