California Sandwiches

If you’re a fan of old-school Italian comfort food, California Sandwiches is a must-visit — and the original spot at Claremont Street near Manning is where it all began. This Toronto institution started in 1967, when the Papa/Bertucci family began serving up veal cutlet sandwiches out of their grocery store. Fast-forward a few decades, and their signature sandwiches have earned cult status — with good reason. I dropped into the original location (yes, the one), and immediately understood why they’ve expanded across Ontario. From the outside, it’s nothing fancy. But inside, it’s all about the food — specifically, the veal sandwich, which was outstanding. The sandwich is massive — freshly breaded veal cutlet, fried to a crisp and tucked into a soft-yet-sturdy bun, smothered in tangy tomato sauce. You can choose your heat level (I went with medium), and trust me, it hits just right. I also added a side of their house-marinated olives, which added the perfect briny counterpoint. Here’s a tip if you’re not rocking a giant appetite: ask for the sauce on the side. This is a game-changer. It keeps the sandwich from getting soggy — especially if, like me, you only eat half at lunch and save the rest for later. Dipping as you go lets you enjoy every bite at its freshest, and the leftover half is still crisp when you come back to it. Of course, if you’re going for the full, drippy, saucy experience as intended — no shame in that either. The original version is designed to be messy, hearty, and unforgettable. Prices are a bit on the higher side (especially if you start adding toppings), but the portions are generous enough to justify it — most people could split a full sandwich into two meals. Just note: the original location is cash only, so come prepared. Bottom line: California Sandwiches is a Toronto classic for a reason. Whether you go traditional or tweak it with a few smart tricks (like sauce on the side), the veal sandwich is a knockout — crunchy, savory, and deeply satisfying.

Thank you for reminding me what a family based restaurant is. Great friendly place. The sandwiches r exactly like they used to be when they first opened. Huge tasty and extremely messy. 😅

Just came by for a veal sandwich after so long and let me tell ya, the sandwiches got bigger lol. Taste of the veal sandwich is amazing. I recommend getting the sauce on the side so you can dip your sandwich. I’d definitely come back again. This specific location in my opinion is one of the better ones.

There are only a few places in Toronto that consistently deliver, and this is one of them. The best dang veal sandwich period.

Smashing IT! The #1 spot for a PROPER chicken cutlet sandwich! Love this sandwich to the moon and back. The chicken is always tender, and all the extra additions, such as the sweet peppers, are cooked to perfection. Great tomato sauce as well. With the right amount of seasoning. So many places refuse to cook with salt, why I have no idea. You need to cook and add salt to bring out the true flavors of the dish, and California sandwiches get that! Amazing customer service as well! 🥳

I ordered 20+ sandwhiches, drinks & toppings for a work meeting. The order was filled quickly and completely accurate. When I arrived, the owners were extremely helpful & hilarious to deal with. I would recommend this location to anyone.

Always a great place to grab a quick tasty big Italian veal sandwich when in the area.

The sandwich just wasn’t that great. It works for a fast food sandwich and is reasonably priced. The sandwich size is pretty big. I got the chicken sandwich and I just found that the sandwich itself was a little soggy and lacked flavour. It had very plain tomato sauce and the chicken itself wasn’t seasoned at all. Definitely wasn’t a bad eat but I didn’t find myself enjoying eating it

Toronto's Infamous California Sandwiches .. absolutely Mouthwatering & delicious, off a busy Dundas street W .. service is kind and friendly... ambiance is Soprano style.. Grazzi Miele ..

This place was recommended by my co-workers and it did not disappoint. The sandwiches were beyond massive and tasty. They have an effective system for dealing with the large numbers of customers they get. I think everyone should give it a try.

Was in the area and looking for a bite to eat. Saw there was a California Sandwiches shop nearby and decided to stop in. Hostess was a bit abrupt serving customers but as there was quite a a line up so I can sort of understand. This location has olive sides but doesn't have fries or onion rings which I sometimes get. Parking can be a bit of a challenge but if you circle around you can get parked on one of the side streets. Didn't realize this was Toronto's original California Sandwiches location until making this post. Interesting to read about this place as I quite enjoy their food. Glad I stopped in!

