People waiting for an hour for a $15 sandwich - why?

This deli in Sydney's inner west has long lines that last over an hour on weekends.

September 2nd 2024.

People waiting for an hour for a $15 sandwich - why?
In the bustling inner west of Sydney, there is a beloved delicatessen that has been drawing crowds from all over the city. Raineri's Deli, a family-run business that has been a staple in Five Dock since 1981, has recently seen a surge in popularity. It's not uncommon to see lines stretching for hours on weekends, as people eagerly wait for their turn to order one of Raineri's famous panini sandwiches.

This unexpected boom in business has even caught the attention of the Prime Minister and local member for Reid, Sally Sitou, who has praised the deli as a "Five Dock institution". But it's not just the politicians who are raving about Raineri's - the deli has long been a favorite among locals and Italian migrants alike. The owners, husband and wife Peter and Rosario Raineri, have been serving up fresh meats, cheeses, and antipasto to their loyal customers for over four decades.

While Raineri's has always been a busy spot, the introduction of focaccia sandwiches and the power of social media have brought in a whole new crowd of eager sandwich lovers. The couple's son, Sam, who has been working at the deli for 10 years, says that the most popular order is the Sam Special, which features artichokes, prosciutto, stracciatella, eggplant, and capsicum.

Sam has been working hard to ensure that his parents' legacy continues for future generations. He has introduced new offerings such as fresh sandwiches, a coffee machine, and tables and chairs for customers to enjoy while they wait for their orders. He also sources many of the deli's products directly from Italy, giving it a true multicultural feel.

Despite the long lines and wait times, customers keep coming back for more. On weekdays, lines start forming as early as 9:30am, and on weekends, wait times can reach up to 65 minutes. This frenzy has even piqued the interest of the Prime Minister, who recently paid a visit to the deli with Sitou, a regular customer.

During his visit, the Prime Minister even indulged in a cup of coffee made by one of Raineri's workers, Chiari. This attention from the highest levels of government is a testament to the deli's success in fostering relationships with the community and supporting local suppliers.

One of the things that sets Raineri's apart from other delis is their commitment to affordability. Despite their growing popularity, they have maintained their sandwich prices at a reasonable $15. Sam explains that they want to make sure that everyone can enjoy their sandwiches without breaking the bank.

And it's not just about the food - Sam believes that the deli's success also comes from their dedication to customer service. They never close until everyone has been served, and Sam says that customers always leave with a smile on their face. So if you're ever in the inner west of Sydney, be sure to stop by Raineri's Deli and experience their famous sandwiches for yourself.

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