Finally, the deli sandwich we’ve been searching for in Brisbane

Finally, the deli sandwich we’ve been searching for in Brisbane On August 11, 2026, a new contender emerged in Brisbane’s culinary landscape, promising to deliver the ideal deli sandwich. The dish, crafted at Anytime Coffee, located in a quiet laneway near the intersection of Mary and Edward streets, has been hailed as a standout among the city's growing array of specialty sandwiches. The restaurant, known for its minimalist setup and focus on quality ingredients, has long attracted food enthusiasts, but recent praise suggests it may have reached a peak in its offerings. Anytime Coffee, a small counter operation nestled beneath a fire escape, was founded in early 2020 by Tom Cooney and Jack Wakefield. Both had previously gained recognition for their work at Riser Bread, a well-regarded bakery in Brisbane. After the duo left Riser Bread, they launched Anytime Coffee, which quickly became a local favorite. The café is currently run by Marcus Allison and Matthew Burt, who also manage other ventures in the area, including John Mills Himself in the CBD and Bunker and Bessa in Milton. These operators have built a reputation for excellence in specialty coffee, and their attention to detail extends to their signature sandwich. The deli sandwich in question features a carefully balanced combination of meats, fresh vegetables, and unique flavor profiles. The core components include leg ham, salami cotto, and capocollo, all sourced from Rayner’s Meats in New Farm. These proteins are complemented by rocket, pickled red onion, and a distinctive green olive and guindilla mix, which the staff describe as the sandwich’s secret weapon. The inclusion of this mix adds a layer of acidity and heat that enhances the overall taste experience. To further elevate the sandwich, a green dressing made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and parsley plays a crucial role. This dressing contributes significantly to the dish’s complexity, balancing the richness of the meats. The final element is a slice of provolone dolce, chosen for its creamy texture and ability to preserve the integrity of the bread. The cheese provides a mild yet essential contrast to the bold flavors of the other ingredients. The bread itself is a key component of the sandwich’s success. It consists of a light-rye sourdough tin loaf, produced by NYC Bagel using a recipe developed by Riser Bread. This choice ensures that the bread is capable of absorbing excess moisture without becoming soggy, maintaining a firm structure that holds the sandwich together. The bread’s versatility is noted by Allison, who praises its performance across various menu items. The creation of this sandwich is attributed to former Anytime chef Shane Neilson, whose expertise and vision laid the foundation for the dish. Since taking over operations, Allison has worked closely with Neilson to refine and standardize the preparation process, ensuring consistency in each serving. The collaboration highlights the team’s commitment to quality and innovation. The sandwich has received particular acclaim for its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The crispness of the rocket, the sweetness of the pickle, and the creaminess of the cheese create a satisfying contrast. However, the standout elements remain the interplay between the olive-guindilla mix and the green dressing, which interact dynamically with the rich umami notes of the salami cotto and capocollo. This synergy results in a dish that is both complex and approachable. As Anytime Coffee continues to serve this sandwich, it appears poised to become a defining feature of its menu. Its meticulous composition and thoughtful execution reflect the dedication of its creators, offering diners a memorable experience that captures the essence of a well-crafted deli sandwich.