This sandwich is literally the reason I downloaded this app. I've just spent the whole winter in Quebec and am now hitchhiking across Canada and decided to stay in Ottawa a few days. I booked 4 nights at the Saintlo jail hostel and when I came downstairs after a rejuvenating nap I saw that they had a list of recommendations sitting amongst a pile of other plastic sheets. Dirienzo's - the best ITALIAN SANDWICH in the city. I'm not really an Italian sandwich sort of person normally, maybe it was contributed by the burgeoning like for cured meats that I was acquiring after eating dried salami as my only source of food for the past week or so -- but who's going to pass up the chance to try the BEST of anything? I got there after taking 2 buses and was starting to become a bit concerned. I had $40 in my account and was hitchhiking across the country -- after all it was labelled the BEST in the city and that would normally come with a hefty price tag. When I first opened the door I instantly got greeted by the guy behind the counter, which made me feel welcomed and at ease. I looked up to view the selection of sandwiches that they had on offer and potentially the cheaper ones. I was surprised to see the sign that said $10 for ANY SANDWICH!! #booyah I was finding it hard to decide on which of the sandwiches to get since they all looked so appetising, but decided on number 16. The sandwich was massive for the price that it was. The bread was a perfect mix between durable so that it wouldn't fall apart in your hands, but soft enough that it was enjoyable, with the amount of bread contemplating he rest of the fillings just the right amount. I was pretty overwhelmed to be honest with how good it was. All of the ingredients including the lettuce (which I've found is usually the first thing places will skimp out on) were extremely fresh. I put in my coworker groupchat: "Anyone coming over across Canada after the season has to make a stop in Ottawa if they aren't already just to try one of these." Accompanied by a photo of my eyes watering with glee. My Nonna is always telling me how I need to learn Italian to be more connected to our culture and I've always just kindof brushed it off since I haven't needed to use it and we don't speak it much at home, but this has made me so proud to be Italian. As I continued to eat the sandwich sitting on a bench looking towards the city and the people playing basketball in the park, I found myself contemplating staying in Canada and raising my kids here in Ottawa so that they get to experience it themselves on a warm summer afternoon after picking them up from school. GO TO DI RIENZO'S 99999/10 read more

Been buying sandwiches here for 20+ years, this place is an institution. Get: Number 17 with everything and eggplant, Dijon mustard. Please. read more

Di Rienzo's is a must go to for a real fresh made Italian sandwich or homemade pasta. My mouth starts watering the minute I turn on Beech street, I can't wait to eat my Di Rienzo's. My husband introduced me to this place 34 years ago when we were dating, now our adult children love this place too. read more

I've been coming to Canada every year for longer than I can remember, and it's always a necessity that I stop here for what is likely the best sandwich you can get anywhere in the country. Di Rienzo's is a small deli tucked away in Ottawa's little Italy neighborhood but trust me it's no secret. There's always a line of the well informed, salivating with a grin as they wait (not long mind you, they move fast). The smell here is your first clue that your in for somethings delicious, if you weren't hungry when you arrived you will be once the aroma hits your nostrils. They have a selection of Italian pre-packaged products and various snacks, as well as cold drinks to complete your meal. That said, this joint is all about the sandwiches. They'll make whatever combo of meats, cheese, and toppings you want but if your unsure just pick one of the options on the board. I almost always get the #14. It's all the delicious Italian meats you could want plus havarti, lettuce, and mayo (exchange the regular havarti for the herbed havarti if you'd like). The bread is amazing quality as well. You really can't go wrong here. They have some sandwiches in a case ready to go as well, such as the steak which I hear is amazing. The staff here couldn't be more friendly and accommodating which is no small feat for a place this busy. There are no tables so it's takeout only and It IS cash only however they have an ATM for the unprepared. Oh, lest I forget, this amazing and quality sandwich is less than 10 bucks! This spot is a real gem and if you find yourself nearby you absolutely have to try it out. read more

Di Rienzo's - My number 14, all wrapped up to go. - Sandwiches Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

