Family-owned since 1897, Galco’s Old World Grocery (better known these days as Galco’s Soda Pop Stop) in Los Angeles, California, has bubbled its way from an Italian grocery into one of the most unique soda shops in the country.
When John Nese took over his dad’s store in 1995, he swapped out the pasta and produce for bottles and bubbles, filling the shelves with specialty sodas you won’t find at your average corner store. Today, you can browse more than 700 varieties from around the world: everything from nostalgic sips like Moxie and Bubble Up to quirky flavors like cucumber, guava, and even habanero lime.
The Road Trip Journal & Activity Book
Enjoy fun games and challenges to pass the time on your next road trip and have a keepsake to look back on for years to come with this entertaining must-have for your next vacation.
If you’re feeling extra creative, head to the Soda Creation Station, where over 100 syrups are available to let you mix, match, and design your own flavor masterpiece. While soda is the star, Galco’s also stocks craft beers, ciders, sakes, wines, and a sweet stash of vintage candies. In the back, the deli still serves sandwiches, including the long-loved Blockbuster (Italian dry salami, mortadella, salami cotta, ham, provolone cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, lettuce, tomato, and pickles on a French roll), a throwback to the store’s original Italian grocery roots.
Photos of Galco’s Old World Grocery (Galco’s Soda Pop Stop) in Los Angeles, California
