Surf Subs Vero Beach: Italian Sandwiches | Restaurant Review
Walking into Surf Subs Vero Beach, I was immediately hit with the warm, comforting smell of toasted bread mixed with a hint of zesty Italian dressing. The owners, Mike and Dina Iovine and Jack and Ariella MacDonald, welcomed us in like old friends as they led us to a table. The walls were filled with all sorts of beachy knick-knacks and comforting family photos, decorated like a true New Jersey Deli.
Meet the Owners Bringing Italian Charm to Vero Beach
Mike and Dina Iovine (middle & right) moved to Vero Beach with retirement in mind after years of running successful Italian pizzerias in New Jersey. But it didn’t take long before they began to miss the familiar comforts of restaurant life—the smell of fresh mozzarella bubbling in the oven, and the warm greetings from regulars. That longing for community and good food reignited their passion, and they decided to open Surf Subs.
To help bring their vision to life, they brought in their son-in-law Jack (left) and their daughter Ariella (not pictured) to help start up this new venture. For Mike, it was a full-circle moment—having left a small town on the coast of Naples, Italy to pursue his dream of owning a pizzeria in America, now continuing that legacy with family by his side in Vero Beach. Surf Subs may be a new concept, but it carries the same Italian charm and heart for feeding people that defined their journey from the very beginning.
Location and Atmosphere
Tucked in a small strip mall in Vero Beach, Surf Subs is a hidden gem. Inside, vibrant blues, yellows, and oranges set a cheerful, beachy tone. A cozy window counter welcomes orders, the specials board tempts with weekly creations, and a small pizza counter serves hot slices, nodding to the owners’ Italian roots. Whether you sit outside or beneath the glowing “Surf Subs” sign, the space feels lively, welcoming, and full of character.
The Italian Sandwich
The Italian Sandwich at Surf Subs layers ham, salami, cappicola, and provolone with lettuce, tomato, and onion, finished with olive oil and vinegar. Each bite is zesty and aromatic, with thinly sliced meats that deliver the perfect texture. While it’s not usually my go-to order, I found myself savoring every bite.
The“Forget About It” Sandwich
This week’s special, the “Forget About It,” nods to the Italian lingo made famous in mobster movies. It’s packed with fried chicken, avocado, pickled onions, and crispy bacon, all drizzled with a unique mayo sauce. Each bite brings a touch of spice balanced by creamy avocado, with the crunch of bacon and toasted bread rounding it out.
The Godfather Sandwich
The star of the show was the Godfather sandwich, layered with prosciutto, roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella, and greens, all drizzled with balsamic glaze. The peppers paired beautifully with the thinly sliced meats, while the sweet sesame roll balanced the saltiness. The real standout was the fresh mozzarella, and with how good it looks, this sandwich could have had its own photoshoot.
Cannoli
To finish off the meal, I had a cannoli, one of my favorite desserts, though often tricky to perfect. Surf Subs nailed it. The filling was creamy and not too sweet, the shell crisp and golden. A flawless 10/10.
Why Surf Subs Stands Out
As a fellow New Jerseyan, I know how tough it is to find a spot that truly measures up to the Italian delis back home, but Surf Subs gave me that same homey, comforting feeling as walking into a local deli on the Jersey Shore.
Not only is the food great, but the Iovine’s are passionate about giving back. During COVID, they stepped in to help a local food pantry when churches and organizations lacked volunteers. As Dina says, “it’s important to give back.” In Vero, they’ve already partnered with The Hibiscus House, supporting children and teens in transition, and handed out free sandwiches to the community.
Surf Subs Vero Beach is more than just a place to grab a bite. With authentic Italian roots, a welcoming atmosphere, and a genuine commitment to Vero Beach, Mike and Dina have built a restaurant that serves both good food and goodwill.
Know Before You Go – Surf Subs Vero Beach
Cuisine: New Jersey Style Deli
Specialties: The Godfather Sandwich, weekly specials, pizza by the slice
Atmosphere: A beachy, no-frills sub shop with Jersey deli roots—think toasted sandwiches, surf décor, and a warm welcome that makes you feel right at home.
Hours: Monday – Saturday | 11am – 7pm
Entertainment: n/a
Location: 118 43rd Ave. Vero Beach, FL 32968
Phone: (772) 257-5992
Website: https://www.eatsurfsubs.com/
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