Roma Italian Deli‘s beloved “Sandwich” has been on my list of tasty things to eat since Jonathan Gold touted its merits back in 2012. Ironically, it’s often the food finds closest to my home that take me the longest to try. Go figure.

The Astronomer, June, and I finally stopped in to Roma on a recent Sunday afternoon. We were all in the mood for something low-key, so picking up sandwiches and enjoying them at the park was just our speed.

In addition to a well-stocked deli counter brimming with meats and cheeses, Rosario Mazzeo’s lil’ market boasts produce, wines, and a plethora of imported Italian provisions (pasta, olive oil, and the like). A return visit to peruse the shelves is definitely in order.

Even though “The Sandwich” is quite sizable, we couldn’t resist procuring a trio of cured meats to round out our spread.

With a little help from the man behind the counter, The Astronomer selected three meats including an awesomely spicy salami that imparted a surprising and lingering burn.

He also chose a spicy ham that was a touch better balanced than the salami.

Finally, some peppery salami—salty, fatty goodness.

“The Sandwich” was the centerpiece of our spread. Its foundation, a sturdy Italian roll drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt, was layered with provolone, mortadella, spiced coppa, and salami. The entire package was wrapped loosely in pink butcher paper.

“The Sandwich” was good, very good. The Astronomer and I both loved the bread’s heft and chew, and the combination of meats and cheeses was well balanced. “The Sandwich,” which reminded us of the very best Philly-style hoagies from our college days, was a well constructed and satisfying creation. We’d hit it again. For dessert, a slice of fig galette to share. All that was missing was a bottle of wine.

June showed interest in our hoagies, but with only two teeth, she wasn’t able to truly enjoy it to the fullest. One day soon…

Gotta love lazy Sundays.

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Roma Market
918 North Lake Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91104
Phone: 626-797-7748

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