Alfonso’s Bodega Deli

Alfonso’s Bodega Deli is tucked away in a trendy arcade in an equally cool corner of the city centre, and it is clearly the place to be right now. We visited as part of a food tour and managed to get in just as a small queue was forming; within minutes, it was fifteen people deep. I’ve actually tried to return since then and found them completely sold out, so my advice would be to get there early if you want a look-in. The food is as tasty as it is good-looking. We ordered the "Alfonso’s" and a "Mole Adobo Cubano" from their Cuban sandwich menu, along with a few croquetas. Every sandwich I saw leave the kitchen looked like it was being prepped for a photoshoot, but more importantly, the meat was succulent and packed with flavour. Having never been to Cuba myself, I can’t speak for its heritage, but it felt incredibly authentic—a real, honest deli experience that doesn't rely on gimmicks. The atmosphere is vibrant and fits the "hidden gem" aesthetic perfectly. It’s an ideal spot for a quick, high-quality lunch if you’re wandering through the city, though the popularity means it’s becoming a bit of a challenge to snag a seat. It’s a very well-run operation that deserves the hype it’s currently getting. If you’re lucky enough to get served before they sell out, you’re in for a treat.

Very consistently great sandwiches. Lovely serving staff every time I’ve been. My highlight is the Vodka Chicken Parm - it’s worth the hype. Also recommend the chopped cheese and the mole adobo cubanos from experience.

Food tasted amazing. Unfortunately we got there a bit late so the vodka parm sandwich was sold out so we settled for something else, but the ones we got tasted amazing 😍. Will definitely be back again !!! Service was great, we didn’t have to wait too long either.

We noticed the long queue and thought it must be worth a try, so we joined in. Ended up waiting around 40–50 minutes, but it was absolutely worth it! The sandwich was delicious and really comforting — I could happily have this for breakfast every day🥰 Lovely spot!

Came at the weekend after being recommended it, was told to queue outside to then have friends of staff cut to the front, only told coffee machine was broken once at the till! And after ordering heard the group behind us be told it’s 30+ minutes wait, which I wouldn’t have bothered with if I had been told to be honest, a long wait in a cold arcade for an average Cuban toastie (as they are often called stateside) :( not to mention things sold on their shelves are double the price of the nearby chili shop!