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Upon my recent visit to Ottawa, Di Rienzo was always on my list to revisit from my Carleton University days, especially if you are on a student budget. \ Di Rienzo is a nice small staple in Ottawa that offers humble and delicious sandwiches that will keep you full and satisfied! From a variety of deli meats to pick, you can pick and choose your sandwich combinations depending on what you are craving. I had to get the #1 special with Turkey and Hot Capicollo which starts with freshly baked bread serving as the base from the thick slices of meat with the right amount of lettuce, tomato and mayo. Be prepared to wait in lines as locals and many working professionals will queue in line and for good reason during the lunch hour! I can't wait to revisit Ottawa again just to have a sandwich from Di Rienzo's! read more

Di Rienzo's - Turkey and Hot Capicollo Sandwich - Sandwiches Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

Bread not fresh super hard to eat chocking hazard everything is like heated in plastic container I don't like it

They make a good sandwich! The bread is nice and fresh and the filling is a good amount too.

OMG, the sandwiches here are unbelievable! So good, so big! The bread was perfect, and the sandwich was packed with fresh, delicious ingredients. There was a long line up to get sandwiches, but the line moved quickly. They are fast and very skilled at what they do at the deli counter. We stumbled upon this place while looking for something else, and I'm so glad we did. What a pleasant surprise! We'll definitely return the next time we're in Ottawa. read more

I had heard they made the best sandwiches in the city and was not disappointed . The bread was perfection.

Easily one of the best sandwiches I have ever had. Fresh ingredients home made bread, outstanding. Friendly service I will definitely go here every time I visit Ottawa!! read more

Omg! I can't believe I have never reviewed Di Rienzos before! So my first time there was about 15 years ago when I was living in Little Italy (where Di Rienzos is). My landlord told me about the place, she said and I quote "the place is dirty, but the sandwiches are delicious!" Well, she didn't work in marketing, that's for sure, lol. So I didn't exactly run there after she told me about it, but one day I did decide to check it out, and let me tell you, the sandwiches are in fact delicious! As for the sanitation, I wasn't entirely thrilled with the fact that at the time they had open containers of different types of bread and you would stick your hand in the container pick a roll and hand it to the staff member who would use it to make your sandwich. Fast forward 15 years and we are now in the midst of the Covid-19 Pandemic, and this practice is no more, all the bread is behind the counter now and only the staff handle the bread. They also used to have all their desserts in open boxes on the counters, which in the summer attracted a lot of flies that would land on the desserts. So I can see why my former landlord held the opinion that she did. So Di Rienzos is a convenience store that sells a lot of Italian products. They have hot and cold sandwiches, pasta, and Italian desserts. They also sell samosas, which seem a little out of place, but hey, that's what's awesome about Canada, right? Cannoli and samosas side by side! Over the years I have tried many of their items. My favourite remains their hot Roast Beef sandwich (which I haven't seen in a while, hope they haven't discontinued selling it). It's a thick piece of oh so tender roast beef with a slice of mozzarella cheese. It's so good! All their hot sandwiches are pre-made and wrapped in plastic wrap. There's a limited amount made every day. Their Chicken Parmigiana sandwich is also delicious. Their cold cuts sandwiches are good as well. My favourite is #6, Turkey, Prosciutto and Harvarti Cheese. So 15 years ago, their sandwiches were $3.50. Now they are $7. Their desserts are fantastic. I love their Sfogliatelle Ricce (Lobster tail pastry), and Cannoli. And their samosas aren't bad either ;) Paulo is the owner and he's very friendly. He always calls me Signorina ("Miss" in Italian). Every single person who I have taken to Di Rienzos loves their sandwiches. This place is very popular. If you go around lunchtime be prepared for a lineup. There's a small private parking lot, but there will only be available spots during off-peak hours. Otherwise, there's street parking nearby. Di Rienzos is an institution here in Ottawa! read more

Di Rienzo's - Roasted lamb sandwich $7. - Sandwiches Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

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Absolutely best sandwiches in town! My husband and I go out of our way to grab one of these sandwiches! The staff are awesome! Love it here!

