Warning: this review contains gratuitous cheese references.
Deli Zola recently opened in the place of Deli 1901 and after reading Debs M's review I just knew I had to get along there, quick smart.
The boards outside show a few interesting specials to tempt you inside - rose lamb hotpot with garlic bread, vegetable stew as well as some breakfast-type options of scrambled eggs. Inside it's nicely decorated - not too over the top with the Frenchness but there's a lovely chandelier, loads of seating, and a generally pretty cosy vibe.
There's a deli section which has a chilled stacked with cheeses and meat, as well as pre-made croissants and baguettes. There's also a shelf of jarred French delights like marinated garlic, truffled mushrooms, terrine, goose fat etc, plus fresh breads, quiches and Christmas hampers. As you can probably tell, they've managed to pack a lot into this deli!
I was keen to try the Croque Monsieur so asked to get one takeaway. They offered to heat it up for me but seeing as I wasn't going straight home I got it cold. They wrapped it in foil for me and gave me heating instructions which was handy. While I was waiting for my sandwich I gave into the temptation on the counter and grabbed a couple of pastries for £1.50 each (pastel de nata). Now - confession time - I did actually buy two of these and one was meant to be for my husband, but I ate them both. Woops. They were just divine, the crispy caramelised top was too much for me to resist. And I don't even have a sweet tooth.
I also got a wedge of Gruyere (who can resist a cheese counter?) which wasn't bad value at £19/kg, and off I went on my way. I warmed up my sandwich in the oven when I got home and can confirm that it was just as delicious as it looks - cheesy, creamy, crispy and delicious. Yum. I want another one right now actually. read more