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This sandwich was absolutely incredible. I ordered ahead and had no wait when I arrived, though there was already a long line forming to order. Since they close shortly after lunch, I'd highly recommend ordering ahead if you can. The sandwich was enormous....easily enough for two meals for some people and loaded with fresh ingredients. Every bite was flavorful and satisfying. At $20, the value was definitely there considering the quality and portion size. One of the best deli sandwiches I've had in a long time
A local sandwich shop that surely won't disappoint! There's a nice dining area in the restaurant, or you can take it to go. The staff is so welcoming and friendly. I ordered the Let's Go Blues BBQ Beef. It was a pretty tasty sandwich. The crunch of the peppers helped add some needed crunch to the otherwise softer sandwich. The BBQ flavor wasn't too prominent, and it wasn't too spicy. It was a great sandwich that came with a side of au jus, but it just wasn't my favorite.
First time at Vivola Express and wow was this place awesome. I ordered a Buffalo chicken sandwich which they custom made which was super kind. They recommended it on garlic cheese bread with spicy cheese, cream cheese (just trust me, I was hesitant at first but it elevates the sandwich), bacon, lettuce and green pepper. Service was top-notch. I literally don't understand how that Subway next door is still in business when this place is THAT good. I ordered my sandwich to go but there was plenty of seating to dine in when I went as well.
This is a really small family run sandwich shop, so be prepared to wait in a long line because everything is made to order and they are also making food for to-go orders at the same time. I would highly recommend stopping by before or after the lunch rush. Their sandwiches are very large with lots of fresh ingredients and they have your standard sandwiches along with their own specialties. They have gone "viral"locally for their amazing flavor combinations and while I'm not a "sandwich person," I really do like theirs. I wonder how many more times I can say sandwiches in this review? LOL! Have I eaten the best sandwich I've ever had here? No. But they are still solid. Service is friendly and there's a lot of seating because most people take their sandwiches to go.
You could easily live in the area for 30 or 40 years and not know that this place exists. I've worked at four different places nearby, going back to the 1990s, and I'd never even heard of it. It's nestled in a narrow, sunken strip mall in an industrial off of what used to be the far western end of Page Avenue, along with a vape shop and a place that, hilariously, claims to serve the top sushi. I'd verify for the sake of citizen food journalism, but I'm running a marathon in a few days and I can't afford the potential GI distress. Emphasis on potential. We want to be fair here. Inside, Vivola Express (or just Vivola, per its signage) is arranged in such a way that a line with any more than four people in it is a line out the door, or at least a line that blocks the door, like the space may have been designed for a travel agency or some sort of high-interest loan scam that preys on the elderly. Fortunately, the guys behind the counter keep things moving. Clearly, they've made sandwiches before, both for themselves and their customers. The menu is elaborate to the point of being potentially anxiety inducing. All of the sandwiches, on paper, seem similar enough that it's hard to know which one you'd prefer, and there's multiple versions of some sandwiches, e.g. an Italian sandwich and a version of more or less the same sandwich named after, presumably, one of the guys who work there. They're all the exact same price, and it's a weirdly specific, seemingly randomly selected number. On 9/29/25 it was $16.67. A few years ago, it was probably like $5. Thanks Joe Brandon! I went with the Vivola's Classic Italian. I couldn't see the menu well enough to tell what exactly was on it, due to being blind as a bat, but I've eaten enough of these things over the years to know what to expect. This particular version was rich with the most processed of processed meats. Meats that you could store in your pantry rather than the refrigerator, if you had to. Meats that seem to consist of one part nitrates and one part saturated fats. Not that I was complaining. In addition to the salami and what have you, there's a generous helping of "shrettuce," which I'm sure offsets any damage done by the meat, some sort of creamy Italian salad dressing-like substance (uh?) and what appears to be a doorstop-thick wedge of provolone, but it might just be several thin slices of provolone that have fused together, in solidarity. Oh, and a few banana peppers. All of this is intelligently measured so that the various ingredients are both in the correct proportion to each other and not so abundant that the whole thing just kinda falls apart. They've put some thought into this. There's a wide selection of chips, including a few brands that seemed fancy--to me, at least--by virtue of the fact that I'd never heard of them, but no Red Hot Riplets. What's with that? If it's a space issue, they could easily get rid of the Sun Chips, which no one needs. A cookie was on offer, so I was bound by the solemn tenets of citizen food journalism as laid out by IF Stone to partake, even though it brought my bill to the point where I'm gonna have to have a meeting with my accountant, and it might get physical. It was good to the point where they could only sell it and the only problem they'd have is that no one will ever know where this place is.
