The rise of Melbourne’s Sandwich Scene
The rise of Melbourne’s Sandwich scene has grown over the last couple of years, there are many sandwich shops who are all creating different and unique types of sandwich combinations and styles that leaves you wanting to try more. As a self proclaimed ‘Sandwich Connoisseur’ I’ve had my fair share of sandwiches in Melbourne over the last year.
I can comment on it’s growing popularity and the abundance of styles. From witnessing classic ham and cheese, chicken schnitzel, cold cuts and melts, this article will break down some of the best sandwich spots across Melbourne, accessible for whether you’re stepping out of the office for your lunch break, running errands across the city or have been craving a great sandwich.
Lil Lane
Previously located down a little lane (hence the name) Lil Lane is now located on 51 Queen St Melbourne. It’s a clean environment that has kind staff who create a chill and nice atmosphere for patrons, below I took a photo of part of the space.
On their menu they provide a small selection of freshly baked Italian focaccias that feature two vegetarian options and five salami options in their warm bread. Upon discovering this place during my lunch breaks at university, my go to is the ‘La Veneta’, pictured below alongside my friend’s order of the ‘Focaccia Mortazza’.
The Sopressa and Stracciatella paired with the roquette, mushroom sauce and garlic confit all whilst captured with golden warm bread is a favourite for my tastebuds and is highly rated amongst people. Bangin Sangas on TikTok who reviews all different types of food, sandwiches and is a self proclaimed ‘Chief Sandwich officer’, shares that the La Veneta was the first sandwich he had rated a 5 (rated in their previous location). Ticking his boxes of taste, texture, price to portion, presentation and misc.Â
An outstanding review like this and a similar story upon google reviews can be thanks to co owners Guilia Dal Corso and an unnamed partner. Guilia is originally from Venice in Italy and oversees the quality of the focaccia and the fillings.
Saluministi
Beginning in 2014, Saluministi is a family run business owned by Peter Mastro and Frank Bressi, providing sandwiches across three locations of Flinders Lane, Docklands and Melbourne Quarter. Serving the classic Porchetta roll that makes you feel like you’re back in Italy. However as a cold cuts lover I can’t go past the Prosciutto panini, and when served in the crunchy bread with the burrata and rocket it puts all the pieces together. Pictured below is an image my friend took of her Melanzane (vegetarian option) and my Prosciutto Panini during our visit to the Flinders Lane location.
The bread is a differing factors amongst other sandwich shops as it’s not the standard focaccia. Upon entry to the Flinders Lane shop staff are kind and welcoming and although there is often a line, that’s just due to the nature of the shop. As there is little room to wait and sit inside and instead is more of a take away shop. Saluministi brings the quality and flavour when it comes to sandwiches with options for vegetarians and vegans and is a spot I wouldn’t want to look past.Â
Hector’s Deli
Decorated in old school charm (as pictured below upon my visit to their Fitzroy store), Hector’s Deli creates an atmosphere of inviting aura as mentioned in Roslyn Foo’s deep dive article into the shop. Founded in 2017 by Dom Wilton who had a background in fine dining came this sandwich establishment in Richmond that was previously a Milkbar as mentioned on their about us page.
Their menu offers a larger variety of sandwiches with toasted sandwiches, fried sandwiches and fresh sandwiches, with my personal favourite being the Ham cheese Toastie. The HCT is on white sourdough and has Mortadella, Provolone, Mozzarella and tomato chutney, found here, where you can even buy a poster of it from their website!.
Nico’s Sandwich Deli
Founded by Tom Peasnell, Leo Thompson and Marcus DeSantis Nico’s Sandwich Deli is spread across 4 locations in Fitzroy, Brunswick east, Healeys Lane, Melbourne and on Little Collins St, Melbourne. Providing patrons a variety of sandwich types. Although on their menu there are some melt options, you shouldn’t look past their fresh options with more shown on the menu in person.
What makes these sandwiches unique is the elements of untoasted bread and abundance of veggies and leafy greens that really creates the fresh feeling and taste for patrons. I personally don’t have a favourite at Nico’s deli as ive tried a few different options but i have included one i’ve tried down below. The Sydney Morning Herald highlights the popularity of a particular Nico’s sandwich with the Cubano that is much loved by patrons.
What makes an exceptional sandwich
Everyone’s tastebuds are different, therefore what makes the perfect sandwich is based on personal preference. Some might prefer the fresher, untoasted bread options at Nico’s deli, while others might rather enjoy the toasted bread, salami packed sandwiches of Lil Lane or the crunchy bread used for Saluministi’s.Â
How to order like a local and a special tip!
Take it from me, an experienced sandwich order-er, it’s best to get to these shops just before peak time which can be around 12-12:30. This not only helps to ensure you have speedy service and avoid long lines but ensures that you have the opportunity to try the most popular options before it can potentially be sold out for the rest of the day.
A special tip: If visiting with a friend, consider sharing. For example when trying a new sandwich place I might order the salami based sandwich and my friend a schnitzel based one and then we swap halves. I like to swap halves in order to taste more options, figure out my favourites and not break the bank in the process.Â
Delicious and Simple: Let your Sandwich Journey begin
Melbourne’s sandwich scene has exploded and is something to not miss out on, each place offers their own twist and creative look at a tasty sandwich. These places are just some of the many places that provide flavour fulness for any person’s tastebuds.
FAQ
What is the average price for a sandwich?
An average price for a sandwich can range from $16 – $22, depending on the contents inside the sandwich. Usually veggie options are on the lower end and more meatier on the higher.
Are there vegan and vegetarian sandwich options?
Yes, many sandwich shops/deli’s offer vegan/vegetarian options for patronsÂ
Are these shops open until late afternoon?
No, many sandwich shops close up around 3pm and are often operating from very early in the morning.
Can i order beforehand for pick up?
Yes from Saluministi, Nico’s deli and Hector’s Deli you can order online for pick up.
Is catering available?
Yes with Lil Lane (for CBD only), Saluministi and Hector’s Deli providing catering options for work events.
