Deli Cravings

Deli Cravings brings the authentic tastes of Europe directly to the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets. As a family-owned and operated delicatessen established in 1999, this specialty destination has been serving the Canberra community with a curated selection of imported fine meats, cheeses, and gourmet accompaniments for over two decades. Founded by Christa Potter and her husband Andrew, the business was born when they seized the perfect opportunity to purchase Joe's Delicatessen, building on a rich family legacy that began with Christa's mother, Ingrid Prutti, who ran several delicatessens across Canberra. Whether you are planning a charcuterie board, seeking the perfect brie, or simply craving a freshly baked pretzel, Deli Cravings offers a truly international experience grounded in deep culinary heritage.

Christa's passion for cheese and smallgoods was nurtured from the age of thirteen, when she started as a casual shop assistant in her mother's first store, Ingrids Delicatessen and Health Foods in Wanniassa. Ingrid went on to establish Edelweiss Gourmet in Woden and the Belconnen Delicatessen at the Fresh Food Markets, where Christa honed her expertise. Today, Christa and her daughter Jessica work alongside a knowledgeable and motivated team to source unique products that resonate with Canberra's multicultural community. The store prides itself on quality and authenticity, ensuring every item reflects the culinary traditions of its country of origin. From family to family, with love, Deli Cravings continues a tradition of European deli excellence.

Our Range of Imported European Smallgoods

The core of the business remains the import and supply of authentic European smallgoods that are difficult to find elsewhere in Canberra. Christa's lifelong connections and passion mean the shelves are stocked with an ever-changing array of cured meats, salamis, pâtés, and terrines sourced directly from the traditions of countries like Germany, France, Italy, and the Czech Republic. Customers seeking ingredients for a genuine European feast or just a superior sandwich filler will find a treasure trove of options, including hard-to-find specialties that reflect the true taste of Prague, Paris, and Hamburg.

Every product is chosen for its authenticity and quality. The team works diligently to maintain relationships with trusted importers and small-scale producers, ensuring that the smallgoods section is always a journey of discovery. From smoky speck to finely sliced prosciutto and robust liverwurst, the selection caters to both adventurous cooks and those seeking a nostalgic taste of home.

Artisan Cheeses and Dairy Selections

Cheese is undeniably central to the Deli Cravings experience, with an extensive counter that draws enthusiasts from across the region. The variety is a standout feature frequently highlighted by customers, who praise both the quality and the range. One notable star is the Adelaide Hills Udder Delights Brie, a creamy Australian artisan cheese that perfectly complements the European imports. The selection extends far beyond brie, however, to encompass robust blue cheeses, aged cheddars, nutty alpine styles, and fresh goat's cheese, all carefully maintained to ensure peak condition and flavor.

The philosophy is simple: offer cheeses that tell a story, whether they are from a centuries-old European dairy or a pioneering Australian farmhouse. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer tastings and advice, helping customers build the perfect cheese board. To complete the experience, the shop stocks an impressive array of accompaniments, including quince paste, fig jam, honey, olives, and gourmet crackers, ensuring every purchase can become an effortless entertaining masterpiece.

Freshly Baked Goods and Artisan Breads

One of the signature sensory draws of visiting Deli Cravings is the aroma of freshly baked pretzels, prepared in-store to a soft, chewy, golden-brown perfection. These pretzels have become a beloved staple for market shoppers, offering a warm, comforting taste that is simple yet deeply satisfying. Made with care and quality ingredients, each bite delivers that perfect combination of texture and flavor that brings comfort and a touch of European bakery tradition to your day.

In addition to the house-made pretzels, the store is a proud stockist of Sonoma artisan bread, delivered fresh every Saturday. This ensures loyal customers have a regular supply of world-class sourdough and other bread varieties to accompany the deli's meats and cheeses. Whether you are picking up a quick snack or gathering supplies for a weekend gathering, the bakery offerings provide the ideal foundation for any meal.

Pantry Staples and Gourmet Entertaining Essentials

Beyond the main counters, Deli Cravings functions as a comprehensive gourmet pantry, offering everything needed to create an extraordinary spread. Customers can browse shelves filled with imported olive oils, aged vinegars, mustards, and preserves that transform everyday cooking. The selection of antipasti—marinated artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, and stuffed olives—provides instant appetizers that burst with Mediterranean sunshine.

For those planning an event or simply a quiet night in, the store's pâtés, dips, quince paste, and cracker options offer endless pairing possibilities. The team's expertise is a valuable resource for customers, who can rely on them to suggest combinations that balance flavors and textures. This dedication to being a complete entertaining destination makes Deli Cravings an essential stop for hosts and food lovers throughout the Belconnen area.

Customer Experience and Service Philosophy

Deli Cravings holds a strong 4.4-star rating on Google Maps, based on 53 reviews, a testament to its consistent quality and service. Feedback highlights a business that has built a loyal following through exceptional product quality and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Reviewers consistently mention the outstanding variety and the helpfulness of the staff, who go above and beyond to meet customer needs, such as providing supplier information to assist with international customs for a customer moving abroad.

The service philosophy is rooted in the family's deep personal connection to the business. Christa and Jessica lead by example, fostering an environment where knowledge is shared generously. Whether a customer is a seasoned gourmand or a curious beginner, they receive patient, enthusiastic guidance. This commitment to service, combined with the undeniable quality of the goods, has cemented Deli Cravings' reputation as a must-visit specialty destination within the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets. The store proudly identifies as women-led, reflecting its strong matriarchal heritage.

Location and Market Convenience

Strategically situated at Shop 15 (also referenced as Shop 32) within the Belconnen Markets on Lathlain Street, Deli Cravings is at the heart of one of Canberra's most vibrant fresh food precincts. The Capital Food Market location makes it a convenient one-stop destination for shoppers looking to combine their weekly fresh produce run with a visit to a premium delicatessen. Being part of this bustling market environment adds to the European market hall feel, where customers can wander from stall to stall, discovering fresh flavors and artisan goods.

The central Belconnen location ensures easy access for residents from across the Australian Capital Territory. With ample parking and the lively atmosphere of the markets, a trip to Deli Cravings becomes an experience rather than just a shopping chore. It is a place where the community comes together to share a love of good food, cementing its status as a beloved local institution.

Operating Hours and Planning Your Visit

Planning a visit to Deli Cravings is straightforward, with consistent operating hours designed to serve both weekday and weekend shoppers. The store is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. This five-day schedule ensures that customers can rely on finding the doors open during the markets' busiest periods, from midweek grocery runs to leisurely weekend browsing. The store is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so it is always best to plan visits for the latter part of the week or the weekend.

For added convenience, the store offers modern shopping options including in-store shopping, takeaway, and a delivery service. Online ordering is also available, allowing customers to browse and purchase their favorite items from the comfort of home. Whether you choose to visit in person to soak up the market atmosphere and chat with the knowledgeable team, or order online for delivery, Deli Cravings ensures that the finest European delicacies are always within reach.