I'm such a foodie and damn if the Di Carlo isn't one of the greatest sandwiches I've ever had. Using schiacciata is such a smart choice because one of the most consistent problems with sandwiches is being too big for eating. I had never heard of schiacciata, but I guess it's a focaccia that's pressed thinner and crispier. In a sandwich, it's nice having more moisture from the olive oil. Plus you get some textural crunch, but not too much. Just right. The mortadella quality is great. The pesto brings the herbal quality and some seasoning. The stracciatella cheese brings the fat. It's nice and light as a spread. A thin compliment. It all adds up to one hell of a sandwich. Highly recommended. On top of this, they have La Colombe coffee which I prefer for the darker roast. This place is frickin awesome. If I lived in SD, I'd be all the time. read more

So, Happy I Finally Tried this Place! I Always Drive past it and wonder when will be the Day I walk in. The European Look of the Cafe, is what drew me in. I wasn't a Fan of Focaccia Bread.... But, After coming Here...I'm a Huge fan. ..Just Here, though. . (..Actually, andTrader Joe's. ) And, that Tells me Somethin'... The bread has an outer, Toasted, Crunch Layer.However, is Still Easy to Bite into.... And, has a Good Balance of Softness on the Inside. The Sandwiches are Thin ~European Style. But, Full of Flavor. I'm Quite Familiar with the Ingredients. But, I haven't had a Sandwhich Like this one. I got the Thinly, Sliced Prosciutto, Pear jam, Balsamic vinegar drizzle, Aromatic Arugula, and Goat Cheese. I can Taste Everything and can Identify All the Ingredients w/ 1 bite, not looking at what's in it or at the Menu. The Topping of the Bread also tastes Sweet, I Believe they Sprinkle Sugar on it. :3 It was Refreshing + didn't make me Feel Full, very Light. I Def. Will Come Back to Try More!! For 2 decades, I have Gone Across the Street for an Authentic, European Sandwich, at Mona Lisa's. Now, I have a New Spot :) Also, the Staff had a Great Attitude!! (Which is Rare in San Diego Hospitality, these days!) They didn't complain at All, when I walked in the Last Few minutes they were Closing! The young Gals working are so so Sweet, with Genuine Smiles + Warmth. I felt So Welcomed by the Interaction, I Def. Appreciated. Thank you :) read more

Divine deli spot and café in the heart of Little Italy near the farmer's market. Pricier sandwiches in my opinion you know I love a good deal. Deal or no deal?! That's the question we have to ask ourselves. I ordered the Il Siciliano: Mortadella di pistachio, capocollo, salami di Genova, provolone, muffelatta, pepperoncini, tomato oil & vinegar. Some of the toppings like tomato oil & vinegar were a bit too overpowering for my liking. I know there's a lot or commotion on social media but aesthetics plays a role. I recommend but I'm in between a 3 or 4 stars. The end. read more

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Food was incredible! LOVE their cannolis, stayed crispy even after I left it in the fridge for a few hours. Sandwiches had good flavor but wished the bread was softer; it was pretty hard. Tiramisu latte had a nutty flavor to it, pretty good. Service was ok. On the pricey side but expected from Little Italy. Overall, would come again! read more

Initially we were looking for a coffee shop and found this spot. But as we entered we were intrigued by the sandwiches. We ordered a Parm Special to share. Honestly, it look a long time to get the sandwich out. Not sure what the hold up was but luckily it was tasty! $20 for the sandwich. Although it was good, not sure if I would return. read more

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Very cute coffee shop! My iced latte was yummy and strong, not too milky. The breakfast sandwich (mozzarella, egg, pesto, tomato) was good, and the ciabatta bread was very fresh. It was a bit messy/wet from the tomatoes but still good. Would definitely want to try more of their lunch sandwiches in the future. The inside cafe area was super cozy. Cute little spot! read more

