Ratto's

Deli · Old City

Ratto's

Deli · Old City

3

821 Washington St, Oakland, CA 94607

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Highlights

Step into this historic grocery store for a taste of Italy with superb sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and a charming outdoor deli vibe.  

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821 Washington St, Oakland, CA 94607 Get directions

rattos.com
@rattosmarket

$$ · Menu

Information

Static Map

821 Washington St, Oakland, CA 94607 Get directions

+1 510 832 6503
rattos.com
@rattosmarket
𝕏
@rattosmarket

$$ · Menu

Features

takeout
delivery
payment credit card
Tap to pay
outdoor seating

Last updated

Mar 4, 2025

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@onthegrid

"Ratto’s has been family-owned for at least four generations, and their years of experience show. We love the bright flavors of the lentil salad and the creative weekly sandwich creations. While waiting for your deli order, it’s always fun to browse the shelves. Expect to find exotic spices, candy-colored pastas, and unique cheeses from around the world." - Pitch Interactive

On the Grid : Ratto's International Market
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@onthegrid

"Ratto's International Market, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. Ratto’s has been family-owned for at least four generations, and their years of experience show. We love the bright flavors of the lentil salad and the creative weekly sandwich creations. While waiting for your deli order, it’s always fun to browse the shelves. Expect to find exotic spices, candy-colored pastas, and unique cheeses from around the world."

Oakland
View Postcard for Ratto's
@atlasobscura

"Born in the Italian province of Alessandria in 1868, Giovanni Battista Ratto sailed as a cabin boy on a schooner to Buenos Aires when he was just 13 years old. After some time, the Bay area appealed to Ratto and he moved once again. There, he met a prominent produce farmer who took him under his wing and gave him a job. Eventually, he married and had four daughters and a son. Ratto went on to open the Colombo Bakery in Oakland. After running the business with his co-founders for seven years, Ratto bought and ran a retail food store on lower Washington St. in the same neighborhood. Right from the opening of the store, Ratto brought in international items to differentiate his store from the other run-of-the-mill grocers that lined the streets of Oakland. Ratto’s decision to import items from all over the world proved a huge success. This international delicatessen and grocery has been run in the same location for over 110 years by the same family. It has survived the Great Depression, a four-alarm fire in the 1970s, and a 7.1 magnitude earthquake the following decade. Know Before You Go G.B. Ratto’s Market & Deli is located at 821 Washington St. in the heart of downtown Oakland, California, just a few blocks from the Oakland City Center BART station." - Blindcolour, aerialdomo, Nicholas Jackson, popcornqueen

Ratto's Market & Deli – Oakland, California - Gastro Obscura
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Hecvi V

Google
I stumbled upon these sandwiches while walking around Oakland. It’s a very traditional place with many years in the area. I didn’t know what to order because all the sandwiches looked great. The one I chose was delicious. Everything is fresh and tasty, and the service is excellent. If you go at lunchtime, it will be busy, but they are quick to serve.

Dave C

Google
The sandwiches are good, but unfortunately just average. I was hoping for something more unique for the price I paid. Honestly I could get this sandwich anywhere. The store however did offer an assortment of all kinds of Italian cuisine, which was great. I just thought it was a bit overpriced.

R Rao

Google
The sandwich had potential but they forgot to put multiple ingredients I requested on my relatively simple custom sandwich. What I ultimately received was literally just Turkey + Lettuce… Waste of $15+. If they got my order right, it would’ve been better bc the ingredients used seem solid.

Jake Norris

Google
Classic old world deli with a great menu of sandwiches. Online ordering and contactless pickup available during the pandemic. I had the Italian and it was a fresh well made sandwich, I'd go again.

Adam

Google
This is my go-to sandwich shop in Oakland! In the picture: Baguette bread, turkey, ham,salami,provolone,pesto, bacon, lettuce,tomato. Custom sandwich. Get a salad too, they're awesome! Fresh/quality ingredients!

