Latino Panino Cafe & Deli

Deli
Gluten-free options
Cafe
Take Away
This cozy cafe offers a warm, South American vibe with walls adorned by pictures reflecting the food's birthplace. The homely and characterful atmosphere is enhanced by a small pantry specializing in Chilean favorites, including delectable gluten-free traditional sweets like Chilean Pineapple cake and caramel slice.
509R Highett Rd, Highett VIC 3190, Australia
2.4km

People are saying

J
Hola gente maravillosa, ¡por favor pasen! Yes please do come down to Latino Panino in Highett as the trip is worth the wait! So very few cafe's offer supremely fresh food - you can bet only on some staple venues these days - this is one of them! You can put you're worries to bed as the Spanish feel of Latino Panino has much to offer - prepare yourself for seconds and more... Nestled in the main street in Highett (close to the station), you will find music playing, banners displaying the "MELBA" coffee brand, and smiles all round as you enter - also you will notice the Chilean food on sale and the deli serving absolutely fresh rolls with creative fillings to boot. A sprightly 'hello' from the owner Maria and you will know this places gives off great vibes, a homely feel and character! As you pass the drinks fridge you will also notice a small pantry to the right, specializing in Chilean favorites such as Yerba Mate' tea, sauces, pasta, preserves and the all-important Jalapenos! A main bench with coffee service and a fridge further down containing the most delicate and scrumptious sweets! There is plenty in seating inside and out, characteristic pictures and wall-hangings. A simple design that is all about the birthplace of the food served! And about the food - you can instantly see the passion and inheritance of recipes handed-down - where old motherly techniques are employed by Maria and the staff in cooking and preparing. It's a breath of fresh air knowing that you will be cared for in a wonderful atmosphere! Now on to the meals... Offering a number of Panini options (rolls filled to the brim with salads and meats), this place also offers hand made Empanadas and other staples like Choripan, Chilli con carne, Churrasco, cheese dips and even a version of the humble steak sandwich (Barros Jarpa)! The Empanadas I ordered (meat and cheese versions) were made on the spot and fried (she had just ran out at that time)! They are normally baked during the day but by golly they were delicious and the herbs made them so aromatic. They pastry was superb and light but kept all the ingredients in. The empanadas come with a freshly made spicy tomato sauce with freshly chopped onions (a Pebre sauce). The panini roll (New Yorker) was immensely packed and deliciously fresh - a trait common throughout the dining experience here. Have a look at some of the photos - split halves - and you will love the quantity of ingredients. The meals were balanced and light - no real fullness afterwards but enough to be satiated. It didn't end there! The traditional sweets were delectable - they even offer gluten free options! The Chilean Pineapple cake was the best - but pardon me, next time I will ask what it's true name is! The caramel slice is also amazing - again I must enquire on the names! There is so much to offer here that I need to return several times or more - a ritual I'm glad to undertake at length! Maria is a wonderful host and will do the utmost to make you feel at home - something that I long for from time to time. Please avail yourself of the trip down to Highett as you will not be disappointed! The food is definitely a 5/5, the environment a 5/5, and character 5/5. "¡Cuando tenga hambre volveré!" - I will return!
L
Let me tell you…. Recently opened to the public this Cafe and Deli has given me a great place to eat out while I meet colleagues, family and friends. The food is delicious, I had scrumptious gluten free Churrasco ( steak and vegetables sandwich), the meat was tender and cooked to perfection, accompanied by fresh vegetables and spices!!! Indi my grandson enjoyed a soft banana bread, the coffee was served and of high quality. It is was a pleasure to interact with their owners, lovely and talented people. Thank you all for your wonderful food cooked and served with passion.

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