LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO

Deli · Grandview-Woodland

LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO

Deli · Grandview-Woodland

3

1791 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4, Canada

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LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
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LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
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LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
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LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
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LA GROTTA DEL FORMAGGIO by null
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Custom panini, Italian grocery, cheese, and prepared meals  

Featured on Bon Appetit
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1791 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4, Canada Get directions

lagrottadelformaggio.com
@lagrottadelformaggio

CA$10–20 · Menu

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1791 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4, Canada Get directions

+1 604 255 3911
lagrottadelformaggio.com
@lagrottadelformaggio

CA$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Oct 8, 2025

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@onthegrid

On the Grid : La Grotta del Formaggio

"This charming old-world deli is typical of Commercial Drive's distinctly Italian flavour. It's got delicious cheeses, both imported and local, cured meats and just about anything you'd want serve up on a rustic slab of wood to your dinner guests. But perhaps what L.G.d.F. is best known for, and creates line ups out their door, is their made to order panini (yes, that's already a plural). Thick stacks of meat, cheese and veggies held together by your choice of bread and always served with a dollop of continental sass from the staff behind the counter (I once asked which cheese had the least fat and got the response I deserved)." - Asterios Moutsokapas

https://onthegrid.city/vancouver/commercial-drive/la-grotta-del-formaggio
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@onthegrid

"La Grotta del Formaggio, Commercial Drive by Asterios Moutsokapas. This charming old-world deli is typical of Commercial Drive's distinctly Italian flavour. It's got delicious cheeses, both imported and local, cured meats and just about anything you'd want serve up on a rustic slab of wood to your dinner guests.But perhaps what L.G.d.F. is best known for, and creates line ups out their door, is their made to order panini (yes, that's already a plural). Thick stacks of meat, cheese and veggies held together by your choice of bread and always served with a dollop of continental sass from the staff behind the counter (I once asked which cheese had the least fat and got the response I deserved)."

Vancouver
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@bonappetit

La Grotta Del Formaggio | Bon Appétit

"GO HERE: for La Grotta’s legendary sandwiches, some of which are large enough to feed four. ORDER THE: full focaccia with the works, grilled (unless you are alone, in which case ask for a half, grilled). Choose your own meat from the packed deli case. If you can’t make up your mind, the salami and roast beef are tops (the latter is a $2 upgrade, but you’re worth it). Yes to the pesto mayo, yes to the oil and vinegar, and heck yes to the banana peppers and pickled eggplant. THE VIBE IS: just what you’d expect from a well-established deli run by Italian immigrants for decades: no-nonsense service; shelves packed with European imports of every kind, including hundreds of panettone around Christmas; a ceiling painted to look like the sky; and a large tub of Baci chocolates next to the register. PRACTICAL STUFF: Open every day: Monday to Thursday and Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit midmorning or slightly later in the afternoon to avoid the lunchtime rush (which includes many hungry construction workers). Hot tip: You can also call your order in! —Lindsay Anderson" - Condé Nast

https://www.bonappetit.com/city-guides/vancouver/venue/la-grotta-del-formaggio
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Arti Naidu

Google
Made with love! My friends and I visited on a Friday around 2pm and the wait was worth it. We got the Turkey sandwich a large to share which was the perfect amount. We substituted the mayo and mustard for the pesto mayo and balsamic glaze and added spicy peppers and it was 10/10. Then I saw the had a crema cafe machine and iykyk.. that’s a must! We also ordered 2 iced lattes and out lunch was so satisfying. Can’t wait to go back and try more!

Philip Raymond Lim

Google
I love La Grotta and had a 5* experience at the beginning. Sadly, the second time wasn’t as great so I had to notch one star down. There was one guy who did my focaccia sanwich and nailed it perfectly that made me go back the following day. However, the lady who assisted me the next visit wasn’t at the same level. When I requested for spicy, she didn’t quite understood. So I ended up having spices like pepper yet no spiciness to it. Saw the guy who did it the other day- it’s the Italian Bomba Calabrese. So got a jar from the shelf and ended up with a good sandwich at the end. We also got our favourite Amarettos and they’re ok. It’s by far one of the authentic feel paninoteca places in Vancouver!

