Menu

The 13 Best Italian Delis in San Francisco

For those craving the authentic flavors of Italy in San Francisco, look no further than the bustling Italian delis scattered throughout the city. With a rich history of Italian immigrants bringing their culinary traditions to the Bay Area, these delis offer a taste of Italy right in your own neighborhood.

Whether you're in the mood for freshly made pasta, imported cheeses, or a classic panini, San Francisco's Italian delis have something to satisfy every craving. From quaint neighborhood spots to gourmet markets, there's a deli to suit every preference and budget. Let this guide help you navigate the vast array of options and find the perfect spot to indulge in some Italian delights.

Explore the list below to discover the best Italian delis in San Francisco and start planning your next delicious meal today!

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of Italian delis in San Francisco, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 13 local options side by side

Molinari Delicatessen, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • Customers appreciate the variety of meats and cheeses available at the deli.

  • Some have noted the friendly service and great atmosphere of the place.

  • Others have mentioned specific favorite sandwiches such as the Luciano Special with Basil Spread and the Club Luciano with Sweet copa.

Molinari Delicatessen

4.71,087 reviews
373 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Molinari Delicatessen is a renowned Deli located in San Francisco, CA. The deli offers a variety of services including Delivery, In-store pick-up, No-contact delivery, In-store shopping, and Takeaway. Customers can enjoy quick visits to the deli and make payments using Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

The deli is famous for its high-quality products, especially its wide selection of meats and cheeses. Customers have praised Molinari Delicatessen for its excellent service and unique atmosphere.

These positive reviews highlight the exceptional experience customers have at Molinari Delicatessen, making it a must-visit location for deli lovers in San Francisco.

Lucca food deli & wine shop, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • A customer mentions that the roast beef sandwich was their new favorite

  • First-time visitors highly recommend the Italian sandwich, both hot and cold versions

  • Another customer loves the hot pastrami and praises the keto-friendly options

  • One review claims that Lucca has the best sandwiches in the Inner Sunset area and beyond

Lucca food deli & wine shop

4.967 reviews
1899 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

Lucca food deli & wine shop is a beloved sandwich shop located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services and features to make every visit enjoyable. Customers are delighted by the fast service and the delicious lunch options available for dine-in or takeaway. The shop is known for its comfort food offerings and a wide selection of wines, beers, and spirits.

Limoncello, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • Delicious sandwiches with fresh and crispy ingredients

  • Wide selection of drinks, including wine and beer

  • Beautiful deli with high-quality offerings, such as the "petto di pollo" and "Napalitano" sandwiches

  • Kind and friendly owner who provides excellent recommendations

Limoncello

4.7644 reviews
1400 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Limoncello is a charming sandwich shop located in San Francisco, offering a variety of delicious sandwiches and salads. Known for its fast service and casual atmosphere, it is a popular spot for lunch and solo dining.

If you're looking for a pleasant dining experience with tasty Italian sandwiches and more, make sure to stop by Limoncello!

Calabria Brothers, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Customers rave about the incredible food, with sandwiches being described as some of the best in the city.

  • The store is clean, and the staff are friendly and accommodating to special requests.

  • Visitors appreciate the authentic sandwiches and the quality of the ingredients used.

Calabria Brothers

4.7171 reviews
4763 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, United States

Calabria Brothers is a beloved sandwich shop in San Francisco that has garnered rave reviews from satisfied customers. The shop offers delivery and takeaway options, making it convenient for those on the go. Known for its fast service, Calabria Brothers is a popular spot for lunch and solo dining.

With a rating of 4.7 based on 171 reviews, Calabria Brothers is a must-visit for sandwich enthusiasts looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Rutily's Market & Deli, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • Fresh ingredients, delicious flavors, generous portions, and friendly owner make the food exceptional.

  • Homemade and personally prepared dishes that are highly recommended by regular customers.

