The second outpost of the Newtown favourite has not been around for long but has already amassed itself a fan club. The hotly anticipated sequel space comes courtesy of the same group of foodie talents; Porteno’s Elvis Abrahanowicz, Joe Valore and Mikey Nicolian. Following the success of the inner-west eatery, the team decided to branch out (or in rather) with a new CBD venture. It marks a new direction says Joe Valore; “our venues have previously been either city fringe or Inner West. We thought it might be interesting to explore a different market,” he says.

Well no doubt if you are a fan of the Newtown Continental you’ll again feel warmly about its CBD incarnate. But there are a few small changes to expect says Valore. “The CBD is more restaurant focused,” he explains, “a little more elegant compared to the rustic neighbourhood feel of Newtown.” The Mediterranean-influenced menu remains, formed around the seasonal produce at the deli and designed to be enjoyed with plenty of wine, or one of the venue’s batched and canned cocktails (the Mar-tinny is really a non-negotiable).

But there will also be some changes made to the menu says Valore. “It’s European dishes done our way, the food has a similar identity to Newtown,” he says. “We have taken some of our favourite dishes from Newtown (Gilda’s, Steak Tartare) and also introduced some new dishes to CBD such as the new house made pasta.” These pasta dishes include the likes of Mafalda (olasagasti Tuna, tomato and mojama), Bucatini (charred kale & macadamia pistou & reggiano) and the Rigatini (sausage, broccolini, cuttlefish and bottarga).

Alongside the venue’s famed canned cocktails (including recent new addition the Ameri-can-o), there will also be ample other booze to choose from. Thanks to more space to play with, Continental CBD boasts a much larger wine selection than the original; walls are lined with bottles that range from the fizzy right through to the more traditional. Devoted cocktail fans will also be pleased to note that Nicolian remains in charge of the cocktail curation, with tipple options continuing to celebrate around vermouths and house-made liqueurs.

Of course there’s always a cult classic on every menu and Continental CBD is no exception. Valore’s pick? “The tinned fish are still at the heart of CBD,” he admits, “but we have a new sandwich that is quickly becoming a favourite, ‘French Dip’. It has roast Riverene rib eye with mustard on a baguette, served with beef jus on the side.” Consider tomorrow’s lunch sorted.

Continental CBD is open from midday during the week, and from 6.00pm on Saturdays. 167 Phillip Street, Sydney; Continentaldelicatessen.com.au. @continentaldeli