Ciao down to Nico.

Delis have long been the heart of Italian neighbourhoods.

From early morning, locals drift in for a quick espresso at the bar, pick up a few essentials, exchanging greetings that feel more like family catch-ups than transactions.

Lucky for us, Nico. deli & shop now recreates the traditional deli in Kirra, offering a slice of Italian culture just a stone’s throw from the sand.

Behind it all is Aaron Nicholls, who brings 30 years of architecture and design experience to the counter along with early-career hospitality work on the floor, giving him a keen eye for detail, from the furnishings to the food.

When it came to creating his own space, Aaron wanted more than aesthetics, he wanted to capture the soul of the Italian deli.

“The thing that strikes me the most about Italian culture is the celebration of food – the growing, preparation, presentation and consumption of it,” Aaron said.

“For me, it’s the ultimate display of gratitude: to make, give, share, and celebrate food. I want our patrons to feel like they’ve stepped into something truly special every time they visit.”

The concept almost landed in Woolgoolga on the NSW North Coast, sparked by local concern over big supermarkets squeezing out small vendors. But as the business plan tightened, a bigger question emerged for Aaron. Surely there were other coastal communities crying out for the same thing?

Formerly a vape and tobacco shop (and before that, a display suite), the Nico. deli & shop sits on a prime corner at Kirra Village, a stone’s throw from the beach.

Designed by Aaron alongside Phillip Nielsen of Regional Design Service, the fitout leans into a mid-century vibes with terrazzo floors and a feature counter that doubles as a stage for coffee and conversation.

Outdoor seating catches the Cooly breeze, while the indoor espresso bench and a handful of stools keep things cosy. 

Pouring Coffee Supreme brews and serving a menu that champions local artisans, Nico. deli & shop is all about keeping it fresh. 

Burleigh Baker supplies the focaccia, That’s Amore delivers silky stracciatella, and Puopolo Artisan Salumi brings nitrite-free mortadella, all coming together in the deli’s signature panini, topped with honey and pistachios.

For something sweet, cannoli are served in three varieties topped with crushed pistachios, chocolate chips, and a delicate dusting of icing sugar. It’s a little bite of Sicily right here on the coast.

Gourmet goodies from Delicato Foods and family-run Euro Foods QLD add another layer of yum with pasta, cheese, and antipasti you can take away and devour at home.

For a refreshing sip, fridges are stocked with Italian-style sodas from FABIO, sparkling non-alcoholic spritzers from ETCH Sparkling, and a full range of CAPI sodas to suit every taste.