  • Crave-worthy sandwiches with fresh bread, meats, and cheeses are a definite must-try.

  • Excellent service with caring and friendly staff who go above and beyond for the customers.

Rutily's Market & Deli

4.944 reviews
1700 Filbert St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

Rutily's Market & Deli offers a delightful array of Deli delights in the heart of San Francisco. Customers can enjoy In-store shopping, Delivery, and Takeaway options. The store prides itself on being Wheelchair-accessible, making it accessible to everyone. Need a quick bite? Rutily's guarantees a Quick visit without compromising on quality. They accept various payment methods to ensure convenient transactions.

With a fantastic 4.9-star rating from 44 reviews, Rutily's Market & Deli has captured the hearts of many. Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

Palermo II Delicatessen, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • So much meat freshly sliced! Huge sandwiches and great selection of pantry items.

  • Fair prices for great food and a wide selection of Italian goods.

  • The off-menu sandwich was delicious, and the rice balls were a nostalgic treat.

  • Best sandwiches in North Beach, with a well-frequented local shop vibe and a wide variety of Italian products.

Palermo II Delicatessen

4.7116 reviews
658 Vallejo St., San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Palermo II Delicatessen is a must-visit Italian Deli located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services including Delivery, In-store pick-up, and Takeaway. The deli is wheelchair-accessible and provides amenities such as Wi-Fi. Customers can enjoy a quick visit and make payments using various options including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

With a stellar rating of 4.7, it's no surprise that customers have left raving reviews about their experiences at Palermo II Delicatessen. Here are some key points summarizing their feedback:

Whether you're craving a classic Italian sandwich or looking to stock up on authentic Italian ingredients, Palermo II Delicatessen is the place to be!

Lucca Delicatessen, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • A customer enjoyed the veggie deli sandwich, praising the marinated pepper and artichokes for adding great flavor.

  • Another customer unfortunately found mold in their sandwich, expressing disappointment in the quality of the bread.

  • Customers appreciate the chaotic yet friendly atmosphere of the deli, along with the excellent service and great sandwich options.

  • The sandwiches at Lucca Delicatessen are highly recommended for their freshness, generous portions, and friendly staff.

Lucca Delicatessen

4.5376 reviews
2120 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

Lucca Delicatessen is a beloved deli in San Francisco that offers a variety of delicious sandwiches and Italian specialties. Customers can enjoy no-contact delivery, in-store pick-up, or takeaway options. The deli is wheelchair-accessible, making it a convenient choice for all patrons.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you're looking for a true taste of Italy in San Francisco, be sure to visit Lucca Delicatessen for a memorable deli experience.

Alimento, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Best gelato in the city.

  • Super delicious and unique ice cream flavors.

  • Legitimately one of the best sandwiches ever had.

  • Good craft beers selection and tasty gelato choices.

Alimento

4.5296 reviews
507 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Alimento is a charming Deli located in San Francisco, CA, offering a variety of delicious food options and excellent services. Customers can enjoy kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, in-store pick-up, and takeaway options. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, and the restaurant allows for quick visits.

With a remarkable rating of 4.5, based on 296 reviews, Alimento has gained a loyal following. Customers rave about the fantastic gelato and sandwiches offered. Some key points from reviews include:

Visit Alimento and indulge in their mouth-watering offerings for an unforgettable dining experience.

CLocal choice
#9
What it does well
  • One customer mentioned that the bread in the meatball sub was not crunchy and the sandwich was small for the price, but complimented the fast service.

  • Another customer stated that Corsagna Deli serves the best sandwiches they've ever had at a great price.

  • A different customer expressed mixed feelings about their experience, mentioning that the quality of the sandwich seemed to vary depending on who made it.

Corsagna Deli

4.742 reviews
1668 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

Corsagna Deli is a popular Deli located on Union St in San Francisco. They offer Delivery and Takeaway services for those looking to enjoy their delicious sandwiches on the go. Customers rave about the quality of the food and the friendly service they receive.

