San Francesco’s has been serving up some of the best sandwiches in Toronto for over 60 years. The Clinton location in Little Italy holds a special place in the hearts of San Francesco’s fans, as it’s the OG San Fran – the very first storefront that opened its doors to customers in the early 1950s.
There are now four locations in Toronto and this historic location has been a neighborhood fixture for generations. After World War II, a young Italian couple immigrated to Canada with a dream to offer delicious, affordable food for the working class and their families.
They were credited with creating the famous Veal Sandwich, the first of its kind to be served in Toronto, as well as the sweet steak on a bun.
San Francesco sandwiches are packed with generous portions of high-quality meat sourced from a local butcher. The soft, fluffy Italian bread is baked fresh daily and perfectly complements the hearty sandwich fillings. Sandwiches are topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella or provolone, and you can choose toppings such as onions, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, muffaletta and spicy bomba spread. The OG Sandwich with veal and sauce is $6.50 for the baby size, and $10.50 for regular.
The atmosphere at San Francesco’s is no-frills and that’s part of its charm. There are a few tables for dine-in customers, but most people opt for takeout. These sandwiches travel very well!
San Francesco Foods is located on the west side of Clinton, two blocks south of College. It’s situated right next to the legendary Monarch Tavern, one of the oldest licensed establishments in the city, having opened in 1927. Outside, there is a two-seater bench that is a coveted place to perch and eat.
San Francesco Foods is open Monday-Thursday 10:30am-9pm, Friday-Sunday 10:30am-10:30pm. There are three other locations, on Yonge Street, Laird Drive and Danforth Avenue. 10 Clinton Street, Toronto.
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