On a backstreet away from Glenferrie Road, Ray’s Sandwich Deli could be easily missed – but that’s kind of the idea. The laid-back coffee and sandwich spot is a hit with locals and uni students alike, whether it's to seek a moment of respite from the main road or nab a grab-and-go option.

Fresh sandwiches are Italian-inspired – the Continental with hot sopressa salami, mortadella, peppers, olives, stracciatella cheese and pesto is a standout. There are also handmade plain and blueberry bagels from Garden State Bakery served with cream cheese, butter, peanut butter, jam, avocado, Vegemite or smoked salmon. And not to be missed, a toastie menu that includes a tuna melt, a Reuben, ham and cheese as well as a triple-cheese veggie number.

The experience and menu both borrow from sandwich delis in New York, where co-owner Mariella Traina (The Counter) has spent a lot of time. Ray’s Sandwich Deli was built on years of hospo experience between Traina and brother-in-law Jonathan Mandel, who have run cafes and takeaway joints in Melbourne and Sydney.

Inside, sunshine filters through the north-facing windows (inspiring the name) onto a pink terrazzo counter designed by Flack Studio (which also designed Aussie pop star Troye Sivan ’s house), where sandwiches are assembled to order.