New deli opens up downtown

One of Orange County’s favorite delis is now open in Laguna Beach.

Gallo’s Italian Deli, in Corona del Mar and the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, has filled an open and highly demanded niche in Laguna’s food market.

“A lot of our Corona del Mar customers were coming from Laguna and asking for a chain in their own town,” owner Eric Hanna said. “Our laid-back, beach town vibe is a good fit. It’s a great place for people to come and enjoy some food, scenic views and hang out.”

Located at 202 Park Ave. in the old Johnny’s Pizza spot behind the library, the deli offers 12 sandwiches, ranging from a simple veggie to the Gallo’s combo with the works and endless create-your-own combos.

Unique to Laguna is its turbacado sandwich with turkey, bacon, avocado and other toppings, and artwork displayed and for sale by local artists.

In the spirit of keeping “green,” Gallo’s uses fresh-baked French rolls from a local bakery every day, and many of its fresh ingredients are organic and come from local farmers markets.

“Our freshness, quality of meat and [hearty] size of our sandwiches set us apart from other delis,” Hanna said.

Priding itself on perfecting the art of the sandwich, Hanna said the only other items offered are chips and beverages.

“We’re great at what we do, and we like to keep it simple,” he said.

Established by Joe Gallo in Corona del Mar in 1973, the deli was bought from its second owner by Eric’s dad, Mag Hanna, in 1994, and grew into a family business. Eric later opened his own location on the Balboa Peninsula and said he is now excited to open his second location in Laguna Beach.

Gallo’s is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more, call (949) 497-1100.