We didn't want to eat the pasta in our car, since it'll be a long drive, and saw a park right across the street with benches and a playground to eat at. However, the bathroom doors were locked. Eggplant with pork sandwich - 4 stars - we can choose our own bread for the sandwich, and it is pretty big for only $7. Desserts - 5 stars - see previous post. It is the best I've tasted, but they weren't selling that one pastry we bought the last time. They are only around $2.50 each. This morning, there was a long line of people coming by, parking on the side street to buy their products to take out. I'm going to miss this place. Oh, and CASH only. read more

Best sandwich! Fresh bread, quality ingredients - best salami I've had at a sandwich place. The sandwich is extremely big and I had to split it into two meals. Authentic Italian for sure. The staff is kind and chatty. The price for a sandwich is around 8.50. 10/10 recommend, make sure to add the spicy eggplant read more

Di Rienzo's - Sandwich #1 - turkey havarti lettuce tomato salami with spicy eggplant - Sandwiches Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

Di Rienzo's is the best. Lovely sammies, amazing pastas and delicious chicken and lamb dishes when they are there. Helpful staff and consistently kind and nice people working there. read more

It's a staple in Ottawa. You'd be hard pressed to find an Ottawa resident that doesn't know about this business, and their famous sandwiches. read more

The sandwiches. It's all good about the sandwiches. Sure, there's a grocery store where you can pick up pasta or jarred San Marzano tomatoes, but for me, DiRienzo's will always be about the massive sandwiches, just a bit too big to fit in your mouth, overflowing with fillings and flavour. Do yourself a favour, wait politely in line (they have done a decent job of securing their space for COVID protection) and order a #7. Or whichever of their sandwiches grabs your eye that day. read more

Still so awesome. Prices are up to $7 a Sandwich now. Still the best Italian subs in Ottawa. Nothing has changed since my previous review. More warm to go pasta offerings. A true hidden gem! read more

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I love this Ottawa gem. I was skeptical when my coworker suggested it. Lesson: Don't judge a book by it's cover. Delicious sandwiches made the way you like and super fast. I'll be trying the rest of the foods next time for sure. They have to go meals of all the best pastas. They also have coolers and freezers full of whatever else you might need. Seriously worth a stop. read more

Soooooo dirty. Bread in boxes on the floor. Something raw possibly in the fridge above cannolis. Floor has not been washed in months. Disgusting - have can anyone eat here? read more

Without a doubt, my favourite spot to grab a sandwich in Ottawa. Yes, it's a grab-and-go type scenario, yes, it's kind of off the beaten bath, but HELL YES it's beyond worth it. It almost feels like a true hidden gem - a tiny, convenience/Italian grocery store that seems a tad on the iffy side. However, once you get a look at their delicious ingredients and bite into that sandwich, all is forgotten. The bread is fluffy and crusty at the same time, the meat is plentiful and the cheese is divine. I usually go with the turkey and harvarti and I literally have to stop myself from going too often. It's kind of like sandwich crack. You know, if I'd ever done crack. Everyone's already mentioned the $5 sandwiches, and if you think it's too good to be true, it's not. I can't believe they can sell these masterpieces for $5. You can't even get a small sub at Subway for that, and they can't even compare. My favourite time to stop by? When the weather is nice and you can take a stroll around Little Italy, park yourself on a bench and watch the world go by. This is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in the city and there always seems to be something going on. So go, now. Before we all wake up from this dream that is DiRienzo's. read more

From the outside DiRienzo's looks like a hole in the wall convenience store. On the inside...it still looks like a hole in the wall convenience store! DiRienzo's is a perfect example of never judge a book by it's cover. It's the reason to go check out every place hoping you come across a hidden gem. The only thing is this place is a well known gem. DiRienzo's dishes up my favourite cold cut sandwiches in Ottawa. Even though I have a fantastic option in La Bottega less than a minute from my place I prefer DiRienzo's by a slight hair. You get to choose your type of bread, and then choose what type of sandwich you want with what toppings. Delicious, cheap and fresh! The store also sells fresh bread, pasta, deli meat and is stocked full of pantry items. read more

Best sandwiches in Ottawa. I eat here at least once every time I come to Ottawa. My cousin showed me this place a few years ago, I compare every sandwich to their sandwiches and nothing comes close. Their buns are amazing and the ingredients are top notch. Make sure you get the hot eggplant in oil. And if you want some more kick ask for the spicy Italian oil. They also have a great selection of products. I always get meat and buns to take home to try and recreate their sandwiches. I also got a large bottle of the hot eggplants in oil and hot Italian dressing they threw in(I bought a lot of stuff). Do your self a favor and go try one, you be a life long customer. PS. The staff are awesome and go out of their way to help. read more

