16 Florida Italian Sub Spots Where The Classic Sandwich Reigns Supreme

Florida might be known for its beaches and sunshine, but tucked between the palm trees and surf shops are some of the best Italian delis this side of the Atlantic. I’ve spent years hunting down the perfect Italian sub, and let me tell you, the Sunshine State delivers in ways that’ll make you forget you’re not in a New York bodega.

From family-run markets that’ve been slicing cold cuts for decades to hidden gems where the bread alone is worth the drive, these spots prove that great Italian food isn’t confined to the Northeast.

1. Stasio’s Italian Deli & Market (Orlando)

Walking into this Orlando institution feels like stepping into your Italian grandmother’s kitchen, assuming she had impeccable taste in cured meats and imported olive oil. The aroma hits you first—a beautiful collision of fresh-baked bread, aged provolone, and that unmistakable scent of quality salami hanging overhead.

Their signature Italian sub is what dreams are made of, piled high with Boar’s Head cold cuts that they slice to order right in front of you. You’ll find this treasure at 1500 E State Rd 434 in Winter Springs, where locals have been making pilgrimages for years.

What sets Stasio’s apart is their commitment to authenticity without the pretension. The staff knows their products inside and out, and they’re not shy about making recommendations.

Their homemade mozzarella is criminally good, and if you’re not grabbing a container of their pasta salad to go, you’re missing out on one of life’s simple pleasures that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished your first bite.

2. Mazzaro’s Italian Market (St. Petersburg)

St. Petersburg’s crown jewel of Italian cuisine has been feeding hungry Floridians since 1947, and honestly, they’ve only gotten better with age. This isn’t just a deli—it’s a full-blown Italian marketplace where you could easily spend an hour just browsing the imported goods before you even think about ordering food.

Located at 2909 22nd Ave N, Mazzaro’s transforms the simple act of getting lunch into a cultural experience. Their Italian sub is legendary for good reason, featuring premium meats and cheeses stacked on bread that’s baked fresh daily in-house.

The magic here is in the details. They don’t rush you through the line, and the sandwich artists (because that’s what they are) take genuine pride in their craft.

The combination of textures—crispy bread, tender meat, creamy cheese—creates this perfect harmony that makes you understand why people drive from Tampa just for lunch. Grab some cannoli for dessert while you’re there, because leaving without trying their pastries would be a crime against your taste buds.

3. Paul’s Italian Deli & Restaurant (Kissimmee)

Kissimmee might be famous for theme parks, but Paul’s proves there’s more to this town than roller coasters and cartoon characters. This family-owned spot has been quietly serving some of the most authentic Italian subs in Central Florida, and once you try them, you’ll understand why locals guard this secret like treasure.

Situated at 1451 E Osceola Pkwy, Paul’s combines old-world recipes with genuine hospitality that makes every visit feel like coming home. Their Italian sub features a perfect ratio of meat to cheese to vegetables, dressed with just the right amount of oil and vinegar that soaks into the bread without making it soggy.

What I love most about Paul’s is how they’ve maintained their authenticity despite being surrounded by tourist traps. The portions are generous without being absurd, and the quality never wavers.

They use Boar’s Head meats exclusively, but it’s their homemade dressing that really elevates the sandwich. Plus, the prices are refreshingly reasonable, especially considering you’re getting deli-quality ingredients that would cost twice as much elsewhere in the area.

4. Cosa Nostra Italian Deli (Clermont)

Despite the playful name that nods to Italian-American culture, there’s nothing shady about the quality at Cosa Nostra—just seriously good sandwiches that’ll make you a repeat offender. Clermont isn’t exactly known as a culinary destination, but this deli is changing that narrative one sub at a time.

You’ll find them at 2945 E Hwy 50, and trust me, it’s worth navigating the strip mall maze to get there. Their Italian sub is a masterclass in balance, with each ingredient playing its part without overwhelming the others.

The bread comes from a local bakery, and they’re particular about getting it delivered fresh each morning. What really impressed me was their house-made giardiniera—tangy, crunchy, and with just enough heat to wake up your palate without setting your mouth on fire.