Vivola is the best sandwich shop in St. Louis hands-down. Family run operation, dad's there every day along with his two sons and they make a sandwich second to none. They pile on the meat, have every kind of cheese you could choose from have every kind of bread you like and thier lobster bisque available Every day is a perfect finish to a great sandwich. If you don't see what you want on the sandwich board - which would be hard to believe, just tell them what you'd like and they will make it Custom just the way you like it. just go there once and you'll be hooked like everybody else. But don't worry the line moves fast.
As if I really needed to make a review. This place is drool worthy. I love the fact you walk in and they are slicing fresh meat and cheeses from the cooler. Warm homemade bread from the back. All fresh cut veggies. Yeah!! I didn't mind the wait because I needed every minute to review their menu. There are so many delicious options to choose from. You must read them all to see the special flavors and ingredients. After changing my mind 3 times, I settled on the spicy chicken parm-garlic cheese bread-warm marinara. When he handed me my order, I about dropped it because it was so heavy! Popped open the box and the peeled back the wrapping and BAM! Stacked sliced chicken, pepper jack and sauces- oh the thick hot honey just smothered. It was absolutely delish! I definitely couldn't finish it and didn't need the chips !! My husband chose the Philly. It was awesome! The fresh cut meat, cheese and fresh veggies is a dig deal in my book!!
Ok this place has no glam. We except the Sammy's. It's was my first time here and had the Natty King. Absolutely D-lish. After eating that i will assume all Sammy's are amazing. The whole time here the line was 10-15 deep. Go people go if you want an amazing sandwich/sub. I will be back to try more! Bring your appetite the sammy is like eating a Thanksgiving dinner! Portions are large and in charge! Ahhh, what are you waiting for. By the way! All the workers take great care of you as well. They can feed
This place has been on my to-do list for awhile. They close at 2pm and not open on the weekends so im never able to go. I was off today and decided to try it. I was stuck between the Angry bird and OG Steve. I went with the recommendation of the worker. OG Steve plus dynamite sauce and he even let us try their meatballs for free. Everything was fire , I will definitely get a meatball sub when I return. Kinda pricy but worth a once in a while splurge. Customer Service was top tier. I went around 12 and it was a line but it went fast. I made a suggestion that they should get St Louis style chips, they had vending machine chips. As far as ambiance, busy lol family friendly.
Great group of folks working the deli. My meatball sandwich was good but man, it was messy and the sauce is a little sweeter than I like, but still solid. The OG Steve was just an ok deli sandwich. Good flavor but my bread was a little janky somehow. Like it was a little stale maybe. Bowl of chili was awesome and I'll be back to try some of the special sandwiches and a French dip. Worth a visit if you've never been for sure.
My first experience at Vivola Express was enjoyable! I went during lunch with coworkers, and it was packed, which clearly speaks to its popularity. We ended up waiting almost 45 minutes in line to order, and took our food to go. The menu offers a wide variety of sandwiches, plus the option to customize your own. I also tried the lobster bisque, which was light and had a perfectly seasoned flavor. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful as I navigated the extensive menu. I'll definitely return!
