Gioia's Deli Sandwich Review
Gioia's Deli in St. Louis serves two signature sandwiches—Hot Salami with Ham and Hot Roast Beef with Au Jus—both built on garlic cheese bread. These regional classics showcase simple, quality ingredients and the deli's decades-long reputation.
Recommended
Gioia's Deli
- Address
- 1934 Macklind Ave, St. Louis, MO
- Hours
- Monday - Saturday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
What the creator ordered
- Large Hot Salami sandwich with ham on toasted garlic cheese bread with STL style cheese
- Regular Hot Roast Beef sandwich with pepperoncini and onion on toasted garlic cheese bread with STL style cheese, served with a 10oz au jus
- Fountain Soda
Standout moments
- +The Hot Roast Beef sandwich with au jus was rated a 10/10.
- +The garlic cheese bread was a highlight on both sandwiches.
- +The Hot Salami sandwich was also very good.
Was this review helpful?
Tips & Notes
Pro tips
- Toast garlic cheese bread lightly to prevent sogginess when meats are warm and any condiments are added.
- For au jus, use beef drippings mixed with broth for maximum flavor depth; keep it warm but not boiling to preserve delicate notes.
- Stack cured meats evenly to ensure each bite has balanced flavor and texture across the sandwich.
- Serve sandwiches immediately after assembly while meats are warm and bread is still crisp.
Substitutions
- Hot salami → capicola or soppressata (similar cured pork with different regional character)
- Garlic cheese bread → garlic bread with provolone or mozzarella (adjusts richness slightly)
Common Questions
What makes Gioia's Deli sandwiches different from other deli sandwiches?
Gioia's uses high-quality cured meats and distinctive garlic cheese bread, a regional signature that sets their sandwiches apart from standard deli fare.
What is au jus served with the roast beef sandwich?
Au jus is a light, flavorful gravy made from roast beef drippings and broth, served on the side or drizzled over the sandwich for dipping and moisture.
Can you make Gioia's-style sandwiches at home?
Yes—source quality deli meats, find or make garlic cheese bread, and for the roast beef, prepare a simple au jus using beef stock and pan drippings.
Is the Hot Salami with Ham spicy?
Hot salami has a mild heat and bold flavor from curing spices; paired with ham, it creates a savory, slightly peppery sandwich rather than a fiery one.