With a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5, it's clear that Corsagna Deli is a favorite spot for many sandwich lovers in San Francisco. Customers appreciate the fresh ingredients, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere of this neighborhood deli. Whether you're in the mood for a classic sandwich or looking to try something new, Corsagna Deli has something for everyone.

Rossi's Deli, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • Delicious hot corned beef sandwich

  • BEST SANDY AND DELI DINNERS IN THE CITY

  • Friendly staff and great food

  • Neighborhood treasure with excellent deli options

Rossi's Deli

4.517 reviews
426 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

Rossi's Deli is a charming Deli located in San Francisco that offers a variety of mouthwatering options. Customers can enjoy the convenience of Delivery or Takeaway services, making it easy to savor their delicious food anywhere. The deli is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that all patrons can enjoy their meals comfortably.

Patrons appreciate the quick service and friendly staff at Rossi's Deli, as highlighted in their reviews. Some key points from their satisfied customers are:

With a high rating of 4.5 stars and rave reviews, Rossi's Deli is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a delectable meal served with a side of warmth and hospitality.

Giovanni Italian Specialties, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • Delicious soft serve ice cream and tasty pizza slices. Wide variety of Italian goods to choose from. Will definitely return!

  • Disappointing purchase with cheap cheese. Not satisfied with the beef. A negative experience overall.

  • Affordable prices, great selection of food, and friendly service. A must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine!

  • Unrivaled spot for restocking your Italian pantry or grabbing a quick snack. Helpful staff and wide selection of products available.

Giovanni Italian Specialties

4.833 reviews
629 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Giovanni Italian Specialties is a charming Italian grocery store located in the heart of San Francisco. They offer a variety of authentic Italian products, including olive oil, tomato sauces, fresh pastas, liquors, and more. Customers can also enjoy delicious slices of pizza, fresh filled cannoli, espresso, and creamy soft serve ice cream. The friendly staff creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a quick snack or to pick up some Italian staples.

The reviews speak for themselves:

Whether you're looking for authentic Italian ingredients or a delicious treat, Giovanni Italian Specialties is the place to be!

Moscone Liquor & Deli, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • Great convenience store with top-shelf products and a friendly owner.

  • Unhappy with the lack of price tags on shelves, felt taken advantage of.

  • Some customers found the staffing level inconvenient for the store's success.

  • Good selection for wine enthusiasts, but limited for lottery players.

Moscone Liquor & Deli

3.919 reviews
689 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Moscone Liquor & Deli is a well-known Liquor store in San Francisco, CA that offers a variety of services to its customers. They provide Delivery options for those who prefer to have their purchases brought to them. The store is designed with Wheelchair-accessible entrance for the convenience of all customers. Whether you are looking for a quick visit or planning a leisurely shopping experience, this store caters to all needs. Accepted Credit cards as a form of payment make transactions easier for everyone.

With a rating of 3.9 stars, customers have shared their experiences with the store. Here are some summarized reviews:

Stop by Moscone Liquor & Deli to experience their wide range of products and excellent customer service.

Tommy's Market & Deli, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Helen provides excellent service and makes great suggestions

  • Wide variety of sandwiches and snacks available

  • Top-notch customer service

  • Discrepancies in store's opening hours

Tommy's Market & Deli

3.610 reviews
1191 Quintara St, San Francisco, CA 94116, United States

Tommy's Market & Deli is a beloved spot in San Francisco that offers a variety of delicious sandwiches and snacks. Customers rave about the excellent service provided by the staff, especially Helen, who is known for her helpful suggestions and friendly demeanor. The store is well-stocked with a plethora of sandwich options and snacks, making it a top choice for many in the area. While some customers have noted discrepancies in the store's opening hours, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive.