Tom McDougall

Google
Went to La Grotta Del Formaggio with my son and we both had the Classico sandwiches — they were incredible. Fresh ingredients, great bread, and packed with flavour. You can tell everything is made with care. The staff were friendly and efficient, and the vibe inside felt like a little slice of Italy. Definitely a go-to spot for an authentic sandwich experience in Vancouver.

Justin Turner

Google
Busy place but fast service! Quality ingredients of all sorts. I ordered the meatball and macaroni & cheese sub. It was delicious, filling, a little messy but that’s to be expected. I’d say the only thing that would make it even better is if it was on a toasted bun or a garlic bread of sorts. But it was all still fantastic. My wife ordered the turkey panini and was also delighted with how tasty it was.

julia ave

Google
We came to La Grotta Del Formaggio for brunch and left very disappointed. From the start, the service was unfriendly, and we felt like we were just being pushed around the place with no guidance or care. It wasn’t welcoming at all. It took around 15 minutes just to make two regular sandwiches, which seemed excessive considering how basic the orders were. We got the Classic and Meat & Cheese sandwiches. The bread — labeled as Panini and Focaccia — honestly tasted like any standard sandwich bread. Nothing authentic about it. When we paid, no details were given, and we weren’t offered a receipt. We were charged about $40, but had no way to verify what exactly we were paying for. The food itself was bland and confusing. The sandwiches were grilled to give a crust, but the insides were still cold, which made for a weird and unpleasant texture. If they were using true, quality Italian ingredients, the flavors just didn’t show. Overall, the place felt overhyped — all buzz, no substance. Between the cold service, bland food, and lack of transparency, it’s not a place I’d return to or recommend.

Caroline Cunningham

Google
Stopped in at La Grotta after numerous recommendations today and it did not disappoint! I got the Calabrese Piccante sandwich which was so good. It had the perfect amount of spice and fresh ingredients. The lineup was about 25 minutes which people had told me about so I was prepared. Don’t go if you’re expecting a delicious handmade sandwich in 5 minutes. I’ll definitely be returning to La Grotta to try some of their other sandwiches.

Riley Batten

Google
This place is clutch 💯 The other day, with class canceled, myself and 2 classmates went here for lunch and it was my second time. Such a great choice, with a huge half of the sandwich (a quarter is in photo btw 📸 ) for lunch and the other half made up a sizeable dinner. Terrific value of food, honestly. Will be back soon for a lunch time treat (that also may become dinner 😆 🤣)

Morgan Hf

Google
Average Sandwich Experience I recently tried the sandwiches here, and while the food wasn’t bad, it didn’t live up to my expectations. I was hoping for a “wow” moment with bold flavors or something unique, but it was just okay. The ingredients seemed fresh, and the menu offered a good variety of toppings, but the final result felt underwhelming. It’s not a bad place if you’re looking for a quick bite, but if you’re after something memorable, this might not hit the mark. Overall, decent but not extraordinary
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Robin L.

Yelp
To be honest, I was getting really frustrated and borderline angry at how long it took to make a sandwich. But then again, this isn't just a sandwich shop - this is no subway. Coming to LGDF is an experience. Already situated in one of Vancouver's most cultural neighborhoods, the experience of getting your sandwich delicately prepared and toasted to perfection just adds to this deli style journey. Some days it will be a test of your patience, but once you make your order, take time to peruse around the specialty items they have. Meats, cheeses, pastas, and even special important sodas! Sandwiches were excellent, we tried almost every single one - having waited for almost 30min. The Classico was a favorite and the Bella Della Tella was great too. Stands true to one of Vancouver's best sandwich shops!
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Mika C.

Yelp
This place kept popping up on our Instagram and we decided to check it out. It really lives up to the hype! Possibly the best sandwich in the city. Classico was a delicious combination. The bread was fresh and toasted well. Wait time was very short. My boyfriend got the fresco and it was also stellar.
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Ashley N.

Yelp
Do not sleep on these sandwiches!!! It's a newly renovated, cozy spot on the Drive that's been around for years. While being a storefront for Italian goods, they also have a sandwich section in the back that is very popular during the lunch hour. I ordered a medium size meat sandwich when I came with a friend during a weekday lunch. There were maybe 4-5 people in line already. The service is very friendly and efficient, although it's quite unclear how to form a line. There isn't a distinct direction, and people start to pile up near the main counter. It seems to be more of an honour system. Nonetheless, ordering my sandwich fillings and toppings went by quickly, and I asked for it to be pressed (hot). This is definitely the way I prefer to eat my sandwich while also making sure the cheese inside melts The sandwich press takes about 15 mins, and in the meantime you can browse the store and pay up at the front. They call your name with your neatly packed sandwich when it's ready! There are a few bar seats facing the window at the front, and some outdoor patio tables and chairs. Good vibes!
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Andrea K.

