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California Sandwiches
Category: Restaurants Sandwiches Sandwiches [Edit]
244 Claremont StToronto, ON M6J 2N2
Neighbourhood: Little Italy
(416) 603-3317
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 10 am - 10:30 pm
Fri-Sat 10 am - 11:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Lola L. said: "The smoked meat sandwich! The pickles! The perfectly crispy fries! And the selection of mustards! Okay, so Caplansky's has a lot of things that I already love, but they do them so well. The smoked meat sandwich lived up to the hype…" read more »
52 reviews for California Sandwiches
Review Highlights
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"Great veal sandwich with peppers." In 31 reviews -
"Eggplant parmesan with cheese onions and hot peppers." In 9 reviews -
"The tomato sauce is light, not too heavy, and the kaiser..." In 6 reviews
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52 reviews in English
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Review from Howard H.
2/15/2012
California here I come!
This IS the 5 star Italian sammy joint in TO. There is a reason that people drive and/or bus in from all over the GTA to get their fix. The reason is that they manage to consistently deliver a splendidly executed simple meal in an affordable and portable format. Veal is the gold standard, but the chicken and eggplant options are equally worthy.
Wait - Can you hear it? The din rumbling up from the uninitiated / unbelievers "How hard can it be to make a good Italian sandwich?" Judging by the legion of soggy, so-so, sorry-ass sandwiches that make up most of the rest of the offerings in this metropolis, prett-y, prett-y difficult. Seriously, if you haven't tried one - you owe it to your taste buds to score a legendary meal for under $10 that is accessible by bus.
Ironically, it will most likely require these gorgeous movable feasts to be featured on a US-based sitcom to be given their cultural due. I'm going to go ahead and nominate 30 Rock as the current logical choice. There's got to be someone on Yelp with sufficient pull to get Liz Lemon to trek to TO in search of sandwich nirvana....Yes, this will inevitably cause Cali Sandwiches to go Hollywood - but it will be ensure that it lasts for rest of my natural life. I can endure a bit of a line for that! -
Review from Monica F.
5/10/2012
Was scolded at by the woman behind the counter for asking for a plastic bag.
It was raining out and I was walking. The paper bag she stuffed our sandwiches into would have disintegrated and we would have ended up with soggy sandwiches had I not asked for one.
I prefer the veal sandwiches at Bitondo's anyways... it's about quality not quantity.
2.5 stars -
Review from Jenny T.
Toronto, ON
2/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
I'm not going to lie, I only heard about California Sandwiches when one of my favourite bands raved about this place at their concert. "Why can't there be a California Sandwiches in, oh... California?" asked the band from California. I had to try a sandwich from this place to see if it was that good.
I ordered the Veal Sandwich with hot peppers, mushrooms and cheese - I was definitely not disappointed! The sandwich was huge and I could not finish the thing in one sitting. You get a lot of sandwich in one order, so don't be put off by the prices.
The location of this restaurant is a bit odd, it's located in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. I'm not sure how Jack's Mannequin found this joint lol. Other than that, I have no complaints.
When I'm in the neighbourhood again, I will definitely try another sandwich from California Sandwiches. :) -
Review from Behrouz M.
Toronto, ON
1/29/2012 2 photos
3.5 Stars
A friend had been telling me about this place for a while and our first attempt to try this place out was met with disappointment since California was closed. Therefore, we went in a second time, a week later, with an excess of anticipation buildup. And California did not disappoint!
Highlights:
- Excellent chicken sandwiches! I recommend adding mushrooms and cheese. The sandwich comes with TWO breaded, deep fried slaps of chicken breast, your toppings of choice, and mild, medium or hot sauces, all served on a pretty huge, fresh, italian bun (but not huge enough to cover all of that chicken!)
- Generous portion sizes!
Tips:
- Do exactly as the ladies (aka sandwich nazis) at the cash tell you if you want your sandwich!
- Forget about the veal. Not the best in my opinion. Order the chicken instead.
Bottom line, I highly recommend California. And the only reason they get 3.5 stars instead of 4 is because they are a bit too expensive (after adding a couple of toppings the sandwich will cost you at least $10.) and the fact that they are running their show like sandwich nazis.
Food: A
Service: B+
Food presentation: A-
Atmosphere: B
Prices: B-
Recommended? Yes -
Review from Payam Z.
1/18/2012 2 Check-ins Here
California's definitely lives up to the hype for me! We stopped by here before a big night out and my friend kept telling me the best part of the night would be coming back home to eat the rest of the sandwich! Fortunately/unfortunately he was definitely right!
