Founded in 1973 by Sicilian-born Vincenzo “Mimmo” Gaglio, the Grab & Go brand has been a local staple for over five decades, operating neighborhood favorites including Mimmo’s Italian Village in Little Italy and Hungry Lu’s in Ocean Beach. After the original Little Italy Grab & Go Subs closed in 2018 following a 25-year run, fans eagerly awaited the brand’s return. That comeback has now taken shape as a chic new café inspired by southern Italy’s casual elegance - serving espresso, pastries, and Sicilian-style sandwiches in a setting as charming as its food.
Prendi E Vai’s menu blends traditional café fare with Sicilian specialties. Guests can enjoy cold brew on tap, nitro lattes, and creative espresso drinks like the honey lavender latte, tiramisu latte, and mocha Mexicano, alongside breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and Italian pastries including cannoli with shells imported from Sicily and warm sfogliatella.
The café also features a lineup of warm schiacciata sandwiches, such as the Il Siciliano, Porchetta Truffle, and Truffle Parma, served on freshly baked focaccia-style bread, as well as classic sub sandwiches that nod to the brand’s origins - from The Italian and Tunisia to Hot Pastrami and Flammin’ Hot Cappi.
Inside, the café is as inviting as the menu: soft mint green and blush pink tones, floral wallpaper, and white marble tables create a whimsical, European-inspired space that feels both modern and nostalgic. Outside, small tables with seating facing the street transport diners to Europe. The ambiance pays homage to its Sicilian roots while fitting seamlessly into Little Italy’s stylish café scene.
With the opening of Prendi E Vai Café di Sicilia, the Grab & Go family has come full circle - returning not only to its home neighborhood but also to the Italian traditions that inspired its founding more than 50 years ago.
Prendi E Vai Café di Sicilia is now open at 801 W. Hawthorn Street, Suite R-1A, in San Diego’s Little Italy. For more information or to order online, visit grabngosubs.com
With the opening of Prendi E Vai Café di Sicilia, the Grab & Go family has come full circle - returning not only to its home neighborhood but also to the Italian traditions that inspired its founding more than 50 years ago.
Prendi E Vai Café di Sicilia is now open at 801 W. Hawthorn Street, Suite R-1A, in San Diego’s Little Italy. For more information or to order online, visit grabngosubs.com
Originally published on October 12, 2025.
