Hugo’s Deli

119 Swan St
Richmond, VIC 3121
https://www.hugosdeli.com.au/

Chris has the privilege of working less than 10 minutes away from Hugo’s Deli. But I have the privilege (?) of a flexible schedule, so I met up with him one of these days for a cute little lunch date. Sandwich shops may be dime-a-dozen these days, but Hugo’s is the first one in a while that has been compared favourably to the OG (and imo, still the best) Hector’s Deli. I’ll come out straight and say it: I do prefer Hector’s, but that’s largely because I like my sandwiches super saucy. Ultimately, they’re both excellent sandwich shops that bring restaurant-quality ingredients to a handheld lunch, and I wouldn’t begrudge anyone for preferring one over the other.

Rating: 14/20 – i like them sloppy.
Surprise hit: mortadella bella. i know the hot fried sandwiches are tempting but, trust me on this one.

The Fried Chicken ($17) is the item that most commonly draws comparison to Hector’s Deli’s oversized signature. And they’re both excellent. The version here does have a crispier, juicier cutlet, though it’s not as robustly flavoured as its Hector’s counterpart. The freshness of the lettuce and fluffy shokupan is also comparable, but I think what puts this slightly on the backfoot for me is the relative subdued use of sauces. If it’s not making a mess, it’s not saucy enough, dammit!

If you want a more traditional deli offering, try the Mortadella Bella ($17). And man, is she gorgeous. The cold cuts are excellent, stacked high in soft, peppery layers that isn’t too salty. It’s seasoned with the double threat of house-made pesto and romesco, with a bit of decadence thrown in from the creamy fior di latte. The flavours are classic, and done remarkably well.

This is not actually a coffee (though they do have a nice looking cold brew), but the house-made Peach Iced Tea ($6.5). It is just right for a sunny spring day, the ripe fruity flavours pairing with just the right amount of tannins for a super fun and refreshing drink.