Finding a good spot for sandwiches is hard especially since my husband is a former "sandwich artist" from his college days, lol. But after an intense Costco trip, we were wanting a hearty sandwich. They are located in a strip mall, where they are many other busy businesses so parking can be a little tough. But going in, they were packed! Tip to tail, it was just people trying to get their food. And, that was us waiting a while to come in to pick up our goods. So, absolutely order ahead because it will make it somewhat easier. We ordered: The JD Cold Shoulder - cold cuts on a garlic roll with chipotle ranch. My husband loved his, and glad he ordered it with the garlic roll. Joe's Spicy Italian - this was spicy and sweet, and it really hits when you love a good spicy italian sandwich. You can choose your bread, and I opted for mine to be on a French roll. Great sandwiches, long wait, but just really good and worth the wait! read more
2 months ago
If you are reading this and it is 10am - 2 p.m. Monday thru Friday, you need to stop what you're doing and come grab yourself a sandwich at Vivola Express. I stopped in with coworkers today and it was wonderful. I sat and tried to pick the perfect sandwich, but when I got up to order, I couldn't make up my mind. Well, they were kind enough to "surprise me." Yes, that's an option! My sandwich was spicy, sweet, saucy and delicious. My four "must haves" when it comes to a sandwich. I love to overindulge on a good sub. The people that worked here were awesome and super friendly! The customers were even kind and friendly to one another. I highly suggest trying this place SOON! **my one caveat is that it is a bit pricey, but my coworkers and I all agreed, it's well worth the money!!** read more
I have been wanting to try this place for awhile and finally went for lunch today. They had such an intriguing menu it was hard to choose. My friend and I both got the "Surprise me" sandwich, where they create their own sandwich for you on the spot. The staff were incredibly welcoming and brought us our sandwiches when they were ready (pretty quick too!). They graciously made us a cold and hot sandwich and split them half and half so we could both try them. Super flavorful and full of meat! I will definitely be back when I'm in the area. read more
19 days ago
This sandwich was absolutely incredible. I ordered ahead and had no wait when I arrived, though there was already a long line forming to order. Since they close shortly after lunch, I'd highly recommend ordering ahead if you can. The sandwich was enormous....easily enough for two meals for some people and loaded with fresh ingredients. Every bite was flavorful and satisfying. At $20, the value was definitely there considering the quality and portion size. One of the best deli sandwiches I've had in a long time read more
A local sandwich shop that surely won't disappoint! There's a nice dining area in the restaurant, or you can take it to go. The staff is so welcoming and friendly. I ordered the Let's Go Blues BBQ Beef. It was a pretty tasty sandwich. The crunch of the peppers helped add some needed crunch to the otherwise softer sandwich. The BBQ flavor wasn't too prominent, and it wasn't too spicy. It was a great sandwich that came with a side of au jus, but it just wasn't my favorite. read more
First time at Vivola Express and wow was this place awesome. I ordered a Buffalo chicken sandwich which they custom made which was super kind. They recommended it on garlic cheese bread with spicy cheese, cream cheese (just trust me, I was hesitant at first but it elevates the sandwich), bacon, lettuce and green pepper. Service was top-notch. I literally don't understand how that Subway next door is still in business when this place is THAT good. I ordered my sandwich to go but there was plenty of seating to dine in when I went as well. read more
10 months ago
This is a really small family run sandwich shop, so be prepared to wait in a long line because everything is made to order and they are also making food for to-go orders at the same time. I would highly recommend stopping by before or after the lunch rush. Their sandwiches are very large with lots of fresh ingredients and they have your standard sandwiches along with their own specialties. They have gone "viral"locally for their amazing flavor combinations and while I'm not a "sandwich person," I really do like theirs. I wonder how many more times I can say sandwiches in this review? LOL! Have I eaten the best sandwich I've ever had here? No. But they are still solid. Service is friendly and there's a lot of seating because most people take their sandwiches to go. read more
You could easily live in the area for 30 or 40 years and not know that this place exists. I've worked at four different places nearby, going back to the 1990s, and I'd never even heard of it. It's nestled in a narrow, sunken strip mall in an industrial off of what used to be the far western end of Page Avenue, along with a vape shop and a place that, hilariously, claims to serve the top sushi. I'd verify for the sake of citizen food journalism, but I'm running a marathon in a few days and I can't afford the potential GI distress. Emphasis on potential. We want to be fair here. Inside, Vivola Express (or just Vivola, per its signage) is arranged in such a way that a line with any more than four people in it is a line out the door, or at least a line that blocks the door, like the space may have been designed for a travel agency or some sort of high-interest loan scam that preys on the elderly. Fortunately, the guys behind the counter keep things moving. Clearly, they've made sandwiches before, both for themselves and their customers. The menu is elaborate to the point of being potentially anxiety inducing. All of the sandwiches, on paper, seem similar enough that it's hard to know which one you'd prefer, and there's multiple versions of some sandwiches, e.g. an Italian sandwich and a version of more or less the same sandwich named after, presumably, one