DeFalco's Italian Deli & Grocery

The Best Italian Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona | Eater Phoenix

"A true Scottsdale institution, DeFalco’s is the kind of old-school Italian-American deli that’s always packed — whether it’s a Tuesday at 10 a.m. or a Friday at 6 p.m. Tucked into a South Scottsdale strip mall, this family-run spot has been serving Midwest-style Italian comfort food since 1972. The pasta can be hit or miss, but the sandwiches are where DeFalco’s really shines. The Italian beef comes piled high, dunked in au jus, and finished with hot giardiniera, while the Il Purista keeps it simple with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, and a drizzle of balsamic. A small but well-stocked Italian market carries fresh bread, homemade sausage, and imported staples — everything needed for a proper Sunday sauce. Still family-run after 50 years, DeFalco’s proves you don’t mess with a good thing, just don’t count on finding an empty table." - McConnell Quinn

The Best Classic Restaurants in Phoenix | Eater Phoenix

"Cramped, crowded DeFalco’s has been famous for its eggplant parmigiana, meatball sandwiches, and classic Italian American subs since 1972, moving twice to accommodate its ever-growing clientele. The center of the shop is crammed with Italian foodstuff — dried pasta, olive oil, San Marzano tomatoes, all the ingredients needed to make an Italian dinner at home — but good luck getting out of the store without ordering something to eat right there on the spot. Go light (the restaurant offers half sandwiches) or settle in with a full meal of arancini, lasagna, pizza (including Sicilian deep-dish), and tiramisu. The menu is gigantic, so the hardest part is simply deciding." - Nikki Buchanan

More market than scene, this family‑run Italian deli turns out legit pies, Sicilian slices, and calzones using scratch dough and San Marzano sauce. A South Scottsdale classic beloved by locals and visiting Italians alike.

A Scottsdale staple since the 1970s, known for Italian American classics, housemade sausages, Sicilian-style pies, and a packed market. Celebrated by Eater Phoenix as a classic, enduring deli with serious sandwiches and pastas.