Just one look at that sun-faded sign on Yonge Street and you know immediately: this place has character. Mamma mia--they don't make signs like that anymore. No, signore. And that sign points to a true midtown institution: a warm, old-school Italian shop brimming with tempting cheeses, cured meats, and all sorts of intriguing groceries. But let's be honest--like many people, I come for the sandwiches. My husband likes to mix it up, but I'm forever loyal to the house special: shaved prosciutto and spicy salami, buffalo mozzarella, hot peppers, fig jam, sliced tomatoes, finished with balsamic and olive oil. You walk in, choose your bread (ciabatta, naturalmente), and they hand it over tutto pronto. It's a big, bold, mamma mia of a sandwich--and I absolutely love that mix of flavours. Molto bello! read more

Did you know that sandwiches usually taste better when someone else makes em for you? The psychological effect of not knowing exactly what and how much ingredients go into your sub, so that each bite is a nice surprise. Well, that sure is the case here. La Salumeria's house special layers various kinds of deli meat, cheese, hot pepper pickles, tomato slices, and fig jam onto your choice of bread, and each mouthful bursts with a combination of flavours. Spicy, salty, sweet...! Just perfect. One sandwich usually lasts me 2 meals. I love looking around the store while waiting for my sandwich to be ready. There's a variety of deli meats, cheeses, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, spreads, etc. All neatly displayed and clearly labeled. It's nice to see a store that feels like a true neighbourhood mom & pop shop, with Carlo the owner recognizing regulars and exchanging friendly banter. Feels cozy While I am not a regular, he's still quite friendly. read more

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When I saw some of the sandwiches from La Salumeria from social media, I was like how good could it be? I came here around 9am on a weekday and I was the only person there so I did not wait long. I got two ciabatta buns and asked for the House Special. I waited around 5-10 minutes for Carlos to assemble the sandwiches. We had the sandwiches when we came home and we were blown away! The amount of meat and cheese was generous and the sweet and spicy sauce was chef's kiss! Everything worked so well together. These sandwiches are a bit expensive $16.50 but I guess for Toronto prices it's common. I will definitely return to try their other sandwiches and breads. Takeout only, La Salumeria also carries a lot of Italian grocery items. read more

La Salumeria - House Special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Back again and the secret is out apparently. Was here on a Sunday and there was a long line. Apparently this has been featured on influencer sites and now a lot of people wanted to try it. Chatted with a few people and they all seemed new. So a few tips: 1. There is no menu. The only thing that is standard is "the special". Copying from "Taste of Toronto" : The Special" is a Carlo Celebre original and somewhat of a sandwich legend in its own time. It consists of layers of paper-thin slices of prosciutto, spicy salami, creamy buffalo mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, spicy peppers, fig jam, balsamic vinegar and olive oil, all piled on top of one another and pressed between two slices of whatever bread you pick out. It's fantastic. I get this nearly all the time. 2. If you don't want the special you can make your own. Or ask for a creation by the staff or Carlo. He'll ask you a few questions and make something amazing. He hasn't failed me yet on this. 3. You choose your bread from the front directly across the cashier. You then queue and hand the bread to the deli staff when you order. Enjoy! read more

La Salumeria - Long line. Damn you influencers. - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I thought this spot was abit of a secret until I saw it on everyone's "hidden gems" list! This is one of my favourite sandwich shops in GTA/Toronto, once you're inside the shop head to the back and you'll see all their fresh meats, cheese and bread ready to be put together! The store feels very "homey" and comforting, like a ma and pa little shop. Staff and the owner are super friendly and were such a pleasure to speak to. I always go with the house special for 15$. If you can't handle too much spice you can ask for less peppers. The sandwich: Fresh bread, sliced layers of prosciutto and spicy salami, buffalo mozzarella, tomato slices, sweet fig jam, Italian hot peppers, balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Just make sure you give yourself enough time because they close at 6pm! Highly recommend! A must try read more

