Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

South San Francisco

Little Lucca is renowned for its generous portions and top-quality meats and breads. Customers appreciate the hearty sandwiches, especially on Dutch crunch bread, and the signature garlic and hot pepper sauces. Despite its cozy interior, the shop draws long lines, with some patrons even spilling out onto the street. The establishment offers takeout, delivery through DoorDash, and catering services, making it a beloved destination for sandwich enthusiasts seeking a hearty and flavorful meal.

Discover Little Lucca: South San Francisco's Legendary Sandwich Spot 

Nestled on the bustling El Camino Real in 

, Little Lucca is a beloved haven for sandwich aficionados craving hearty, flavorful meals. This cozy, no-frills spot has earned a passionate following for its massive sandwiches crafted on the signature Dutch crunch bread — a soft, fresh, and authentically seasoned delight that holds together generous fillings perfectly.

What makes Little Lucca a must-visit? First, the portion sizes are truly generous — one sandwich often spans enough to feed two meals. Their menu highlights juicy meats, fresh vegetables, and a perfect blend of condiments crowned with standout sauces like their legendary garlic and spicy sandwich sauces that pack a flavorful punch. These elements combine to deliver an authentic Italian sandwich experience that leaves patrons coming back for more.

Lucca’s Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich:

 A perfect harmony of spicy chicken, fresh veggies, and melty cheese that leaves a lasting impression.

 Juicy and creamy steak paired with fresh vegetables and their famous garlic sauce.

 A customer favorite boasting tender tri tip with all the classic toppings and sauces.

Little Lucca operates as a takeout-only establishment, perfect for grabbing a quick, satisfying lunch. Though the space is cozy and may feel cramped, the warmth of the staff and the quality of the food more than compensate. The Dutch crunch bread is a defining feature — sturdy yet soft, it holds all the fresh ingredients and rich sauces perfectly. Be prepared for a wait during peak times, especially lunchtime; the sandwiches are so popular that lines often form, sometimes spilling onto the street. However, the wait is well worth it for a sandwich that many consider among the best in the area.

 You can call or fax your order ahead to skip the line and simply pick it up when ready, making your experience even smoother.

What are the operating hours of Little Lucca? 

Little Lucca operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and on weekends from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Does Little Lucca offer delivery services? 

Yes, delivery is available through DoorDash for those who want to enjoy their sandwiches without leaving home.

Yes, especially around lunch, waiting 45 minutes to an hour is common due to the high demand.

Absolutely! Orders can be placed by phone or fax and picked up at your convenience.

Is there seating available inside the restaurant? 

No, Little Lucca is a takeout-only spot without indoor seating.

The buzz around Little Lucca is overwhelmingly positive. Fans rave about the freshness of ingredients, the bold flavors of the sauces, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff who guide new visitors through the ordering process. Despite its humble, hole-in-the-wall appearance, it consistently draws crowds who don’t mind the wait for what many describe as some of the best sandwiches in the Bay Area. The combination of generous portions and top-notch quality makes it a cherished local institution and a must-try for any sandwich lover visiting South San Francisco.

Whether you're a traveler making a stop-off near the airport or a local craving an authentic Italian sandwich, Little Lucca promises a satisfying and flavorful experience that's worth every bite.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of South San Francisco, Little Lucca is a cozy eatery that has become a beloved institution for locals and travelers alike. Known for its **hearty sandwiches** served on Dutch crunch bread, this hidden gem attracts food enthusiasts eager to indulge in its mouthwatering offerings. The moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread and savory meats envelops you, promising a delightful culinary experience.

Little Lucca's menu is a testament to the art of sandwich-making, featuring a variety of options that cater to every palate. Two standout dishes include the Lucca’s Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, which boasts a perfect balance of heat and flavor, and the Fire Roasted Steak Sandwich, known for its juicy, tender meat complemented by fresh vegetables. Each sandwich is generously sized, often enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

: A delightful mix of spicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce that brings every bite to life.

: Juicy steak paired with fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Located at 724 El Camino Real, Little Lucca is conveniently situated for those traveling to and from the San Francisco International Airport. This makes it an ideal stop for travelers looking to grab a delicious bite before or after their flights. Nearby, visitors can explore the vibrant neighborhoods of South San Francisco, with its array of shops and parks, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

: Little Lucca is renowned for its massive sandwiches, particularly those made with Dutch crunch bread.

