While there are many things we can’t do, one of the things we can do is enjoy a family picnic. Whether your picnic takes place on your living room floor, in your backyard, or at a local park, we’ve got a list of great mom-and-pop sandwich spots all around Los Angeles.
Give yourself a break from meal prep, and feel good knowing you’re helping a local business, by ordering a sandwich from one of these independent sandwich shops in and around Los Angeles.
Terrific Sandwich Spots in Los Angeles
Black Dog Coffee
5657 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
Black Dog Coffee has been a neighborhood favorite for over 20 years. Their menu includes daily soups, vegan and vegetarian options, authentic Chicago Hot Dogs, and of course, a variety of salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Plus there are items here you’re likely not to find anywhere else (i.e. broccoli tacos). They are open seven days a week, 8 am to 4 pm. Bonus – they are located just a few blocks away from the LaBrea Tar Pits and Museum – a perfect picnic location!
Perry’s Joint
2051 N. Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, CA
Get ready for a line out the door at Perry’s Joint, but everyone promises the sandwiches (and the jazz) are worth the wait. Perry’s Joint has been making stomachs happy since 2004 with their “original handcrafted gourmet style sandwiches that pile higher and wider than any consumer’s mouth.” Perry’s Joint is deeply involved in the community. “One day a year he conducts a full day of business where 100% of the proceeds earned will serve as a collegiate scholarship to several graduates from John Muir High School located just 30 seconds south of his shop.” Open Monday-Friday, 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Closed on Sundays.
Hy Mart Sandwiches
4795 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood, CA 91602
It might not look like anything fancy, but the sandwiches crafted at Hy Mart Sandwiches create many loyal customers, returning time and again. Many say having a sandwich from Hy Mart feels as if you’ve stepped into a family member’s home who is going to make you a yummy sandwich for lunch. Most of their Mediterranean-style sandwiches are about $10, and when something says “spicy,” they mean spicy! Open seven days a week.
All About the Bread
7111 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036
At All About the Bread, it really is about the bread. The artisan, handcrafted bread is baked fresh every 30 minutes with a secret recipe creating “crunchy on the outside and airy and fluffy on the inside.” Families can select from a varied menu of sandwiches including the popular “The Godfather.” But, if you still can’t find a sandwich that speaks to you, take advantage of their “build your own” option allowing you to select your own meat, cheese, and toppings. They are open daily, from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Related: Find the Best Shaved Ice in Los Angeles
Larchmont Village Wine, Spirits, and Cheese
223 N. Larchmont Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90004
Don’t let the name fool you. This family-owned and operated location has been serving gourmet sandwiches since 1995. All sandwiches are served on “fresh baked ciabatta or baguette bread, accompanied with fresh cornichons and black olives.” Sandwiches may be ordered as a half or whole. Sandwiches are served Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Trencher
1305 Portia St., Echo Park, CA
This self-described “American casual-style sandwich spot” features sandwiches with unique twists. There’s the “Pulled Pork” complete with “spicy pickle slaw, cola bbq sauce” and “The Lakeshore” featuring “North Atlantic white cod, spiced rice flour batter, fried kale, jalapeño slaw.” Trencher is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
The Heights Deli and Bottle Shop
2927 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, 90031
Those who live in or near Lincoln Heights probably already know about The Heights Deli and Bottle Shop. While the menu isn’t limited to sandwiches at The Heights (including salads, pizza, and pasta), you’ll find a variety of sandwiches perfect for your next picnic. Many of their sandwiches are named after streets (The Broadway, Ave 26, Main St, Pasadena Ave) and are very generously portioned. The Heights is open seven days a week, Tuesday through Saturday 11 am to 10 pm, and Sunday and Monday 11:00 am to 9:30 pm.
Related: Find the Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops in Los Angeles
Santoro’s Submarine Sandwiches
1423 W. Burbank Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506
Santoro’s Submarine Sandwiches has been a Burbank favorite since 1956 and often does catering events for the nearby studios.. You’ll find a large menu of both hot and cold subs, available in small and large sizes. And don’t forget to save room for Santoro’s Cannoli. They are open six days a week (closed on Sundays) from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm.
Uncle Paulie’s Deli
8369 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048 and
820 S. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Many New York natives look to Uncle Paulie’s Deli to give them a a taste of home. And for those who prefer their food spicy, there is a “make it hot” option available. The menu includes a large variety of sandwiches, including breakfast sandwiches, served 8 am to 12 pm. Many sandwiches are named for people including The Jonny, The Gloria, The Joey, and The Mary Lou to name a few. Enjoy Uncle Paulie’s Deli seven days a week, from 8 am to 5 pm.
Brent’s Deli
19565 Parthenia St., Northridge, CA 91324
Brent’s Deli was established back in 1967 and has been making families happy since then with their tasty menu offerings. This family-run and operated business is well-known for their reuben sandwich. In addition to their large menu, they also offer daily specials which are served with soup or salad. Brent’s Deli is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm.
