Family deli feeds the senses

By Kath Gannaway
THE ‘whole catastrophe’ is how Meg Wood jokingly describes the breakfast feast on offer at the Yarra Valley Deli in Wandin.
On weekends, however, it might best be described as a “Gold Logie-winning” breakfast.
Meg’s dad, John Wood, former Blue Heelers actor and host of the new tourism-food series, Wine Me, Dine Me … a journey with John Wood, takes on a different role as breakfast chef.
“He just loves it,” said Meg, “and our weekend breakfasts are very popular. It’s almost to a point where you have to book.”
The Yarra Valley Deli has been a Wood family affair since it opened three years ago with Meg as manager and John and wife, Leslie, taking a backstage role.
Meg’s sister, Lexie, has joined the team and her uncle, Rod Conn, is head chef.
A former restaurateur with years of experience, Meg said Rod is a brilliant addition to the team creating home-style meals which have both flair and flavour.
There’s a cafe atmosphere during the day with a tasty selection of light lunches, gourmet sandwiches, snacks and coffee and cake available every day.
For dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, the a la carte menu offers an excellent selection of entrees, mains and desserts.
Yarra Valley Deli is fully licensed with a good choice of local wines and beers available to enjoy with a meal, or to takeaway.
“With the colder weather, the pasta dishes are always popular, and the lamb cutlets and steak and kidney pie are also in demand,” Meg said.
Whatever time of day you call into the Yarra Valley Deli, you’ll find the atmosphere is relaxed, warm and inviting.
Being close to the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, it is a popular stop for cyclists and hikers.
Having enjoyed a hearty breakfast or their first espresso for the day, many of the trail users create their own picnic, stocking up on breads, cheeses, antipasto and small goods from the deli.
Yarra Valley Deli also provides a professional catering service and is available for a variety of functions. If your ideal eating experience is café-style with a sophisticated edge, you’ll enjoy the Yarra Valley Deli.