Gooley’s establishes second location with the opening of Little Malop St outlet

A popular sandwich shop that draws inspiration from New York delis and Japanese bars has opened on Geelong’s premier hospitality strip.

Gooley’s recently opened on Little Malop Street. Picture: Alan Barber.

A popular Surf Coast eatery has expanded into the heart of Geelong.

Gooley’s, which launched late last year in Torquay’s main street, recently opened its second sandwich bar in Little Malop St.

Co-owner Daniel Gooley said the new outlet took the best features of the original Gilbert St location and combined it with other inspirations.

“The street is our inspiration,” he said.

“We were presented the location by people we consider to be good friends, (and) we’re extremely grateful to be considered for the location.”

Gooley’s Little Malop St. Picture: Alan Barber.

“Outside of that, we don’t represent a specific culture, I just want to make stuff that’s yum, we just do what works, we draw inspiration from places like Japan, New York, Europe, wherever.

“That’s what I like about the brand, we’re just trying to create a place that’s welcoming.”

Mr Gooley said making people feel welcome was atop his list of priorities when hiring staff.

“People are the hardest part of the game – it’s everything,” he said.

Gooley’s in Little Malop St also has a selection of vinyl records. Picture: Alan Barber.

PJ the DJ at Gooley’s in Little Malop St. Picture: Alan Barber.

Stepping inside the shop feels like being transported back to the 1970s.

Curved wooden booths run parallel to the service, and after ordering coffee and sandwiches, punters can peruse a record collection.

The vinyl decks and accompanying sound system allowing for music to be heard without drowning out conversation.

Co-owner Tom Beattie said people can purchase the records.

“I want to sell them at cost. I want to get people buying vinyl, I don’t want to profit off that,” he said.

“So literally, as soon as people say they want one, I’ll take a photo of it, I’ll see what it’s going to cost me and that’s what I’ll charge.

Clockwise from top left: Gooley’s co-owner Tom Beattie with PJ, Sam Seitz, Harper Doodson and Rihei Ito. Picture: Alan Barber.

Mr Gooley and Mr Beattie have plans to evolve the business further by obtaining a liquor licence.

“Why would we open up a venue that trades from 7am to 3pm in the highest trafficked area in Geelong?” Mr Gooley said.

“When I lock up the door, people are still walking up the street, we want to do sandwiches that people want to have for dinner.

“That’s the fun thing about sandwiches, it’s bread and fillings.”

Originally published as Gooley’s establishes second location with the opening of Little Malop St outlet