The owner clearly knows his stuff, and it shows in every detail from the way they store their meats to the precise slicing technique. They’ve also got a rotating selection of imported Italian sodas that pair perfectly with your sandwich, making lunch feel like a mini vacation to the Mediterranean.

5. V & S Italian Deli (Boca Raton)

Boca Raton has no shortage of upscale dining, but sometimes you just want a damn good sandwich without the fuss, and V & S delivers exactly that with zero pretension. This unassuming deli has been a local favorite for years, and one bite of their Italian sub explains why the parking lot is always packed at lunchtime.

Located at 299 NW 13th St, V & S keeps things simple and does them exceptionally well. Their Italian sub is built on a foundation of quality ingredients—think freshly sliced Genoa salami, capicola, mortadella, and aged provolone that’s sharp enough to make a statement.

The atmosphere is no-frills deli counter vibes, which I actually appreciate. You’re here for the food, not Instagram-worthy decor.

They pile the meat high but not so high that you can’t actually bite through the sandwich, which shows they understand the engineering of a proper sub. The bread-to-filling ratio is spot-on, and they don’t skimp on the toppings.

Ask for their hot peppers if you like a little kick—they’re pickled in-house and add this wonderful acidity that cuts through the richness of the meats.

6. Frankies Italian Deli (West Melbourne)

West Melbourne isn’t exactly a foodie hotspot, but Frankies proves that great Italian delis can thrive anywhere there are people who appreciate quality. This family-run spot has cultivated a devoted following that swears by their Italian subs, and after trying one myself, I’m ready to join the fan club.

You’ll find this gem at 4475 W Eau Gallie Blvd, where the welcome is always warm and the sandwiches are always fresh. Frankies takes pride in their traditional preparation methods, slicing meats to order and building each sub with care rather than speed.

What struck me most was the freshness of everything—the lettuce was crisp, the tomatoes were ripe, and the onions had that perfect sharp bite. They use a specific blend of Italian meats that they’ve perfected over years, and it shows in the flavor profile.

The bread is crusty on the outside but soft enough inside that it doesn’t shred the roof of your mouth. They also make their own Italian dressing, which has this herbaceous quality that reminds me of summers in Sicily, even though I’ve never been there.

It’s just that good and that evocative.

7. Manzo’s Italian Deli (West Palm Beach)

West Palm Beach has seen its share of trendy restaurants come and go, but Manzo’s has remained a constant for one simple reason: they make ridiculously good Italian subs that keep people coming back week after week. There’s something reassuring about a place that doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel because they’ve already perfected it.

At 1470 N Military Trl, Manzo’s operates with the confidence of a deli that knows exactly what it’s doing. Their Italian sub features a generous helping of imported meats and cheeses, assembled with the kind of precision that comes from decades of experience.

The owner is usually behind the counter, and he’s not afraid to tell you what’s good that day. I appreciate that kind of honesty.

Their prosciutto is paper-thin and melts on your tongue, while their capicola has just the right amount of spice. The provolone is aged properly, giving it a sharpness that stands up to the bold flavors of the cured meats.

They also carry a selection of Italian groceries, so you can stock up on pasta and sauce while you’re there, turning your lunch run into a mini shopping trip.

8. Two Fat Guys Italian Gourmet Deli (Port St. Lucie)

The name alone makes you smile, and the sandwiches deliver on the promise of indulgence that the moniker suggests. Port St. Lucie has grown rapidly over the years, but Two Fat Guys has maintained its neighborhood deli charm while serving some of the best Italian subs on the Treasure Coast.

Located at 1991 SW Bayshore Blvd, this spot embraces its playful identity while taking the food seriously. Their Italian sub is loaded with premium meats and topped with their signature blend of seasonings that gives it a unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

The atmosphere is casual and fun, with Italian-American kitsch decorating the walls and friendly banter flying between the staff and regulars. But don’t let the lighthearted vibe fool you—these guys know their cold cuts.

They use a combination of traditional Italian meats alongside some creative additions that work surprisingly well together. The bread is sourced from a bakery that makes it specifically to their specifications, ensuring it can handle the generous portions without falling apart.

Their homemade meatballs are also worth trying if you’re in the mood for something hot alongside your cold sub.

