Timmy and Lilli, the owners of Joe’s at Sabella never set out to build an empire or chase accolades. Their mission is simpler and far more powerful. They’re here to make a difference, one nourishing meal at a time.
Opening on May 22, their new venture, Joe’s Deli + Soup Kitchen, isn’t about fine dining or flashy interiors. It’s about creating a space where kindness is served daily and where a steaming bowl of soup can mean the world to someone doing it tough.
“We want to be remembered for the people we’ve impacted, not the things we’ve accumulated,” Timmy said, and it’s this philosophy that has become the beating heart of their new venture.
The space itself reflects this humble mission. Forget plush seating and curated interiors, Joe’s is raw, real, and refreshingly honest.
Mismatched chairs, a spray-painted “soup kitchen” sign, and a simple promise of good food and a warm welcome.
“You come in, grab a feed, and sit down on a wobbly chair. That’s all there is to it,” Timmy adds.
With winter fast approaching, visitors and regulars can expect a menu packed with soul-warming comfort food. Hot soups served in mugs take centre stage, perfect for chilly days when only something hearty will do. But don’t be fooled; there will be some hidden gems on the menu too.
Joe’s “secret toasties” are set to become cult favourites. Think pappardelle bolognese tucked between crunchy bread, braised rabbit with chilli curd, and rich seasonal flavours like truffle and taleggio.
Each dish is designed to deliver the kind of warmth that lingers long after the last bite.
The menu will evolve daily, driven by what’s fresh, local, and inspiring.
The team are already dreaming up dishes like fragrant Hainanese chicken soup, smoky Mexican pozole, and slow-cooked seasonal stews.
“I just want to have fun with it and make food that tastes amazing,” Timmy said.
And in true pay-it-forward spirit, Joe and Lilli are inviting the community to get involved.
For just $20, you can purchase a meal for someone doing it tough.
“People spend money on so many pointless things,” Timmy says.
“Why not put it towards buying someone a meal instead? It’s a small act, but it could change their whole day.”
There’s will be no bookings, no frills, and no extra staff, just Joe and Lilli working long hours to keep things simple and heartfelt.
“Grab a soup, sit down if you want, and that’s it. There’s no need for anything more,” Timmy explains.
At Joe’s, food goes beyond sustenance. It’s an act of care. Their signature Thursday Community Hour offers free hot soup and bread to anyone in need with no questions asked.
“We hope this becomes more than just an hour,” Timmy says.
“We want it to inspire other businesses to give back too. The world’s a better place when we lift each other up.”
As the doors prepare to open, it’s not the numbers or reviews that Joe and Lilli are excited about. It’s the chance to create genuine moments with the people who walk through their doors.
And while there are a few fun surprises planned, including their tongue-in-cheek $100 communion wine, it’s the simple, human connections they’re most looking forward to.
If this little deli and soup kitchen takes off, they dream of opening one in every capital city. “Then Global domination.”
Joe’s Deli + Soup Kitchen is an offshoot of the already existing venue Joe’s at Sabella, with limited operation hours in comparison to the main venue (Thurs-Sat 12pm-4pm).
Joe’s Deli + Soup Kitchen
Where: 133 Main St, McLaren Vale
When: Opens 22 May, 2025
For more information, click here.
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