I came on a Saturday afternoon after finding parking nearby (paid). It is on the corner and directly across from Mona Lisa. Which I thought was interesting (: I actually found this place because of Instagram, I was skeptical. But I actually really enjoyed my food, drinks, and time here. The workers were all patient and very kind. I think the interior could use a little more work, to be more cohesive with their branding but for the most part it is cute. They have lots of indoor seating and some outdoor as well. We got one of their schiaccita sandwiches- it was called Il Siciliano: Mortadella di pistachio, capocollo, salami di Genova, provolone, muffelatta, pepperoncini, tomato oil and vinegar. This sandwich was pretty big and I had enough to share between 2 other people and leftover for the next day! It was $17. They were generous with the meat and other condiments, but I wish they added something to each of the sides of the bread-- when I got home I added some mayo and red pepper pesto. It took it to another level! I loved how perfectly toasted they had the sandwich. It was really good, there were also slices of tomato in it. I also ordered an Iced Honey & Cinnamon Latte, I didn't have high expectations for it but it was actually very good!! They use La Colombe Coffee-- I read on their website. The cinnamon and honey were both fragrant without being overpowering and it was espresso forward which I loved. My brother had a Cold Brew and said it was ok. I also ordered one of their sparkling blood orange drinks ~$5, and I really enjoyed it! All in all, it was a lovely place to come to. And I would recommend for you to come check it out as well! They have breakfast items, coffee, tea, sandwiches, etc. read more

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Prendi e Vai first came to my attention when I visited San Diego last year - the fact that it advertised itself as a Sicilian cafe instantly caught my eye, however it seemed to be closed. I then learned that they were not actually open for business yet, but kept it in the back of my mind for the next time I was in the city. It goes without saying that during my latest trip to the city a made it a priority to check this place out. Prendi e Vai means "grab and go" in Italian, and specializes in Italian and Sicilian fare. For some reason, I was thinking this was going to be somewhat of a small space that leaned more into pastries/sweets, however I found a spacious interior that had coffees and pastries on the menu, but also a wide selection of savory items. In line with the name, most of the items were things that could be eaten onsite or easily able to be packed to go. While the exterior looked super charming, the interior was not - the color scheme and overall aesthetics could use some charm. I already had lunch plans, but I couldn't leave without trying something - or a couple of things. They just took some focaccia pizzas out of the oven, so got a slice. I was also curious how their sfogliatelle were, so I also got one of those. The pizza was quite tasty - super soft crust, and a good balance of sauce, cheese, and pepperoni cups. It's not NY pizza by any means, but I appreciated it for what it was. I was kinda gagged with the sfogliatelle - this was just as good as the ones I've had in NY; it was everything a good sfogliatelle should be. Service was good, and overall I was impressed with Prendi e Vai - the food was great and I would definitely return to explore more of their menu. read more

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After the half marathon my friend and I randomly popped into this cafe nestled in Little Italy on the corner. This restaurant on the end of Little Italy offers an array of sandwiches, sweets, coffee and more. The cafe seating is limited inside and outside-- a few patio tables outside and inside along the windows. We grabbed a sandwich with mango jelly, cheese and prosciutto. The combo was perfect on a nice freshly baked bread. The sandwich was yummy although a bit on the pricier side. The service was excellent. The staff was very warm and friendly. They were also very accomodating. I look forward to trying more on the menu. Note parking can be challenging in Little Italy. Make sure you read the signs to not get a ticket or be towed. read more

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We have visited this place 3 times. All 3 times we tried different sandwiches and my goodness. All so so good. The coffee is great too. Not too much seating inside. Last time, we got it to go and the sandwich traveled well by the time we ate it at home. read more

Prendi E Vai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Needed a quick lunch so I stopped by Prendi E Vai on my stroll. Their shop has garnered my attention numerous times, but it wasn't until two weeks ago I peeked in and decided to order something. There's a two-page menu back-to-back listed with regular deli sandwiches, or their Schiacciata sandwiches which is a different type of crafted Italian bread they use. I went for their Italian sandwich, and the big sub was able to last me two meals. A generous portion of pepperoncini, salami, capocollo pepperoni made this a heavy sandwich. I'd probably order less oil next time as the sandwich paper was soaked from everything. I'd also order the Torpedo next time if I wanted the same fillings, but different type of bread for a cheaper option. I enjoyed Prendi E Vai for their sub so far, and I'd consider trying more bolder options on the menu. The service was standard and I took my food to go. read more

