Italian delis have been a fixture in the United States since the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when large numbers of Italians immigrated. Many newcomers settled in enclaves that came to be known as "Little Italy" neighborhoods, and some opened shops selling cured meats, cheeses, olive oils, and other familiar grocery staples.
Over time, many Italian delis also started selling sandwiches and ready-to-eat foods. Today, you can find Italian delis across the country offering a wealth of imported, local, and house-made foods.