9. Felice Italian Pork Store And Deli (Clearwater)

Clearwater’s beaches get all the attention, but locals know the real treasure is Felice, where Italian-American traditions are honored with every sandwich they make. This old-school pork store and deli operates like they’re still in Brooklyn, and that authenticity is precisely what makes it special in a sea of generic sandwich shops.

You’ll find them at 1978 Drew St, and stepping inside feels like time travel to a different era of delis. Their Italian sub is built the traditional way, with careful attention to layering and proportion that results in a sandwich where every bite tastes exactly like the first.

What sets Felice apart is their house-made sausages and cured meats that you can add to your sub for an extra dimension of flavor. The quality of their pork products is exceptional, and you can taste the difference between mass-produced and artisanal.

They also make their own mozzarella daily, and if you’re smart, you’ll get it added to your sandwich for a creamy contrast to the salty meats. The staff treats everyone like family, remembering orders and offering samples of new products they’re excited about.

10. Ippolito Italian Deli (Largo)

Largo might fly under the radar compared to its flashier neighboring beach towns, but Ippolito has been quietly serving exceptional Italian subs to those in the know for years. This family-owned deli operates with the kind of consistency that only comes from genuine passion for the craft and respect for Italian culinary traditions.

At 12801 Starkey Rd, Ippolito maintains an old-world approach to their sandwiches, using imported Italian meats alongside domestic favorites to create a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Their Italian sub showcases this philosophy perfectly, with each ingredient chosen for quality rather than price.

The bread is delivered fresh multiple times a day, ensuring that whether you come at 11 AM or 3 PM, you’re getting the same crusty-outside, soft-inside perfection. I’m particularly fond of their house-made Italian dressing, which has a vinegar-forward tang that brightens up the rich meats without overpowering them.

They also have a small selection of Italian groceries and frozen pasta dishes that are perfect for when you don’t feel like cooking but still want that homemade taste. The prices are fair, the portions are generous, and the service is always friendly.

11. Cerrato’s Italian Market And Deli (Melbourne)

Melbourne’s Space Coast reputation centers on rockets and technology, but Cerrato’s brings a different kind of craft to the area—the art of the perfect Italian sub. This market and deli combination offers the best of both worlds: grab a sandwich for lunch and stock up on imported Italian goods for your home kitchen.

Located at 1005 E New Haven Ave, Cerrato’s has created a space that feels like a little slice of Italy transplanted to Florida’s east coast. Their Italian sub features a carefully curated selection of meats that complement each other rather than compete, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

The market side of the business means they have access to premium imported ingredients that elevate their sandwiches beyond typical deli fare. Their olive selection alone is worth the visit, and yes, you can get them added to your sub for an extra burst of briny goodness.

What impresses me most is their attention to detail—the way they wrap each sandwich, the quality of their paper products, even the way they organize their ingredients speaks to a pride in their work. They also offer catering, which makes sense because once you try their food, you’ll want it at every gathering.

12. Plateroti Italian Gourmet Inc (Clearwater)

Clearwater strikes again with another Italian deli gem, and Plateroti takes the gourmet designation seriously without being stuffy about it. This place understands that gourmet doesn’t mean complicated—it means using the best ingredients and preparing them with skill and care that honors Italian culinary traditions.

You’ll find this treasure at 1815 N Highland Ave, where they’ve been perfecting their Italian sub recipe for years. The result is a sandwich that manages to be both traditional and slightly elevated, with touches that show they’re not afraid to put their own spin on a classic.

Their meat selection includes some harder-to-find Italian specialties alongside the standard favorites, giving you options whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous eater. The bread is phenomenal—crispy crust that crackles when you bite into it, with an interior that’s airy and light.

They also make several of their own salads and sides that pair beautifully with their subs. The pasta salad has this bright, lemony dressing that’s refreshing on a hot Florida day.

Service is attentive without being hovering, and the staff genuinely seems to enjoy talking about food, which always makes for a better dining experience in my book.

13. Colella’s Italian Deli (Largo)

Largo proves it can support multiple excellent Italian delis, and Colella’s holds its own with a devoted customer base that appreciates their straightforward approach to sandwich making. There’s no pretense here, just solid Italian subs made the way they should be, with quality ingredients and proper technique.

