The 17 Best Restaurants In Houston's East End - Houston - The Infatuation

"Old school red sauce joints are few and far between in Houston these days, which is why Mandola’s Deli, an Italian deli and restaurant, feels like a rare gem. Not only can you dig into giant slabs of breaded and fried lasagna or slabs of cheese-crusted chicken parmesan, but you can also get quarts of red sauce, cannoli, and stuffed artichokes to-go. The vibe is less restaurant, and more kitchen attached to a local community center. In other words, everyone working there feels like old family friends, even if it’s your first time in. Mandola’s Deli is primarily open for lunch and is closed on Sunday, so go with your office pals (the ones you really like) or take a couple sandwiches home with you." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene