Piccolo Panini Bar’s Limited-Time Pop-Up at W Melbourne
For four days only, Melbourne’s CBD will be home to one of the city’s most buzzworthy sandwich spots. Piccolo Panini Bar, which has taken social media by storm with its delicious, photogenic creations, is setting up a temporary home at W Melbourne’s Culprit café from 29 October to 1 November. The pop-up marks the first time this viral sensation has brought its famous panini beyond its Hawthorn location, and it’s shaping up to be much more than just your average lunch break.
Place mentioned
Culprit
From TikTok Fame to a Pop-Up in the City
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok’s food trends, chances are you’ve come across Piccolo Panini Bar. The small Hawthorn shop, co-founded by best mates Damian Iaconis and Stephen Hatzikourtis, has quickly built a dedicated following, thanks to their mouthwatering sandwiches and behind-the-scenes content that gives fans a glimpse into the fun, energetic vibe of the team. Their panini — from the Prosciutto to the Caprese — have become a viral sensation, with clips of their epic paninis and down to earth service racking up views and creating lines out the door.
Now, for a very limited time, they’re bringing their viral recipes to Melbourne’s centre, giving those in the city a chance to experience the hype firsthand. For four days, Piccolo’s full menu will be available at Culprit, with their team hopping on Vespas and heading into the CBD to serve up panini, music, and good vibes.
The Star of the Show: The Salsiccia
In true Piccolo fashion, this pop-up isn’t just about replicating the Hawthorn experience — they’re also debuting a brand-new creation. Introducing The Salsiccia, an Italian-inspired hotdog panino that’s as hearty as it is unique. Built on a toasted ciabatta roll, it features Italian pork and fennel sausage, provolone cheese, roasted peppers, caramelised onions, and a side of crispy rosemary potatoes. To round things off, it’s topped with Napoli sauce and basil, adding that final burst of freshness.
Whether you’re a die-hard Piccolo fan or a curious first-timer, The Salsiccia is not to be missed. It’s the kind of sandwich that’s destined to become a favourite — and maybe even the next viral hit.
More Than Just a Sandwich
While Piccolo’s panini are the star of the show, this pop-up is also about creating an atmosphere. A DJ will be spinning tunes from 10am to 3pm each day, bringing a party vibe to W Melbourne’s Collins Arch precinct. It’s a lunchtime event that offers a break from the usual routine — something to look forward to during the workday or a fun stop on a day out in the city.
For those who want to make the most of it, The Salsiccia will also be available on W Melbourne’s in-room dining menu and at their WET Deck poolside bar, making sure hotel guests don’t miss out on the experience.
Limited Time Only
This is Piccolo Panini Bar’s first-ever city pop-up, and it’s happening for just four days. So, if you’re in Melbourne from 29 October to 1 November, don’t miss your chance to grab a panino and join the party. Whether you’ve seen them online or are just hearing about them now, Piccolo Panini Bar’s limited-time appearance at W Melbourne is sure to be one of the city’s can’t-miss food events this season.
Event Details: When: 29 October - 1 November, 10am - 3pm
Where: Culprit Café, W Melbourne, Collins Arch
For four days only, Melbourne’s CBD will be home to one of the city’s most buzzworthy sandwich spots. Piccolo Panini Bar, which has taken social media by storm with its delicious, photogenic creations, is setting up a temporary home at W Melbourne’s Culprit café from 29 October to 1 November. The pop-up marks the first time this viral sensation has brought its famous panini beyond its Hawthorn location, and it’s shaping up to be much more than just your average lunch break.