Yelp
Amazingly delicious sandwiches that are super filling. Lots of great cheeses and meats to choose from, and the balsamic reduction adds yet another layer of complexity. If you can agree on a sandwich to get with someone else, the focaccia is worth getting because it's the size of 2 sandwiches for a great price. Our server was super friendly, and she made all four of our sandwiches all by herself in a reasonable amount of time. There isn't much seating besides four stools by the window counter and a bench outside, but it seems like most people take their food to go.
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Thu P.

Yelp
What a divine experience.. I built my own medium panini with mortadella, prosciutto, havarti cheese, pesto mayo, and veggie fixings. My partner and I shared half each, and honestly for me, half was enough for a whole meal. It was PACKED with meat. The flavours were otherworldly. The bread was grilled to perfection for my soft mouth. Maybe the best sandwich I've ever had. Days later I still crave it. When will I be back? Very soon I hope. (The prosciutto was a little salty though so I wouldn't get that meat again). Service was really great! The sandwich makers explained the process and pricing to us when we asked. You're allowed two meat types, any more is an extra $1 per meat. Allowed one cheese type, any more is also $1 per cheese. The ambiance is like any deli or sandwich shop. Lots of cool foreign products to browse while you wait for your sandwich. I wanted to try the candied chestnut but it was pricey.
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Dana S.

Yelp
This is a high-end Italian deli - they have a sandwich counter where you can have one of their classics or your own custom sandwich made to order, a selection of fresh meats and cheeses, and pantry items like tomato sauce, pasta, soft drinks, and chocolate/candies. They have also have coffee and fresh cannoli (they pipe in the filling when you order)! I was there at 3 pm on a Sunday and was a little surprised that there was a big lineup for sandwiches. There was a bit of a wait just by the nature of how many people were lined up, but I felt that they were adequately staffed and worked efficiently to keep the wait reasonable. I got lucky and grabbed an outside table just as another group was leaving, but most people take to go and all of the tables were constantly occupied. There was a family literally hovering over me as I was finishing waiting to grab my table which was pretty uncomfortable but of course not the restaurant's fault. I ordered a custom veggie sandwich and it came out really good! The selection of fillers you can put in your sandwich gives you lots of options and the custom system lets you add a lot without any additional cost (except certain items which have a small premium charge), so I felt like I had pretty much total freedom to create exactly what I wanted. And the selection of veggies and cheeses was super high quality (I didn't really pay attention to the meats but I'm sure it's the same). The bread was also fresh and soft even after coming off the grill. Just a lovely little sandwich. Fyi you can choose from 3 sizes of ciabatta or a half or full focaccia. The full focaccia is $22 because it's huge - meant for 2 people. I got a small ciabatta bun which was good since I just wanted something light, and the price was very reasonable. I also tried a cannolo which was really good too! As mentioned above, the filling was piped in just before they gave it to me, which keeps the shell fresh. This was also possibly the least messy cannolo I've ever eaten - the shell didn't crumble and it wasn't over-filled so the cream didn't spill out. I tried the "tutti frutti" drink as well which is basically fruit punch. I just wanted to give it a go and I'd say for me the first half was refreshing, but I don't really like sugary drinks so the second half got to be a bit much. But if you enjoy drinking juice then this could be good for you.
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Nicole G.

Yelp
I can't believe it took me this long to find this place! Best. Sandwich. Ever. I came by on a weekend and lined up for 45 mins. Worth it! I've been back once a week and weekdays are the way to go. There is a reason for the wait - sandwiches are sublime. The fresh bread, awesome selection of ingredients and sauces. I mean pistachios - yum! Standouts are the sun dried tomatoes, artichoke and the great selection of cheeses. I'm vegetarian but meat-lovers rave about the amount of meat they give you in their sandwiches. Don't delay and get to La Grotta!
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Aida K.

