Sandwich Sensation Jimmy’s Deli in Yarraville
Is this Melbourne's best sandwich joint? We think so. In the heart of Yarraville, Melbourne, Jimmy’s Deli is redefining the sandwich game with creations so spectacular they’re practically an event in themselves. This vibrant eatery, a tribute to local legend Jimmy, a Greek-born butcher who settled in Yarraville after migrating from Kastoria in 1938, is a celebration of family, community, and high-quality food. We were invited along to experience all the hits.
Stepping into Jimmy’s feels like walking into a love letter to the good old days, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and culinary artistry. With lines often spilling out the door - especially on bustling weekends - this deli has cemented its status as Melbourne’s ultimate sandwich haven, drawing foodies from near and far to experience its magic.
At the helm is the brilliant Eleftheria ‘Thierry’ Amanatidis, the young owner and chef whose creativity in the kitchen is nothing short of genius. Alongside her, Billy serves up warm smiles and top-notch customer service, ensuring every visit feels like coming home.
Behind the scenes, Thierry’s father, Steve, plays a vital role in keeping the deli’s heart beating strong. Together, they’ve crafted a menu that’s as generous as it is delicious, with sandwiches piled high with fresh, premium ingredients that leave you hungry for more. Each sandwich is a masterpiece, designed to delight the senses and honor Jimmy’s legacy of bringing people together through food.
Take the Katz Deli Tribute, a nod to New York’s iconic sandwich culture. This showstopper features juicy pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, six-month-aged Gruyère Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, lashings of Jimmy’s signature sauce, and authentic light rye sourdough. It’s a flavor explosion that’s pure perfection in every bite. For the truly adventurous, the New Yorker version packs a whopping half-kilo of pastrami, daring you to conquer it and earn a spot on Jimmy’s Wall of Fame. The New Yorker Challenge has become a rite of passage for sandwich enthusiasts, with victorious patrons immortalized for their heroic efforts.
Then there’s the Beef Short Rib, a melt-in-your-mouth marvel that might just steal the crown as the menu’s standout. Slow-braised for six hours and finished with Chef Zabir’s smoky glaze, it’s paired with vibrant red cabbage slaw and served on ciabatta bread. The tender, flavorful beef is a testament to the deli’s commitment to quality, making every bite an indulgent experience.
Equally impressive is the Veal Schnitty, featuring a premium bone-on veal cutlet, crisp and golden, complemented by an apple fennel salad with a rosé vinaigrette, all nestled in a rustic roll. It’s a refreshing twist on a classic that hits all the right notes.
Seafood lovers are in for a treat with the Rock Lobster Roll, showcasing chunks of Southern Rock Lobster from Carpenter Rocks, South Australia. Dressed in Zabir’s cocktail sauce and served on a toasted brioche roll with shoestring fries, it’s a luxurious take on a coastal favorite.
For those craving something heartier, the Steak Frites delivers with a generous 250g Black Angus sirloin, slathered in house-made chimichurri and mustard, accompanied by crispy shoestring fries and a rustic roll. Each dish is a testament to Jimmy’s Deli’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Beyond the sandwiches, Jimmy’s offers a taste of Greece with its top-notch Greek coffee, brewed to perfection and best enjoyed alongside a slice of the legendary Burnt Basque Cheesecake from @cakesbythierry. This crustless wonder, with its caramelized top and creamy, vanilla bean-infused center, is a dessert that lives up to its cult status. It’s the perfect way to cap off a meal that’s as much about community as it is about flavor.
Jimmy’s Deli isn’t just a place to eat - it’s a destination where the spirit of Yarraville comes alive. Inspired by Jimmy and his wife, Eleni, whose namesake cafe sits next door, the deli channels their love for traditional Greek food and warm hospitality. It’s the kind of place where you can imagine Jimmy himself pulling up a chair for a coffee, a chat, and a really good meatball roll. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Jimmy’s invites you to join the queue, savor the vibes, and taste the legend. Pro tip: Arrive early, bring your appetite, and don’t shy away from the New Yorker Challenge. Your taste buds - and your Instagram feed - will thank you. #MeetMeAtJimmysDeli