The veal sandwich with grilled peppers and tomatoes w/ sauce on the side is a foolproof choice (as long as you like peppers)! The chicken would be my second option at least until I try the famed eggplant parm!
Aside from the lineup which can get a little long sometimes, one slightly bothersome fact is that the place really smells liked frying oil and they have a bit of a ventilation issue. That being said, you can simply wait outside while your order is prepared! Great spot and for me better than SanFrancesco's -
Review from Mauricio A.
Toronto, ON
10/26/2011
First rule of California Sandwiches, "You don't talk about the horrible geographical locations where they place their franchises." Seriously, all three CS locations that I know of in Toronto are in the middle of nowhere and not easily accessible.
This location is as nondescript as they come. It is in front of a high school and it is smack in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. Almost as if a ninja sneaked into Toronto's city planning office and changed the zoning of the block just to piss off the older crowd who seat on their porches for sport across the street and simply watch you go in... and out. Mumbling something among themselves as you walk by.
As far as the quality of the sandwiches, they are orgasmically delicious. They are juicy, spicy and tasty and although the health benefits or its aorta blocking powers can at times be questionable or concerning, your taste buds will try their best to distract your brain away from such thoughts. Just eat somewhat fast because there is a soggy half-life with these sandwiches.
Generally I get a chicken or veal sandwiches --no, I do not feel guilty about it, okay? It is now closer to God's loving embrace. :P
And they have yet to disappoint.
Even though the sandwiches are quite large, by the end of a meal, you come out feeling good and full, unlike McDonald's or other fast food joints where you come out feeling gross and dirty.
So if you haven't had a California Sandwich, then it is not too late. Have one. You won't regret it. -
Review from Kent P.
Updated - 4/5/2011
Decent veal (still too expensive and soggy). Props (people still say that, right?) to the amount of hot peppers on it, though.
Brutal meatball one. 80% breadcrumb or something. Such a weird wet consistency.Listed in: ESTABLISHMENTS
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/30/2010
The most popular spot for a veal sandwich....but not the best. They are are also about 20% more… Read more »
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Review from Anabel L.
Toronto, ON
8/31/2011
Another best of Toronto: veal sandwiches that is. It really is. The décor adds nothing and the venue itself looks like some school cafeteria, but these sandwiches are the bomb diggity bomb. A can of Brio is the only other thing I need.
Although the business has grown in size (there are now eight locations to date), every sandwich tastes as good as my last. Now that's just like Momma's cooking. -
Review from Shari M.
Toronto, ON
2/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Oh man, I covet the veal sandwich. California Sandwiches never disappoints in providing me, hands down, the best veal on a bun I have ever had.
The mammoth of a sandwich is best consumed when you have not eaten anything all day. You really do need to prepare to ingest such a large sammy.
My preference is to get my sandwich with mushrooms and peppers. The super thin pieces of breaded veal are not greasy at all. It is like Nona is back there taking extra care of the veal, and her customers. The tomato sauce is light, not too heavy, and the kaiser rolls are always super fresh.
Now, the real skill when eating one of these sandwiches is, do not (I repeat), do not put the sandwich down once you have picked it up. Once you start the journey, there is no looking back, and there is no putting the sandwich down. If you put the sandwich down, because it is so big and luscious and saucy, you will never be able to pick it up again in one piece.
I would normally give California Sandwiches a 6 out of 5, but this location is so sad. Be sure to checkout some of the pictures that have been posted. The basement is a scene from a horror flick, and the area upstairs needs a reno so, so, so, so badly. Extremely bad use of space, and it is not inviting at all. If you want the full on experience, check out the California Sandwiches location in Downsview.
At any rate, whatever location you visit, the veal sandwich is superb. Actually just writing this, I am craving one right now. Even though this location gives me the creeps.Listed in: Comfort Food
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Review from S D.
Toronto, ON
1/13/2012
I know I don't need to reiterate this, but this place is the home of one of the best veal sandwiches in the city. A gigantic sandwich, I usually cut it in half and save one half for later. It's so filling and so cheap!
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Review from John C.
Mississauga, ON
Updated - 12/29/2011 2 photos
No body. Beats this place
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/23/2009
There's nothing better then one of these Sandwiches well maybe two of them if your a big boy like… Read more »
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Review from Sahra G.
7/5/2011
I love this place although I try to only treat myself once in a while because of HOW GIGANTIC THE SANDWICH IS. Good luck eating the whole thing.
I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE the eggplant sandwich, clutch toppings: hot peppers, onion, mushrooms and cheese!! Get a side order of olives too, take your food to Bellwoods and enjoy a perfect meal. -
Review from Craig B.
