0 Followers
Limoncello
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Limoncello
8.6
Italian deli known for artisan cold cuts stacked on crusty bread with sharp olive oil and bright produce. Locals line up for generously built panini that travel well and stay crisp.
Must-Try Dishes:
Parma prosciutto panino, Porchetta with salsa verde, Caprese with house pesto
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Roman-style deli sandwiches built with premium Italian imports.
Who should go: Italian sandwich purists and office lunch regulars
When to visit: Weekdays 11–12 to beat peak lunch rush
What to order: Parma; Porchetta; Caprese
Insider tip: Ask for bread warmed and cut in thirds for easier sharing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking is available but limited during lunch hours; best bet is side streets north of California Street.
Dress code: Casual – office attire and jeans are equally common.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch rush, quieter mid-morning and late afternoon – conversation is still manageable.
Weekend wait: Not applicable – primarily a daytime sandwich shop with early evening close.
Weekday lunch: 10–20 minutes in line during peak hours; often no wait before 11am or after 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – Caprese and custom veggie builds available.
Vegan options: Limited – can request veggie-only panini without cheese, but options are minimal.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread; cross-contamination likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual lunch date than a romantic setting – focus is on food quality, not ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – counter-service only; seating is first-come, first-served and limited.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick family stops – high chairs not provided, but simple sandwiches and sides suit kids.
Best For
Better for: Outstanding Italian cold cuts and bread quality compared to generic sandwich shops.
Skip if: Skip if you need gluten-free options or prefer a sit-down dining experience with table service.
Limoncello
7.7
Italian deli-market with grab-and-go panini, focaccia, and imported groceries. A budget-friendly stop for families wanting a quick picnic or an easy take-home pasta night.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Godfather Sandwich, Prosciutto & Mozzarella Panino, Focaccia of the Day
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Italian deli staples, fair prices, and speedy counter service.
Who should go: Families on a budget
When to visit: Weekdays 11–1 for freshest bread
What to order: Godfather panino, prosciutto mozzarella, daily focaccia
Insider tip: Stock up on dried pasta and sauce for an easy family dinner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Sutter and nearby side streets; limited availability during peak hours, no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are all common.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly counter traffic and deli bustle, but you can hold a conversation easily.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a daytime/early evening deli with limited dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; peak 12–1pm may have a short line at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple panini, salads, and focaccia options feature vegetables and cheeses.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options like roasted veggie sandwiches; prepared salads can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—no dedicated gluten-free bread; focus is on traditional Italian baked goods.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more of a casual deli-market than a sit-down restaurant. Better suited for a quick bite or picnic pickup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed; it’s counter service with limited casual seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families with children of all ages are welcome. Quick service, affordable options, and grab-and-go make it easy for parents.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Italian sandwiches and pantry staples you can’t easily find at standard cafés.
Skip if: You’re seeking a full-service sit-down Italian dinner with pastas and table service—look elsewhere in the neighborhood.
Limoncello
7.7
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Family-run Italian deli and market with stacked panini, antipasti, and a few outdoor sidewalk tables. Ideal for a quick, affordable al fresco bite with imported groceries to browse.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mafioso sandwich (mortadella & prosciutto), Eggplant parm sandwich, Meatball panino
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Italian deli classics with outdoor tables for fast, casual bites.
Who should go: Budget-minded sandwich fans
When to visit: Lunch hour or early dinner for shortest line
What to order: Mafioso, eggplant parm, meatball panino
Insider tip: Grab a cold Italian soda or beer from the market case.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking—metered spots on Sutter and Polk, tougher after 6pm. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual. Come as you are—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Low to moderate. Outdoor tables face street traffic but conversation is easy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak hours; usually quicker for takeout.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, though lines form briefly around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—eggplant parm, caprese, and multiple antipasti options.
Vegan options: Limited—salads and a few sandwiches can be modified; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited—no gluten-free bread, but some antipasti and salads are safe choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—it’s more of a quick, casual bite. Better for a low-key lunch or second date snack.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—tables are first-come, first-served and turnover is fairly quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy sandwiches; there are no special kids’ menus or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Italian sandwiches and imported grocery browsing at prices lower than sit-down trattorias.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service Italian dinner, wine list, or a romantic ambiance.