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Believe the hype. Old-school Italian grocery store serving up high quality sandwiches for $5 each. I knew I came to a good place when I got there about 11:30 on a sunny weekday in May and there were 20 people in line. Be patient, the line moves quickly. Pick your bread and your sandwich by number. Get the eggplant and vegetables on it (your choice though). None of these extra charges for cheese here, its all included. The massive tarts and other goodies in front of the deli counter looked really good as well. Pastas and pre-made sandwiches also available at the cash. There are only cold sandwiches listed on the menu which was too bad because they were about to go toe-to-toe with the best of Toronto (according to me, anyways). Note - be aware there is nowhere to sit - its a grocery store - but there is a park across the street. Anyways, you can eat the sandwich as you walk although it can be (only a little) messy as you open it up. read more

Di Rienzo's - At home before cutting in half - Sandwiches Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

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So nice, I ate there twice! Cheap subs, nice cannolli, sits heavy in the stomach, but quite tasty. First time in, guy gave me a free cannolli, took my bf with me next day, he was equally pleased. read more

Di Rienzo's is a true Italian deli selling all types of ingredients right by Little Italy. Their sandwiches are amazing. I had the spicy chicken sandwich and the proportions were huge! So much bread, and meat, and lettuce and mayo. Make sure to bring cash as they don't accept cards or electronic payment. They do have a ATM which you pass by while in line for your order, a line which stretches all the way around the store and sometimes out the door. There are a lot of sandwich options available as far as what kind of meat and toppings you want on your sandwich. The service is super quick as well. Also think about grabbing some cannolis from the fridge beside the ordering counter. There's tons of other ingredients and foods to browse around. Definitely one of the coolest delis I've ever been to. read more

It's been around for ever, and there is a reason. It is simply the best sangritch in the city. Cash only, long lines, don't care. I LOVE Paolo's Paradise the best. Take some extra buns home, or pre made chicken parm or whatever. All deliscious! read more

Delicious, big Italian sandwiches. I like the spicy meats, so I get the ones that have the most meats in them. Very fresh! My favourite is still La Bottega's sandwiches, as I find they have more flavour. They also have Italian dishes pre-cooked and ready to take home, which I have not tried. I also enjoy their desserts, although some can be sweet (but still delicious, like the millefeuille)! read more

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Fantastic family run classic Italian deli making their own meats and dishes in house. We had a #16 (sopressata, hot capicolla, prosciutto, and provolone) and #6 (turkey & prosciutto) along with a beet salad. All was fantastic! My only regret is that we didnt have enough room to try one of their homemade pastas. This is a market and deli counter, so nowhere to sit and they only take cash. If you're near Ottawa, definitely drive out of your way for this sandwich....you'll thank yourself! read more

Exceptional sandwiches! Honestly, one of the best places in Ottawa to grab a quick bite to go. Staff is friendly and tremendously efficient. Highly recommend the #14. Make sure you have your bread and order ready when you order. Be sure to try the pastries! read more

I dont know how these guys do it. There'll be a line up down the block at lunch, but its always moving so its only a short time to wait for the most delicious sandwich Ive ever had (#14 with tomato). Be sure to grab yourself a fresh homemade samosa of they got any! Ive never had their ready to go pasta dishes, but they look amazing. A must go take out lunch spot in Ottawa! I love you Dirienzo's! read more

First time in the store today. Great staff, very friendly. Got a fresh sandwich and a pop for a reasonable price. CASH ONLY. No debit, there's a little ATM in the back if needed. Definitely would recommend. 9 people allowed in at once due to COVID restrictions. read more

Great sandwiches and a great value! The staff are extremely friendly and efficient. Would give 6 stars if I were able.

Haven't been for a good number of years, but the line up at lunch was always long and worth the wait.