Philippe The Original
1001 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Perhaps no sandwich list in LA would be complete without a mention of Philippe The Original. This historic diner, “home of the Original French Dipped Sandwich,” has been serving sandwiches in Los Angeles since 1908 and in its current location since 1951. Open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Dan’s Super Subs
22446 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA
Dan’s Super Subs is family-owned and operated since 1980. You’ll find over 50 hot and cold subs on the menu here (with lots of fun names) including “Pandora’s Box,” “Gladiator,” “Red Ferrari Street Sub,” and “Mamma Mia” to name just a few. Sandwiches are offered in two sizes – regular 8 inches, or jumbo 13 inches. All subs are served on fresh-steamed Italian rolls made be scratch each morning. Dan’s is open six days a week (closed on Sundays) from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm.
Looking for a picnic spot? Check out our list of the perfect parks in LA to do just that.
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
1517 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401
It’s not uncommon to see long lines outside the door at Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery. But don’t be discouraged, you can order online and skip the line. Their signature sandwich is the “The Godmother,” but in addition, you’ll find a large variety of hot and cold sandwiches available in different sizes. Bay Cities, which was established back in 1925, is closed on Mondays, open Tuesday through Sunday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Brothers Sandwich Shop
3274 W. 6th St., Los Angeles, CA 90020
Brothers Sandwich Shop, in the heart of Koreatown, is a very popular go-to spot for sandwiches. All sandwiches feature Boar’s Head meats and are offered in two sizes – regular and large. Try a “Brothers’ Favorite,” like egg salad, a “Signature Sandwich” such as K-Town, or a “Special Sandwich” like the Chicken-Cilantro-Lime. Brothers Sandwich Shop is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 7 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.
Foggia Italian Market and Deli
5522 Del Amo Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90713
Foggia Italian Market and Deli is well known to families who live in the Lakewood part of town. The Deli is named after the town of Foggia “just north of the ‘heel’ of the boot of Italy.” Select from hot and cold sandwiches, homemade soups, salads, and more. Sandwiches are available in four sizes – 4 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, and 12 inches. They are open daily 11:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Healthyca
4724 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91602
Healthyca was established in 2004, and since then has made many loyal customers. Here, you’ll find meals featuring “fresh unprocessed food” and vegan mayo and dressings. All sandwiches are served on your choice of bread (select from 4 varieties) and are served with your choice of side (including fruit, mixed greens, wild rice salad, and quinoa salad). They are open Monday through Friday, 11 am to 5 pm.
Roma Market Italian Deli
918 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, CA
Roma Market Italian Deli may be as famous for “The Sandwich” as they are for Mr. Rosario Mazzeo, the local icon responsible for creating “The Sandwich.” You’ll find “The Sandwich” wrapped in pink paper, stacked on top of the counter, waiting for you. And at $5.50 a sandwich, it is probably the most affordable sandwich you’ve had in quite some time.
Be sure to read this Los Angeles Times article about Roma Market and their famous sandwich.
Mike’s Deli
4859 W. Slauson Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90056 and
238 E. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Mike’s Deli first opened in 1996. Since then, many sandwich lovers have found themselves returning again and again to this popular spot. In addition to their sandwiches (with names like “The Brooklyn Rose” and the “Zu Zu Special,” you’ll also find lettuce wraps on the menu. Mike’s Deli is open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 am to 8:30 pm and Sunday 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Corsica’s Deli
8111 Foothill Blvd., Sunland, CA
Corsica’s Deli first opened in 1970 and just continues to grow in popularity. This family-owned sandwich shop offers a large variety of sandwiches. Kids will have fun with the menu here, because many sandwiches are named after people (Alan’s Special, Bruce’s Special, Betty’s Special, Mary’s Special, and more). Sandwiches are served soft or toasted on your choice of bread or 8” roll. They are open six days a week (closed on Sundays) from 10 am to 6 pm.
Wax Paper
2902 Knox Ave., Los Angeles, CA and
736 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
At Wax Paper, you’ll find “sandwiches with a twist that brings you back.” You’ll love looking at the photos online – of the yummy sandwiches and the wedding photo of the husband and wife team behind this popular neighborhood spot. Wax Paper takes pride in their recipes. “Additions and switches including bread will be politely declined.” However, you’ll find a wide variety of sandwiches, though be sure to check the menu for the location you plan to visit, because not all sandwiches are offered at both spots. Wax Paper is currently open Tuesday through Saturday 11 am to 4 pm, or until sold out.
Eastside Market Italian Deli
1013 Alpine St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Eastside Market, near Dodger Stadium, first opened back in 1929. Since then they have developed a very loyal following. Their most popular sandwich is the #7, Hot Roast Beef and Pastrami. But if that doesn’t appeal to your taste buds, be sure to take a look at the website – you’ll be tempted by photos of all the offerings, both hot and cold sandwiches, perfect for a picnic. They are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Jackson Market and Deli
4065 Jackson ave., Culver City, CA 90232
Jackson Market has been “hidden in Culver City since 1925.” You’ll find this charming spot on a residential street in downtown Culver City. This small neighborhood market and deli is famous for its “custom deli sandwiches, wraps, and salads” – perfect picnic fare. They are open daily, from 7 am to 9 pm.
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