Yelp
My friend took me here & I had no idea how great of an experience I was about to have. With zero expectations, I ordered a small bun 'Il Ricco'. To say I had a 'spiritual' experience once I bite into this perfect sandwich is putting it lightly! The crunch of the lightly toasted yet soft bread was heavenly, as the taste blended into the delicious centre mix of the generous prosciutto, boccocini, mozzarella, spinach & olive oil filling. Normally I always save half my sandwich for later. But this case, I could not and finished it completely in one sitting. Dreaming of when I go there again, in person, for this spectacular sandwich! (Next time, I'll order the LARGE bun) La Grotta, I am in love! (find me on Instagram via @aida.loves )
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Jayden W.

Yelp
My girlfriend was craving sandwiches; she spent some time looking for recommendations, and this one was the most mentioned! Although it was a rainy day around 3 pm, Commercial Drive was busy. Good thing we found a free 1 hour parking spot across the street.  The store was very new; the staff said it was recently renovated along with new ideas. You can shop for many authentic Italian ingredients, such as cheese, sauces, ham, pickled veggies, canned goods, and many others! Since the toppings were quite overwhelming to choose from, the staff recommended we try the Full Il Classic and come back for other ones or build our own next time. We listened to her and subbed the cheese with fresh mozzarella. Watching her assemble the sandwich together was such a show! They use all kinds of pickled goods you wouldn't normally see; it just keeps getting fuller and fuller as she stacks them!  Since the sand was heavily "pickled" and filled with different hams, we expected it to taste overwhelming, but we were wrong! The pickled veggies blended in beautifully with the meat and cheese; they didn't steal the show, and I'd say it's just right. The first bite truly blew us away. The texture of biting from top to bottom, along with the sauces that wrapped around it, made me instantly understand why this is the top-rated one. We brought it home and air-fried it to see the difference; it became even better as the inside melted with each!  You need to try this, that's all I can say. Trust me!
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Riccia K.

Yelp
Fantastic Reno's , space looks so welcoming and much more open! On to the best part, the sandwhich deli Great selection of spreads, toppings and freshly shaved deli meat. A bit on the pricier side, my sandwhich today ran me $16.50 but that's inflation for you and it's definitely worth the cheeky treat here and there.
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Brian T.

Yelp
One of the best sandwiches I've had! Taste fresh and hot from the grill. $13.99 for a medium panini sandwich. Will definitely come here when I don't have subway coupons lol. There's limited seating, more of a take out place.
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AJ L.

Yelp
Went out of my way to try this place after seeing it on a couple lists, including a glowing review by Bon Appetit - followed their recommendation, full focaccia with the works, pesto mayo, oil and vinegar, banana peppers and pickled eggplant. And I wasn't disappointed! A very lovely space and the sandwich was pretty fantastic, a noticeable step up from any larger chain I've tried; I'm not even usually a peppers and pickles guy, but the peppers here were really, really nice. Sandwich very filling and flavorful, and the serving size lends itself well to keeping some leftovers on the side. If you're a fan of Italian sandwiches in the area, I'd say it's definitely worth a try!
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Cho L.

Yelp
....once again went to grab some sandwiches and this time I took the wife....same excellent service.....and same good sandwiches....keep it up!!!
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John P.

Yelp
Absolutely stunning sandwich. I'm excited thinking about it now. Probably the best sandwich I've ever had . I'll dream about this for years. I'll be back.

Gina C.

Yelp
First time in here and I have to say that the food, service, and ambiance was excellent! I've been wanting to try this place for a long time and it exceeded my expectations. When I ordered the large "Il Classico" on focaccia, I did not think it would be so much food but with this place, what you order is what you get. I spent $22 including a drink, and am saving the other half of the sandwich for later. What I really liked about this sandwich was that it was both hot and cold. Toasted focaccia with cold cuts and melted provolone. Simply amazing! I was going to take it to-go but decided to stay and eat-in. They have patio seating and a bar style seating area inside looking onto Commercial Drive. Great lunch choice and I will definitely come back to try something new!

Diego P.

Yelp
So this isn't your typical Italian sandwich sho. They sell some higher end name brand Italian food that you don't typically, find anywhere else. Now back to the chicken cutlet sandwich that I tried. It was very good but i wasn't like I have to try this again. It was more like this is very good but I think I'll try something different. Now that being said they have lots of different sandwiches and so there's lots to try. Would I go back? .... definitely! I lucked out and found some two hour paid parking right next to the store. Hope I find that parking next time to. Knock no on wood.
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Kathryn M.

Yelp
this was hands down the best sandwich i've ever had!!! i went for a picnic and decided to get some sandwiches from here before hand and it was absolutely heavenly!

Giorgi D.

Yelp
I didn't have account on yelp and registered to give it 1 star. The worst service i have ever seen. They charge for the sandwich 25$ but the service they give is absolute joke. Sandwiches are okay, just regular Italian deli shop. I wouldn't recommend this place
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Emma L.

Yelp
Stopped by on my lunch break, lots of panini options. Great to customize your own although I opted for the il Classico, small size was big enough for me! Will be back in the future.

Carson B.

Yelp
Best sandwich I've ever had! Did a happy dance. A must try if you're visiting Vancouver.
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Luke D.

Yelp
I don't understand the praise for this place. The sandwiches are just OK. The bread is fine and the meats, cheeses, and veggies are all only average at best. We're not talking top-shelf ingredients here. I might be spoiled since places like this are a dime a dozen in Chicago, but this was just one step up from Subway.

DoubleEh E.

Yelp
Still the best damn sandwich anywhere for my particular taste. Small, mortadella, provolone, lettuce, tomato, pickle, yellow mustard. Ten bucks. Duh! Lots of great Italian products both packaged and deli. Been going for about 40 years and it's still the best.
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Cecilia N.

Yelp
The BEST spot for sandwiches!!! We've come here a countless of times and it never disappoints. We got a full focaccia with Italian prosciutto, hot salami, provolone, lettuce, red onions, roasted red peppers, and banana peppers. It sure hit the spot for us.
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Ernie B.

Yelp
Few places in town will make a sandwich quite like these. You'll need to brave a line up and the sandwiches aren't cheap, but you could easily share one as a meal. I love the options for marinated eggplant, roasted peppers, pesto aioli, and many others that almost nobody in town offers. It's a destination more than it is an every day lunch spot but it's memorable.
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Jaakko P.

Yelp
One of the best Italian sandwiches I've ever had. Capocollo & mortadella combo on the pesto mayo and Dijon mustard bread with everything on it.
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Rowen S.

Yelp
This place made me the perfect sandwich that I'd love to make at home, but will never have all the ingredients on hand (nor will I have the kitchen space to buy a panini maker). It was the next best thing, and a nice alternative to some of the bigger name sandwich places downtown. Extremely satisfying when you're in the market for an 'it' sammich when it's too warm to labour in a hot kitchen, but you want something that tastes like it could be home made. I had the half focaccia panini with hot salami and havarti, and it was hearty and filling. Delivery was fast, and I'd definitely order from these folks again...maybe one day when I'm not watching my cholesterol and trying not to eat like I'm in quarantine.
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Ivy C.

Yelp
Eating a panini at La Grotta Del Formaggio was the perfect way to start off the trip to Vancouver! I was hangry upon arrival and desperate to keep me sane, my boyfriend rushed to Yelp for some sort of savior. And it led him right to La Grotta Del Formaggio - a neighborhood Italian deli located along Commercial Drive. The menu was simple allowing customers to customize their sandwich to their liking. I ended up getting the small capicollo with pesto mayo, mustard, Swiss cheese, most of the veggies (get the pickled eggplant) while the boyfriend opted for the mortadella with about the same ingredients except on a half focaccia. At the end they asked us if we wanted to make it panini style, in which I gladly obliged (after all, why add cheese without melting it all into gooey goodness!?) Soon we had the sandwiches in hand and paid a nice price less than $20 for 2 hefty sandwiches. Though hefty, the sandwiches weren't oily which was a nice touch considering it had so many ingredients. The cheese melted down acted as a kind of glue to keep everything from falling out so it was an easy sandwich to chow down, especially considering they were both so darn delicious! I would totally recommend giving them a try during lunch as for the price, swiftness, and quality, this little shop will go beyond your expectations.
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Angela Z.

Yelp
Right on what seems to be a busy street. Parked around the side that stated permit parking only. Very good price in my opinion for what you get. I paid about $10 panini with the $2 Montreal smoked meat included in that price. The meat and red peppers was a great combo and I've never eaten a sandwich that fast. It also filled me up until dinner! Also appreciated how they wrapped it up. None of the oil got anywhere in the car while I took it to my hotel. Definitely will swing by again when back I'm in town!
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Dave S.

Yelp
Voted Vancouver's Best Sandwich and I'm lucky enough to work on Commercial Drive walking distance from this mainstay. It's one of those things that you just have to try. For me though, I'm missing those days of yore where the sandwiches pictured by previous tellers actually existed. Don't get me wrong, I'm fully aware of economics, rising food costs, higher minimum wages and such, but for me the change in the product has been a bit disappointing. I used to dream about those sandwiches and fiend for them over the weekend. Monday's were a Grotta Craving satisfaction. But those cravings are gone... while still good, the food quality, selection and toppings are second to none. Try it like this.. Foccia, pesto mayo, Dijon mustard, Edam cheese, all the veg with mortadella and capicollo. That's my jam! I used to go here two to three times a week. Now, it's probably once every 2 or three months. I just wish they kept the serving portions the same, and raised the price accordingly, instead of raising the price and also changing the product. Just charge more and keep the product the same! For me the Grotta for now is a small l love
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Michelle P.

Yelp
We returned to Vancouver about 10 months later and once again had to partake in the best Italian sandwich ever. Half Focaccia Balsamic & EVOO Pesto Mayonnaise Dijon Mustard Spinach Tomatoes Extra Chopped Artichoke Salami Sweet Ham Provolone - - heated panini, cut in half. Busy place, great service; worth the line.
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Sarah V.

Yelp
AMAZING! I work at an essential service and we always Uber eats. This time they even labeled all the sandwiches which was amazing for our team! Thank you!
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Andrew S.

Yelp
I think most of the people that come here, come for the sandwiches, even though it is a cheese place. I haven't been here for a while so came to get a half focaccia. I got it with capocollo meat, provolone cheese, dijon mustard and a bunch of side ingredients ( spinach, chopped artichokes, sweet peppers, etc ). You can have it grilled or not. I'd definitely come back for another sandwich.
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Karen D.

Yelp
One of the best sandwiches I've ever had in my life. Hands down. It was a flavour overload! The veg toppings were incredibly fresh, the bread was soooo fresh and delicious, I ate every last bite!! I wish I had gotten a better photo, but it was taken hastily half way through eating!
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Ngan N.

Yelp
The size was a little disappointing as compared to the price though that smoked meat was heavenly good ! Good service and covid protocols

Lucas C.

Yelp
Overrated and overpriced. Most of the salami are Freybe brand, literally the kind that you can get at No Frills or anywhere else. The service is incredibly slow. There was no one ahead of me in line and I was ordering one cold cut. It took about 10 minutes to cut me several slices of meat, while various staff leaned on the counter. It's not their fault; I'd say there's an issue with training here. That's fine, I don't mind waiting for good stuff, but... The owner is majorly cheap. It is the first week of the new paper bag system in the city and the owner jammed all of my things into a very tiny paper bag, which ripped immediately when I tried to pick it up. I asked him for another one and he said he would need to run my credit card again for $.15. So that's the type of business owner you're dealing with. I'd rather stick to hipster local butcher joints or big box stores than return.
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Jasmina S.

Yelp
Best sandwich in Vancouver. I used to go to Subway to get my sandwich fix but I haven't been back since I've been coming here. There are so many options, ranging from the type of bread, to the condiments, to what you put on your sandwich. It's a great choice if you're vegetarian like me. Not only are there plenty of toppings, but plenty of flavour too. But the good doesn't just end there. There is lots of good imported cheeses, oils, pasta, drinks, and more. If you're looking to have a picnic or host a dinner, this is the place to go for good Italian options. Worth the line.
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Jennie Y.

Yelp
Holy shit, this beast of a sandwich took me three (3) sittings to finish. I had the whole focaccia sandwich with Italian prosciutto (+$2) and lots of fixings (lettuce, tomato, pickled eggplant, artichokes, hot peppers, pickles, you name it - I got it). It's a pricey sandwich at around $16 but since it was good for three (3) meals, I'm going to have to say that's not a bad deal. This place is amazing - they have a nice deli offerins all sorts of meat and cheese along with a back store that sells Italian products as well as kitchen tools (I'm eyeing you, pasta maker.) Highly recommended and I will definitely be back.
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Blanc F.

Yelp
- fresh sandwichs, can be toasted or not - grab a large size one and eat it over 2 meals
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Lina K.

