We love our food here at High Living and we love to celebrate a great local shop. So, here we have Deli Italiano near New Barnet Station. It’s taken us a while to visit and, as you’ll see from the pics, it’s definitely worth it.

We hadn’t realised what a treasure-trove Deli Italiano is. Whether you’re stopping off for a coffee or a bite to eat, there is plenty of choice, along with a cheerful welcome from owner Damiano. Home-made dishes for something substantial and warming are available or simpler panini and ciabattas, so breakfast, lunch or a take-away supper are all sorted. On our visit the lasagne, escalopes and arancini looked delicious and at great prices. The deli counter has an array of cheeses and salumi, and platters can be ordered in advance.

Browse the shelves for authentic Italian groceries and specialist ingredients you won’t easily find elsewhere. Things that caught our eye include the unfiltered Ligurian olive oil, the selection of balsamic vinegar, dried mushrooms, truffle honey and Amarena cherries in glorious jars. I wish I’d made it over there before Christmas as a lot of their stock would make wonderful gifts. (They also take orders online on their website.)

There are also sweet treats like tiramisu, torta della Nonna and cannoli (especially the pistachio filled ones). I could honestly buy up the whole place or settle into the café at the back for a greedy afternoon. Fantastico!

Opening hours
Monday to Friday: 7am to 6pm
Saturday: 8am to 4pm
Sunday: 10am to 4pm