Update: After a 2016 lockout by its landlord, a court order allowed Caplansky’s on College to reopen a month later. But it did not recover and closed permanently in January 2018.
So glad the deli king is back in business! Zane Caplansky made news in June when he had to get an injunction against his landlord for terminating the restaurant’s lease because of failure “to effect repairs not authorized by the landlord.” Caplansky said it was completely out of order, fought it, and now he’s back making the best deli food in the city. And it’s a good thing because Toronto was freaking out. The 6ix needs their smoked meat fix… where is Beyonce supposed to nosh when she’s in town? This is the OG location of Caplansky’s and the food is great whether you dine in or take it to go, which we did. My little man’s favourite are the perfectly fried potato latkes, which did not make it home.
We all fight over the deep fried pickles, which are beer battered and served with dill sauce:
What I love most about the hot knish pocket is the smoked meat gravy that comes on the side. The pockets are filled with smoked meat, schmaltz onions, potato and spices.
THE REUBENESQUE. It’s perfect.
The Fat Sam Grand Slam is a sandwich with ALL THE MEATS, piled on double rye which is my fave bread.
Toronto food truck foodies know and love the Bubby Doris, Caplansky’s food truck named for his bubby, which is Yiddish for grandmother. It’s a favourite at events all over the GTA.
There is a lovely patio at Caplansky’s on College which is in the heart of Harbord Village in downtown Toronto. Wonderful vibe to go along with the authentic food. 356 College Street.
