Head and shoulders above the rest, California Sandwiches set a new standard for sandwich shops that few others meet. High quality fresh chicken, veal and eggplant, nicely breaded and sauced, in generous portions.
The place itself is much nicer than you'd expect from a sandwich shop. Spacious, well-lit and comfortable, it's a good choice for dining in. And unlike most sandwich shops, you can enjoy a beer there - a couple of domestics ($4.40) and imports ($5), including two Italian beers. They also offer an impressive selection of carbonated drinks, including top brands like San Pellegrino and Brio.
Quality comes at a cost: the large sandwiches are $9.50. Adding cheese, onions, mushrooms and tax will bring your total to almost $14. But then again, a 12" ham sandwich at Mr. Sub next door will cost you over $10, and comparing the two is like comparing Dom Perignon to a $5-a-gallon spritzer.
I do, however, wish they'd offer a choice of bread. The buns they use are okay, but don't really hold up with the thick, creamy sauce, and you end up with a tasty but wet mess in your hands. I'd gladly pay an extra $0.50 for a thick crust Italian ciabatta, as I do at Hero Certified Burgers.
And while there are no handicapped parking spots nearby (and only one in the entire 230 spot plaza parking lot!), the half dozen spots right by the door are spacious and usually available, and a ramp provides for easy wheelchair access. They'll also be happy to...
Read moreThis spot is located near the end of a plaza after you turn in. When you walk in you get a classic Italian bakery / espresso club vibe. There is a pungent smell of fresh veal and your mouth starts to water. I recommend walking in to order as all phone orders have at least a 30 min waiting period so if your grabbing only a couple of sandwiches it’s better to walk in as your wait time on a average weekday evening will be 5 -10 minutes . Efficient and friendly service. Place your ride at the till and take a seat to brace yourself for an awesome sandwich. I go for the classic veal with jalapeños . If you like spice the hottest open with jalapeño is great. Veal is made fresh and the bun baked and delivered same day. The sauce is mild and not too tangy. They cut the sandwhich in half to make it easier to eat. It is messy and you will get sauce on your hands and face. If you have never eaten an authentic Italian veal sandwich before you may want to tuck a napkin in your shirt and be prepared to bite and adjust the sandwich filings as you go. If it comes apart or the bun gives out the veal , it’s ok the ingredients taste delicious deconstructed as well. They offer other options other than veal , maybe I’ll try them .. one day .. nah bring...
Read moreMonumental delicious sandwiches. Fantastic veal & chicken sandwiches. Good cheeses and topings. I went to the original (and back then, the only) location in Little Portugal when I was a kid. It was a mom & pop operation in a quaint setting with unbelievably delicious food. I had never before had anything like it and still remember the look and taste today of that first veal sandwich on a bun with cheese and peppers. Inside my friends and I would be surrounded by walls plastered with signed pictures and newspaper articles of Toronto Blue Jays & Toronto Argonaut players. This location is a modern version, tasteful decor and seating but a bit cold (temperature wise too), I might be wrong but I find the price point a bit high, and the calorie count the same. Yet, this is the closest location to Hamilton and for those that don't know the original this is a nice place. Ample free parking, easy access into & through the restaurant, nice washrooms, very friendly and helpful staff. Good place to take a friend for lunch. You won't be hungry until dinner time as this is one big delicious hot sandwich! Great, now my mouth...
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