La Salumeria - Full sandwich house special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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It feels like sandwiches are the go-to thing in Toronto, so I'm on a quest to find my favourite sandwich. Price $13-$15 per person Items ordered: -The house special on a ciabatta bun Food Quality (Menu, Taste, Portion size) - 5/5 If you've read my reviews, you know I love a small menu and a place that specializes in a few things. This place is EXACTLY that. They have a few sandwich options but the House Special is the one almost EVERYONE goes for. Portion size is MASSIVE, if you're hungry you can finish the whole thing and be stuffed but if not, you have 2 meals. The Taste, don't get me started! I love salami sandwiches and this might be the best one I've had. The meat is great quality, the mozzarella is fresh, the peppers add some acidity but the star is the fig jam. Atmosphere - 5/5 Not your typical takeout place. Just an old school grocery store/deli market vibe. You go in and pick your bread, bring it up to the counter and order your sandwich. Love that it's very simple and a small place. No indoor seating, so recommend grabbing it and going to a park near by! Service - 5/5 Everyone was SO friendly. There is a bit of a line but it moves quick and it's a great vibe as you wait! Will I go again? Are you kidding me? OF COURSE! Excited to try a different bread, but will definitely get the house special again Lash's Recommendations -House Special read more

La Salumeria - House Special on ciabatta bun - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I've lived in midtown for the past few years and can't believe I only just tried La Salumeria recently!! There was no menu so I was a bit confused on if they actually served sandwiches, but looking at all the past reviews, I knew I had to get the house special. That sandwich is NO JOKE, it was incredible - the jam, the cheese, the cold cuts - worked in perfect harmony. 10/10, no notes. The staff was also very friendly and welcoming!! read more

La Salumeria - House special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

3.5/5 There's so much hype around this place and I finally came during a weekend lunch. La Salumeria is mainly an Italian grocer but they sell these sandwiches in the back, where you pick the toppings and bun you want your sandwich on. We got the house special which has a whole bunch of things on it I've since forgotten. It was a heffffty sandwich.... was it the best Italian sandwich I've ever had? No I think other Toronto places top this. But it's a solid option if you're in the area :) read more

La Salumeria - the house special sandwich - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Blog TO has named their house special among the best sandwiches in Toronto. Once you walk into this Italian shop that has been open since 1984, you pick your bun. The house special is comprised of layers of meat, cheese, tomato, fig jam and some spicy elements. The flavours blend seamlessly and make every morsel decadent. Service was very prompt and attentive. Try and go when it's not lunch, as it gets very busy at the noon hour. They also sell a variety of things, including olive oil, tapenade, etc. read more

La Salumeria - House special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Delicious!! Very filling, come early if you want the best pick of bread. A line up everytime we have been here, the grocery store also has a large selection of oils, cheese, meat etc, read more

La Salumeria - House special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Amazing Italian sandwich. Ordered house special and it got really nice quality of meat and cheese on a bread you can choose from the store. The fig sauce really goes well in the sandwich and enriched the texture and the flavor. Huge portions, felt like it is enough for 2 meals. There is a huge line though, really recommend read more

La Salumeria - House special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Tasty sandwiches in this store, wasn't known well but after some places published about it, it's not so secret anymore. Now at lunch time, there is a long line for the cheese/meat/sandwich counter. Most people order the house special, a meaty salami/pastrami sandwich with mozzarella, fig jam, roasted red pepper, lettuce. I like it without the salty meat, so I get the cheese sandwich with the same toppings! They also sell bulk food and frozen food (like margherita pizza) and other pantry items read more

La Salumeria - Cheese sandwich $13 - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Went to all my favorite spots this weekend. For lunch on Sunday was La Salumeria. This sandwich hits every single time. One thing to note: this place is getting busier as it gets more popular. There was a huge line on Sunday at 2 pm. Go early if you want a sandwich! read more