of the guys who work there. They're all the exact same price, and it's a weirdly specific, seemingly randomly selected number. On 9/29/25 it was $16.67. A few years ago, it was probably like $5. Thanks Joe Brandon! I went with the Vivola's Classic Italian. I couldn't see the menu well enough to tell what exactly was on it, due to being blind as a bat, but I've eaten enough of these things over the years to know what to expect. This particular version was rich with the most processed of processed meats. Meats that you could store in your pantry rather than the refrigerator, if you had to. Meats that seem to consist of one part nitrates and one part saturated fats. Not that I was complaining. In addition to the salami and what have you, there's a generous helping of "shrettuce," which I'm sure offsets any damage done by the meat, some sort of creamy Italian salad dressing-like substance (uh?) and what appears to be a doorstop-thick wedge of provolone, but it might just be several thin slices of provolone that have fused together, in solidarity. Oh, and a few banana peppers. All of this is intelligently measured so that the various ingredients are both in the correct proportion to each other and not so abundant that the whole thing just kinda falls apart. They've put some thought into this. There's a wide selection of chips, including a few brands that seemed fancy--to me, at least--by virtue of the fact that I'd never heard of them, but no Red Hot Riplets. What's with that? If it's a space issue, they could easily get rid of the Sun Chips, which no one needs. A cookie was on offer, so I was bound by the solemn tenets of citizen food journalism as laid out by IF Stone to partake, even though it brought my bill to the point where I'm gonna have to have a meeting with my accountant, and it might get physical. It was good to the point where they could only sell it and the only problem they'd have is that no one will ever know where this place is. read more
Vivola is the best sandwich shop in St. Louis hands-down. Family run operation, dad's there every day along with his two sons and they make a sandwich second to none. They pile on the meat, have every kind of cheese you could choose from have every kind of bread you like and thier lobster bisque available Every day is a perfect finish to a great sandwich. If you don't see what you want on the sandwich board - which would be hard to believe, just tell them what you'd like and they will make it Custom just the way you like it. just go there once and you'll be hooked like everybody else. But don't worry the line moves fast. read more
2 months ago
Absolutely delicious. Love the family atmosphere. You can feel the passion for the food they serve. Definitely would come back. read more
As if I really needed to make a review. This place is drool worthy. I love the fact you walk in and they are slicing fresh meat and cheeses from the cooler. Warm homemade bread from the back. All fresh cut veggies. Yeah!! I didn't mind the wait because I needed every minute to review their menu. There are so many delicious options to choose from. You must read them all to see the special flavors and ingredients. After changing my mind 3 times, I settled on the spicy chicken parm-garlic cheese bread-warm marinara. When he handed me my order, I about dropped it because it was so heavy! Popped open the box and the peeled back the wrapping and BAM! Stacked sliced chicken, pepper jack and sauces- oh the thick hot honey just smothered. It was absolutely delish! I definitely couldn't finish it and didn't need the chips !! My husband chose the Philly. It was awesome! The fresh cut meat, cheese and fresh veggies is a dig deal in my book!! read more
Ok this place has no glam. We except the Sammy's. It's was my first time here and had the Natty King. Absolutely D-lish. After eating that i will assume all Sammy's are amazing. The whole time here the line was 10-15 deep. Go people go if you want an amazing sandwich/sub. I will be back to try more! Bring your appetite the sammy is like eating a Thanksgiving dinner! Portions are large and in charge! Ahhh, what are you waiting for. By the way! All the workers take great care of you as well. They can feed read more
This place has been on my to-do list for awhile. They close at 2pm and not open on the weekends so im never able to go. I was off today and decided to try it. I was stuck between the Angry bird and OG Steve. I went with the recommendation of the worker. OG Steve plus dynamite sauce and he even let us try their meatballs for free. Everything was fire , I will definitely get a meatball sub when I return. Kinda pricy but worth a once in a while splurge. Customer Service was top tier. I went around 12 and it was a line but it went fast. I made a suggestion that they should get St Louis style chips, they had vending machine chips. As far as ambiance, busy lol family friendly. read more
3 months ago
Great group of folks working the deli. My meatball sandwich was good but man, it was messy and the sauce is a little sweeter than I like, but still solid. The OG Steve was just an ok deli sandwich. Good flavor but my bread was a little janky somehow. Like it was a little stale maybe. Bowl of chili was awesome and I'll be back to try some of the special sandwiches and a French dip. Worth a visit if you've never been for sure. read more
My first experience at Vivola Express was enjoyable! I went during lunch with coworkers, and it was packed, which clearly speaks to its popularity. We ended up waiting almost 45 minutes in line to order, and took our food to go. The menu offers a wide variety of sandwiches, plus the option to customize your own. I also tried the lobster bisque, which was light and had a perfectly seasoned flavor. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful as I navigated the extensive menu. I'll definitely return! read more
5 months ago
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7 months ago