: Yes, Little Lucca offers outdoor seating for guests who prefer to enjoy their meal in the fresh air.

: Little Lucca accepts credit and debit cards, making it convenient for all visitors.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by Little Lucca for an unforgettable sandwich experience. With its welcoming atmosphere and delicious offerings, it’s a place that promises satisfaction with every bite. Don’t miss out on trying their famous sandwiches—your taste buds will thank you!

Cozy institution draws crowds for hearty sandwiches, especially on Dutch crunch bread.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa3RYTGJBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQToNPJx5j4ARBogaFNIi8vE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa3RYTGJBEAE

Have been meaning to try this place to experience their highly recommended “massive” sandwiches and the place didn’t disappoint at all. No kidding! You’ll probably make two meals of their one sandwich, they are that big and delicious.

I tried the Lucca’s Spicy Buffalo chicken sandwich and enjoyed each bite. The condiments blend well with the meat and veggies, the cheese adds a lovely flavor to the sandwich. Highly recommend trying this place, it’s worth the hype even though it’s just a hole in the wall.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuc3F2RVB3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQToNPJx5j4ARBogaFNIi8vE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuc3F2RVB3EAE

This is ALWAYS AN ABSOLUTE stop every time I am at the San Francisco airport. I have adjusted my schedule and taken a later flight just so I can go get a sandwich. The Dutch crunch bread is the perfect vehicle to hold every thing together. The fresh and quality ingredients they use are top notch. Every time I have been there the staff is super friendly and my very first time they were so helpful on what they do and how to order and the different sauces. I am always impressed and always cannot wait to go back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYcWRHTHpRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQToNPJx5j4ARBogaFNIi8vE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYcWRHTHpRRRAB

You might not feel like getting into their little house if you're just walking by, but this is truly one of the best Italian sandwiches places in my opinion.

Portion is BIG, basically a full loaf can feed a man's 2 meals, and when you answer them "everything" on toppings, they literally put "everything" onto your sandwich.

People talk about their garlic sauce, I'll strongly recommend it as well.

Ordered their Fire Roasted Steaks, juicy and creamy, and goes so well with their fresh vegetables, will definitely go and get it again in the near future.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaVBPNWZnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQToNPJx5j4ARBogaFNIi8vE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaVBPNWZnEAE

A little cramped, but WORTH THE WAIT!

This is quite possibly the best sandwich I've had. The bread (Dutch Crunch) is soft, fresh, and authentically seasoned. Every single ingredient is FRESH (lettuce/tomatoes/etc) and I NEED the recipe for that spicy sandwich sauce.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzbnNhWHR3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJQToNPJx5j4ARBogaFNIi8vE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzbnNhWHR3RRAB

Their garlic sauce is fire! I usually get double beef. My other personal favorite is Tri tip special. Try them, you won’t regret!

Savor Hearty Dutch Crunch Sandwiches at Little Lucca, South San Francisco

Established in 1980, Little Lucca has been serving generous sandwiches in South San Francisco for over four decades. Despite its cozy interior, the shop has maintained its popularity, drawing long lines of eager patrons. The establishment offers takeout, delivery through DoorDash, and catering services, making it a beloved destination for sandwich enthusiasts seeking a hearty and flavorful meal.

Little Lucca: A historic South San Francisco sandwich landmark known for hearty Dutch crunch sandwiches and decades of community love.

Little Lucca history overview and timeline overview of the sandwich shop in South San Francisco California United States with its milestones and events from 1980 to 2020 and beyond and its legacy of hearty sandwiches on Dutch crunch bread beloved by locals and travelers alike as a cozy institution with takeout and delivery services and appreciation from food lovers and visitors alike for its generous portions and fresh ingredients and loyal customer base fueled by the well recommended signature sandwiches and garlic sauce and spicy buffalo chicken and fire roasted steaks and the evolution of the establishment from a single location to a second location in Burlingame and its perseverance during the pandemic and its unique charm and reputation for authenticity and quality and flavor and community appeal and local favorite status and the strong positive reviews and consistent popularity and long lines and friendly staff and its contribution to the local food scene and its role as a go-to destination for satisfying Italian style sandwiches with fresh vegetables and distinctive sauces and a legacy that continues to thrive through multiple decades of operation.

