When you think of a deli, sandwiches, coffee, and pasta, do you also think you’ve actually found heaven on earth, or is that just me?
Meet Mortadeli, where you get the mix of a New York deli vibe, with some products and scents of Europe, right here in Torquay.
Mortadeli
- When: Shop 8/4-6 Gilbert Street, Torquay
- Open: Diner:9am–3pm, Mon – Sun, Aperitivo & Wine Time: From Midday in the diner and between service in the Pasta Bar
- Pasta Bar: LUNCH ~ Fri – Sat, 12pm – 2:30pm, Sun – Mon, 12pm – 4pm DINNER ~ Fri – Sat 5:30pm – 8:30pm Grocer/Deli: Mon – Sun, 10am – 5pm
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Mortadeli is an authentic Mediterranean restaurant focusing on local seasonal produce, imported Italian DOC ingredients and fresh home-made pasta, offering a weekly changing menu, with vegetarian, gluten free and pescatarian options.
Owner Jake Cassar was a Travel Agent in Melbourne for 14 years, before moving down to the sunny coast right at the start of Covid. Cassar is a self-proclaimed coffee snob, and was missing travelling to Europe so much that he decided to bring Europe here, and we will all be forever grateful that he did. Upon seeing the shop location it hit him, there needed to be a coffee shop, a deli, a Torquay style bodega – but better. Mortadeli is the home away from home for all kinds of European products, vibes, people, you name it, it’s probably got it.
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Cassar always loved the idea of a small dining space, with salami hanging over your head, the smell and view of fresh pasta, and after a sneaky trip to Rome, it cemented in the destination of his idea train, and he knew it had to be the next part of Mortadeli.
Located across the piazza from the original sandwich deli, customers can now dine in for lunch from Fridays to Mondays, and dinner Fridays & Saturdays or enjoy an aperitivo in between. The new pasta bar has been placed in the careful, yet extremely capable hand of renowned chef, Glenn Laurie, and front of house / venue manager Lolo Hanser. The new space has been architecturally designed by Melbourne-based duo Fowler and Ward, providing a warm and professional service, the dining room is intimate and brings the cosy vibes of neighbourhood trattorias. Fresh pasta is made every morning in the front window and available to take home, alongside the small alimentari offering, with shelves packed with imported and local deli goods, cured meats, cheeses, vino and amaro.
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Cassar’s Maltese heritage shines through Mortadeli. He has tried to incorporate it into the business by sourcing Maltese made products, and introducing Maltese dishes into the menu, with one of the most popular dishes being the Hobz Biz Zeit – which is a special Maltese tuna sandwich – and there will be many more Maltese dishes for customers to look forward to trying. Products used and sold here are a sourced combination of local and overseas. If it tastes and looks amazing, you know it will be there. Mortadeli also have their own coffee blend, which is roasted in Collingwood, and available for you to buy and enjoy the taste of Mortadeli from the comfort of your own home.
Go check out Mortadeli or explore what is on offer here.