Boomer Prinstein

Google
The sandwiches are superb, you really can’t go wrong with anything that you create. The bread and ingredients are super fresh. Prepared quickly and with care. Staff is friendly and the ambiance harkens back to yester-year but most importantly they have the best potato salad I’ve ever had. Wow.

Emily M.

Google
Such good sandwiches. I’ve had them all!

David J Camarena

Google
I love the sandwiches here! Their selection of products is also amazing and their customer service is on point. I enjoy their points program! I got a free sandwich!

Matt W.

Yelp
G.B. Ratto & Co. on Victorian Row is Oakland's landmark deli, continuously owned and operated by the Ratto family since 1897. If you haven't visited recently, Ratto's has gone through a modern renovation. It's brighter and much more inviting. Today, I was completely blown away. I ordered a Prosciutto and Swiss Cheese sandwich on a Sourdough roll. The Acme roll was fresh and crunchy and full of sourdough flavor. The right amount of mayo and mustard and dill pickles. It remined me of the way Deli Sandwiches used to be made. If you find your self in Old Town Oakland, drop by Ratto's The area is safe and walkable. Their a a lot of other great places to eat and hang out. Matt says check Ratto's out

Jean L.

Yelp
Stumbled upon this cute little market (more like a deli) by chance when looking for a quick lunch spot the week before Christmas. They sell a lot of Italian treats, snacks, drinks, pasta, sauces, and etc. Upon walking in, there's a little station to fill out your sandwich forms. The ease of going through the form was easy and quick. Write your name at the top and hand it to a staff at the counter. I liked a lot of their pre-selected sandwiches and went with the hummus, cucumber, and olive sandwich. It was definitely a hearty lunch that didn't break the bank. I also added a cup of split pea soup with ham, that was really delicious! Totally tasted each ingredient. My name was called when my sandwich was ready and I proceeded to the register. Easy peazy. The interior is spacious with ample seating that's spread out. They also have a couple of tables outside. Parking is per the usual challenges around this part of Oakland. However, they're public transport accessible by bus or BART. Next time I'm around this part of town and need a quick bite, I'll be coming to Ratto's. #47/2023

Michael M.

Yelp
Old school Italian delli. People go for the sandwichs. Inviting inside and outside dinning. The market portion is sadly a ghost of what it was (very limited stock). Staff is friendly enough but was put off of having to write down my order. Very impersonal, but they're trying cut expense.

Nathan S.

Yelp
They did a nice job on the remodel it would be nice if they would give the place a nice vibe it's dead & cold energy. I've been patronizing this place for years it's interesting how it's not any real options for deli's there's nothing special about the food it's the only place in Oakland to get a sandwich. My last visit I ordered a turkey sandwich I'm not sure if there was any meat I only seen & tasted bread, veggies & cheese , Genova's was the best that ever did it they did it so well they extended their hours to closing at 7pm . Oakland sucks everything closes early & no options & customer service doesn't exist.

Serena J.

Yelp
Stopped to ratto's recently to pick up some Italian pantry essentials and try a sandwich. Sandwich was good, but grocery section was disappointing? From pictures and memory of the last time I was here, it seems like there used to be a lot more - the store now feels very empty. I guess Ratto's is mainly for sandwiches now. Would stop by for a half sandwich regularly if I worked around here, but maybe skip the shopping.

Cynthia G.

Yelp
Ratto's is my happy place. I got the cappuccino with oat milk twice today, so nice on a rainy afternoon. Indoor seating so you can stay cozy with enough space to write/read/work. Nice peaceful music too. The staff is friendly and they bring the coffee directly to you instead of yelling your name. It's definitely a warm inviting space, great for families or a solo sandwich and drink. Oh! And i no longer have to go to Whole Foods to find amazing cheeses, they even have brillat savarin which is not an easy find! I supplied my family's Christmas party cheese board with items from Ratto's and it was well loved.

Emily I.

Yelp
Cute little mini market in downtown Oakland. Makes a mean vanilla latte & great sandwiches. This was my first time eating Dutch crunch bread and I was not disappointed! My friend said that hot sandwiches are where it's at, so I'll have to try that next

Franklin M.