Established in 1980, Little Lucca has been a cherished culinary gem in South San Francisco for over four decades. From its humble beginnings, this cozy sandwich shop quickly earned a reputation for serving hearty, generously sized sandwiches on distinctive Dutch crunch bread. Its authentic Italian-inspired flavors and fresh ingredients have made it a standout destination for locals and travelers seeking a satisfying meal.

Little Lucca's story is marked by significant milestones that highlight its growth and community roots. In 2001, Diane and Mike McClymond purchased the original store, expanding the brand by opening a second location in Burlingame. This move broadened its reach and brought its signature sandwiches to a wider audience while maintaining the shop's intimate and welcoming atmosphere.

 Little Lucca was established in South San Francisco, quickly becoming a local favorite for its hearty sandwiches and unique bread.

 Diane and Mike McClymond purchased the store and opened a second location in Burlingame, expanding the Little Lucca experience.

 Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Little Lucca persevered, maintaining operations and supporting its staff through difficult times.

Little Lucca’s sandwiches are renowned for their massive size, fresh ingredients, and especially the renowned Dutch crunch bread, which perfectly holds together the layers of meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Visitors frequently highlight the flavorful garlic sauce, spicy buffalo chicken sandwich, and fire roasted steak options. The shop’s friendly staff and welcoming vibe add to the overall charm, creating a loyal customer following that returns time and again.

Massive sandwiches that can easily provide two meals for one.

Use of fresh, quality ingredients including vegetables and meats.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff dedicated to great customer service.

Popular pick-up, delivery, and catering options to suit various needs.

Despite its modest size and unassuming storefront, Little Lucca has become a go-to stop for those craving authentic Italian-style sandwiches with a local twist. Its ability to remain relevant and beloved over more than 40 years speaks to its commitment to quality and community connection. Whether grabbing a quick takeout meal or ordering catering for a gathering, Little Lucca continues to be a vibrant part of South San Francisco's culinary landscape.

Discover Little Lucca in South San Francisco, a must-visit restaurant famous for its delicious sandwiches and vibrant atmosphere.

Little Lucca

A selection of hearty sandwiches, salads, and vegetarian options.

Fire Roasted Steak Caesar Sandwich

Roast Beef Sandwich

Lucca Combo Sandwich

Lucca's Spicy Buffalo Sandwich

BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich

Wild Turkey Sandwich

Chipotle Chicken Sandwich

Pastrami Sandwich

Turkey, Bacon and Pepper Cheese Sandwich

Chicken Salad Sandwich

Muffaletta

Rotisserie Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich

Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich

Tossed Green Salad

Chef Salad

Shrimp or Crab Salad

Vegetarian Delight

Little Lucca Menu

Discover Little Lucca's delicious sandwich and salad menu in South San Francisco California.

Nestled on El Camino Real in South San Francisco, Little Lucca serves up a mouthwatering menu that has earned its reputation for hearty and generously sized sandwiches. Whether you're craving bold flavors or fresh greens, this cozy spot has something to satisfy every appetite.

Begin your meal with fresh and vibrant salads that balance crisp greens with succulent seafood or classic favorites.

Tossed Green Salad with mixed greens for a refreshing start.

Chef Salad featuring mixed greens with an assortment of toppings to delight your palate.

Shrimp or Crab Salad combining premium seafood with crisp greens for a satisfying starter.

Classic BLT with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato that never goes out of style.

The heart of Little Lucca's menu lies in its massive sandwiches, served on freshly baked Dutch crunch bread that perfectly holds an abundance of premium fillings and flavorful sauces.

Fire Roasted Steak Caesar Sandwich with juicy NY sirloin, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing.

Lucca's Spicy Buffalo Sandwich featuring spicy chicken strips, ranch dressing, and jack cheese for a flavorful kick.

Lucca Combo Sandwich stacked with mortadella, provolone, and salami for a classic Italian taste.

BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich showcasing tender BBQ beef brisket with rich smoky flavor.

Wild Turkey Sandwich paired with savory turkey and tangy cranberry sauce.

