If you’re after a hearty lunch, some proper Italian ingredients or a treat to take home, Amaretto Deli is well worth a visit. You’ll find it on St George’s Street, just opposite St Andrew’s Hall – a cosy corner packed with the sights and smells of Italy.
Over the years, Amaretto has built up a loyal following – and it’s easy to see why. The window display is always brimming with freshly made sandwiches, pastries and hot dishes, while the shelves are lined with cheeses, cured meats, olives and tins you’ll want to take home and admire.
One of the best things about Amaretto is how reliable it is. Even when it’s busy – with a queue of NUA students out the door – you rarely have to wait long to get served. The team are friendly and efficient, and everything feels well looked after.
Lunchtime favourites
The lunchtime options are great value and generously portioned. A huge tuna, mayo and onion baguette will only set you back around £4.50 – and it’s more than enough to keep you going for the rest of the day. If you’re lucky, you might spot linguine al carbonara among the hot dishes, or a rich, savoury slice of pizza straight from the oven. As a total Italophile, I love that I can buy just a slice. It’s so common in Italy but hasn’t caught on here so much.
Bringing Italy home
Beyond lunch, Amaretto is a brilliant place to stock up on ingredients for an Italian-inspired meal at home. Think burrata, buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto, truffle oil and imported pasta – alongside local produce and treats with a Mediterranean twist.
The pesto is freshly made and full of flavour, perfect tossed through pasta or stirred into soup. Be warned – it sells out fast. They often stock jars of pistachio cream too – a sweet, nutty spread that disappears quickly for good reason. My personal tip? Add it to vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
A local favourite
Amaretto Deli is open six days a week and caters for a wide range of tastes, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
Whether you’re picking up lunch, planning a picnic or stocking the cupboards with something a bit more special, Amaretto Deli has something to offer. Pop in once and it’s likely you’ll return – possibly the very next day.
