Small’s Deli - Potts Point, Sydney

Small’s Deli in Potts Point, owned by designer Emily Van Loon and chef Ben Shemesh, offers European-inspired sandwiches with fresh ingredients like house-made pickles, free-range salami, and artisanal cheeses. The deli opens early for breakfast, serving brekkie sandwiches, pastries, and Reuben Hills coffee, with the croque monsieur being a morning favorite. Lunch features a tight menu of sandwiches, including options like Florence and the Aubergine, Nancy, and Al Green, catering to various dietary preferences. Additionally, salads and sides are available, complemented by Van Loon’s design aesthetic displayed through the store’s branding and interior decor.
Despite opening just before the pandemic, Small’s Deli quickly gained a devoted local following for its takeaway offerings, remaining popular for breakfast and lunch. Inspired by their travels through Europe, Shemesh and Van Loon aim to recreate the specialty made-to-order sandwiches they enjoyed abroad, emphasizing the use of freshly sliced charcuterie and cheeses. The menu reflects a fusion of French and Italian influences, with a standout vegan option named after the soul singer Al Green, known for its diverse range of green ingredients.

In addition to sandwiches, Small’s Deli offers a variety of house-made jams, sauces, pickles, and specialty items like Lulu’s Remedy anchovy chili and Ortiz Sardines. The deli’s focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation creates a unique dining experience, where complex flavors are presented in sandwich form for a casual takeaway lunch.