As a city, Boston has no shortage of incredible delis serving up soups, sandwiches, and other lunchtime favorites. These delis aren’t concentrated in one corner of the city but are rather scattered across Boston proper and the surrounding towns and cities, all offering varied versions of the deli classics we all know and love. From Italian subs towering with layers upon layers of sliced meats to matzo ball soup that’ll leave you feeling warm and comforted on even the coldest of Boston winter days, the city’s delis are an essential part of Boston’s food scene, beyond the same dinner-focused heavy hitters on Michelin-style lists.
But if you’re looking for an incredible deli experience in Boston, where exactly should you go? I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite delis in the city so you can check them out the next time you’re craving a pastrami on rye, club sandwich, or Italian beef. I selected spots that generally specialize in excellent sandwiches but that offer a wide-enough variety of dishes that basically anyone can find something delicious to eat at them. You could just discover your new favorite daytime Boston hangout on this list.
New Deal Fruit Inc.
New Deal Fruit Inc. is not messing around when it comes to sandwiches. The Revere deli and grocery store serves up some seriously incredible hot and cold subs in addition to different styles of sandwiches, which is why you’ll likely encounter a line when you visit — locals know that despite the unassuming appearance of this shop, it’s one of the best places to go in the city for a sandwich. The Italian sub is a must-try here, but make sure you get it loaded with hots (hot peppers) for maximum deliciousness. I especially like grabbing one before heading to nearby Revere Beach, which may just be the best place to enjoy this culinary masterpiece.
But there’s more you should try from New Deal Fruit beyond the Italian sub. During the colder months of the year, snag yourself a meatball or chicken parm sub for a cozy and comforting deli order, or opt for the cold seafood salad sub when you really want to lean into the deli’s location close to the beach. And while you’re there, you can also pick up grocery essentials and save yourself a trip to the local Market Basket…