The bread comes out thick and right. The meats are fresh-cut - imported Italian, sliced to order. And when the whole thing lands in front of you, you need two hands just to pick it up. AJ's Italian Deli on East Palmetto Park Rd has been doing this for years. Most people still drive right past it.
The Real Deal
AJ's has been a fairly new Boca Raton institution, tucked at 151 E. Palmetto Park Rd in a no-frills setup that tells you everything you need to know about their priorities. No elaborate decor. No long menu of seasonal specials. Just imported Italian meats, house-made sauces, and bread that comes out the right way.
These are two-handed subs. The kind where you have to lean over the counter, where the fillings are packed tight, and where you need a minute after the first bite before you can say anything to whoever is with you.
What to Order
The Italian combo - fresh-sliced imported meats, provolone, house-made Italian dressing, the works. This is what regulars reorder every time.
The meatball sub - house-made meatballs, house marinara. Ask for extra sauce.
Any hot sub - the bread holds up to the heat, which matters more than people realize.
Ask for the hot pepper relish. Every time.
The Insider Tip
Order before noon if you want the bread at its freshest. The morning rush is real, and they bake throughout the day - but earlier is better. The Italian combo is the one regulars reorder, and adding hot pepper relish takes it to another level entirely.
Where to Find Them
AJ's Italian Deli
151 E. Palmetto Park Rd, Boca Raton
Monday - Friday, 7am-3pm and 10am-3pm evr
Cash-friendly. No pretense. All substance. This is the kind of place Boca needs more of.
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