Bossley Park General Store and Deli closes after 70 years in business

The closure of an iconic southwest Sydney deli has prompted its legion of customers to express how the institution – treasured like the Opera House – meant more than prosciutto and panini.

Bossley Park General Store and Deli co-owner Enzo Di Federico with staff a month before the closure. Picture: Facebook

A southwest Sydney delicatessen adored by foodies, locals and culinary celebrities will shut because its landlord has “alternate plans” for the site on a small strip of shops.

Bossley Park General Store and Deli, which started in 1953, shut on Sunday as its tenancy at Mimosa Rd came to an end.

It is understood Joe De Abr, who once ran the delicatessen, is the landlord.

Over the decades it amassed a legion of customers including celebrity chef Silvia Colloca, who would visit the shop for episodes of her series, Cook Like an Italian, on SBS.

The business grew from a small general shop to a flourishing deli brimming with olives, cheeses and smallgoods – many from Italy.

Enzo Di Federico (far right) chats to tradies who tuck into deli sandwiches. Picture: Facebook

Enzo and Franca Di Federico took over the business 15 years ago and, with “a heavy heart”, broke the news to customers on Facebook.

“Our tenancy is coming to an end and the landlord has ‘alternate plans’ for the site,’’ they wrote.

Staff Josephine Pintabona, Maria Valentino, Leanne Torresan, Sally Grgich and Joe De Abreu at the deli in September 2003. Picture: Nick Andrean

“Since 1953, this store has been a beloved part of Bossley Park, and we’ve been proud to carry on its legacy.’’

That included its “famous panini which reached TikTok highs’’.

The Di Federicos said they were grateful for “support, love and friendship” throughout the years.

Fairfield Mayor Frank Carbone was dismayed to see its closure.

Staff in May 2001.

“I think it’s very sad to see it go,’’ he said.

“Obviously a lot of people have grown up with the deli. It’s not just Italian, it was very much European, so no doubt it will be missed in the community.’’

For many, it was more than a shop to stock up on mortadella and burrata.

But for others, the store represented much more.

“For years, it was more than just a place to grab great deli products; it was a meeting point, where familiar faces would gather, share stories and enjoy the warmth of a family-run business,’’ Tania Argyropolous wrote on Facebook.

“Small, independent delis like this one are the heart of a neighbourhood, offering personal connections and quality goods that chain stores simply can’t replicate.

“The closure of Bossley Park Deli marks the end of an era, and it will be dearly missed by everyone who enjoyed its charm and the sense of community it fostered.’’

Rozana Vassallo wrote: “To all the staff, you’ve always been so caring, kind and friendly – like family to us. Your delicious paninis will always be remembered!’’

Gail Mills recalled visiting the deli for the first time in July 1983 when it was “a shanty large shed with a petrol pump out the front” on a dirt block.

Others lamented the loss of an icon.

“The deli has been an icon for Bossley Park for years, I can’t believe it,’’ Elisa Sherry said.

“It’s like saying they are going to close the Opera House in Sydney … so, so, so, so devastating.’’