La Salumeria - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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La Salumeria is a small mom&pop grocery store with its faded storefront sign on Yonge near Davisville that could easily be overlooked if it wasn't for my sister suggesting I should go here. It is close to where I regularly get my teeth checked on and pulled anyhow to make for an after-appointment lunch stopover. As a grocery, it is full of usual staples and imported Italian goodies, including shelves full of different olive oil selections. I was directed more to try their sandwiches however, which I hear is well raved. Which would also explain the lineup inside facing the deli counter. The process of getting a sandwich isn't publicized in the shop, so will outline it here as others have done: 1. Pick a bun. Available selections in cling wrap including ciabatta and kaiser bread can be found at the shelf opposite the cashier near the door. 2. Head to the deli counter. When it's your turn hand over your bun and make your request including any desired modifications. 3. Take your completed sandwich to the front for payment. Grab a drink at the back too if you like. The 'house special' sandwich is not publicized in the shop either amongst the offerings, but is certainly a must-try. Thick and packed with thick mozzarella, prosciutto and salami, balsamic vinegar, hot pepper and fig jams... my oh my, the savoury and spiciness hits you with heavenly decadence. Nothing else like it. Mind you as a small grocery there's no in-house seating. Feel free to find a park or street bench nearby, or perhaps head to your car or the Farm Boy up the street for a sit-down meal. read more

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The nicest staff and an absolute gem of a place. My husband loves their sandwiches and we get our best quality EVOO and balsamic here. read more

La Salumeria - Custom Sandwich - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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The house special is absolutely marvellous with spice and flavours and excellent meat to cheese ratio. Fantastic Saturday afternoon lunch pick up read more

I finally went to check this place out on a whim one day. It was early (1130) so it wasn't busy yet. I was prepared to be intimidated and confused about how to order but everyone was super friendly as soon as I walked in. I got the house special and it more than delivered on its promise of being two meals. They absolutely pack that sandwich with everything you could ever want in a sandwich. Toronto is having a pretty big Italian sandwich moment! It's not a cheap sandwich at $15.50 for the house special at least but like I said, enough for two meals. Everyone was so friendly and the store itself had such a nice family feel to it. read more

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This place is so good that I logged into yelp for the first time just to write this review. The House Special is life changing. The salty and spicy cured meats paired with the fresh tomato, creamy mozz, and sweet jam are the perfect combination. There's so much packed into each sandwich, which ensures some bites highlight the meats, others the cheese, and some the sweet jam. The uniqueness of each bite is groundbreaking in a sandwich. The man behind the counter is awesome. If you're trying this place for the first time, it's worthwhile to ask for his recommendations. Will be back every time I'm in the area read more

La Salumeria - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

It was my first time in there recently, and the staff helped me out on how to order. I ended up getting the house special and it was delightful and a very memorable experience. read more

La Salumeria - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Definitely understand the hype and why it's rated in the Torontos best sandwich list of 2024. Grab your bread first before going to the line - something I didn't know until we were already in line. Good thing the two teenagers behind me were talking loud and I was able to catch onto this I tried the house special and understand why it is so special. It's a simple sandwich, but the flavours all together are super tasty. The dynamic of the fresh mozzarella, tomato and variety of meats really go hand in hand It's nice to see shops like this in Toronto, as they are pretty rare to come by. The shop itself is a food emporium and deli, with a sandwich spot in the back. Service goes by quick especially on weekends, so there isn't much interacting to do. Is it the best sandwich I've had in Toronto? Honestly, maybe. The sandwich is simple but I loved the quality of everything and the hot pepper jam really topped things off. Could I make this at home? Probably. But this is still a place I'd recommend for others to try! read more

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this is hands down my new favorite italian sandwich in Toronto. This is exactly the kind of gems that I love finding, and keeps me going looking for yummy food. if the storefront doesn't looks like it's been broken into, I don't want it. i'm so glad I got to try the "house special" -- generous slab of fig jam, prosciutto, spicy salami, tomatoes, la bomba spicy sauce, and a thick slab of mozzarella. the owner is also so so friendly and made our experience memorable! here's what ur gonna do to have the perfect sandwich day: 1. pick ur sandwich bread from the selection of fresh baked bread (we chose ciabatta) 2. ask for the house special sandwich 3. grab a bevy and a mini fresco gelato 4. walk to oriole park 5. muck it on a park table and watch everyone walk the doggo read more

