If you haven’t tried the chicken schnitzel, lettuce and mayo roll from Kogarah Town Centre Deli, you have less than a week to see what the fuss is about.
The popular sandwich bar is closing on Saturday, April 28.
After 30 years serving lunch to the people of Kogarah, the boss and the ladies hanging up their aprons for the last time.
Exotic olive oils, juicy ham off the bone and jars of gherkins and jams will be taken off the shelves, ending a long era of serving St George.
The family-owned delicatessen is inspired by Greek, Italian and Persian cuisine, and specialises in imported small goods.
But its sandwich bar is by far busiest hub – with hungry customers lining up at lunch hour to snag a freshly crumbed schnitty or salad.
Owner, Arthur Leris, who runs the shop with his wife Olga, emigrated from Greece at 18 years of age.
“We opened in 1988 and I’ve been here almost every day except for public holidays,” he said.
“Being open 7.30 in the morning to 7.30 at night is a big day.
“Lunch time and Saturday is our busiest – people getting their salami, olives and cheeses for the weekend.”
Mr Leris, 73, says the time has come to step down and enjoy quieter days.
“It’s been a good business and I feel a bit sad,” he said.
“I’ve had customers who came here as children, and now they are married.
“Without them, you have no business.
“I’ve loved the independence, and meeting people of different backgrounds and nationalities. You discover how other people live, and there’s just an understanding there.
“But I want to finish working and have a break.”
He also thanked his staff – who have each worked for him for more than 10 years.
“It’s not easy to find loyal, good workers,” he said.
“And everyone goes for Roula’s schnitzels. She’s got her recipe that no one else can do. People ask about it but I don’t think she tells them.”
Mrs Leris says she will miss their customers, but she also looks forward to going on a holiday to Greece and spending more time with their seven grandchildren.
“Everyone is so nice – we are like a family with our regular customers,” she said.
“We will miss them and want to thank them for supporting us all these years.”
Ganellen property manager Jason Zagni says there has been some interest from other businesses in taking over the space.
“Ideally we’d like to keep it as a deli to keep servicing the community,” he said.