Continental Deli

I have just discovered an absolute heaven for the lover of Deli foods.

Continental Deli, on Glenferrie Rd Hawthorn is a rather demure little Deli, tucked away inside the Woolworths (Safeway, for the uninitiated) arcade, and is, at first glance but a counter, behind which are the rudimentary collections expected of any Deli worth its rock salt.

However, upon discovering the side entrance one encounters a world of international delights, including old favourites such as Best Foods mayonnaise and Lindt 'Dark Chocolate' Hot Choc Flakes, to things you've never seen in languages you don't recognise. Swiss ginger cookies, Gourmet Italian Pasta Sauces, Greek Cream Spreads, Pfeffer Nusse, Pomegranate Molasses, Orange Blossom Water... Ad Infinitum.

I believe the operators of this Deli are Greek and there is certainly plenty of Greek Fare, including delicious and fresh looking Spanakopita but there are friendly, fresh young faces behind the counter, clearly enjoying their work, knowledgeable in the produce and keen to help.

Now, down to the true draw-card of this fine establishment.

The famous $6 Rolls.

I had read about these wonders in a 'Truelocal' or similar listing and upon enquiring I was shown a slip of paper, containing four columns of filling choices.

A meats column; Ham, Turkey, Salami, Prosciutto etc
A condiments column; Basil Pesto, Mayonnaise, Seeded Mustard etc
A cheeses column; Brie, Cheddar, Gouda, Camembert etc
And a veg column; Artichokes, Olives, Semi Dried Tomatoes etc.

Anyone who knows me will tell you that my desert island food is Ham and Cheese sandwiches and so naturally I used this as a base, choosing Ham, Brie, Basil Pesto, Semi Dried Tomatos and Artichokes.

I handed over my piece of paper, was asked my name and charged $6.50. I must admit, at this point I began to wonder if i was in for much of a sanger.

When my name was called I was presented with a huge Baguette. Picture a full size baguette of the highest quality, cut it in half, THAT's how big it was.

BEST. ROLL. EVER.

This was a great example of how great ingredients and fresh, simple food can make a great experience. The ham was smoky and dry, lovely marinated artichokes with no woody bits, and, arguably the most important part, great bread! Not too crusty or chewy, light yet substantial. The whole thing was a pleasure from beginning to end.

Being one of the world's great sandwich lovers, this was a serious coup for me and I'll certainly be back. Probably 3 or 4 times a week.

Treat yourself, head to Continental Deli.

Yours in bread based meals,

Dan.

Continental Deli

(03) 9819 6645

676 Glenferrie Rd

Hawthorn
Melbourne, 3122