If you’re lucky, you have an Italian deli like Porta Via in your neighborhood – with a deli counter for sandwiches and an assortment of pastas in the case. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite for lunch or pick up stuff to go.

You can place your order online, but you’ll miss out on the daily sandwich special and their combo specials. Plus, it will take a good 40 minutes to process your order.

It’s much more fun coming into the Porta Via, with an array of dishes to tempt you. I wanted to order everything.

I somehow managed to escape with only some baked ziti with marinara sauce, a classic execution, along with several pre-ordered sandwiches.

The Eggplant Parmesan was more of my kind of sandwich, big and messy, served on a large French baguette.

Location – One West California Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91105. Also in San Marino.
Website – http://portaviafoods.com/pv/portavia.php
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – Yes
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – Yes