When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Deli & Pizzeria
Why Little Deli & Pizzeria is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Deli & Pizzeria, located in the heart of Austin, Texas, is a cherished local institution known for its authentic northeastern deli sandwiches and New Jersey style pizzas. With over three decades of history, this family-owned pizzeria and deli offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual meet-ups with friends. Their menu highlights include hand-tossed artisan pizzas baked on two-inch stone hearths, offering a crispy crust with savory sauce and a tasty cheese blend that has won praise for its outstanding flavor. Beyond pizza, Little Deli offers fresh, homemade soups, hearty salads, and a variety of deli sandwiches made with premium-quality meats and cheeses on fresh-baked breads. Fans also rave about their calzones, which stay perfectly crispy and chewy due to their careful balance of cheeses and minimal sauce. The addition of in-house and locally sourced desserts makes this spot ideal for completing a satisfying meal. Whether sharing a large flavorful pizza or enjoying a classic deli experience, Little Deli & Pizzeria perfectly captures homey neighborhood comfort food with understated Austin style, making it a popular spot to relax and enjoy good food with friends.
Here's what people think of Little Deli & Pizzeria
As of recent, Little Deli & Pizzeria holds a 4.8-star rating based on 2347 reviews.
Reviews of Little Deli & Pizzeria overwhelmingly praise its high-quality and authentic pizza experience. Positive reviews highlight the perfect crispness of the crust, flavorful sauce, and a well-blended cheese mix that delivers a satisfying New Jersey pizza style. Customers appreciate the generous pizza portion sizes and reasonable pricing compared to other local options, especially for simple menu choices. The calzones and deli sandwiches also receive commendations for fresh ingredients and balanced textures, while the selection of homemade and locally sourced desserts adds to the overall appeal. On the other hand, some critics point out that the pizza can sometimes be greasy with a sauce that leans toward tangy, and there are occasional comments questioning the cheese quality. A few reviews note that the prices can be a bit high for larger pies, but many feel the volume justifies the cost. Despite minor negatives, the vast majority of customer feedback is highly favorable, with many customers recommending the place for its consistent quality and neighborhood charm. Overall, the reviews reflect a well-loved local spot that delivers a satisfying culinary experience combining deli classics and standout pizza fare.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chantel Castillo
My mom works in the area and I was meeting her for lunch, we were both craving a sub and chose this place specifically because they also serve pizza which is perfect because I have a four-year-old and one year-old who love pizza. When we first pulled up, we almost left because it looked super packed outside and being 39 weeks pregnant, I didn’t know if I could handle the heat but ended up deciding to stay after finding a table in the shade and that was probably the best decision I made that day. I think this might be the best sub I have ever had and I love me a sub. All of their ingredients seemed high-quality. I got the club sub which comes with turkey ham, bacon, and provolone. they’re bacon was perfect. I’ve been to many places where the bacon is just OK. I definitely plan on coming back to this place. The pizza by the slice was also good 10 out of 10 if you’re in the area this place is worth trying.
Steve Takata
Little Deli has been my favorite neighborhood place for more than a decade. The corned beef, pastrami, and chicken salad are fantastic. The pizza is good but not as good as the corned beef. The restaurant is very small with only maybe half a dozen tables inside. There is some outdoor seating which is great in the fall in the spring, but not so much in the winter or the summer!
MC S
Love the thin crust! Not sure if it's stone baked but we had half pepperoni and half margherita! Reuben sandwich and Greek salad! Great way to spend quality foodie time with my fellow foodie queen friends! We had a great time we stayed, dined and just had amazing time. Service was cool, people mostly take out and the outdoor area looked cool. Simple yet worthwhile.
Charlise Washington
Was recommended this place by a fellow New Yorker and was told that the pizza here is the closest I would find to NYC pizza here in Austin. And it probably is! The atmosphere is really chill. The service was fast and there were a lot of people here which is always a good sign! The pizza was really good. Not quite NYC, but the crust was good, red sauce was okay and just wish had a little more cheese on the cheese pizza.
Charles Parsow
Very solid pizza and sandwiches! The cheese on the pizza has a nice robust, strong flavor (romano, perhaps?). It also holds up well when you fold it 🤌 They have a good amount of (outdoor) seating
How to reach Little Deli & Pizzeria
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Why Little Deli & Pizzeria may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Deli & Pizzeria with your friends?
When looking for a welcoming spot to gather with friends or family, Little Deli & Pizzeria stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled in Austin, Texas, this cozy local gem exudes a charming, laid-back vibe that immediately makes guests feel at home. The intimate dining space is complemented by a delightful patio illuminated by inviting string lights, creating an atmosphere perfect for relaxed conversations and laughter under the open sky. This ambiance, combined with a stellar reputation—boasting a high rating of 4.8 from over 2,300 reviews—makes it an attractive destination for meetups. Beyond just atmosphere, Little Deli & Pizzeria caters to group dynamics with its diverse menu that balances classic New Jersey-style thin, foldable pizzas, hearty deli sandwiches, and fresh salads, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate. Friends can enjoy the added flexibility of bringing their own beverages, adding a personal touch to the gathering. Ultimately, this venue offers not just food but an experience that transforms a simple meal into a memorable occasion, making it the perfect rallying point for any social occasion.
