Little Italy

The one place in Toronto where finding a stiff caffè, the finest gelato, TO's best sandwich, underground acts, insanely delicious grilled octopus, and haggis (if you’re into it) is never more than a minute away. This particular Little Italy is considerably younger, cosmopolitan, and friendlier to creatives than its sister hood in NYC. And probably a little less obnoxiously Italian (which in this case is a good thing). In the midst of its own renaissance, a number of interesting and unique restaurants, bars, and shops run by some of Toronto’s up-and-coming have opened up and reinvigorated this once recently sleepy street. Just make sure to bring an empty stomach and a full wallet to get a taste for the real Little Italy.

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California Sandwiches

Address
244 Claremont Street
Website
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A trip to Little Italy wouldn't be complete without a visit here. Many would argue that California Sandwiches is the geographical centre of Little Italy, but wouldn’t argue with it being the capital in spirit and stomach. Famous for their sandwich, it’s been voted, unequivocally, the BEST in Toronto. The first location opened here in 1967, and when you walk in little seems to have changed. Then you see a sandwich being prepared at the window seconds before it’s wrapped and given to you and you understand the magic and glory that surrounds this restaurant. 2 pieces of thinly cut and perfectly fried veal, steak, sausage, or eggplant on a fresh ciabatta bun. The Sweet Peppers, Rapini, and Provolone cheese are great adds, among others. They accommodate vegetarians too. It’s homemade sauce drips everywhere - you’re going to make a mess so just own it and revel in it. For $9.25 you get a whole lot of sandwich and you won’t be hungry for a while. (It’s also one of our hangover cures.)

California Sandwiches
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California Sandwiches
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California Sandwiches
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California Sandwiches
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Monarch Tavern

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