Prendi E Vai - Sign - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Cute, quaint little cafe on the corner of Hawthorne . They have ready-made pasta salads to go or eat in. Sandwiches take me back to Italy...except they are much meatier than the ones in Italy...two can definitely share. Pistachio tiramisu latte was delish and came with a cookie to dip. I think they still need to work on their cannolis as our pistachio cannoli shell was a bit overdone. Order at the counter and they call your name when your order is ready. read more

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Food 10/10 Service 10/10 Ambiance 10/10 I've seen this on my feed a few times and been wanting to try out their sandwiches. Today was the day. The Schiacciata Sandwiches we got are Il Siciliano & Truffle Parma and they're so freaking good. Going to go back again and try other sandwiches soon. The experience 10/10 read more

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Dirty chai and an almond croissant, baby. Dip the almond croissant, in the dirty chai--gah amazing. The almond croissant is lined with almond slivers on the outside and delicious frangipane inside. Just so good. Nice atmosphere, quick service. Sat outside, sunny and gorgeous. Great little place for a day in Little Italy. read more

Prendi E Vai - Dirty chai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Parking -located in little Italy, metered street parking available nearby Service -When we walked in, we were the first in line to order with other customers already dining inside. Server was very nice and efficient taking our order and let us know to expect our free water soon from the beverage side of the store front. Sandwiches came out almost immediately after order! Food -Truffle Parma $19, bread was soft with a slight crisp exterior, you can tell it was made in house. This is the sandwich you want for a hot summer day that feels refreshing and not too heavy. The bed of arugula compliments the saltiness of the prosciutto while the burrata gives it just the right fluff, last but not least the truffle cream gives it just the right push of umami and makes you want to keep coming back for more bites. -II Siciliano $17, same quality bread as truffle parma. This is a sandwich with heavier flavor and packs a more savory punch, can't get enough of the mortadella! The pepperoncini and muffuletta also gave it such a nice pickled profile that I think would be so nice if paired with a sparkling Italian soda. Ambiance -It's a nice airy cafe with door opened but also air conditioning flowing inside. They also have little tables and chairs set up outside that's perfect for people watching the intersection. Seems like a hot spot a lot of people like to visit for lunch. read more

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Got a sandwich to go last minute from this quaint Sicilian bakery/sandwich shop in Little Italy! Absolutely delicious!!! The service was friendly and greatly appreciated as I came in with only 30 minutes before closing and they still made me a spectacular sandwich will definitely be back! read more

Prendi E Vai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Omggggg I usually prefer my sandwhiches savory (see Siciliano) but I actually liked the Salato better. Both were delicious and I recommend going with a friend so you can get one of each. The siciliano is a classic sandwhich, but the Solano stood out. Creamy goat cheese and guacamole jam??? And balsamic??, 10/10 Also they have a good selection of drinks and sides that I want to come back to try. read more

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I been going to @grabngosubs for over 2 decades and how am8'g they opened this beautiful cafe in @visitlittleitaly Prendie Vai means Grab and go in Italian Prendie Vai Café bringing Italy to Little Italy We said "pane-don me" while ordering two schiacciatas ‍ Di Carlo -- pistachio pesto, mortadella di pistachio, creamy stracciatella & crushed pistachio Il Siciliano -- mortadella di pistachio, capocollo, Genova salami, provolone, muffelatta & pepperoncini with tomato oil & vinegar From bold Sicilian flavors to bagels, buttery croissants, cannolis, and creamy lattes--this spot is pan-believable. Come check out @prendievai.sd @littleitalysd 801 W. Hawthorn St | San Diego read more