Still the best sandwich spot in Ottawa. Stacked sandwich made with all the extras that you want to add. Still only 7$ for a monster sandwich. Good pasta dishes and mussels on Friday. Highly recommended read more

MMMMMMMMMMMMM!! I went to Di Rienzo's for the first time yesterday. I'm not going to lie - it took me a little while to find it. I walked down Preston but didn't know which way to turn on Beech, since it didn't look like there would be any businesses on that street. Well, I was wrong. I asked a man for directions and he pointed me up the hill, past the bridge. It's on the corner of Beech and Champagne. I had heard about their famous sandwiches when I was in university, and I don't know why I had never been before, but after craving a tasty sandwich for about a week, I decided that it was a perfect time to mission to Di Rienzo's. I knew I wanted a sandwich, so I didn't even really bother to look around at their other grocery, deli meats and cheeses, and breads. It was pretty busy, with people constantly walking in and out. There were over 20 different sandwiches, so I stood there for awhile, not knowing what to order. The lady and man working at the front were extremely sweet and very patient with me. She asked me if I was looking for anything in particular, and since I eat absolutely everything, she told me which ones were the most popular. I ended up ordering #14, which came with soppressata Calabrese, extra-hot capicollo, prosciutto cotto, havarti, lettuce, and mayo. I had also heard a lot about their spicy eggplant, so I asked her to add some to my sandwich. I was so surprised at the size! It was $5 even, including the eggplant at no extra charge, and it was huge! There was only one slice of havarti, but plenty of meat and spicy eggplant. The meat wasn't very spicy, and neither was the eggplant, which was peeled, marinated, and chopped up. The sandwich was very tasty and incredibly filling, mostly because of the large and crusty bread. It was a bit of a trek for me, but well worth it. read more

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The original is always the best. Often imitated, never copied. Best sandwich in town? YES!!!!

Sandwiches are a good value--huge for only $7-with a fair amount of toppings, and taste generally good but not spectacular like other people seem to find them (my standard La Bottega sandwiches). My bread was dry and crumbly which really detracted from how good the sandwich could've been. The meats and aubergine were adequate but not as flavourful as I like. The pastries were good--creamy and not too sweet. The shop is small and unassuming, which is fine if it didn't seem possibly unsanitary; I tried not to look at the open cardboard boxes of bread strewn about on the visibly dirty floor of the refrigerator area. read more

Ciao Belli! Having built a stable and committed relationship with La Botegga in the Byward Market, I was hesitant to try Di Rienzo, out of fear that it would not suffice my particular tastebuds. I finally made the trip with a few friends and have gone back a few times for their famous $5.00 sandwiches. From the outside, and even the inside, Di Rienzo's does not look like much. In fact it even looks a little bit rundown and unclean. However, what it lacks in appearances it makes up for in culture and deliciousness! The sandwiches are famous- so much that locals, tourists, police officers and government employees come from all over downtown to indulge. The line ups are huge, Often right out the door! There are a variety of deli meats, cheeses and toppings to choose from and let me tell you, they are not stingy! Turkey and Swiss literally FALL off of my sandwich they are in such abundance. The sandwiches come to an even $5.00, a price that cannot be beat in comparison to the rather steep cost of the lunches usually found on Preston Street. Often, the amazing (and friendly) employees will throw in a free samosa or delicious Italian dessert on the house as well! Di Rienzo also features ready made hot meals as well, such as lasagna (with eggplant and parmesan), ravioli or other various Italian pastas. These are perfect take away meals, and I purchased one to share on a day when I just could not muster up the motivation to cook. Pretty delicious for a little hole in the wall! The rest of the store resembles a standard convenience store: cough drops, kraft dinner, potato chips and 2L bottles of pop adorn the walls and isle, all at typically price points. Check out Di Rienzo's for your next lunch, you will be satisfyingly full and might find yourself talking with an Italian accent all day! Grazie ed in gamba tutti! read more

Di Rienzo's is not a restaurant, but rather an Italian grocery store. They sell fresh pastries, meats and various canned goods. What they're KNOWN for, is their 5$ sandwiches. For 5$, you can get a massive sandwich with a wide variety of meats, cheeses and/or vegetables. I don't know if the bread is vegan, but I often stick with the vegetarian varieties and they are AMAZING! You can also pick up many Italian baked goods and canned groceries. I love walking around Little Italy in the summer; I will often walk to Di Rienzo's and pick up a sandwich and an Italian soda and eat lunch in the park across the street. read more