Nestled away on an industrial estate in Battersea, you will find a hidden gem of a makeshift supermarket. Dubbed by founder Deke O'Connor as a 'posh Costco', the refrigerated warehouse, just a stone's throw from Battersea Power Station, sells restaurant-grade food for wholesale prices.
How It All Began
The concept started six years ago when Harvey & Brockless, a food supplier to Michelin star restaurants, was unable to sell products due to restaurant closures during Covid. Consultant Deke and his wife Trish decided to sell the wares to the public for the first time to keep sales going, and it has been a resounding success. Despite hitting more than two million views across social media platforms, it still feels like one of London's best kept secrets.
The Shopping Experience
When you arrive at The Deli Warehouse, you will find a small alleyway leading up to the building door, with very welcoming staff. First, you need to suit up with a high-vis vest and a hairnet, as you are walking into a giant fridge. There are no barcodes on the food, so you are given a clipboard to write down the code, name, price, and quantity of each item. Then you shop your heart out. No membership is required, unlike Costco, which can cost £42 to £84 per year. The entire warehouse is not open to the public, but a cordoned off area about the size of a Tesco Express is available. Bring your own bag to carry your goods.
What Does It Sell?
You won't find fresh fish or fruit and veg, but everything you might expect from an artisan deli. It is a foodie paradise with brands not available in local supermarkets. Notable products include sirloin steaks from Jack's Creek, voted the world's best wagyu for two years running by the World Steak Challenge, at around £29 per steak or £97.50 per kg. The deli sold 2,000 kg of these steaks last month, accounting for 20% of their entire turnover. There are also 2.5 kg salamis for £37.25, whole sides of smoked salmon, CackleBean eggs for £3, and a 900 g block of Kolios Feta for £11.75, compared to £17.55 for a similar amount at Waitrose.
Cheese Selection
Harvey & Brockless began as a cheese wholesaler in the 1970s, supplying Harrods and The Ritz. You can buy nearly 2 kg of clothbound cheddar for £37.25, Taleggio for £5, and over a kilogram of Ogleshield cheddar for £16.75. A similar selection at The Ritz would cost £33, while three small cheeses at Vivat Bacchus cost £18.60.
Bulk Buys
There are bulk options like a giant tub of Tyrrells Veg Crisps for £14.50, a 1.2 kg tub of Piccalilli for £16, and a 1 kg tub of Dell Ami green pesto for £8. A five litre bottle of olive oil is available for £50. These purchases are perfect for hosting dinner parties or for aspiring chefs.
Is It Worth a Visit?
Absolutely. This friendly small-scale operation is a true hidden gem with delicious restaurant grade food at decent prices. It is a short walk from Queenstown Road station or Battersea Power Station underground, and street parking is available. The Deli Warehouse is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but open Wednesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.