The original location!!! Looooove this spot. Been coming here for decades. Veal, chicken, eggplant all delish. I normally get the meat in a box with no bun but I needed some extra calories today as I'm getting too skinny. It's always consistently good. And the portions are freaking massive. They only sell the mini portions when you go into the store and they are cash only in the store, but if you get it on Uber eats, they give you the truck size sandwiches (and naturally you can prepay on your credit card). They pound their meat super thin and the breading is nicely plump. It's perfectly seasoned. I love the guy at St. Lawrence market in the basement but his food is bland. The next best to this would be San Remo, but they're a little bit far.

Claremont location is a classic. I've been going here since high school and haven't stopped. Love supporting a local, family business.

These sandwiches are literally the size of your face. I usually eat half for lunch and the second half is dinner. Really, really fresh all the time. Quality is A++.

The veal sandwich is simply the best veal sandwich you will ever find! The veal is tender, lightly breaded, crispy, and on a crusty bun with just the right amount of sauce to not get soggy!

They usually make one of my favourite sandwiches. I get the steak sandwich with extra sauce. I also like their salami side. Warning that it can result in a dud every once in a while. I've had them forget to put the sauce on the sandwich a few times. Really a bummer and I find it not a good sandwich without the sauce.

Post pandemic updated review My favorite spots in downtown. This location is the original location that started all the other franchises. I feel like when I go to the other locations the food quality isn't the same. When you go to this location it looks like you stepped back in time. But it has been remodeled so the interior looks pretty modern. The staff usually at the cash are usually younger. I always like to peek through the open window to see if the Grandma's are working. If you do see the grandma manning the kitchen station you can definitely have a great experience eating here. They are known for their Italian sandwiches especially the veal and the chicken. I usually go with the hot vealm Even with inflation the price for the sandwich is only 12 dollars. It is massive so you can technically eat it for two meals. The only caveat is that they only accept cash so please bring cash, if you didn't bring cash don't worry they do have a ATM machine. I have yet to find another restaurant that makes a better Italian sandwich than them.

One of the best parm sandwiches in the city. Get extra napkins cause it'll be messy. Both the veal and chicken are good . Chicken is still moist and not rubbery. Veal is the most popular but I slightly like chicken more.

I stand by my previous review. I haven't been here in seven years. There is more seating and it is way cleaner. They also sell their tomato sauce. Might pick up a jar...

Just bought 3 sandwiches. Chix & 2 meatballs and small olives. Meatball are not the same in taste, very bland. Chix sandwich is thinner now and also bland in taste. The biggest cheap thing now on m 50$ order. I get 3 serviettes.. Wow cut backs for less. Not like 25 yrs ago as I remember.

Disappointed. Ordered four sandwiches and only received one. The one sandwich that did arrive was meatball and was more like a meatloaf. We sought out this place because of previous experiences and unfortunately will never be back. Lost four customers.

Long time lover of California sandwiches... but like everything else the sandwiches are getting smaller and more expensive... very disappointed with our last order... thought California sandwiches was special and better than then rest... not anymore...

I have been eating their sandwiches since the 1980s. The best one always comes from the Claremont location. I think the reviewer that described the sandwich as too dry had a very rare fluke because if anything they sometimes put too much sauce on. Without question my favourite veal sandwich in the city!!!