Chipotle Chicken Sandwich with smoky chipotle chicken for a bold taste.

Pastrami Sandwich piled high with flavorful pastrami.

Turkey Bacon and Pepper Cheese Sandwich combining turkey, crispy bacon, and spicy pepper cheese.

Chicken Salad Sandwich with a creamy chicken salad filling.

Muffaletta sandwich packed with savory muffaletta filling.

Rotisserie Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich with tender rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch dressing.

Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich featuring a juicy grilled chicken breast.

For a lighter finish, try the Vegetarian Delight—a refreshing combination of cream cheese, tomato, cucumber, avocado, and creamy Caesar dressing that offers a deliciously fresh twist.

Little Lucca focuses on its savory food offerings and currently does not serve alcoholic beverages or coffee, dedicating full attention to crafting its standout sandwiches and salads.

Highly recommended by locals and visitors alike, Little Lucca is famed for its "massive" sandwiches loaded with fresh ingredients, all served on their signature Dutch crunch bread. The friendly staff and flavorful garlic sauce add to an unforgettable sandwich experience. Enjoy fresh outdoor seating options and convenient free parking while indulging in some of the best specialty sandwiches in South San Francisco.

Savor the unique flavors at Little Lucca in South San Francisco! Try mouthwatering sandwiches and local delicacies. Visit us today!

Little Lucca: Best Sandwiches in South San Francisco

San Mateo County

Takeout

Delivery

Catering

Discover Little Lucca: South San Francisco's Iconic Sandwich Spot

Nestled in the heart of South San Francisco on El Camino Real, Little Lucca is the ultimate destination for sandwich lovers craving a hearty, satisfying meal. This cozy, no-frills establishment has earned a cult following thanks to its generous portions served on famously fresh Dutch crunch bread—a perfect blend of soft and crunch that holds all the delicious fillings together impeccably.

What really sets Little Lucca apart is the massive size of their sandwiches—so substantial that many patrons enjoy them as two meals. Whether you choose the fiery Spicy Buffalo chicken, the juicy Fire Roasted Steaks, or the ever-popular Tri Tip special, each bite bursts with fresh, high-quality ingredients complemented by expertly crafted condiments and that legendary garlic sauce. The combination of crisp veggies and melty cheese wrapped in the Dutch crunch bread delivers a flavor profile that keeps customers coming back time and again.

Little Lucca caters to a busy, modern lifestyle with multiple ways to enjoy their signature sandwiches. You can grab a sandwich to go with their efficient takeout service, have it delivered straight to your door via DoorDash, or plan ahead with their reliable catering services for events and gatherings. Whether you're rushing between flights at nearby San Francisco airport or planning a casual lunch meet-up, Little Lucca makes it easy to savor a satisfying meal without hassle.

 – Soft, fresh, and perfectly seasoned bread that holds the sandwich together beautifully.

 – Each sandwich is large enough to serve as two meals, ideal for hungry foodies and travelers.

 – From spicy sandwich sauce to garlic sauce, the condiments elevate each sandwich to gourmet levels.

 – Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality meats ensure every sandwich tastes fresh and vibrant.

Located at 724 El Camino Real, Little Lucca offers free parking both in a lot and on the street, making it easy to stop by whether you're driving or visiting from the nearby airport. Although the interior space is cozy and doesn't offer dine-in seating, outdoor seating is available for those who want to enjoy their sandwich fresh out of the box in the California sunshine.

Open for lunch only, perfect for a midday feast.

Accepts credit, debit, and NFC payments for seamless transactions.

No alcohol or coffee served, keeping the focus on their legendary sandwich menu.

California

Discover Little Lucca's famous oversized sandwiches in South San Francisco. Enjoy takeout, delivery, and catering for your next meal!

Little Lucca: Hearty Sandwiches in South San Francisco

Long lines for a reason! Try Little Lucca's generous sandwiches with quality ingredients, takeout, and delivery options await!

Visit Little Lucca: Your Sandwich Spot in South San Francisco

Planning a trip to Little Lucca? Check out our tips for the best sandwiches and what to expect when you visit this local favorite!

Discover Little Lucca's delicious sandwich and salad menu in South San Francisco California.

starters

mains

desserts

drinks

specials and highlights