Bay Cities

Step into Bay Cities and you’re stepping into nearly a century of Los Angeles sandwich history. This family-owned Italian deli has been a Santa Monica institution since 1925, and walking through its doors feels like traveling back to an era when a neighborhood deli was the heart of the community. The space is bustling and no-frills—this isn’t about atmosphere, it’s about serious sandwiches.

The Godmother has achieved near-mythical status on the Westside, and for good reason. This towering stack of Italian cold cuts—prosciutto, mortadella, capicola, salami, ham, and provolone—gets its magic from “The Works,” that glorious combination of hot peppers, dressing, and condiments that soaks into the dense, chewy Italian roll. Pro tip: let your sandwich sit for about thirty minutes before digging in. The bread absorbs those juices and transforms into something transcendent. The Poorboy, with its sweet bologna and pickled peppers, makes a strong case as the runner-up to the throne.

Beyond the legendary sandwiches, Bay Cities functions as a proper Italian specialty market. Wander the aisles stocked with imported goods, browse the cheese counter, and check out the wine selection. You’ll inevitably leave with more than you planned—maybe some hand-painted ceramics or a wheel of cheese you didn’t know you needed.

For anyone who appreciates old-school delis and sandwiches built with decades of expertise, Bay Cities remains essential. Order online to skip the line, request “The Works,” and experience why this Santa Monica landmark continues to hold its own against the new wave of focaccia shops. Some things just get better with age.