In Conversation with Big Vic Deli

We caught up with Kon from Big Vic Deli at Queen Victoria Market who continues the legacy of the business his Greek migrant parents founded in 1964. Read along to find out what he recommends this Christmas.  

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and Big Vic Deli?    

My name is Kon Kardaras, and I am the owner of Big Vic Deli, a business my parents started in 1964. Migrants from Greece, they saw an opportunity to open a deli specialising in Greek and imported goods. Over the years, so much has changed. Since taking over, I’ve expanded our range to be more international. We now stock produce from France, Italy, Spain, and, of course, Greece, as well as fantastic Australian-made local products. 

What’s your most popular product, and why do you think people love it so much? 

At Queen Victoria Market, traders often focus on having a unique selection of products, and at Big Vic Deli, our strengths are cured meats and cured seafood. We specialise in offering items that are a little edgy and stand out. For example, we have duck salami made with real Australian duck breast and squid ink and truffle salami—artisan-level products that are both impressive and perfect for everyday use. 

Another reason people love our produce is the quality and care that goes into them. Many of our pork salamis are made with nitrate-free preservatives, using natural extracts like beetroot or celery instead of chemicals. It’s this combination of innovation, quality, and authenticity that keeps customers coming back. 

We’re excited to announce that Big Vic Deli is about to go online on our own website! In the next few weeks we will be offering Christmas Hams to our local customers, namely refrigerated delivery to metro-Melbourne and online ordering to schedule collection from our shop at the Queen Victoria Market.

Can you share a special memory you have of working at Queen Victoria Market? 

My parents started their business here in 1964—the same year I was born! One of my earliest memories of the Market is from when I was just a little kid, barely tall enough to see over the counter. I remember standing on my tiptoes, trying to reach over to greet customers, wanting to mimic Mum and Dad’s hard work and enthusiasm. 

This place has always been so much fun and feels like it’s in my blood. Those early moments shaped my connection to the Market, and I’m proud to continue the family tradition here today. 

Which of your products are especially popular over Christmas? 

Christmas always seems to come around so quickly, doesn’t it? At Big Vic Deli here at Queen Victoria Market, Christmas hams are a huge part of our trade. We’re proud to be representatives and distributors for Otway Pork free-range hams—a customer favourite every year. 

We offer a variety of options to suit everyone’s needs. Our range starts with small nugget hams, which are about 1kg, perfect for smaller gatherings. Then we have the boneless traditional hams, weighing around 2-3kg, which are great for glazing. For those who want the classic centerpiece, we offer traditional half-leg hams, approximately 5kg, or whole legs, around 10kg. 

Additionally, we specialise in cured meats and cured seafood. Come by and select from our range of Italian style, French style or specialty salamis. Or enjoy our wild caught smoked salmon, other cured seafood as smoked herring, smoked mackerell, Australian caught octopus. We also offer a range of salmon caviar and the best on offer, beluga caviar.

How has being on Queen Vic Market Online impacted your business? 

Queen Victoria Market Online, accessible through the Market’s website, is a fantastic addition for us. Being part of the platform has allowed us to connect with customers who can’t visit the Market regularly—or at all. 

We offer a full range of our products online at reasonable prices, and they’re delivered straight to your door. It’s super convenient—orders close at 10 am on the same day as delivery, so customers can still plan fresh, last-minute purchases. It’s been a great way to expand our reach while maintaining the quality and service we’re known for. 

What does Christmas look like for you and your family? 

Christmas for us is a bit of a recovery day—let’s be honest, the Christmas trade is an onslaught! But we still make it particularly special. Our day doesn’t usually start until around 11 am, giving us a chance to enjoy a well-deserved sleep-in. 

The morning begins with unwrapping presents, which is always a highlight. We don’t have much time to prepare a lavish feast, so it’s more of a low-key celebration. But what makes it truly special is having the whole family together, enjoying each other’s company and making the most of the day. 

What do you love most about being a trader at Queen Victoria Market? 

Queen Victoria Market is an amazing place—not just to work but to run a business. What makes it so special is that it’s made up of so many family businesses. Knowing that really gives you a different perspective and appreciation for the Market and its community. 

I actually came to the Market after years in the corporate world. When the opportunity arose to take over from my parents, I jumped at it, and looking back, it was the best decision I’ve ever made. 

This place is so much fun. It’s not just about the customers, though there are plenty of them—it’s also about the traders. We’re like a big family here, and turning up every day doesn’t feel like work. It’s a unique and vibrant environment that I’m grateful to be part of. 

Explore Big Vic Deli at Queen Victoria Market on Tuesday and Thursday through to Sunday location in the Dairy Produce Hall, Shop 25-28, or shop their range of fresh produce on Queen Victoria Market Online.