The Real Italian Deli: Authentic Italian Delights in Palm Desert

This is a must stop in the desert! Best capicola sandwich I have ever had. Make sure to load up on the frozen lasagna and raviolis, all of the frozen prepared food is incredible.

We loved this lunch spot! The orzo salad and meatball sandwich were both delicious. We ordered original and pistachio cannoli to go for a birthday party and they were a hit - so tasty!

We were visiting Palm Desert Tuesday, October 14, 2025 . We were recommended The Real Italian Deli from a local resident . Great choice. Located behind Paseo road; you have to know about this place. Small onsite parking in front of store. Also a bakery owned by same. We ordered a large turkey pesto sandwich on " crunchy" bread torpedo. Delicious. We split the sandwich later for lunch, big enough for two. We also ordered a huge slice of Lasagna Bolognese ( I mean large enough for two people) Also delicious. Great selection of sandwiches. Best luncheon item ever. Bakery immediately next door has a huge selection of bakery good. Place is set up to purchase and eat elsewhere/home. Highly recommend this place.

Delicious sandwiches. Bread was so soft and so fresh. I’d go back just for the focaccia. We got a cappuccino, turkey pesto sandwich, The Parma, and pesto pasta salad. I could have shared the turkey and my husband had no problem finishing The Parma. All of it was 5 stars and encourage you all to check it out.

I was recently recommended this spot by friends, and I’m so glad I decided to check it out! If you’re in the mood for a delicious Italian sando made on freshly baked bread, look no further. The service here is fast and efficient, adding to the overall great experience. While waiting, I explored their mini grocery store, which is stocked with everything you need to create an amazing Italian dinner at home. Don’t forget to save room for dessert—I was lucky enough to grab the last pizza to go, and after heating it in the oven, it was absolutely delightful! If you’re like me and have a craving for Italian sandwiches, this place is an absolute gem!

Delicious cold cuts! Tried the spicy combo and it was on point. Great portions of different meats. The hot sandwiches were great as well. My kids tried the meatball sandwich with a side of cucumber salad. The lasagna was also very very good. Don't forget desserts at the bakery!

We’re Dining with The Davids. We create video content about the best restaurants and small businesses in the Coachella Valley. We sat down with the owner and executive baker at The Real Italian Deli — with locations in both Palm Springs and Palm Desert — to learn about their favorite items on the menu. The first thing you should know is these guys are known for their bread. They bake over 15 varieties of bread daily, all starting with a mother starter flown in from Italy. That level of dedication shows in everything they do. We asked them what they’re most proud of — and here were the standouts: Top Sandwich Picks: • The Spicy Combo – Mortadella, spicy capicola, spicy Calabrese salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and balsamic glaze on a torpedo roll. • The Parma – Thinly sliced prosciutto, mozzarella, arugula, tomato, and EVOO on focaccia. (This one might be our personal favorite!) • Turkey Pesto – Roasted turkey, pesto mayo, provolone, lettuce, and tomato on ciabatta. They also offer a curated selection of Italian pantry goods, fresh and frozen pastas, and handmade lasagnas — including a vegetarian version made with spinach and white wine sauce. Save room for dessert. The raspberry tart is a must-try, followed closely by the cheesecake and their house-made tiramisu, which comes in classic, chocolate, and pistachio varieties. Cannoli lovers, don’t worry — they’ve got those too. A few insider tips: – Their pesto, sun-dried tomato spread, and olive tapenade are available to-go. – Ask about their house-made raw Italian sausage — it’s not on display, but it’s worth asking for. – Their fresh pasta sells out fast, so go early if that’s on your list.

Pros: Delicious deli sandwiches. Some of the best in the valley. Mortadella, roast beef, turkey pesto, tuna…and more. I think I’ve had them all at this point. Then for cooking at home their frozen ravioli is amazeballs. Cons: It’s not cheap. But what is these days. It’s also not great for hanging out and having lunch. Not bad or dirty or anything like that. It’s just a deli. No big deal. Give them a whirl. BNP Paribas Open pro tip: Get takeout and take these sandwiches courtside and watch tennis. I do this every year and people around me ask which place I got it from.