Italian Delite has been slinging subs in Novato since 1977, and it’s become a neighborhood fixture for good reason. Their Philly Cheesesteak comes with a kick of hot sauce that actually makes it interesting—not just competent, but worth seeking out. They’ve built a reputation on taking classic sandwich formulas and tweaking them in ways that work, and it shows in how loyal their customers are.

The outdoor seating area is what makes this place dog-friendly. You can sit outside with your dog while you eat, which beats trying to figure out where to leave them while you grab food. The setup is straightforward—tables out front where you can watch Novato’s Main Street activity and keep an eye on your dog at the same time. The staff treats both you and your dog like regular customers, which matters when you’re bringing a pet to a restaurant.

The menu goes beyond just sandwiches, though that’s clearly their strongest suit. If your dog’s getting restless, you won’t be stuck waiting forever—service moves at a reasonable pace. The food is substantial enough that you won’t be hungry an hour later, which is exactly what you want from a lunch stop.

Location-wise, Italian Delite works well if you’re exploring the area around downtown Novato. It’s convenient for a quick eat before or after time in nearby parks, or if you just want a solid lunch without the chain restaurant feeling. The neighborhood vibe is genuine—locals actually come here, which usually means the place is doing something right.

The main thing to know is that their outdoor seating is weather-dependent and can fill up during lunch rush, so it’s worth calling ahead if you’re planning a specific visit. Otherwise, just show up and order at the counter. The Philly is the move if you’ve never tried it, but their other subs hold their own too.