It's hard to believe that I haven't written a review for California sandwiches thus far. This review is based on a recent takeout experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some coworkers decided that they wanted to order some sandwiches for lunch. My colleagues and I ordered their famous veal sandwiches. The sandwiches themselves were huge and similar to past experiences, I could only manage to eat half of the sandwich because it's just that massive and filling! In the past when I've ordered the veal sandwich and eaten it right away, you get a beautiful textural eating experience from the hot breaded veal cutlet contrasted with the soft Kaiser bun. However when I received my sandwich as a takeout order, the bread was flattened, the veal was chewy and the breading no longer crispy. Despite adding some extra sauce to my sandwich, the flavour of the sauce was considerably lacking in seasoning. I would have appreciated more texture and more salt or spices. In all honesty my meal was somewhat "meh" which was disappointing because my coworker really hyped this place up. I recognize that the takeout experience doesn't necessarily reflect the usual caliber of the sandwiches when served fresh but takeout experiences are a part of the current dining reality during the pandemic. Hoping to rewrite the memory of this mediocre California sandwich meal once it is possible to dine in and enjoy a freshly prepared sandwich.

My husband and I have a difference of opinion on this one, even though we ordered the same thing. Obviously the go-to option in a place like this is the veal sandwich which is covered in marinara. Personally, I found mine a bit dry which is always a huge turn-off for me. My husband on the other hand scarfed down all of his and then finished mine as well. And he's a picky eater (don't tell him I said that) so ‍ There was another location of California Sandwiches I used to go to and I remember having the most delicious Greek salad and lasagna from there, but sadly during covid those options were not available here. There is the ability to socially distance while in the queue (which is good bc the place got quite busy). So maybe the answer is for people like me to order extra marinara on the side? Again I say ‍ My husband (again on the other hand) was raving about the sandwiches for like days after. Just goes to show... taste is subjective and while I didn't really care for it, some others might. So I guess I'd say go and report back! Three stars for now.

The number one veal sandwich in Toronto. Hot veal with cheese and a Brio has been my go to for 45 years and nothing else comes close!!!

Love you sandwiches.. However, please take a look at the picture attached and explain: - are you assuming I'm a father and sharing this with my son? - this you version of providing me an appitizer before my meal? - is your sandwich cutter a former Tim Hortons bagel cutter who lost their glasses ? - does your kitchen need better lighting?

This is the OG of Italian sandwiches in Toronto! Start by family for family and has blossomed into a franchise. The other stores are slightly different however there is something about the original store that makes it better!! I typically order a veal with sweet or medium veal with cheese and mushrooms. Although sometimes I will order chicken cheese and mushrooms with a side of sauce then make pasta at home. Defiantly worth the wait if there is a line!

This sandwich was literally the size of my face. That paired with having it delivered to our co-working space is a five star experience. I opted for the veal because I was told it was the best thing on the menu. I always want to try the best thing on the menu. You can load it up with things like mushrooms and brocollini. The more you add, the bigger the sandwich. The bread is dusted with corn powder which I loved. This beast was packed with flavor and I could only finish one quarter of it before I was stuffed silly. It's messy but I managed to wrap some of it up to save as a late night snack. Highly recommend reheating it in the oven vs the microwave to maintain the crunchy breaded texture of the veal. Thanks for a great big tasty meal!

Holy guacamole. 5 stars for the biggest sandwiches I've ever seen. I was in town for a work conference and my colleague ordered a bunch of these sandwiches to our office for lunch. They specialize in Italian style sandwiches and have a small menu of 7-8 different varieties. I decided to split the eggplant parmesan sandwich with my colleague and add all the toppings on there - peppers, olives, mushrooms, etc. I'm so happy I decided to split it because eating just half of one put me in a food coma, wowza. The bread was so soft and the sauce perfectly complimented the eggplant parm... I was in foodie heaven. I'd love to try their chicken parm sandwich in the future if I ever get a chance to check this place out again. Beware, this sandwich gets messy real quick, so make sure you leave your manners at the door and equip yourself with plenty of napkins.