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The schiacciata sandwiches here are SO GOOD! Their bread is freshly housemade so when I came around 10am the person at the counter actually had to ask to make sure there was bread ready to be used for my order and luckily there was! All of the ingredients also looked super fresh/high quality and some of the meats were actually fresh deli cuts done to order right in front on the counter! The price ranges from $17-19 for the schiacciata sandwiches and they also offer sub sandwiches, bagels, coffee, etc! Il Siciliano: I love a good Italian sandwich so I just had to try the "il siciliano" (mortadella di pistachio, capocollo, salami di Genova, muffuletta, peoperoncini, tomato, oil, vinegar). To me sicilian sandwiches are the most classic/well known and this one did not disappoint, it satisfied my craving for an Italian sandwich 100%. Perfectly savory and salty with that touch of acidity and freshness from the tomato. Dolce e Salato: I was recommended the "dolce e salato" (prosciutto di parma, goat cheese guava spread, balsamic, toasted pistachio) for another sandwich to try and it's a delicious completely different flavor profile. The salty prosciutto combined with the creamy goats cheese with the sweet guava spread and the added texture of the toasted pistachios are a perfect combo! The flavors are all present with none being too overwhelming, this is definitely a delicious sandwich if you are looking for something on the sweeter and less savory side! Service was super fast there was no line when I went on a Friday around 10am! The person at the counter also gave me a great recommendation for which sandwich to try as its his personal favorite. Street parking only which is typical for little Italy. There's ample seating with both indoor and outdoor options which makes it dog friendly too and their little water bowl booth for dogs out front is adorable! Very clean and spacious interior, can be a little noisy given that it's near the flight path for the airport but not too bad! Overall, I would come here again! The sandwiches are delicious I do wish the price point was a little better but given the location in little Italy I understand why. Would be a nice spot to stop by on a farmers market day for lunch! They even have an order ahead option according to the sign posted out front. read more

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We loved the porchetta & egg sandwich so much, we came back two days in a row. The sandwich was a recommendation by the person working, and we're so grateful to have taken his suggestion. The sandwich has a pesto that is unreal. The description of the pesto has pistachio in it, and maybe that's the secret ingredient. Idk but it's delicious. We will be making these inspired sandwiches at home now and we will continue to order from here the next time we are in SD. Also got the chocolate croissant, which was huge and delicious warmed up. We sat in the restaurant the first morning. It was nice to have a place to sit. There is one gender neutral restroom that you request a code for as well. read more

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This is the Italian version of Grab and Go which makes sense given its Little Italy location as well as the translation of its business name. Others have noted that a Starbucks used to occupy this corner suite. The best bet for street parking in this area is to go north of Hawthorn St as the density of eateries is less so there are fewer vehicles. Some small round tables were placed outside on the sidewalk. The inside had a row of tables to the right when you entered. The menu screens hung behind the service counter. From left to right, you had coffees, breakfast offerings, submarine sandwiches, and schiacciata sandwiches. The last category used an Italian flatbread with a crispy crust and an airy inside. Interestingly, each of the 13 varieties cost either $17 or $19. I picked the II Siciliano that contained mortadella with pistachio, capocollo, Genova salami, provolone, muffaletta, pepperoncini, tomato, oil, and vinegar. The sandwich was large as there was no disputing that. My issue was that it was unwieldy because the item was not sliced in half. Perhaps that was done intentionally to maintain the integrity of the schiacciata. I found it difficult to consume as I had to pull apart the bread and eventually used a fork to eat the different meats. The muffaletta was an olive spread with a prominent flavor. There were no other customers during my visit so I thought the cashier would have been more welcoming when I arrived. The service from the worker who assembled my order was decent as he didn't take long. Overall, my takeout experience at Prendi E Vai was between three and four stars. read more

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Got the banana cream latte -- 5/5. It didn't taste artificial and was smooth, well-balanced, and enjoyable. The pistachio cannoli was 4/5 -- the shell was fresh and crisp. The cream had lemon zest which was a nice touch. We didn't try a sandwich this time, but they looked great, so we'll definitely be back to try one next time. read more