Hands down the BEST meatball sandwich I have ever had. We ordered ahead online and it saved us from waiting too long as it is pretty busy. There are a lot of delicious options and very friendly people working behind the counter! read more
7 months ago
2 years ago
Finally went here for lunch today. I beat the lunch traffic by arriving before noon. The staff was super nice and patient. My first visit I always have a million questions and ask for suggestions I opted for the Joey's spicy Italian sandwhich and I had them warm it up for me. This sandwich has pepperoni, ham, (added Cajun turkey), pepper jack cheese, creamy Italian, spicy dynamite sauce, spicy cream cheese, lettuce, onions, and hot giardiniera. Plus I added tomatoes, black olives, and pickles. There are about 5 different breads to pick from and they suggested cheesy garlic bread. This sandwich was so good and messy just the way I like it. The sandwich was $16, which is expensive to me. However, it was with every penny. Plus it's large enough to eat for lunch two days. read more
4 months ago
If there's a line to the door, there's a reason! Many line up for the best! Vivola is always worth the wait! The best subs! From the breads to the meats, cheeses, toppings, it's all delicious at Vivola! I love the freshness of the top notch ingredients that are used in making each sub sandwich. If you are undecided, have one of the staff make you something good! You can't go wrong. I am so glad they brought back the potato salad side option! So yummy! I almost forgot the people behind the sandwiches. You are going to meet some of the nicest people working at Vivola. Great customer service! read more
6 months ago
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8 months ago
I was crashing with a rugby friend of mine (BTW make sure to support ur local Crusaders) that had recommended omw out of STL to drove to Chicago, since a shrimp St Paul sammie from Hong Kong Express wasn't gonna work because of opening time. Big moves right there bc this place came out swinging. My plan was to get a sandwich to eat on the road a few hrs into a 5hr drive. Then I decide to go ahead and just have the bisque in the car before I take off. Next thing I know I'm in this euphoric state in my car and time's bent a bit. I love a big messy, multi-textured experience and their Spicy Chicken Parm was amazing. My friend had recommended the Natty something, for another option if you don't like the idea of what I got and need a suggestion. I'm going to throw some chips on the 2nd half of it bc that's how my folks did it growing up. I got it on the cheese hoagie-vibe bread option (think they called it a cheese roll). They hooked me with their friendly engagement as I entered and waited for my food. Asked me about myself and interacted in an earnest way without it ever feeling forced or prying. I'll do terrible things for a good lobster bisque and they had a big bowl portion for $9 so I immediately jumped on that. I dislike hyperbole though there's surely some in here so believe when I say this was the best lobster bisque I've had that didn't have sherry in it. It was especially good bc, not only did it still somehow have the deep flavor of a sherry- & time-assisted version, the consistency was perfect to both hold the temp and also not allow it to separate. Got a free road cookie as well (woof!) Hit Pup Snaxx up for a tour of Nashville if you're ever down and I'll show you some good live music. And Bill's Sandwich Palace; you'd like it. Great folks! read more
Always looking to try a new sandwich and stopped by Vivola Express sandwich shop. Located a short distance from STL, Vivola Express is a legit sandwich shop for anyone looking for a work of art. Vivola Express is nestled in a small shopping center next to an industrial park. They are only open during the week so you will need to plan your visit. Vivola have an extensive hot and cold sandwich menu with a variety of side dishes. When we arrived there was a short line but did move quickly and is definitely worth the wait. On a recommendation from the Yelp Army I ordered the hot roast beef and cheese sandwich on a French Roll. Vivola Express does have several spicy cheeses for anyone looking to have a little heat with their meal. Sandwich portion was very impressive and could share one sandwich by itself. Ingredients are fresh and made to order. Prices are reasonable but a little on the high end. Again, portions compliment pricing. Vivola has plenty of seating for those eating there and tables were serviced quickly. Best local sandwich shop to date in STL, definitely coming back. read more
7 months ago
I used to come here when I worked in an office since it wasn't too far and I remember how amazing this deli was. I'm not a big sandwich fan out to eat because you can simply make it at home - Not this place! The bread is extremely fresh and and they slice the meat as you order your sandwich. It doesn't get any fresher than that! I ordered a Turkey sandwich with lots of toppings and I'm telling you. It was amazing! Yes, it was simple but because of how fresh the bread and meat is this place is amazing. Be prepared for a line because this place is always busy. And well worth the wait! read more
11 months ago
2 years ago
I'm not really a sandwich lover, but I came here with a friend to try their sandwiches after seeing all the great reviews. We each ordered two sandwiches and a soup, and every single thing we tried was absolutely delicious. The soup and sandwiches are now my personal No. 1, especially the soup! No wonder this place has such high ratings. The staff here are super friendly and chatty, the service is excellent, and the food is amazing. Don't miss out on this restaurant! read more
6 months ago
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More info about Vivola Express
1911 Schuetz Rd
Saint Louis, MO 63146
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(314) 995-3900
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https://www.vivolaexpress.com
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