La Salumeria - house special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I've been here a few times for specialty items that are difficult to find elsewhere. They are quite expensive compared to other stores so I try to limit my purchases to only what I can't find at my typical grocery store. I had never tried their sandwiches because I am the type of person who prefers to see a menu before ordering. However, on a recent visit I threw caution to the wind and ordered their "special" as recommended by a few reviews. It appears the special is not the same every time, though, because what I received was not what I expected based off posted photos online. It was a decent enough sandwich but due to it being different from my expectations, I was a little disappointed. There was a lot of fig jam which made the sandwich really too sweet for me and I couldn't really taste much else. I don't particularly enjoy a lot of sauce or spread on a sandwich so if you're like me, just order what you like and avoid the special. Also, the sandwich was $15.50 which was more than I expected, but I should've asked before I ordered. Another thing I didn't like was the process of ordering cheese from the deli counter. They don't hand you your purchases after you order, instead, they take it to the cashier who rings you up and bags your groceries. I ordered 100g each of three different types of cheese but when I got home, I realized that one was a different type of cheese than what I asked for, and the other two were more than double the quantity I asked for. I should've checked before leaving, so that's on me, but I feel this is almost deceptive and I don't appreciate it. If I ask for 100g of cheese, that's how much I want. Not 200g or 250g. I don't think I'll return anytime soon. read more

This was my first time coming into this shop. The place is a mix of bakery, grocery and the sandwich shop so I wasn't 100% sure on how to order. I tried asking an employee where to order the sandwhich and he was very rude and dismissive so i found it very confusing. The store was very busy but other than the service, the food was excellent! read more

Just an average Italian sandwich. Ordering process is confusing, no menu on display. When I asked the person making the sandwiches what type of sandwiches do you have she just shrugged and recommended the house special. A bit expensive - $16.50 for a small Italian sandwich. Would not return. read more

3.8/5 It's a small mom& pop style local Italian grocery where you can get all kinds of convenient store stuff to more Italian specific products like fig jams, Italian tomato can, diff. Kinds of Italian pasta sauces, pesto, many diff. Brands' olive oils, Italian sodas and etc. They have cold cut counter where you can get cold cut salamis and cheese but you can also get Italian subs. Unfortunately you kinda have to know what you want but when it's not busy, they will guide you with what you can get. I have tried few different options but my personal favorite is classic house special sub. Customer service is exactly what you will expect from busy convenient store. Overall, I recommend this place. read more

Just quite simply a perfect sandwich! Every slice of meat, cheese, and sauce is just in perfect proportion. Ciabatta is incredible. Love this place and everything they do. House special all the way, but people with specific modifications will be more than happy as well! For vegetarians, the house special minus meat was quite nice too! read more

Unassuming specialty store with a gem of a deli in the back. You pick your bun and take it to the back to order. We ordered the chefs special, since there was no menu and we thought we'd go for it. The ingredients are top notch high quality. The sandwich is just so well balanced - salty from the meat, creamy from the cheese, sweet from the fig jam, spicy from the pepper spread, fresh from the tomatoes. Honestly a near perfect sandwich! read more

La Salumeria - Chefs special - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Love the authentic ambiance...love it! Me and my husband will definitely go back. They just make a repeat customer with simply one sandwich.

This Italian gem lives up to the hype! I heard about their "special" deli sandwich and had to try it for myself. It's a small shop located in Davisville village that looks like any other local shop. You walk in and you're immediately drawn to all the goodies on all 4 corners. For the deli sandwiches , you grab your bread of choice and head to the deli counter in the back and ask for the special. It's made with so many yummy ingredients and I would honestly go back even though I don't live in the area. So simple but delightful and they really jam pack their ingredients. As a bonus you can shop for all their speciality Italian products. read more

La Salumeria - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Best sandwich in the city! Have tried many around the city but nothing compares to the House Special here. Staff are very friendly as well

Nice sandwiches, but nothing you can't get elsewhere. Would I go again? I wouldn't drive specially for their sandwiches that's for sure. Nice to try once if you're into sandwiches with deli meats read more

La Salumeria - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

The house special is definitely one of the top 5 sandwiches I've ever had. The owner is also a beauty! A must stop sandwich destination for Toronto. read more