Prendi E Vai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Prendi E Vai has recently opened in Little Italy in the old Starbucks location, and let me tell you, it's a great addition to the community of Little Italy, San Diego and beyond. I really like places like this: a blend of many. It's a coffee shop, baker, and sandwich shop. It's a take and go concept, but also a sit down cafe where you can sit down to enjoy a meal and a nice conversation. They gave a lot to offer, including great espresso based beverages, breakfast items, freshly baked pizzas, and amazing schiacciata which is similar to a focaccia bread, but a little softer inside and a great crisp exterior with a touch of salt. You can get a warm schiacciata sandwich made to order. I had a cortado and a breakfast sandwich on ciabatta with porchetta and egg. The sandwich was delicious. I loved the crunchy nature of the bread. The sandwich came with a house made pistachio pesto, which was delicious, thinly sliced savory porchetta, and a medium fried egg. It was simple and delicious. I would order it again. The cortado was very smooth and rich. Customer service was super friendly and welcoming. They offer very good inside seating a few tables right out in front. If you are visiting Little Italy, I would definitely check out Prendi E Vai. read more

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Before going to Breakfast in Little Italy, we saw this PRENDI E VAI CAFE CLASSICO, so we decided to just go here . It's their first opening day today Sept . 29, 2025 here in Little Italy. We ordered from their SEASONAL COFFEE, the Honey Cinnamon Latte and Tiramisu Latte, and their Pastry Spinach and Artichoke. I like the fresh aroma of our Coffee, our coffee is smooth and satisfying, i enjoyed our cups of coffee. My Pastry is good, it's nice and fresh and delicious, good combination of the Spinach and Artichoke . Nice and clean and bright inside, staff are nice and welcoming. It's also nice that the moment you enter their place you can really smell the aroma of their fresh-brewed coffee. Parking is on side streets . read more

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My Italian wife found this gem, Parma special and tiramisu latte was the best!!!!!! The staff are very polite and inviting. Ambiance is beautiful. The price is fair on all food and drinks. Real quality. read more

Prendi E Vai - Parma special - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

This is such a cute and wonderful little cafe!! I was so happy when it came, replacing the generic corporate blah of the Starbucks that preceded it. Great atmosphere and selection. I only had time for a cup of coffee when I was there (3/19/26), but the lady behind the counter was wonderful and made me want to return. She was personable, knowledgeable, friendly and fast . The sandwiches look particularly good and I will be trying one next time. I'll leave an updated review ! read more

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Got the Di Carlo and it was amazing! Crisp bread. Thinly sliced Mortadella. Fresh and nutty pesto spread. Overall sandwich was on the pricier end, but I felt like the ingredients were high quality. The sandwich at Prendi is unlike anything else you'd find in San Diego and I definitely plan to be back. read more

Prendi E Vai - Di Carlo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I've been dying for this place to open, ever since I walked by and saw my favorite Italian dessert listed on their window. Sorry to report, it was a huge let down. Sfogliatella is supposed to be delicately crisp with yummy fluffy cream inside, like the picture on their menu. Compare that with my picture of what I received -looks more like old custard. Didn't taste good, so I threw out everything you see in the picture. After one bite, I decided it wasn't worth the calories. Really hope this changes soon and gets better, or I'll have to make another trip to Bologna to get my fix. Macadamia cookie was okay, nothing special but edible. Latte was beyond terrible. I often frequent La Colombe at UTC Mall so I know they have great beans and lattes come out perfect there. Since these are the beans being used, I can only speculate it's the person operating the machine. See my latte photo, she's still working on how to make the foam leaf so perhaps she just needs more time in learning how to make espressos. Mine tasted bitter, as if old grounds weren't cleaned out. Bottom line, doesn't look aesthetically pleasing & didn't taste right. Was also told that utensils were in the corner, where straws are kept, yet turned out to be behind the counter. I really dislike leaving this review. As I said, I had high hopes but nothing came close to our expectations. Crossing my fingers that they pull it together soon. I'll come back in a month and try again. ps, This would've been a 1 star review if not for the employees' friendliness. read more

Prendi E Vai - Sfogliatella (disappointing) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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My bestie and I came to grab an iced coffee and to walk around the area. The inside was very clean and welcoming. We ended up ordering a banana creme latte, and a tiramisu latte. I thought that my coffee was very yummy, it had a thicker cream consistency on top and had a lady finger cookie to go with it! I also loved how the barista gave us advice on the coffee orders which helped ordering much easier! read more

