Fresh In The Village

Fresh in the Village in Edge Hill is preparing for a busy Easter, with a range of hampers, gift boxes and grazing boxes available.

The popular delicatessen in the heart of the bustling suburb is looking forward to offering a range of culinary treats to delight your taste buds, including Easter eggs, Hot Cross Buns, biscuits and other sweets.

The deli quickly gained a reputation for some of its most popular items, paninis and fresh juices, however there is also a huge range of items from all over the world, as well as local Australian produce.

There is an astounding range of 80 cheeses from seven different countries – Australia, France, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, The Netherlands and Greece.

These include Roquefort, a sheep milk cheese from southern France, and French d’Affinois, a double-cream soft cheese made from cow’s milk.

There is also a huge variety of Spanish and Italian salami and cured meats available, including Wild Kangaroo Anise Myrtle, Wild Venison and Gin Botanical and Squid Ink and Black Truffle; and Pork and Native Pepperberry.

Fresh in the Village is a true foodie’s delight, featuring fresh breads, pasta and pasta sauces, risotto, Italian olive oil,

Indonesian curry sauces, Mexican tortilla chips, crackers, jams, chutneys and even ice cream.

As well as international produce, there is plenty of local produce available, from stockists including Baked on Red Hill, Cairns Honey, Rainforest Bounty, Jack Murat coffee, Ruscal’s chilli jam, Scents Journey and The Citrus Life.

You will also find fresh flowers, recipe books, wooden chopping boards and even candles.

Gourmet grazing boxes, made fresh to order, are an easy way to entertain family and friends, whether it’s a gourmet charcuterie box or a continental panini and sandwich box.

Gift hampers are perfect for every occasion – a special birthday gift, a ‘thank you’ present, something special to take to a dinner party or simply to put a smile on someone’s face.

Fresh in the Village is proudly owned and operated by Rosemarie Vitalone, who moved from Perth to Cairns for a lifestyle change three years ago.

Rosemarie’s aim was to open a deli that complemented other local businesses in the Edge Hill village.

“I wanted a touch of European flavour on the Cairns doorstep,” she said.

“The quality has to be there – when it’s quality produce you really taste the difference.

“Deliciousness is the key factor in our selection criteria. We choose only the finest products.

“Tantalising your taste buds and offering you that special experience is our number one priority.”

Rosemarie, who was born in Australia to Italian parents, is passionate about giving locals a taste of the food that she grew up with.

“Food brings people together – I love great food and entertaining family and friends,” she said.

“We have a lot of regular customers who make my day. I’ve formed a lot of good friendships with people and I watch their kids grow up.

“I think Cairns is really friendly, people look out for each other and say hi.

“I treasure our local support – it’s really rewarding and it’s been an exciting journey.”

2/137 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill www.freshinthevillage.com.au

Opening hours – Monday to Friday 8am to 5.30pm, Saturday 7.30am to 2pm