Because a tub growing among trees and alfredo flavored gelato is not amazing enough, Marcus took me to an adorable Italian deli.  With the sort of bravado that I can’t even begin to approach, Marcus requested two sandwiches, the filling choices deferred to the expert discretion and taste of the man pictured above.  This man knew his Italian meats.  I wouldn’t have been surprised if someone told me that he never leaves his deli counter, that he sleeps there and when they turn the lights off in the store he leans his head against the glass case and uses a log a salami as a pillow.  When I asked to take his picture he responded, “Yes, people take my picture all the time” in an almost tired tone, as if he finds his meat celebrity boring at this point.

What was confidently handed off to us were two sandwiches absolutely dripping with spicy meats, olive oil, and provolone cheese.  These we consumed happily with soup and a bitter Italian soda.

Roma Italian Deli

918 N Lake Ave

Pasadena, CA 91104

626.797.7748