Prendi E Vai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Great coffee, my capresse and egg breakfast sandwich (ciabatta, egg, roasted tomato, pesto and fresh mozzarella) was perfectly proportioned and delicious. read more

Stumbled across this quaint, little Italian-inspired cafe as I was walking around Little Italy. Located on the corner of India St. & W. Hawthorne (directly across the street from Mona Lisa's), sits this adorable European-style coffee & sandwich shop/bakery. I was warmly greeted when I entered the cafe and the enthusiasm of the gentleman who was making sandwiches made me eager to try one of his masterpieces. While the dining area inside is limited, they do offer a couple of small tables outside -- nice for people watching and enjoying our perfect SD weather. But the highlight of this gem is their selection of sandwiches, specifically those on their fresh baked schiacciata (similar to a focaccia bread, but much better IMO). This heavenly bread is pure perfection - soft, yet with a perfect light crispness when you take a bite. With so many tempting choices, I finally settled on the caprese schiacciata (I added prosciutto), and let me say that it did not disappoint! This is a sandwich I would drive across town and battle the parking wars of Little Italy to satisfy a craving. The burrata was perfectly smooth and creamy, pistachio pesto was pure heaven, prosciutto was thin, salty & tasty and the schiacciata elevated the entire sandwich into a realm all its own! I'm salivating just reminiscing about that first bite. Seriously. If you happen to be in the area, or even within walking distance, I highly recommend stopping in for one of their schiacciata sandwiches -- you will not be disappointed! While you're there, grab a cannoli to go, I highly recommend the pistachio -- perfectly balanced, with a lightly crisp shell filled with creamy goodness (not too sweet) and generously sprinkled with pistachios. You're welcome. read more

Prendi E Vai - Caprese Schiacciata sandwich (added prosciutto). Perfection. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Too expensive. This place is priced for tourists. Not getting return business. AND they don't care. Good luck with the locals. read more

Prendi E Vai - Convo with business. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Good coffee. Good sammies. Good location. Perfect for the grab n Go when headed to the Airport.

Cute bakery/ sandwich shop. They replaced the Starbucks that used to be on this corner. We tried their almond fear claw and it was pretty good. Clean shop, love the decor. read more

Prendi E Vai - Baked goods - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Stopped by here today before the farmers market. The inside is super cute... cozy but modern, with tons of charm and little details that make you want to stay awhile. I tried the tiramisu latte and it was fantastic. It wasn't overly sweet, just perfectly balanced with rich espresso and creamy mascarpone on top (and they even serve it with a ladyfinger!). Definitely worth stopping by if you're in the area. I plan on going again to try the food menu. The sandwiches looked fantastic. read more

Prendi E Vai - Tiramisu latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The drinks and sweets were so good, definitely a must stop. Service was friendly and quick. read more

Prendi E Vai - Chocolate Chip Cannoli, tiramisu coffee, and Spanish latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

First thing first, Camila is such a sweet barista. She takes your order with her beautiful smile and she recommends the best so, you should trust her. My favorite sandwich is , Di Santa Cecilia ( I add turkey and light straciatella) sooooooooo goooood Love this place read more

Prendi E Vai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I tried the Il Siciliano schiacciata sandwich whichwith mortadela di pistachio, capocollo, salami di Genova, mufelatta (olive tepanade), pepperocini, tomato, oil and vinegar. I subbed the olive with Calabrian chile instead since I'm not a fan of olives which was the right move! The heat and spice from the calabrian chile paired so well with the rest of the toppings. It's a bit on the steeper price for a sandwich but typical for freshly sliced deli meat made to order and the portions were generous. read more

Had a sandwich at Predni de Vie and wow -- best I've had in ages! Shared with my husband... instantly regretted it. Definitely going back for my own next time! read more

Got the Di Carlos and it was legit. Mortadella sliced super thin, bread airy and crisp. Take me back to Italy! Wish it was a bit more meat to be more filling for the price. But still overall a good sando. read more

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