With a solid rating of 3.6 and a loyal customer base, Tommy's Market & Deli is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal in the area.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Molinari Delicatessen 4.71,087
#2Lucca food deli & wine shop 4.967
#3Limoncello 4.7644
#4Calabria Brothers 4.7171
#5Rutily's Market & Deli 4.944
#6Palermo II Delicatessen 4.7116
#7Lucca Delicatessen 4.5376
#8Alimento 4.5296
#9Corsagna Deli 4.742
#10Rossi's Deli 4.517
#11Giovanni Italian Specialties 4.833
#12Moscone Liquor & Deli 3.919
#13Tommy's Market & Deli 3.610

Running a local business?

Add or claim my business

Map of Italian Delis in San Francisco

Looking to satisfy your cravings for traditional Italian delicacies in San Francisco? Look no further! Our map highlights all the top Italian delis in the city where you can find the finest cured meats, cheeses, olives, and other imported goodies. Whether you're in the mood for a panini, fresh pasta, or cannoli, these delis have you covered.

How to pick Italian Delis in San Francisco

  1. Wide selection of imported meats and cheeses.
  2. Freshly made pastas and sauces.
  3. Diverse menu of sandwiches and paninis.
  4. Cozy atmosphere for dining in.
  5. Catering options for events and gatherings.
  6. Convenient locations throughout San Francisco.

Common questions

What makes an Italian deli in San Francisco unique?

Italian delis in San Francisco stand out for their authentic Italian flavors and recipes passed down through generations. Many of these delis import specialty ingredients directly from Italy to recreate the traditional tastes of Italian cuisine. Additionally, the welcoming atmosphere and personalized service at these delis contribute to the unique experience they offer. At an Italian deli in San Francisco, customers can expect a wide selection of imported meats and cheeses, freshly baked bread, and a variety of olives and antipasti. Some delis even offer homemade pasta and sauces that customers can purchase to enjoy at home. The Italian delis in San Francisco also often serve as a gathering place for the community. Customers can socialize while enjoying a panini or espresso, creating a sense of belonging and connection that adds to the overall appeal of these establishments.

What can I expect to find at an Italian deli in San Francisco?

When you visit an Italian deli in San Francisco, you can expect to find a wide array of delicious Italian specialties. From prosciutto and salami to fresh mozzarella and marinated artichokes, you'll find a variety of imported meats, cheeses, and antipasti options. Many Italian delis in San Francisco also offer freshly made sandwiches with authentic Italian ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic caprese sandwich or a hearty meatball sub, there's a sandwich option to satisfy every craving. In addition to meats and cheeses, you'll often find a selection of freshly baked bread and pastries at Italian delis in San Francisco. From crusty baguettes to sweet cannoli, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from.

How do Italian delis in San Francisco source their ingredients?

Italian delis in San Francisco take great care in sourcing their ingredients to ensure authenticity and quality. Many delis have relationships with specialty distributors who import authentic Italian products directly from Italy. These imported ingredients include meats such as prosciutto and salami, cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan, and pantry staples such as olive oil and balsamic vinegar. By sourcing authentic ingredients, Italian delis in San Francisco are able to recreate the traditional flavors of Italian cuisine. In addition to imported products, many Italian delis in San Francisco also source locally for fresh produce and artisanal products. This combination of imported and local ingredients helps to create a diverse menu that showcases the best of Italian cuisine.

Do Italian delis in San Francisco offer catering services?

Many Italian delis in San Francisco offer catering services for events and special occasions. Whether you're planning a business meeting, a wedding reception, or a family gathering, these delis can provide a selection of authentic Italian dishes to satisfy your guests. From antipasti platters and sandwich trays to pasta dishes and desserts, there are a variety of catering options available at Italian delis in San Francisco. Many delis also offer customizable menus to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences. By choosing catering services from an Italian deli in San Francisco, you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine without the stress of preparing and cooking for a large group. The dedicated staff at these delis will work with you to create a memorable culinary experience for your event.

Similar guides