We all know and love a deli somewhere in Johannesburg. But if you’re looking to broaden your horizons, we have something for you. Take a look at our list of deli hotspots throughout the city. there’s something that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
The Pantry by Marble
Open 24/7, The Pantry is located under the popular Marble restaurant is a must-visit in Rosebank. This one-stop shop offer shoppers a new generation grocer full of freshly stocked delights to treat yourself and your loved ones. They offer everything from grab-and-go meals, local produce, salads and bowls, to wine, baked goods and great coffee.
The Gourmet Grocer & Café
Located in the heart of quiet and quaint Birdhaven, you’ll find The Gourmet Grocer & Café. This is a New York style deli, restaurant, specialty groceries and winery. Which means you can basically do most of your weekly shopping here, then indulge a little afterwards!
Super Sconto
For the best Italian sandwich in town, visit Super Sconto in Orange Grove. This family-run grocery supplier and café offers an array of imported Italian dry pastas in all shapes and sizes, authentic sauces and deli meats galore. Stock up on all your Italian pantry staples at their downstairs store, before heading to the upper level for a panini sandwiched over salty salami, sundried tomatoes, artichokes and your choice of cheese. Paired with a piping hot cappuccino, this light lunch is the perfect sampler for all the goodies you will likely end up taking home with you. There’s an amazing variety here!
Cremalat Cheese
Hidden within an industrial park on the border between Edenvale and Kempton Park, you will find a Tuscan village. Well, not really, but Cremalat Cheese certainly resembles an idyllic villa with its burnt umber facade and its romantic outdoor dining area. Upon entry, you will find a world of Italian delights – think cannelloni shells, sweet pomodoro sauce, buffalo mozzarella, mortadella, crispy ciabatta and a wide variety of Italian pastries. Once you have your fill of take-home treats, pop into the adjoining restaurant for a taste of Italy served with a smile.
Yeast Artisan Bakery
Italian cooking is all about keeping it simple, which is what the Yeast Artisan Bakery in Dunvegan offers its patrons. Get your supply of extra virgin olive oil, pizza dough, gourmet Italian cheese and stone ground flour here – everything you need to become the best Italian home chef you can be. However, if you are lacking in culinary inspiration, you can always grab a loaf of freshly baked ciabatta, take it home, and smother it in butter and top with a slither of pastrami. Simple, yet delicious.
Cheese Gourmet
Linden brims with culinary delights from the world over. However, when you have a hankering for fine Italian cheese that just won’t quit, take a trip to Cheese Gourmet on the corner of 3rd avenue and 7th street. While Cheese Gourmet dabbles in French and Dutch cheese specialties as well, this deli meets cheese café embodies the Italian ethos of slow eating and good conversation. Pop in for a great cup of coffee and a chat with the owners. Their love for Italian flavours also shows on the cafe menu. We recommend the open panini topped with creamy Gorgonzola and served with bread and butter pickle. Delizioso!
Tortellino D’Oro
With over 22 years in the business, the owners of Tortellino D’Oro delicatessen and restaurant are verified experts on all things Italian. For those days that you simply can’t imagined slaving over a hot stove, visit their deli for pre-made Italian meals. Made with the finest ingredients, these ready meals are guilt-free and super convenient. Grab a traditional Italian dessert to go while you are here. Their pistachio gelato is said to be one of a kind. Your family will be so impressed with this Italian spread that you may never have to cook again! But, if you do, you can definitely find all you need to whip up an Italian feast here.
Belfiore Italian Deli
Belfiore Italian Deli take artisan crafting to the next level by making their own cheese, from mozzarella, to ricotta and even robiola cheese (a fresh, soft milk-based cheese that has a tangy taste to it). They also sell a variety of frozen stuffed pastas, perfect for a last-minute dinner party. And, if you have a friend or loved one who adores Italian cuisine, gift them with one of Belfiore’s gift hampers which can be customised to include sweet or savoury treats.
Fama Delicatessen
Our last feature on this list has been around since 1987. Fama Delicatessen is a family-run business dedicated to producing the very best charcuterie in the city. Offering a combination of Spanish and Italian cured meats, this deli wholeheartedly believes in the ‘slow food movement’, taking their time and care to curate the most delicious salami, pastrami, chorizo, Italian sausages and much more. Visit them for a taste of the Mediterranean, right in the heart of Johurg.
Remember that our “Top Picks” are not paid for and are compiled at the discretion of the journalist. We only write about what we love.
Do you know of any other Italian delis located in Joburg? Let us know about them!
