Iconic old-school Italian sandwich spot serving huge veal, chicken, and eggplant parms with messy, satisfying sauce; outstanding food and portions, but service can be brusque and pickup delays happen during rushes.
California Sandwiches earns its grade through exceptional food quality—particularly legendary veal and eggplant parm sandwiches—and genuine multi-decade loyalty that speaks to authentic neighborhood institution status. However, modest service attentiveness, tight physical space, and recent service friction reports prevent a higher grade. This is a destination for sandwich devotees who prioritize substance over polish and don't mind the bustling, cash-only counter experience.
One caveat: Pickup bottlenecks with delivery riders can cause 20-40 minute waits at peak