What kind of activities and experiences make Little Deli & Pizzeria ideal for group meetups?
Little Deli & Pizzeria’s layout and offerings are distinctly tailored to create an engaging experience for groups seeking more than just a meal. The main draw is the spacious outdoor patio adorned with string lights, providing a charming, al fresco dining spot that encourages mingling and longer stays. This open-air setting is comfortable and airy, ideal for larger groups who want room to share stories over food without feeling cramped. Since the indoor space is smaller, the patio becomes a natural hub for communal activities such as casual celebrations, small parties, or even informal meetings. Additionally, the BYOB policy allows groups to enhance their experience by bringing their favorite beers or wines from nearby stores, fostering a relaxed environment reminiscent of home gatherings. The presence of picnic-style tables invites shared platters and encourages a communal dining style, perfect for friends or family who want to sample various pizzas and sandwiches collectively. This space also allows for easy movement, which is conducive to social games or light entertainment, making it much more than a place to eat—but a real venue for connection.
How diverse and appealing is the food menu for group dining at Little Deli & Pizzeria?
Little Deli & Pizzeria presents a menu that balances depth and variety, catering well to the preferences of a diverse group. The pizza stands as a highlight, with thin, foldable slices that are crispy enough to satisfy texture lovers without being overly heavy. This classic New Jersey-style pizza can be ordered by the slice or as large pies, making it simple to share across any sized group. Beyond pizza, the deli sandwiches—especially standout items like the highly praised Reuben sandwich with perfectly balanced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing on griddled rye bread—offer comforting and substantial choices for those who prefer a sandwich over pizza. The menu also features Italian subs, salads with fresh dressings, and daily-made soups, covering lighter or more health-conscious options. Dessert lovers are not left out either, with temptations such as a famous black and white cookie that adds a sweet finish to the meal. This diversity ensures that all group members, regardless of dietary preferences or hunger levels, find something delightful on the menu, making it easy to accommodate everyone’s tastes.
Why does the food quality enhance the social dining experience here?
The quality of food at Little Deli & Pizzeria definitely contributes to its appeal as a group hangout, from the carefully prepared sandwiches to the signature pizzas. The thin crust pizzas are noted for striking the perfect balance between crispy and chewy, a classic hallmark that delights pizza aficionados and casual diners alike. The pastrami and Reuben sandwiches receive particular acclaim for their generous portions and expertly balanced ingredients, providing big flavors that keep guests coming back. Freshly made salads and daily soups add variety for those seeking something lighter or different, while desserts like the black and white cookie provide a nostalgic touch that feels homey and indulgent. This focus on quality ingredients and preparation ensures everyone in the group can enjoy satisfying, shareable dishes that fuel conversation and camaraderie. Although some reviews mention occasional inconsistency, the overall positive feedback and repeat customer base affirm that the food here consistently enhances the group dining experience.
How does the location and local vibe contribute to the appeal of Little Deli & Pizzeria for gatherings?
Located in a friendly Austin neighborhood, Little Deli & Pizzeria benefits from a true "locals' spot" atmosphere that appeals to those looking for genuine community feel rather than typical tourist destinations. This setting supports a warm and inviting environment where groups can feel comfortable settling in without the formality or rush found in larger chain restaurants. The neighborhood locale makes it accessible for local meetups, while the quaintness and simplicity of the venue add a unique charm that encourages leisurely dining and heartfelt interaction. The combination of indoor coziness and outdoor patio space enriched by string lights offers a setting that is both intimate and spacious, adaptable to various group sizes and styles of socializing. The BYOB option, coupled with nearby grocery and wine stores, further integrates this location into the community fabric, enabling guests to personalize their experience and extend their stay. In essence, the locale and vibe together create a space that is not just about the food but about fostering connection in a relaxed and authentic Austin environment.
What makes the service and overall atmosphere at Little Deli & Pizzeria conducive to group enjoyment?
Service at Little Deli & Pizzeria is characterized by friendliness and attentiveness, which together cultivate a welcoming environment critical for group comfort. The staff are reported to be approachable and eager to help with menu recommendations, plating advice, or accommodating group requests, ensuring that every guest feels cared for during their visit. This attentive yet relaxed service style complements the homey yet lively atmosphere of the deli/pizzeria, which encourages guests to linger and enjoy their time together rather than rush through a meal. The focus on creating a low-pressure, casual experience allows groups to fully engage socially without distraction, enhancing the overall mood of the gathering. The combination of good service, a well-thought-out menu, spacious seating options (mainly on the patio), and the BYOB policy makes Little Deli & Pizzeria a unique gathering spot where groups can feel at ease, celebrate, and make lasting memories.
In summary, Little Deli & Pizzeria combines a charming, casual ambiance with a varied menu of quality food and flexible options that make it an excellent venue for group meetups. Whether friends seek to enjoy large, foldable slices of thin crust pizza together, savor hearty, perfectly balanced deli sandwiches, or relax under twinkling patio lights with a custom beverage in hand, this local Austin jewel offers exactly the kind of environment that transforms simple meals into memorable social occasions. Its neighborhood charm, friendly service, and versatile offerings make it a perfect rallying place for families and friend groups alike.