Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery

1517 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
$$$ Deli
(2742 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're in Santa Monica and have a penchant for authentic Italian fare, look no further than Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and a hearty menu that showcases the best of Italian cuisine, this deli is a beloved staple for both locals and visitors alike.

As you step into Bay Cities, you're greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread and savory meats, inviting you to explore their impressive selection. The star of the show is without a doubt the Godmother sandwich, an indulgent masterpiece that combines high-quality cold cuts, including luscious prosciutto and mortadella, with a medley of fresh toppings, nestled between freshly baked bread that’s perfectly crusty yet soft. Customers rave about its impeccable flavor balance, with one patron stating, "the bread alone I could cry"—a testament to the superior quality that Bay Cities brings to every bite.

In addition to the Godmother, the deli offers an array of enticing options such as Eggplant Parmesan, hearty Lasagna (both meat and veggie versions), and a variety of pasta dishes made with artisanal ingredients like De Cecco pasta. And if you're in the mood for something quick, their hot bar provides prompt and delectable meals perfect for a busy day.

When visiting Bay Cities, it's not just about the food; it’s an entire sensory experience. The hustle and bustle of customers filling their orders is a comforting reminder of community and tradition. One delighted customer shared, “Great food still; happy they reopened! Gotta love the Godmother baby!”—which sums up the loyalty and fondness this place evokes among its patrons.

Perfect for a casual lunch or a family dinner, Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery also offers an array of grocery items, including sauces, pastas, and snacks that allow you to bring a taste of Italy back home. Whether you’re picking up some essentials or indulging in a gourmet meal, the charm of this deli gives every visit a touch of warmth and authenticity.

Don’t miss the chance to savor one of Los Angeles's culinary gems. Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery is ready to welcome you with open arms and a delicious slice of Italy, right in the heart of Santa Monica.

Contact them at +1 310-395-8279 for more information or to place your order. Trust us, you won't want to leave without trying their signature offerings!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
Offers delivery
In-store pick-up for online orders
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Planning
Good for quick visit
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Parking
Free parking lot
Paid street parking
Openings Hours
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Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Thursday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

2742 Reviews
Payam Ghanbari

12 Sep 2025

What more is there to say! Got the godmother and the prosciutto, both in large. The wait wasn't too bad on a Saturday during lunch time, but if in a rush, order online. Good quality bread, and meat, can't get much better

Hayley Di Naso

05 Sep 2025

Back like they never left! The short hiatus of one of LA’s most iconic Italian delis was brief, yet tumultuous as I briefly feared a summer without the Godmother sandwich. Thank goodness that’s behind us Now if sandwiches aren’t your thing, fine and don’t fear, Bay cities has something for everyone. In addition to the deli counter, they offer a hot bar, and refrigerated section of chilled salads, dips and more. This grocery store first Italian deli second style shop makes it the perfect pitstop on your way to the beach or picnic. Now if you are normal and do like sandwiches, they are known for their spin on the classic Italian sandwich, iconically known as the Godmother. Get any sub you want, but what you’re here for is that freshly baked loaf style bread they make all their sandwiches with. If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to stand at the deli, find their most popular subs premade in grab and go cold rack in the back. A cold drink and a bag of chips and you’ll have yourself the best day! So proud of this neighborhood staple. Pro tip bring your debit card or cash, no credit cards are accepted last I checked. Ciao! Xx, H

jess leslie

23 Aug 2025

New Yorkers - RUN. I’m sorry but you’ll forget our every stories sandwich place the second you bite into the godmother hot. I love my city but this place is a one stop argument to prove my rant of LA HAS WAY BETTER FOOD!!!! Btw aside from the ratios which are perfect it’s the BREAD…. The bread alone I could cry

Aleksandr Khindanov

05 Aug 2025

Great Italian sandwich spot in Santa Monica. I ordered their most popular sandwich - the Godmother, and it was really good. All the ingredients tasted fresh. I also liked the sauce, it mixed very well with all the meat in the sandwich. The bread was also good but it was a bit hard and made it a little tougher to chew but overall it tasted good. I didn’t ask for specific bread, it was standard one but probably you can ask for softer bread when you order. The portion was generous for that price. I got a large sandwich and was pretty full afterward. The place itself is more like an Italian grocery store. They sell all kinds of staff - from pasta to gelatos. The atmosphere was a bit chaotic, at first it was not easy to find where to order the sandwich. There are several ways to get it: 1) Grab the ticket and wait for your number to order your sandwich 2) Grab already made sandwich from the fridge in the back of the store 3) Order online and pickup it in the back of the store They make sandwiches pretty fast, mine was ready in 5-7 minutes. There is an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your sandwich. There is no public restroom so just be aware. Overall, I had a great experience and will come back and try some other sandwiches.

Bino Ad Astra Gopal

14 Jul 2025

Great food still; happy they reopened! Gotta love the Godmother baby!

NS R

09 Jul 2025

One of the most iconic Italian markets in town always bustling and have great foods ready to go. For more info and to checkout new hot spots follow us on instagram @gemislist

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