Yelp
Old school since 1897. My historic expectations were shattered when I walked into a bare deli with only a couple of shelves and the deli sandwich area. My past visits to other old historic delis were always full of shelves and clutter with a crowd of hungry customers waiting for their freshly made sandwiches, but that didn't happen here. We did buy a pecan dessert and it was delicious - probably the best we've ever tasted.

Sam S.

Yelp
The food was ok. But lemme talk about the waiter Ella oh my thee light. The only red I get up. Oh Ella I long for our next

Rich B.

Yelp
Today my lunch adventure takes me to Ratto's in Old Oakland. The market is a cute little market with lots of products mostly from Italy. If your in the market and looking to make some pasta this is your spot. They also have tons of spices and a neat little cheese basket at the front where you can by some small samples. Ok, I'm a sandwich and pizza snob. I freely admit. I'm from the east coast we know pizza and sandwiches. Most places in CA just don't cut it however Rattos is a true Italian deli with fresh meats, cheeses and ingredients. They make your sandwich with care. It's an art form unlike the conveyor belt type sandwich made at subway. It's fresh and delicious. They have several types of breads, many many meats and cheeses and a ton of add ons. If your going to subway and spending 10.00 on a sandwich you are crazy in my very humble sandwich loving opinion. My sandwich cost ten bucks. My sandwich today is a Cajun Turkey with Jack. Lettuce, pickles, jalapeño and EVOO. The oil is absolutely delicious on a sandwich and many places just don't offer it. My fav sandwich is the Italian Combo they have! Just pure Italian deli goodness! Ordering is easy ....walk in fill out an order card and poof your belly is full! Another local spot to support! They also offer soup!

Kaelin N.

Yelp
I had such high expectations for this place on behalf of my co-workers! It is such a hidden gem, but the sandwich was not it. It wasn't bad, but there was nothing memorable about my pastrami on dutch crunch. Apparently I was supposed to get a hot panini, so I'll def be back to try something recommended. As for my usual deli sandwich order, it did not meet the mark.

Emanuel L.

Yelp
I had a pastrami sandwich and it was delicious! It's a nice sandwich spot. They also have a nice selection of cheeses, meats, & other Italian fare to please your palette.

Lylah S.

Yelp
Best deli in Oakland. Great grocery items as well. They have cheap sides like pesto pasta and potato salad, which I recommend. Soups of the day are also great. Can't miss with this place.

Queen B.

Yelp
First time here as I'm working a double shift and didn't bring breakfast if lunch. The sandwich was expensive but totally worth it. Not an everyday buy but I treated myself since I'm going into my 13th hour of work. I did the build your own and it came out to $16.50. Paid extra for bacon extra crispy and avocado and didn't get not one slice of bacon. I want my $2.50 back. I refused to walk back to the restaurant bc I had already got back to work and stayed eating.

Konner E.

Yelp
Ratto's sandwiches are delicious and ingredients are fresh! I thought I was up charged but the receipt just worded things in an odd way - I appreciate Ratto's for reaching out to clarify! For first-timers: When you enter Ratto's, you fill out a slip of paper listing what you want on your sandwich. You then put your paper in the box on the deli counter along with all of the other sandwich slips - don't forget to write your name on the bottom! Wait for your sandwich to be made and name to be called. Once your name is called you pay at the register and receive your sandwich. If you're in a rush I suggest ordering ahead - I've never done it, but it seems like that's an option!

Shelley C.

Yelp
Outstanding sandwiches! Even the sandwiches that I don't think sound good are. Perfect balance of each ingredient. If you are craving a deli sandwich- this is the place to go!! No where near where I live but willing to drive across town to go there.

Eddy J.

Yelp
Amazing!!!! I'm from San Francisco. It's extremely hard to find liquor store sandwiches the way they make them.

Hayden P.

