By Vesi Maslenishka
I first discovered Panzer’s Deli years ago when I was working at my first job as a babysitter, just off Abbey Road Studios.
It’s hard to say I enjoyed it, my first job that is – not caring too much for kids at the time – I didn’t particularly want to do it. Both of my parents agreed it was a good idea though, to teach me the value of money so off I went in my summer holidays.
Most of the money I made went on my commute. Travelling all the way from East London has never been cheap, despite what we think today. So, the rest of my pennies earned from my summer job, I spent on a weekly treat which was a bagel from Panzer’s Deli. Believe me, it doesn’t sound like much but back then this was the only thing keeping me sane *she says in a totally non-dramatic way*.
Anyway, when I first heard the deli had been renovated, I had no idea it was my little weekly sanctuary. The interior was in need of a bit of TLC at the time. It wasn’t until I looked it up on the good ol’ Maps that I put two and two together.
The deli has had a complete revamp. With it’s new 1950’s European-inspired decor, everything looks new and shiny. As always, the isles are stocked with great quality produce from over 80 countries – be it cheese from a little village in France, imported peppers from Turkey, some tasty Argentinian meat from the Charcuterie counter or your favourite American cookies.
There is also now a Sushi Counter from London’s finest Japanese chefs who are behind Atari-Ya where you can pick up the most delicious yellowtail with mustard miso cut roll. The lunchtime deli sells fresh and vibrant salads, fresh sandwiches, London’s BEST smoked salmon and cooked dishes. Last but not least, they’ve opened up an artisanal Coffee Bar with the Victoria Arduino coffee machine PLUS the talented baristas create latte art. No wonder the likes of Nigella are always spotted in there, though I never did.
Panzer’s Deli has now reopened and you can visit 7am-7pm Mon-Fri and 7am-6pm Sat & Sun.
13-19 Circus Rd, London NW8 6PB