On May 28, the FDA will lift the USDA ban on imported Italian cured pork products. This means we'll finally get to enjoy artisanal salami from parts of Italy like Emilia-Romagna and Piedmonte. Although according to The New York Times, it remains to be seen how much will be made available to us, given the cost of certification (upwards of $100,000).

Still the sentiment seems to be that we'll be saved from bad meat. While we wait to see how this will affect Italian delis, restaurants and purveyors in the long run, we're standing by some of our favorites for made-to-order Italian American cold cut sandwiches. Turn the page for our 6 favorites, listed in alphabetical order.

6. Roma Italian Deli:
Roma keeps its version free of distractions with delicate slices of capicola, mortadella and salami and little other adornment, save for provolone and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. 918 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena; (626) 797-7748

5. Mario's Italian Deli:
From coppa secca to capicollo, spicy cold cuts get a category of their own at Mario's. Go for the triple spicy punch of sopressata, salami and ham. 740 E. Broadway Ave., Glendale; (818) 242-4114.

4. Eastside Market Italian Deli:
Eastside Market may be known for its #7, a roast beef and pastrami sandwich, but the 110-adjacent deli has its fair share of classic cold cuts like mortadella and pepperoni. 1013 Alpine St., Los Angeles; (213) 250-2464.

3. Eagle Rock Italian Bakery & Deli:
The sandwiches run large at this deli, with a substantial part of its space dedicated to baked goods -- reminding you, never forget to order the cannoli. 1716 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles; (323) 403-0900.

2. Claro's Italian Market:
There are a couple of locations of Claro's in the SGV. At the San Gabriel post, sandwiches are ordered at the deli counter located in the back. Opt for creating your own combination with choice in meats (up to three). 1003 E. Valley Blvd., San Gabriel; (626) 288-2026.

1. Bay Cities:
Here the Godmother rules -- with a steady crowd lining up even after lunch hours. Two tips to keep in mind when approaching the popular Westside sandwich: Stick with the non-spicy and, as we previously warned you, avoid the mayonnaise. 1517 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica; (310) 395-8279.

By Christine Chiao / LA weekly