Anyone passing the Broadway and Lincoln Blvd intersection may have noticed this morning that Bay Cities Deli has once again opened its doors.
While the usual crowds had yet to arrive at this legendary Santa Monica spot, likely because word hasn’t fully spread, the adjacent car park was already beginning to fill and the inevitable lunchtime crowds won’t be far behind.
The deli was abruptly shut down three weeks ago, on May 21, by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health due to multiple health violations, including alleged evidence of a "rodent and insect infestation." Inspectors cited the deli for 13 violation points, 11 of which were classified as major. The closure left loyal customers without access to the popular Godmother sandwich and other Italian staples that have made the Lincoln Blvd store a local institution.
In that Instagram post, the deli expressed a commitment to transparency and improvement, stating it is working with health officials and outside experts to resolve the issues. Bay Cities also disputed claims circulating in some media outlets, clarifying that no rodents were found on-site and that such details do not appear in the official inspection report. While acknowledging legitimate violations, the business emphasized its dedication to regaining public trust.
General Manager Hector Padilla spoke to the Daily Press on Friday morning and said that another statement would be posted soon. He also stressed, once again, that no rodents were found and the matter really was minor. However, at great expense in both effort and money, the team had been working tirelessly with specialist companies to meticulously ensure that every "t" was crossed and every "i" was dotted.
The Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery isn't just a highlight of living in Santa Monica, it is known nationally, to the extent that actor Matt Damon once proclaimed their speciality sandwich, the afore mentioned Godmother, to be the best sandwich he's ever had on the The Late Show, a year or so ago.
Bay Cities Deli is located at 1517 Lincoln Blvd and is open Wednesday through Sunday 9am – 6pm.
scott.snowden@smdp.com