Calabria Panineria

Happened by Calabria because I was in the area. I knew the old 1 Abercrombie Lane sandwich shop had closed last year but I’m seldom in this part of town on a weekday lunch so I passed by just to see. I was not disappointed.

Bit of a wait since there’s only one woman running the shop and making the sandwiches but I didn’t wait too long—less than 10 minutes.

Picked up one of the chicken schnitzels and a tuna sandwich. You get to choose your bread: focaccia, ciabatta, or white bread. I went focaccia since it had what looked like the largest cross-section when sliced in half—more surface area for the mayo.

She asked me if wanted to get some of the chili spread on there and I was hesitant—it’s a dollar extra. She ended up giving me a sample dollop on the end of my sandwich and before she could finish fixin’ it up I said, “What the heck, I’ll take it!”

And man was that the right call. Imported from Italy, the peppers brought just enough heat to ensure that you won’t need any other sauces, but not enough to overpower the other flavors. I think the mayo spread they add is a good counter to balance out the flavors.

Doesn’t hurt to have some water handy though—that heat had me sweating and I’d like to think I can handle decent spices. I’d call it a 6/10 on the spicy scale.

Super good though. If I’m in the area during weekday lunch, that is 8a-2p, I’ll definitely come back. Two sandwiches for less than $20 is one heck of a deal!

In a bleak year, it was a very happy moment to find the sandwich shop in Abercrombie Lane operating again. After being a regular for many years at via Abercrombie, it is brilliant to have Marcella serving up, what are to me, the best, freshest and most generous sandwiches in Sydney. All served with sassy personality. I look forward to many more visits.

This little hidden gem tucked away in an alleyway is Sydney’s hottest sandwich joint! Run by Marcella who is the most wonderful soul serving up fresh and generous sandwiches. She uses tasty ingredients that are top quality, you really can’t compare! The chicken schnitzel is to die for. Also if you like a bit of spice in your life be sure to try the Calabrian chilli she has!! Super freaking delicious. Highly recommend you pop in for the best sandwich experience!

Hidden down an alleyway for only those in the know how, this place really impresses. A one woman wonder runs this shop with old school, good fashioned service and big sandwiches with quality ingredients. You will most likely line up, but you definitely won’t find fresher or tastier in the city!

I ordered the Calabria club on a focaccia bread with chilli. And it was perfectly balanced. Bread was so fresh and soft. Crunchy schnitzel, thick cut salami slices, juicy ripe tomatoes, lettuce, mayo and generous dallop of chilli that really helped bring it all together. All up with the additions it cost $17. But honestly you could share it with someone and still not feel hungry.

Delicious sandwich of enormous proportions. It might not look big but when you pick up it has a very hefty feel to it.

I will warn people that you may need to wait a while for the sandwich but everything is made with such care that it is worth the wait.

Marcella is an actual superstar! No one has ever gotten as close to my Nonna’s cotoletta (schnitzel) as she has. I could eat a panini from her little panineria breakfast, lunch and dinner. Don’t skimp on the Calabrian chilli, it is a must to any panini. Definitely go check it out for an authentic Italian lunch experience and say Electra sent you ;)

Best sandwich I've had in my life. Fresh, tasty, incredible.

Simple, fresh, and top quality. The sandwich was v yummy.
You will have to wait and follow the owner old fashion way to serve food.

High quality produce & superb value. Great find.

If I could give 6 stars I would.

Great Food!

Got the schnitzel club - Marcella ran out of schnitzel for the day but was happy to bread and fry more on request! She even added thick slabs of Italian cheese just because! It was the most friendly customer service and the sandwich itself was huge! This humble no-frills Calabrian sandwich bar is definitely worth a visit

Rude customer service. Spoken to in a condescending manner.