Yelp
I went here on a random Friday because I heard their meatball subs are delicious and it sure was! The meatballs are big n juicy and the sauce is full of flavor. I ordered the large one and had to save the rest for later.. when later arrived, it almost tasted better. The service was friendly and you can find products to make a delicious charcuterie platter :) it's quite small so I would take a peek inside before walking in for Covid safety. Wish I remembered to take a photo but I guess you'll just have to see what they look like in person!
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Dimitry M.

Yelp
Great Italian spot on the drive. They make great sandwiches and a lot of cheese to choose from if that's what your looking for. I would say it's one of the best sandwich spots in town. Build your own and also a pretty good meatball sub option as well. Excellent lunch option !
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Andrea M.

Yelp
Top notch sandwiches made with love! Great place to grab lunch, and shop for dinner while its being toasted. Sandwiches are packed with ingredients, I can never finish one to myself. Love the half order options. Overall great experience every time.
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Lacie C.

Yelp
A neighbourhood favourite! I've never had a sandwich here, but this is where I come to stock up on cheeses for my own personal cheese cave :D Excellent selection and prices, and the staff are lovely and supremely knowledgable. I also buy chickpea flour and amaretti here as well, and confetti (candied almonds) because I am a twisted miscreant who likes to eat them as a snack. Oh, and they carry scopa cards if you are ever stuck without a deck :)
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Natalia R.

Yelp
No sure what all the fuss is about. I tried their panini because I really wanted a good authentically Italian panini. I researched online what is the best panini around Vancouver. So came to La Grotta specifically based on excellent reviews. Ordered two paninis with different breads and meats. Both of them were very dry, bread has no texture, therefor it was also extremely dry. So disappointed ( I also got a panini at Calabria, next door and it wasn't good either. Meat was very think and hard. Is there a decent panini anywhere? Let me know if you know please.
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Mayka W.

Yelp
Absolutely loved this place. Although it was "just" a sandwich, it blew all my other sandwich experiences away. I got focaccia bread with turkey, provolone, peppers, spinach, tomato, onion which was then panini pressed by one of their awesome staff. (They also have artichokes and olives and a few other options.) They don't skimp on the meat, the bread was delicious, and the ingredients are super fresh. It's also pretty cool how they cut the deli meat on the spot into your sandwich. If you're in a rush, I'd advise not to get your sandwich panini pressed since it takes a little while but if you have time to spare, I'd definitely recommend doing it.
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Sue G.

Yelp
The food is really good though the prices are steep. However, this is the SECOND time I ordered something through UberEats and they gave me something completely different that I cannot eat. I know UberEats refunds you the money, but I don't want to have to keep ordering and waiting for my food for an hour because they can't get my order right. Super disappointed because the food is amazing, but I won't be ordering from them again.
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William B.

Yelp
The best Italian sandwich I've ever had. I'm talking bread, spreads, meats, cheeses, everything. Better than Salumi in Seattle for portions and choices. Some purists might say there are too many options and it might overwhelm the palette - nonsense. This place also has tons of other cheeses, pasta, etc, but I've never bought anything but the sandwiches. Make sure you get the sandwich grilled!
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Alfred A.

Yelp
Best sandwiches in East Van. Love how you customize each to your liking from the veggies to the mayo and mustard. Even the smaller sandwiches as generously portioned. If you're a cheese lover, this place is heaven for you. Definitely a recommendation if you're on the Drive.
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Lauren L.

Yelp
One of the better Italian sandwich and food stores in town. I can't get my rapini sandwich here but I can get the next best thing. Try any of the sandwich combinations and you can't go wrong . Choose your bread, then choose your condiments, meats, veggies and decide if you want it o. The panini grill or just as is. It all depends on what you're feeling that day. The meatball sandwich is another favourite there. But that's not all. You can get your Italian deli meats and olives and cheeses there not forgetting to mention the olive oils and pretty much everything there I love. Gosh I wish I had a place like this near my home. Going there during the pandemic can be a bit tense, but patience is key and understanding you can just go in, buy and go. I can't wait to go back again!CapicolloDeli Sandwich
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Sasha N.

Yelp
Great grilled sandwiches, but have gotten smaller and pricier over the years. Half of focaccia is no bigger than a Portuguese bun, so don't waste your $11 on it.