Pickering, ON
8/14/2011
Simply the best Veal in Toronto.
Have not ate at the other locations but this one is
unreal. -
Review from Rachel N.
Toronto, ON
12/29/2011
I believe this is the original cali sandwiches which means it is definitely the best. The veal sandwiches are unbelievable. The place is reminiscent of a pizzeria and is a quick place to grab a huge, awesome sandwich. I have only had the veal but I trust the rest are amazing too.
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Review from Steve S.
Toronto, ON
12/13/2011
They only do one thing, honking great big sandwiches, but by God, they do them very well. The enormous soft kaiser roll is heaped with breaded veal or chicken, roasted peppers, and then literally drenched with homemade Italian tomato sauce (at least it sure tastes like nonna's!). The result is enough to fill even the largest appetite, and certainly make an absolute god-awful mess of whatever shirt you happen to be wearing (so word to the wise - do NOT attempt one of these babies in your best white dress shirt and tie! You've been warned!!). The service is friendly if a little terse, probably because they are constantly swamped - all the more amazing as the location in the middle of a residential neighbourhood is about as drab and unassuming as it gets. I keep going back for the sandwiches though...! Messy and delicious!
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Review from Daniel Q.
Toronto, ON
3/28/2011
Over the past 20 years I've probably had 100 of these veal sandwiches. Out of those maybe 3-4 have been "ok". The rest have been amazing. I always order a sweet veal with cheese and mushrooms, extra sauce. My wife orders the meatball. Unfortunately as I get older I need to watch my meat intake so California's has now become a yearly eating experience. I am looking forward to next September.
Tip: To avoid the line up call 15 minutes ahead and place your order. It should be ready or close to ready when you arrive.Listed in: Best Sandwiches.
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Review from Tina D.
11/20/2010
I ordered the veal cutlet sandwich and thought it was very yummy. The kaiser roll was great. My vegetarian boyfriend made me feel a little guilty because I was eating the veal. But, in my defense, it was my first time eating veal. The portion is pretty large but I ate 3/4 of it because it was so good. Next time, I would get it with the sweet peppers or an additional topping. Since it's so big, I would want another flavor with it.
Although, if I'm with my bf, I would probably try the eggplant parm so I'll be guilt free! -
Review from Katie W.
Toronto, ON
6/2/2011
I live on the opposite side of town and I still make the trek to get the sandwiches here.
There's always a line, and it's always packed, but it's so worth the wait. You can call ahead to place your order too! The sandwiches are amazing every single time; mind you I get a chicken with sweet sauce and cheese every time, so I can't comment on all their sandwiches.
Also, you may not want to come here if cops bother you. I've never been here when I haven't seen cops. But everyone knows cops only eat at the best places--right? -
Review from Billy K.
Toronto, ON
3/15/2011
My review for this place is just the noise Homer Simpson makes when he thinks about food.
Seriously If you haven't been here you haven't lived. -
Review from Lindsay A.
9/18/2010
I love you.
That's all there is to say.
No ambiance other than the ammount of people watching that you can do here because it's always packed.
Here's what I get
Eggplant parmesan with cheese onions and hot peppers.
I have tried all of them. Even as an avid meat eater, the eggplant kicks ass.
But if you want a veal parm sandwich it would be crazy to go anywhere else.
Winter is coming and this is the b -
Review from Leslie-Anne W.
Toronto, ON
11/11/2010 1 Check-in Here
California love.......
Great veal sandwich with peppers. Ask for it to be cut in half when you order. Not after. Beware.
Go, now. Eat it. Yum. -
Review from Tony G.
Woodbridge, ON
11/8/2011
This is the original location and the best by far (I've been to them all). If you're in Toronto and craving a mega veal sandwich, then there is no better place in the continent as far as I'm concerned. The sandwiches are MASSIVE and always fresh. Pair it together with a Brio and prepare for shear enjoyment, it just doesn't get any better! If you get there at lunch hour be prepared to wait a while because it can get extremely busy. Seasoned veterans such as myself have their number programmed into their cell phone and call a half hour ahead to avoid the line-ups. Vets also request that the sandwich NOT be cut in half (it ruins the structural integrity). Enjoy it!
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Review from Cisi Z.
Toronto, ON
8/12/2010
Ooooh, this brings back memories. Been eating California (veal) Sandwiches for yeaaaaaars. Love, love, loooove 'em! I'd like to use this review to affirm to y'all that these sandwiches are, indeed, for the win. Yes, that is all.
(Pssst, btw, I usually call to order take-out. That way you avoid the line-ups and get straight to the good stuff!) -
Review from Devan R.
