Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery 1517 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401

"I got the Godmother (3.5/5) with the “works” and it overpowered the Italian meats. Italian meats have a more delicate flavor that was lost due to the spice and acidity of the “works”. The quality of the meat was good. It wasn’t tough like Italian meats sometimes can be, it was really fresh. Also the bread was great. Super crunchy crust and the interior was nice and soft. I also got the Don Lorenzo(3.7/5). This was a simple sandwich so the prosciutto was really able to shine. It was super salty and good and paired with the simplicity of the mozzarella and tomato. Overall I would go back but get a sandwich with turkey or chicken, something without its own distinct flavor that can complement the “works.”"

"We decided to try an Italian Deli for lunch. The Bay Cities Italian Deli and Bakery was close by so we made a stop there. Parking can be difficult during peak lunch hours. We sampled a lot of different hot foods. The chicken parmesan sandwich was delicious. The chicken was nicely breaded without being over cooked. The tomato sauce is excellent. The amount of parmesan was good, and not over done. My guest had the eggplant parmesan sandwich, which she enjoyed but did not wow her. The cheese ravioli was excellent. The tomato cream sauce was delicious, you want to slurp up the sauce to the last drop. The sausage and peppers were on point. Not over cooked, not spicy, goes well with the tomato sauce if you ask for some on the side. The meatballs, yum. Moist and evenly cooked. The pasta with shrimp was good, but will skip this next time. Mac and Cheese was one of the better ones we've had. It's not baked, but delicious none the less. The lasagna was good, however, the server went heavy with the parmesan cheese and we tasted only cheese. This was disappointing and best to ask for the parmesan on the side. Two Root Beers to wash down the food. Some dishes are 5 stars, some are 4, but overall we would rate it 4.5. Will return to sample the cold sandwiches."

"Super cute deli experience with amazing sandwiches and seating outdoors. The man who served us was delightful. Great selection of wines and fine Italian food too."

"I have to start off this mixed review by stating the most important part. The subs were absolutely delicious (5 stars)! Best in the Santa Monica area. Now, for the rest of the review. The parking is very tight and small, so good luck with that, I suppose you could say that at least they have a parking lot even though small. The shop itself is packed. Every shelf is busting over with items, so the place looks a tad messy and disorganized (definitely disorderly). The staff are absolutely rude and unhappy. But just try to ignore that. And one other very important note: THEY ONLY ACCEPT DEBIT OR CASH."