Yelp
Really outstanding deli with great sandwiches. They have a solid every day menu and the rotating specials are quite good. Nice to be able to grab dry goods for dinner as well.

Dannielle M.

Yelp
Amazing sandwiches and cute shop. Staff is friendly and food was made fast. Definitely worth a visit.

Tom B.

Yelp
It was wonderful to return here for sandwiches after a year and a half hiatus. The sandwiches are still amazing, although I missed going inside the store as it is so nostalgic. I do understand as they are maintaining good Covid protocols by not letting the public inside. As it was one of the few times I now had a guest at home for a visit we decided on sandwiches for lunch. I found the web site easy to navigate and order for pick-up. The menu is extensive and I was glad to see you still can order their other unique products, including their amazing array of bulk herbs and spices (which I didn't get this time, but glad to know it is available). I ordered my usual (and as I said in a previous review) my standard from the 100 or so I have had over 20 years of Cajun Turkey, a custom sandwich, plus a Classic Veggie, an Italian ham with chevre w/fig and olive tapenade, plus a Muffuletta for an evening snack. With my custom sandwich I like that I can select all the components, including the type of bread. Many of the sandwich choices allow for different options. Accompanying them I got some Sun Chips, bean salad, Brownies, Lemon Bars, as well as some olives and pesto (for pasta). It was super efficient. They texted me when it was ready and I found parking easy. Note, the street in front was blocked off and lots of restaurants nearby have built a hodge podge of outdoor dining spots in parking areas. They have me the order through the door afterI went to the adjacent makeshift window portal to announce my arrival. The woman serving me was very friendly and nice and asked if I needed napkins, which I appreciated. Prices are very reasonable, especially for the size of sandwich and generous ingredients. The sandwiches, as always, were amazing and delicious. Everyone was pleased. The Muffuletta was very well done, tasty, not like those I know from New Orleans, but even better in that it holds together well and not messy. The only misstep, and not of any real consequence, was that I ordered pitted Kalamata olives and got pitted French Green instead, and still got charged the .25 cents more for the Kalamata. And I got two types of Sun Chips and they mixed up the quantity of each... again, not a big deal. Overall this place is fabulous and I hope they continue to exist for another century! A true Italian deli.

E H.

Yelp
I've been coming here since I was a kid and this place is still a solid deli. They've since modernized the place yet it still has a nice feel to it. Sandwiches are fat and tasty with all the sides you could want. I avoid when busy, but like to come by on occasion after the lunch rush. Service is good as well. It's a great local sandwich spot and deli/market.

Simon G.

Yelp
I can't say enough about how good this spot is. I love their on line menu. Ordering complex sandwiches is a breeze. The only thing they might improve is adding an option to re-order my previous sandwiches.. It already might be there but no matter. I can login pick my joint (The Simon = Roast Beef, Swiss, Baguette, Mayo, Mustard, Sun Dried Tomato, Lettuce, Pickled Onions, Vinegar BOOM) They make the bejesus out my sandwich. I'm really glad these guys are still going strong and updating. All love Rattos

Matt B.

Yelp
We were looking for a vegan-friendly breakfast option in the are and stumbed upon this cute place that does build-your-own sandwiches. You fill out a form upfront, indicate whether you want a half or full sandwich, indicate the bread type, meat / protein, toppings, dressings, cheeses, and extras you want. Since they had Field Roast, we each got half a sandwich with sourdough, field roast, and some veggies on them. Pretty large half sandwich ($5.50 plus tax) for the price, with very fresh ingredients. The sourdough made the sandwich very chewy -- gives the jaw a big workout! They provided a generous portion of the Field Roast and the perfect amounts of dressing (a nice dijon and vinaigrette) and veggies. Nothing too fancy, but a nice, fresh, healthy-ish place for a sandwich. They also have all sorts of other interesting items to go -- their dried pastas looked especially interesting. Cool spot.

Karina G.