I've purchased cold cuts and random groceries from La Salumeria in the past, but somehow I've never had one of their sandwiches, despite constantly hearing how great they are. I finally decided to fix that situation a few days ago and although I was completely overwhelmed, the person behind the counter helpfully suggested I get the special ("thinly shaved prosciutto, spicy salami, buffalo mozzarella, fig jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil and spicy peppers"). I took it home and dug in. Holy cow, this is one spectacular sandwich! All the ingredients work so well together, and I kept discovering new flavors and textures with each bite. Honestly, this might be one of the best deli meat sandwiches I've ever had, and I've certainly eaten my fair share over the years. The idea that they'll make any sandwich you like is pretty overwhelming, definitely, but I'm excited to try different combinations and different kinds of meats in the future. read more

I love authentic food made with love, and thats exactly what they serve here. This "gourmet grocery shop" has a wide variety of meats and cheeses (and more) from Europe. But they also have an amazing sandwich counter tucked in the back. They allow you to customize your sandwich by selecting from individually wrapped breads, different types of meats and spreads. I ordered "the chefs choice" consisting of spicy salami, prosciutto, fig jam, mozzarella, hot peppers, tomatoes and truffle spread. The meats were all high quality, the jam added sweetness and the balsamic added a hint of tanginess. The entire sandwich was jam packed with quality meats but it wasn't overwhelming. We also picked up some pepperettes and pistachio pate which was divine smothered over some crackers! Highly recommend checking this place out for ingredients for a DIY charcuterie spread, their amazing house made sandwiches and other authentic European items read more

La Salumeria - two halves of a sandwich - Cheese Shops Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

What an incredible spot - my BF has been coming here for years (and raving about it). I finally stopped in on the weekend and then was lucky enough to go back later in the week for another sandwich!. First the sandwich was very yummy - you can either take the rye bread behind the counter or choose one of the individually wrapped buns opposite the cash register (like the second sandwich). In both cases I just went with he "chef's reco", second time had it on a kaiser and asked for a bit more heat. Both very good and HUGE - had the second half the next day. The store itself is a treasure trove of oils, vinegars, spices, cookies, biscuits, etc etc etc If I lIved or worked in the area I would be in there ALL THE TIME read more

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Second time this happened in a month This place is terrific and I usually go there twice a month to purchase cheese, pasta, meat and other groceries and I usually spend $200 or more. Both times I walked in and there was such a long line of people getting sandwiches I didn't bother going in and went to another store instead. There must be someway of doing sandwiches for customers separately from those shopping,, since the wait would've been over 20 minutes Don't show up for grocery shopping between 11 and 1 read more

It's a genuine deli with a great selection of meats and cheeses. You pick your own roll and take it to the counter and order your sandwich as you choose. They are a small market as well offering baked goods. If the Skor shortbread cookies are available, do yourself a favor and buy a big or two. read more

Everything about these sandwiches is right. Been here a few times and never disappointed. The owner is very sweet and cares about what he serves. This you see and taste. Will be return when in the area. read more

A real gem in the middle of Toronto. Take time to look around the store and find some great imports. Don't forget a sandwich or two. Grazie!

This small deli/grocery is a treasure trove of tastes. An array of meats and cheeses to create an endless combination of mouth watering sandwich creations. If you need help just notify the friendly staff of what you like and definitely sample a few things. It starts at $6.50 for a basic deli sandwich Step 1 - pick your bread $1 extra for Fred's Bread artisanal bread. A carbivore like me chose the Yukon Gold Potato Focaccia roll with aged white cheddar cheese. Step 2 - choose your deli meat. Told them I like spicy so they suggested their spicy salami. $1 extra for their more expensive, imported meats. Step 3 - choose your cheese. My eyes caught sight of a pretty pink cheddar with claret, they were nice enough to let me sample it. Ended up choosing brie which was $1 extra. Step 4 - choose your veggie toppings. No pickles please, added tomato, lettuce, and thin slices of cucumber. Step 5 - choose your condiments. I chose a honey mustard to balance the spicy salami. The sandwich was flavorful, the bread had a satisfying chew to it and the veggies were nice and fresh. They have everything you could want to go with your sandwich: San Pellegrino sparkling fruit drinks, Kettle Brand potato chips, exotic Terra chips even Haribo gummy candy to end things on a sweet note. read more

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