Words by Della Vreeland Images Supplied
It is alleged that the sandwich was invented in the mid 18th century after English nobleman John Montagu – the 4th Earl of Sandwich – decided to partake of his meal between two slices of bread so as not to leave the gaming table.
Centuries on, and this everyday lunchbox item finds itself fashioned in a whole myriad of ways – from the basic vegemite and cheese sanga to the more elaborate bocconcini, pesto and roast vegetable baguette.
So it made sense for Ballarat culinary extraordinaires Drew Harry and Teddy Powlett to set up a bar devoted to serving meals between bread. And to aptly call it Earl’s Deli.
‘Drew and I had been talking about this concept since we opened (pasta restaurant) Ragazzone,’ Teddy says. ‘Through the lockdowns, we used Ragazzone as a sounding board for some of our sandwich ideas to the public and we were selling out on Saturday and Sunday lunches.
We were originally looking at the name Dad’s Deli because we are both parents now, but we were brainstorming with our branding guru Steve and he eluded us to the Earl of Sandwich. We laughed at him and then it stuck from there.
Earl’s Deli will serve up a rotating array of ​fresh sandwiches, fresh coffees and quality local produce all out of an elusive little space tucked away in one of Ballarat’s new city developments.
‘The developers have created a great little nook for us down an understated laneway. A real ‘hole in the wall’ vibe (with) very limited seating inside. But we will offer a ‘drive-by’ service with our online ordering.’
Teddy says the deli is expected to open sometime in spring, all things going to plan. And then we can all hail the great Earl of Sandwich once more! Like the days of yore.
THE DETAILS
WHAT: Earl’s Deli
WHERE: 11 Davey St, Ballarat
WHEN: Spring 2022
FIND OUT MORE: Earls Deli
We wish to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.