California Sandwiches is on the south west corner of Treford and Claremont which is in a residential area. This area is between Ossington and Bathurst (east/west) and between College and Dundas (north/south). Yes, the original California Sandwiches is in the middle of a residential neighborhood being that it's Little Italy and hidden from the main strip of Little Italy on College, this place is one of those best kept secrets type of places. The thing is it's no secret that this place has been around for decades. When I was working in the area as a courier decades ago I used to pop into this place and even though the inside has changed over the years with an updated interior, the outside building pretty much looks the same. I was meeting a friend here around 1pm on a weekday and while this would be my second sandwich in about 3 hours that was okay. The first sandwich coincidentally was also 9.50 and it was a breakfast sandwich in Kensington Market. This go around we're talking a large, really large old school veal sandwich but I did however add provolone. Toronto and the surrounding area have quite a few California Sandwiches now. I go to the one in Burlington once in a while. I know there's one on Winston Churchill in Oakville and the closest one to where I live is on the Queensway in Etobicoke. They've expanded out from their original location in Little Italy and it's one of those local success stories. I can say that across the other locations I've been to that their product is consistent. The quality, portion and offerings in general are pretty much the same at each location but there's something special about coming to the original. I ordered my usual which was a medium (heat as in peppers) veal with provolone. I mean for a sandwich that just breaks 10 bucks one may think hmmm that's kind of expensive. You would probably think that if you didn't know what you'd be getting after the order was ready for pickup. Yes it's a sandwich but it's not just any sandwich. This isn't some sort of cute little portion of a sandwich, NOPE. To put it into perspective the when it's wrapped and they give you anywhere from a half inch to an inch of napkins (you'll need them, trust me) this thing is probably 8 inches in diameter and weighs easily around a pound and a half to two pounds. If you don't believe it, go there and order one. The sandwich is cut in half but each half is what could be considered its own sandwich and now you're just eating 2 regular sized sandwiches. These things are big, get it? They're not small. Generosity is a thing at this place. You won't get cheated, buy 3 and compare the 3 and see if one is smaller than another and good luck with that. This place has been doing the same thing so long that they're just the masters of what they do. Layers of veal, melted cheese, lots of sauce all on a huge Kaiser type roll. Huge. Unlike the other locations that I believe take other forms of payment, I'm pretty sure this location hasn't changed and they only take cash.

Perhaps I'm looking for something with a bit more pizzazz. In high school my classmate hyped this place up, as well as my brother. I finally had a chance to try it after 10 years of talk and me not living in the area. There was a deal for $5 but alas I couldn't pick up that day. We ordered on Uber Eats as thats become the norm during this pandemic. We ordered 2 veal sandwiches with pepper & onion on it. I will say for the size it's great value. The cutlet is around the size of an 8" pizza - it was big enough that I split it into two meals. Taste wise, it's a classic Italian sandwich. Tomato sauce, Kaiser, and deep fried cutlet. The sauce wasn't overly tangy but had a bit of herbs added I believe. Veggies were cut into strips and a bit overdone in my opinion though this could've been a result of it being wrapped and the steam. Cutlet wasn't crispy by the time I got around to it but the meat wasn't super tough. Not bad but I'm on the fence about returning

California Sandwiches is a Toronto staple Italian sandwich shop. Serving all the classics you can expect (veal, eggplant, chicken, steak) with significant portions at a really fair price, it deserves the reputation it has garnered over many years. Nestled on a quiet street, it was difficult for me to pick between the veal and the chicken, though I was convinced either choice would be a good choice. Okay, no more suspense, I went with the veal. This may be one of the most generous portions of veal I've seen and somehow it was double layered and perfectly matched the size of the bread (which, to be clear, is a generous size). The sandwich is saucy, can be adjusted for spice levels, and you can add all the fixings for small additional charges if your inclined (mushrooms, onions, cheese, etc.). Despite the size, I finished every bite and couldn't have been more satisfied. Chicken it is for the next time I find my way to California Sandwiches. Logistically, everything was efficient, friendly and COVID-friendly and you won't be waiting too long for your sandwich.

I was really craving an Italian sandwich, I hadn't had one in a while. This place hit the spot, and the portion is large too.

