It seems like Bay Cities’ famous meat-and-cheese-stacked Godmother sandwich has attracted tiny unwelcome terrestrial visitors — vermin, that is. During a recent inspection by the County of Los Angeles Public Health, a vermin infestation was found in the locally loved Santa Monica restaurant, resulting in a temporary closure. Additional issues were identified with hot and cold holding temperatures, inadequate cleaning and sanitizing of cooking surfaces, and handwashing practices. The restaurant remains closed as of May 27; a pre-recorded message plays when calling Bay Cities, saying that the decision to close was made “in consultation with the Health Department.”
In a statement provided to Eater, a representative from Bay Cities confirms the deli is temporarily closed, but is working to reopen. The reopening date hasn’t been announced yet.
“We want to acknowledge the recent temporary closure of our store due to health infractions. We take full responsibility and recognize the seriousness of this matter. This situation does not reflect the standards we uphold at Bay Cities. We are actively working with the Health Department and third-party professionals to address all concerns and improve our store as a whole. This is a challenging time for us, but we are committed to regaining our customers’ confidence and loyalty. We appreciate your patience and trust as we work toward a brighter future.”
Bay Cities has been open in Santa Monica since 1925, serving a wide range of Italian deli sandwiches alongside well-stocked aisles of Italian goods, fresh baguettes, and packaged cold salads. The restaurant first opened on the corner of Broadway and Lincoln, a space that later became a now-closed Swingers, before shifting to its current home on the same block. Over the last century, it has attracted near-constant crowds for its cold cut sandwiches made at the in-store deli counter. In a previous inspection in 2024, Bay Cities received a “B” with infractions including improper handwashing and glove usage, and issues with cleanliness on food contact surfaces.
This isn’t the first recent high-profile temporary closure due to a vermin infestation. In April, a cockroach was found in the tonic bar of the Santa Monica Erewhon, where the notorious smoothies are made. The bar closed briefly before reopening after a reinspection. Temporary closures like this aren’t rare for Los Angeles. Casa Vega, 101 Noodle Express, Philippe’s, Rainbow Bar and Grill, and even the now-closed Original Pantry Cafe have all been temporarily shut down by the health department in the past due to vermin problems.
Hopefully, Bay Cities’ unwelcome visitors got a taste of gabagool before being unceremoniously ushered out. Or, like Remy in Ratatouille, some provisions for the road.
Update: 5/27/25, 5:45 p.m.: This story was updated to include comment from Bay Cities.