Costa Deli Ambler, PA – Family Owned Luncheonette Since 1950

Discovering Retro Roadmap-worthy places requires a sharp eye for detail and clues ala Nancy Drew (or Trixie Belden, if you want to get obscure!)

So when Mod Betty spotted the vintage-looking Breyers Ice Cream sign with the phrase “Hand Dipped Bulk” while waiting at a busy light at Bethlehem and Butler Pikes in Ambler, PA she thought Costa Deli might be a contender. Who knew that a traffic light could be so handy!

And once she stepped inside this narrow shop, spied the spinning counter stools and chatted with owner David Costa, she knew her "Mod Betty Sense" was right!

David’s grandfather from Italy opened this Ambler deli and lunch counter in 1950, and it is still VERY family-run today. David’s wife Gina makes the Amazing Cupcakes you see on display. David's mother Marie was busy making hoagies when I visited, and Gina and David's daughter was cleaning the countertop in front of the 5 swivel stools that make up the luncheonette area.

Yes! There’s a luncheonette area (I love that word) where you can eat breakfast,lunch or dinner. Not only does Costa’s serve the heavily advertised Breyers Ice Cream, they also make all manner of hoagies, burgers & fries, hot and cold sandwiches, soups, homemade salads and breakfast sandwiches.

They serve Levi’s hot dogs which are a Philadelphia tradition, and there are additional tables and booths in the front of the shop if you don't want to be too close to the action at the counter.

Adjacent to the table area you’ll see a large selection of imported Italian pastas sauces and olive oils. Costa's stocks these items to save their customers a trip into Philadelphia’s Italian Market. In the refrigerated section you’ll also spy quality DiBruno’s cheeses and Talluto’s pasta, other South Philly staples.

While waiting for your food test your skill at a game of pinball or Ms. Pacman, or enjoy the signs and vintage items they discovered that David's dad saved. They're just for show, so don't think you can ask for those sale prices!

Take a look at the photos lining the walls, reflecting the history of the family and the business. They’re on display to remind us that this family owned place has been around for 65+years, and we hope it sticks around for 65 more.