This place has amazing Italian style sandwiches. I'm mad that we don't have anything like this back in the States. I always get the veal sandwich with rapini added and it's perfect every time. Be warned that you will probably not finish this as it is massive. Veal sandwich with rapini: 9/10

Been almost 20 years since last visit, I miss the dingy old interior. A veal, chicken favourite. Tried the steak, it's very greasy, also excellent taste. Great staple to the area.

Fantastic what more can you say about California sandwich. I really love there sandwiches. They are huge and very filling, half the time I can barely eat the whole thing. Besides sandwiches you can get salad, pasta or dessert. The best place to get them would be the original location which is at 244 Claremont St. or the one on the Queensway. Another great location would be the one at Dufferin near Castlefield Ave. It is a bigger location than the original and offers a lot more options than the original location would. I had tried their Yonge St. location a few years back and it sucked. I received a soggy sandwich. It didn't taste good at all. The other locations do a much better job at making a great sandwich. I also tried the chicken sandwich and it was dry and super soggy. I was watching the women at the back make them and it was awful. She kept going from the fryer to another counter to put the sandwich together and all I saw was this dripping oil all over the place. It must have been a skating rink back their. From what I know the Yonge St. location doesn't exist any more. I like that they have different options to put on your sandwich from cheese to peppers to mushrooms the chose is yours. A great place to pick up a very filling sandwich. I highly recommend this place.

Simply amazed by the taste. Veal, steak, chicken, meatballs, sausages and veg options. Veal and steak are amazing. Super cheap for the value you will get. Must try.

If you haven't tried California Sandwiches where have you been? Love the veal. Sandwiches are huge so you could technically make two meals out of it though I never have. Get an order of olives and salami on the side.

This was our first stop in Toronto after a long drive from NYC. By the time we got there, we were told (a bit sheepishly) that all they had left were minis. More than enough for a normal sized appetite. We had the sausage sandwich and the eggplant. So good!

What a kind of warm food!!! The place is a little hard to find which located at a small road across Dundas street. But absolutely deserved. It's like a family run restaurant which provides various kind of Italian sandwich. The price is really cheap for such a great portion of sandwich. Veal is their popular one, looks like Schnitzel, fried sliced pork. The crispy texture is best and not greasy. I ordered one mini sized sandwich, but it was not mini at all!! It was normal sized bread with one layer meat. For me, it's enough! Their sauce is made of real tomato. Simple but delicious. TIPS: Order Sauce on side!!!! Thus, you will have one sandwich and one tomato soup :P I enjoyed my eating style, dipping sandwich into the sauce~ Amazing!! All the staff are very friendly and offer children candy for free to welcome chrismas~

My usual is veal hot with onions. Been coming here since I was born. My family has been coming here since they opened. The original location is the best location out of all the California Sandwiches.

This is the grossest thing I have ever eaten! I just left the Dufferin store where I ordered a chicken sandwich with sauce on the side. The chicken was rubbery, the breading falling off the chicken and sauce was bitter. I saw quite a number of customers and am shocked at what some restaurants pass off as food and the low quality food we are willing to accept. I'm so angry with myself that I didn't return the sandwich. Maria M

This was the bomb. I first tried one of these sandwiches 6 years ago while on holiday in Can. It not this store - I'd dreamed about a repeat visit since. Walked in and ordered the veal with mushrooms and cheese and medium sauce. The staff released that I was going to feed it to my three yr old and suggested the sauce was too hot. They invited me to order something but I knew he couldn't eat such a giant sandwich. Mins later they come over with a free roll dipped in sauce and cheese as well a meatball on a plate. What excellent service and a very nice gesture. As for my lunch it was delicious and worth the cab fare and 6 yr wait. I also tried my son's meatball and it was light and fluffy - and soooo tasty. Pay these guys a visit today. Great service and great sandwiches.