Yelp
Loved perusing through this little Italian market. Having just returned from a month in Italy it was so fun seeing some familiar brands and an abundance of meat and cheese on display. I settled on a box of gluten-free pasta, pesto, and a hunk of gouda. I would have loved to grab a nice wine to pair but, as is expected for a speciality market, the wines were a bit too pricey for me. Regardless, I can't wait to return for all my meat and cheese needs!

Ali A.

Yelp
Stopped by for lunch today and ordered a sandwich. They use the paper form system where you check some boxes in order to build your own sandwich or choose one of their specials. I built my own turkey sandwich on sourdough bread and it was great. The ingredients were clean and fresh, the taste was good, and the portion was just right. I liked that the sandwich wasn't too sloppy, there was a balance that you don't always find with deli sandwiches. Other than that, the store has a lot of other items like olive oil, pasta, spices and a bunch of imported products that seem to have good quality. My impression is they have been affected by the pandemic because clearly the space isn't as utilized as it was in some of the pictures I was looking at, but it's still a delight to go in and enjoy these vibes. I'll be coming back :)

Kathryn F.

Yelp
I have tried Ratto's twice now! Once because it was catered by my office and the second time because I couldn't stop thinking about the sandwich I ate and forced my husband to have it with me for lunch LOL. Both times I ordered the Italian ham with chevre, fig and olive tapenade and onion jam. This is so delicious!! The description itself sounds a little intense, but the flavors work so well together and the tapenade and onion jam are both umami and sweet. The peppery arugula compliments this sandwich nicely (and I normally don't even like arugula). My husband enjoyed his Italian combo! It was stuffed with meat and cheese. Our only complaint was that the bread was VERY chewy, our jaws kinda hurt after eating it. The flavor was great but the texture (maybe because it was fresh bread?) made it a work out to eat. I wasn't able to eat my whole sandwich so I wrapped up the other half to eat later, and letting the sandwich sit for a few hours softened up the bread a lot! Maybe that's the technique? Order the sandwich and let it sit for a few hours before digging in LOL. I really like this place though and I'll be back!

Julia H.

Yelp
Holy cow!!! Stumbled upon this gem on accident. On the outside looks like any other brick and mortar place. But lemme tell you.... BEST ITALIAN DELI I've ever eaten at. The bread, the meats, the cheeses... so good. I ended up eating here two days in a row. Service is fast and amazing . And they have a cute shop where you can pick out from an assortment of Italian goodies. You are missing out if this isn't on your to eat list!!!

Zoel P.

Yelp
Was recommended this spot and as a deli person was a little surprised at how spot on they are! Made a special request and they came through with a great sandwich. First time going did not disappoint! 10/10 will go again consider me a regular

Hunter C.

Yelp
Fire, absolutely fire. I got the Italian combo, and my God, it was delicious. Try it out. The inside is immaculate. The service was excellent, and the prices are great! I also got the pesto pasta cup. It was perfect. I make pesto, and their sun dried, olive pesto had me licking my fork. Just try it!

Matt S.

Yelp
Quaint market/deli with a rich history. During lunch hours this place is always packed. But the food is worth the wait. I love their Roma sandwich and would definitely recommend it. Their soups are also very delicious. If your in a rush I would recommend ordering online a head of time. There is limited seating indoors and outdoors but most people get their food to go. Their drink selection is a little limited but that's not that big of a deal. Check this place out if you're in the area!

Jenn E.

Yelp
We had just landed in Oakland and wanted a light lunch. We stopped here for sandwiches and it was divine. They were so sweet. I did a build your own sandwich. I did a turkey in sourdough and mayo, mustard, and pepperoncinis and tomatoes and lettuce. Divine. Also go the pesto pasta and chips and a drink. The people weee so friendly. I want to go back and get items for a cheese board. My friend had had the pesto caprese and it looked divine.

Adam N.

Yelp
Love this place, grocery store/deli in the heart of Oakland! Much love for Rattos! The house specialty sandwiches here are really good, I like the avacado and cheese sandwich...

Madalynn B.

