Deli-cious

European deli meats are still not a common sight in Metro Manila. Usually imported, and therefore expensive, they are carried only by large supermarket chains and a few deli shops located in upscale malls or neighborhoods. Earle's Delicatessen is unusual in that it makes its own sausages and deli meats. This is from their branch at The Columns Ayala. Owned by a brother and sister tandem, Earle's has a German master sausage-maker as a consultant who comes here twice a year to teach their staff how to make deli meats authentically. And when you buy any of their sausages and hams, they will ask how you want it cut: thin, thick or shredded. It was the first time I encountered such a thing. This Earle's has nothing to do with the UK franchise—the brother in the team just happens to be named Earle too.