Black Camel — Restaurant in Toronto

Black Camel is the best sandwich shop in Rosedale and one of the best in the city. The fact that it's thrived (let alone survived) on Yonge Street for 20 years now is a testament to its enduring quality.

Same with the paucity of options on the menu. They do sell chili and some sides and desserts, but the main attraction is the sandwiches. There are seven in total: beef brisket, pulled pork, steak, pulled chicken, fancy BLT, BLT + chicken, and roasted vegetables. I've tried about half the menu at this point, not because any of the options are unappealing to me (they all seem delicious), but because I find it difficult to stray from my favourites.

My two favourites happen to be the pulled chicken and the roasted veggie. For the purpose of this review I ordered a roasted veggie sandwich, so I'll give a detailed review of that item.

The sandwich is substantial, with a very large bun and ample ingredients. The bun is so large, in fact, that the sandwich can be a bit bready if you don't add additional sauces and toppings (you're entitled to two sauces - everything beyond that costs extra). The buns are delicious and personally I like a bready sandwich so it's part of the attraction from my perspective, but I appreciate that it's not for everyone.

The contents of the roasted veggie sandwich consist of three toppings you can also add to the meat sandwiches: sun dried/roasted tomato, roasted eggplant, and arugula. The tomato is amazing, it brings a perfect umami flavour given the absence of meat. The eggplant is roasted to perfection and gives some substance to each bite (again, compensating well for the lack of meat). Finally, arugula is a perfect complement to the flavours from the tomato and eggplant - no surprises there, given that you can commonly find this trio together in salads. For this sandwich I chose the hummus and horseradish as my sauces. To be honest, I felt like their flavours got lost in the sandwich - next time I would opt for a bolder flavour, like Dijon mustard or their house BBQ sauce.

A few considerations worth mentioning. First, seating is somewhat limited both inside and at their tables outside when weather permits. If it's a nice day there's a lovely park basically next door, but otherwise I'd suggest taking it to go. Also, there always seems to be a line of people waiting for food so I'd suggest calling your order in ahead - I walked past probably 10 people waiting for sandwiches when I picked mine up today.

One last thing: the staff have been friendly and polite whenever I've visited, which I always appreciate.

Overall, Black Camel serves one of the best sandwiches in Toronto and is worth going out of your way to try (and conveniently, it's located next door to Rosedale...

Review: Black Camel - A Hidden Gem for BBQ Sandwiches Stepping into Black Camel, you're immediately struck by its unassuming nature. This isn't a place that relies on flashy decor or spacious dining areas. In fact, it's quite the opposite: a very tiny shop with little in the way of elaborate decorations. The focus here is clearly not on the frills, but on the food, and that's a decision that pays off in spades.

The ambiance is decidedly no-frills, almost utilitarian. You might find a few simple tables, but seating is limited, and the space is designed for efficiency. Don't come here expecting a leisurely, sit-down dining experience with intricate interior design. Instead, prepare for a quick, focused, and incredibly rewarding culinary encounter. This minimalist approach allows the true star of Black Camel to shine brightly: their exceptionally good BBQ sandwiches.

The menu, like the space, is concise, but what they do, they do masterfully. Each BBQ sandwich is a testament to slow-cooked perfection. The meats – whether it's the tender pulled pork, the smoky brisket, or the juicy pulled chicken – are consistently cooked to perfection, falling apart with ease and bursting with rich, savory flavor. The BBQ sauce, often a make-or-break component, is expertly balanced, offering a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes without overpowering the natural taste of the meat. The buns are soft yet sturdy enough to hold up to the generous fillings, and the accompanying coleslaw or pickles add a crucial textural contrast and a touch of acidity to cut through the richness.

What Black Camel proves is that you don't need a grand setting to deliver an unforgettable meal. Their dedication to quality ingredients and expert preparation of their BBQ sandwiches is evident in every bite. It's a place where the food truly speaks for itself, and it speaks volumes.

In summary: If you're looking for a quaint, intimate dining experience with elaborate decor, Black Camel might not be your first choice. But if your priority is phenomenal, no-nonsense BBQ sandwiches served from a charming, efficient little spot, then Black Camel is an absolute must-visit. It's a hidden gem that consistently delivers big, delicious flavors in a small,...

Black Camel in Toronto is a hidden gem that satisfies even the most discerning sandwich enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the city, this cozy sandwich shop is a must-visit for those seeking the ultimate flavor experience.

From the moment you step inside Black Camel, the enticing aroma of slow-roasted meats permeates the air, instantly whetting your appetite. The menu is concise yet tantalizing, featuring a carefully curated selection of sandwiches that are sure to impress. Whether you're a carnivore or a vegetarian, they have options that will leave you craving for more.

Let's talk about the star of the show—the sandwiches. Each creation at Black Camel is a work of art, meticulously crafted with attention to detail. The bread is fresh, perfectly toasted, and acts as a sturdy vessel for the generous fillings. The slow-roasted meats, such as the succulent pulled pork or the mouthwatering beef brisket, are tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The vegetarian options, like the roasted vegetable and goat cheese, are equally impressive, offering a burst of flavors with every bite.

The toppings and sauces at Black Camel are what take these sandwiches to the next level. From the tangy mustard aioli to the zesty barbecue sauce, each component complements the meats or vegetables, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

The staff at Black Camel are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft. They are more than happy to guide you through the menu, provide recommendations, and accommodate any dietary preferences or restrictions. The service is efficient, and the atmosphere is relaxed, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely lunch.

The prices at Black Camel are reasonable, considering the quality and portion sizes of their sandwiches. They offer excellent value for money, and you'll leave feeling satisfied both in your stomach and in your wallet.

In conclusion, Black Camel is a haven for sandwich lovers in Toronto. The exceptional flavor combinations, top-notch ingredients, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere make it a standout establishment. Whether you're a local or a visitor, make sure to add Black Camel to your culinary bucket list. You won't be...