Yelp
Came here as a big group and it was great! You write down your order on a sheet with your name and turn it in so it's super simple. They were fast and the sandwiches were delicious! Highly recommend this place!

Delane G.

Yelp
Been going to this market for years for lunch. My goto order is turkey and roast beef sandwich on sliced sourdough. Ingredients are always fresh and quickly prepared. Since Covid they have expanded to offering online orders. So sandwich is ready when I arrive. Always clean store and good customer service. Price is reasonable for downtown Oakland actually I think there around same price as subway. So it's a great deal since all ingredients are better quality

Brunella C.

Yelp
I love this place. Their sandwiches are always fresh and good. My favorite is the Bacon and fresh Mozzarella and the Caprese. I order the one with bell peppers and Manchego when they have it. I usually buy other italian products there too like Taralli and Panettone. This is the jewel of the neighborhood.

Xx X.

Yelp
Good soup. Good sandwiches. Not the fastest but it bad. I've enjoyed their special board sandwich two days in s as crow now.

Shannon R.

Yelp
I built a sandwich and it was amazing. I literally put everything possible on it and it was only fourteen bucks. The sandwich ended up huge and was delicious. Wish I had found this place sooner.

Frank R.

Yelp
I Really like this place to get a sandwich. If you are looking for a very good fresh sandwich this is the place to go. it was better than i was expecting.

Chaka S.

Yelp
Great deli sandwiches (both hot & cold) with lots of toppings to choose from. They have recommendations or go with a classic or your favorites. They also have salads like classic potato salad and fruit salad. Everything I get there tastes fresh and delicious.

Maggie Y.

Yelp
Tasty sandwiches, and a hidden gem located by old town Oakland. I really enjoy just strolling in and looking at all the offerings-- sweets, dried pasta, cheese, salads, and sandwiches! Its a decently priced sandwich too, I just wish there was a little bit more protein because some bites feel more bready than anything. Once I also paid another $2 for bacon but didn't realize till after I got home that they forgot! Its okay, I'll still come back though.

Paula P.

Yelp
Inthe ,70s we use to there weekly however pkg isa problem for us. I think elana still runs the business. Great intlmkt. You wont be disappointed .great deli sandwiches, greek, italian selection. Enjoy you can buy spices Ready to take for your pantry

Robert G.

Yelp
I have been coming here for about 5 years now...and the place never change the sandwiches they make are always fresh and the products are always good and fresh the tuna sandwich on whole wheat is great it's on my top 5 sandwiches here the price is reasonable I highly recommend this place to anybody visiting Oakland and wants a quick bite you will not regret it TRUST ME

Louise T.

Yelp
The first two times that I got a sandwich here I really disliked it. I decided to make my own sandwich and give this place another try! I am glad I did because I was extremely satisfied and happy with my order! I ordered a build your own meat and cheese sandwich. I ordered smoke turkey, on ciabatta bread, gouda cheese, with mayo, mustard, red onions, pickles and banana peppers . I loved it! I would highly recommend this place if you are in the Old Oakland area. The prices are reasonable as well! Check this deli out!

Grace P.

Yelp
Hot pressed Margherita for company lunch in today. We are an Oakland based mobile ad company and it got us groovin and movin for NYE prep. 11/10 sammie. We throughly enjoyed our different options. Hope to check out outdoor dine in/ live music in the future Thanks so much Ratto's!! For ad services if interested: https://median-media.com

Colleen P.

Yelp
Several years later, quality still hasn't changed! This place is fantastic and always uses the freshest, tastiest, and highest quality ingredients. Always consistent. Always a fan of Ratto's.

B K.

Yelp
Great old-fashioned Italian style deli and market. Makes me feel like I'm at home in New Jersey.

Lea S.