At 13600 Walsingham Rd, Colella’s operates with the efficiency of a well-oiled machine while maintaining the personal touch that makes local delis special. Their Italian sub is generous without being ridiculous, flavorful without being overwhelming, and satisfying in that deep, soul-nourishing way that only a good sandwich can achieve.

What I appreciate about Colella’s is their consistency. You can visit on a Monday or a Saturday, morning or afternoon, and the quality remains the same.

That kind of reliability is rare and valuable. They slice their meats fresh for each sandwich, and you can watch the whole process from ordering to wrapping.

Their provolone is sharp and tangy, providing a nice contrast to the rich, fatty meats. They also offer a selection of hot sandwiches if you’re in the mood for something different, but honestly, their cold Italian sub is the star of the show and deserves all the attention it gets from the local community.

14. Antonio’s Deli & Meats (Juno Beach)

Juno Beach is a small coastal town with a big appetite for quality Italian food, and Antonio’s has been satisfying that craving with exceptional deli sandwiches and premium meats. This combination deli and butcher shop gives them an advantage—they know their meat, and it shows in every sandwich they build.

Located at 13930 US Hwy 1, Antonio’s benefits from its dual identity as both deli and meat market. Their Italian sub features cuts that are butchered and prepared on-site, ensuring freshness that pre-packaged meats simply can’t match.

The butcher shop side means they can offer custom cuts and special preparations that elevate their sandwiches beyond typical deli fare. Their house-made sausage is outstanding, and while it’s not traditional on an Italian sub, I highly recommend trying it at least once.

The staff knows their products intimately and can guide you through options if you’re feeling adventurous. The bread comes from a local bakery that makes it specifically for Antonio’s, with a texture that’s perfect for holding up to their generous fillings.

They also have a small selection of prepared foods that make great sides, and their prices are surprisingly reasonable considering the quality you’re getting from a beach town establishment.

15. Shlomo Gourmet Subs & Deli (Palm Harbor)

Palm Harbor’s hidden gem takes an interesting approach to Italian subs by combining traditional Italian deli techniques with a broader gourmet perspective that results in something familiar yet distinctive. Shlomo’s proves that respecting tradition doesn’t mean you can’t bring your own perspective to the table.

You’ll find them at 35246 US Hwy 19 N, where they’ve built a reputation for quality that extends beyond just their Italian offerings. Their Italian sub showcases premium ingredients assembled with care and an attention to flavor balance that suggests someone really thought about what makes a great sandwich work.

The bread-to-meat ratio is perfect, the vegetables are fresh and crisp, and the seasoning hits just right without being too heavy-handed. What sets Shlomo’s apart is their willingness to customize—they’ll adjust the sandwich to your preferences without making you feel like you’re being difficult.

Their meat selection is extensive, giving you options beyond the standard Italian sub lineup if you want to mix things up. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a diverse clientele that speaks to the broad appeal of good food done well.

They also have excellent sides and salads that make for a complete meal without leaving you feeling overstuffed.

16. DECOSMO ITALIAN MARKET (Pinellas Park)

Pinellas Park’s Italian market brings authentic flavors to a community that clearly appreciates the real deal, judging by the steady stream of customers who make DECOSMO a regular stop. This market combines Old World charm with practical accessibility, making quality Italian products available to home cooks and sandwich lovers alike.

At 7204 49th St N, DECOSMO operates as both a full-service market and a deli, giving them the advantage of having premium ingredients right at their fingertips. Their Italian sub benefits from this setup, featuring meats and cheeses that are also available for purchase in the market section.

The quality control is evident—everything tastes fresh because it is fresh, delivered regularly and turned over quickly thanks to their loyal customer base. Their Italian sub is built on a foundation of imported meats that bring authentic flavors you won’t find in chain sandwich shops.

The bread is baked fresh daily, and they’re particular about getting the right texture and flavor to complement their fillings. What I love most is how they’ve created a community gathering spot where people come not just for food but for conversation and connection.

The staff knows their regulars by name, and there’s a warmth to the place that makes every visit feel special beyond just the excellent sandwiches.