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 in the East End, 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 interior wood-paneled walls are covered in family photos and pictures of the old country, as well as more University of Houston merch than you thought existed.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. 

photo credit: Liz Silva