Cali Sandwiches hits the spot like no other Italian sandwich I know of. I religiously order a medium veal w/ onions and cheese and sauce on the side. Night last, in addition to ordering my sauce on the side, I found the best way to eat this now. I pour the tomato sauce on the sandwich but I don't flood it, and then as I eat I still dip it. This is the perfect way for me to eat it and it ensures I don't have tomato sauce rolling down to my elbows. I could eat here easily 3 times a week, and my record is 1 veal and half a chicken sandwich.

3.5 Stars A friend had been telling me about this place for a while and our first attempt to try this place out was met with disappointment since California was closed. Therefore, we went in a second time, a week later, with an excess of anticipation buildup. And California did not disappoint! Highlights: - Excellent chicken sandwiches! I recommend adding mushrooms and cheese. The sandwich comes with TWO breaded, deep fried slaps of chicken breast, your toppings of choice, and mild, medium or hot sauces, all served on a pretty huge, fresh, italian bun (but not huge enough to cover all of that chicken!) - Generous portion sizes! Tips: - Do exactly as the ladies (aka sandwich nazis) at the cash tell you if you want your sandwich! - Forget about the veal. Not the best in my opinion. Order the chicken instead. Bottom line, I highly recommend California. And the only reason they get 3.5 stars instead of 4 is because they are a bit too expensive (after adding a couple of toppings the sandwich will cost you at least $10.) and the fact that they are running their show like sandwich nazis. Food: A Service: B+ Food presentation: A- Atmosphere: B Prices: B- Recommended? Yes

After hearing some raves about these sandwiches, I had to check it out. I had a chicken sandwich (other options include veal, eggplant, steak,etc.) The sandwich is large, yet heavy on bread and Italian sauce, which can become soggy rather quickly. They offer soft drinks (Pepsi products) and waters in bottles/cans only. The restaurant... * is cash only, yet has an ATM. * has ample seating for families and mid-sized groups

I love you. That's all there is to say. No ambiance other than the ammount of people watching that you can do here because it's always packed. Here's what I get Eggplant parmesan with cheese onions and hot peppers. I have tried all of them. Even as an avid meat eater, the eggplant kicks ass. But if you want a veal parm sandwich it would be crazy to go anywhere else. Winter is coming and this is the b

Get the eggplant sandwich. And the olives. The eggplant sandwich has everything you like about the veal sandwich without the gamey taste and moral guilt. And the olives are the f*cking best. Two sandwiches and a large olives comes to $20.50 and the two of you will be stuffed all day.

HUGE sandwiches. I ordered the chicken sandwich with onions and peppers and it was really good! Only downside was that I ordered to go and waited till I got home to eat it, and by that time it was soggy and falling apart. If possible, eat it as soon as you can, or it gets messy. But I'll take responsibility for that one, otherwise it was a really good sandwich.

Best veal sandwiches on the planet!!! They never disappoint. California's is pure magic

FUCK YEAHHHHHH CALIFORNIA SANDWICHES!!!!! Chicken is definitely better than the veal, because it's a thicker cut of chicken and even more tender. Also ALWAYS spring for the sauteed mushrooms and cheese, can't go without the cheese. Cheese separates a real sandwich from a sad one

Ewww gross very underwhelming and honestly nothing to brag about. Tourist trap I'm from brooklyn this was insulting actually is how bad the sandwich was. Plus this whole chocolate milk thing with it is just no bueno.

All the very best, in classic veal, chicken, italian hoagies. Turn up the heat at your own risk.

We came here under a friend's suggestion as he had been to one of their other locations before. I had the chicken sandwich which was spot on. Right amount of meat and spice. The service was good and it felt really like a home place. The only knock (which is small) is that it is cash only. Oh well. Just gives me a reason to spend some CAD while in Toronto.

Sandwiches here are out of control. From looking at the photos, I thought they would be too heavy for me, but they are pure perfection. I see why this place is so popular... I'm also glad that I followed the advice of other Yelpers and added cheese and mushrooms to my chicken sandwich... really mind-blowing.

The meatball sandwich is gross!!! The portion is big, but very gross... The steak sandwich looks good but taste not very good.... I suspect the reviews are fake....