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a surprising number of places can't make a good meatball sub.
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QFMFT - what gives? I can make a pretty good meatball at home!
At an Italian deli, my benchmark is whatever "Spicy Italian Combo" type sub sandwich they have. Often goes by the name of "Godmother" or something - serrano ham, mortadella, salami, provolone, hot or sweet pepper relish, and oil-and-vinegar dressing. (I usually add Italian red peppers and / or jalapenos.)
If they don't get this right I don't go back.
One of the best Godmothers I've ever had is in Santa Monica -
Bay Cities Deli - it's a great sandwich, the bread is baked on premises, and they use mainly Boar's Head. (I grew up on the East Coast - seriously this is a good Italian deli, imo.)
-Al