Yelp
I love this place! It's in historic Old Oakland and has been open for over 120 years. Personally I have been coming here my entire life, getting artisanal cheeses and dried pasta, as well as deli and canned faves like Dolmas. In more resent years I have been coming for the deli sandwiches, which I think are some of the best in town. They are what my Dad would call "old school" sandwiches, with an array of deli meats, breads and toppings which are still fairly traditional, though they always have a special and can make your sandwich hot upon request! You walk in and there are sandwich order forms you can grab and fill out and leave in a basket for them to make. I always get some sort of salami (they have multiple to choose from) on a sourdough roll and it's delicious! Not to mention, the sandwiches are quite big and a good deal for Oakland, less than $10 for a make your own sandwich if you don't add extra like avocado. Some of the staff have also been here for ages and they are so friendly!

Carol C.

Yelp
Date: 12/2/2017 Time: 2:20 PM 53° Partly cloudy Today Ratto's had its 120th anniversary celebration of being in business. They are still going strong after these many years. I remember Ratto's over 55 years ago when my mom used to bring my brothers, sisters and me to get the stelline pasta noodles from them. She would prepare it with some warm milk, sugar and an egg in it. She fed it to us for breakfast before sending us off to school. We didn't have to walk too far to Ratto's back in the days. It was within walking distance to and from Oakland Chinatown, along with other businesses in the area - Swan's, Housewives Market, Peerless Coffee, 8th Street Meat Market, 9th Meat Market, Gallen Kamp Shoes, Woolworth's, Hartfield's Women Clothing. The various pasta noodles were stored in large barrels and sold in bulk. (Double up on the paper bags and use the scoop to get the amount of noodles). Then there were the Italian cookies, jars of green olives and the deli meats and cheeses. Ahhh...the fond memories of Ratto's. When the Elihu M Harris State Building was opened in August 1998, several of my coworkers and I walked to Ratto's for lunch. It was our go-to place for pesto pasta. One of my favorite pasta dishes was the radiatore with a creamy mushroom sauce. I had it the one time and they never served it again on the days we had lunch there. The penne pasta with bolognese sauce was my other choice. Those days are gone. I don't believe they serve the pasta dishes for lunch anymore. Since it has been over 16 years that I have stepped into Ratto's, it took this anniversary celebration to bring me back. I definitely stayed away too long. Well, I couldn't just walk in, browse and then walk out when they have a decent selection of sandwiches that is freshly prepared. Okay, the drill is: 1. Fill out a form for the type of sandwich I desire - either made to order, signature or hot pressed. 2. Print my name. 3. Drop the order form in their box. 4. Wait for my name to be called. 5. Pay up - cash or credit card. Okay, I can go for two sandwiches - one for my husband and one for me. Besides there was a 10% discount on my purchases. Eats: Made to order pastrami sammie on Dutch crunch roll with mayo, Dijon mustard, lettuce, tomato, pepperoncini and cheddar cheese for my husband. A signature sandwich of avocado and pepper jack on Dutch crunch roll (out of soft roll) with the usual fixings: mayo, Dijon mustard, lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickles. The sandwiches were very good - freshly made and the pepper jack cheese was way better than the processed ones in the packages at the supermarket. Their prices were reasonable. My husband enjoyed his pastrami sandwich, such that he is looking forward to return visits to try other sandwiches. Employees were courteous and pleasant. The gentleman helping me was nicer than the guy who owns the neighborhood deli sandwich place around the corner from my home. Even the prices of the sandwiches are better than what I had seen at my neighborhood deli. Drawback: Street parking can be problematic. Public transportation is near by, which is a good thing.

Harry B.

Yelp
I love tuna melts, think regionally about my go to tuna melt locations so I always know where to go when I'm in a jam. Ratto's tops the list for east bay tuna melt. They know what they are doing. Straight, direct to the marble rye bread, cheese and tuna on both sides then the fixings in the middle. Hot sandwich press on the outside. Their prices are great and I can't wait for the market to reopen to inside ordering because it is really a delight to wander around be inspired by all their wonderful accoutrements.

MIchael H.

Yelp
An Oakland treasure and fantastic deli! Delicious cold cuts, sandwiches and friendly service. Order online for pickup and eat outside in the center of "old town" ... I hope this place is around for another 80 years.