Sampino’s Towne Foods, found in a slightly rundown shopping center on the edge of midtown, opened in 2006 after the Sampino family decided it was time to put their expertise—in the wholesale Italian food industry—into creating their own bodega that captures the look, feel and taste of a quintessential Italian deli and butcher shop. The deli case is filled with breaded chicken breasts, prosciutto, tubes of sweet cannoli and homemade lasagna. Sandwich specials include the cold-cut favorite Sampinini (mortadella, coppa, salami, provolone and cheddar cheese,) traditional hot pastrami and a bruschetta sandwich served with sliced prosciutto. Sampino serves daily soup (try the delicious split pea with just the right amount of bacon,) soda pop is sold in glass bottles, and you can count on the fact that every person helping you is most likely a Sampino. Cindy Arora

Reservations: Not needed

Insider tip: Bill Sampino and his family have been in the Italian food industry for years. If you have a question about Italian food and cooking, they are happy to chat with you.

Recommended dishes: Sampinini sandwich $5.99

Payment: Amex, Cash, Check, MasterCard, Visa

Hours: Monday–Friday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.