Updated - 9/30/2009 2 photos
Cali Sandwiches hits the spot like no other Italian sandwich I know of. I religiously order a medium veal w/ onions and cheese and sauce on the side. Night last, in addition to ordering my sauce on the side, I found the best way to eat this now. I pour the tomato sauce on the sandwich but I don't flood it, and then as I eat I still dip it. This is the perfect way for me to eat it and it ensures I don't have tomato sauce rolling down to my elbows.
I could eat here easily 3 times a week, and my record is 1 veal and half a chicken sandwich.Listed in: Top Restaurants, Italiano
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/6/2009
Magnificent. Marvelous. Mammoth. Meaty.
Above are all adjectives that run through my mind when I… Read more »
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Review from Jarvis E.
Toronto, ON
9/4/2011 11 photos
OMG!! My Best friend introduced me to this GEM. Apparently this is the oldest location which has been in business for over 40 yrs. While I was waiting for my Veal Sandwich (recommended) I was casually talking to some of the local customers there also and they had been coming for 40 yrs. the sandwich was HUGE and sloppy-ily delicious. Not sure why they are called California when they are Italian :P I can't wait to try another. Tip: ask for extra Onions!
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Review from Deanna W.
6/12/2009
Tremendous sandwiches. Not solely based on size mind you, but these sammies are hefty, packed with nicely breaded slices of fried veal, a simple tomato sauce and whatever toppings you please. Mind you, I'm not a fan of the fact that you have to pay $1.00 extra for most toppings, $1.00 for canned mushrooms anyone? Ughhh but they do enhance one's baby cow sandwich eating experience. This place is mad popular on lunches, can be a bit crazy with the queue of blue collar types, kids and working professionals all waiting for their bit of hoagie heaven.
Have a half for lunch and save the rest for later. -
Review from Melissa J.
Toronto, ON
11/17/2008
As an Italian, I know my veal sandwiches. And as much as the interior of California Sandwiches reminds me of my nonna's basement (not exactly a compliment), it's just not my favourite place to go for veal.
Their sandwiches have a LOT of meat in them, and they're often not the greatest cuts. I found them quite chewy and fatty, and it did not make me feel great about eating them. Extra toppings like mushrooms and cheese cost money, and they don't taste great without them. The buns are sometimes stale and could use a little warming up at least before I devour them.
And I know mess isn't a way to judge a veal sandwich, but this was the messiest sandwich I have ever eaten. All the pieces of the sandwiches were so mismatched in size that they just fell out. Why wouldn't everything stay in the bun? I've never had such problems at Mustachio's.
If you're on College St and you want veal, California Sandwiches might hit the spot. But if you have the time, just go to Mustachio's. Way better, less messy, and fresher ingredients (and all the toppings come on your sandwich already!). Plus the service at Mustachio's is ridiculously fast. I waited about 25 minutes for my sandwich here, and it wasn't even during peak hours, the employees were just chit-chatting about someone's wedding while we waited. Not impressed. -
Review from Geoff F.
Toronto, ON
4/20/2009
In my opinion, this is the Gandhi of Italian Sandwiches. Irresistably delicious food while using second-ish grade meat. I get the impression that eating California Sandwiches more than once a week will probably kill you within 10 years, and you'd deserve it.
But it's so damn good. Huge sandwiches (if you're not a fat guy, lunch is half a sandwich) jammed full of deep-fried ethically-questionable but undeniably delicious sliced baby cattle, topped with provolone and Italian tomato sauce, all inside a perfectly unobtrusive Italian kaiser roll. I personally like mixing it up by getting veal and eggplant and adding peppers, onions and mushrooms. At least I'm eating a little bit less baby cattle than the other fat guy in front of me. The upgrades cost you though, which usually makes the outing just that little bit more expensive than I really think lunch should be. If it's dinner, I feel like I'm ripping them off.
As with Gandhi, expect to wait for your food. Aside from the fact that Italians don't do anything fast, from what I can tell it's almost always being prepared by an Italian grandmother and her protégé granddaughters, so calm down. It's worth it. Grab a pot of (half decent) olives and snack while you wait. -
Review from Bryan G.
Toronto, ON
4/1/2009
I remember years ago, when my parents were doing some renovations on their home, my older brother (he's an idiot) slid his chubby body in between 2 studs and started bouncing back and forth while yelling "I'M VEAL! I'M VEAL!". Like I said, he's an idiot. But whenever I go to California Sandwiches and order the veal I always think of that. Luckily, my appetite comes back as soon as I unfold the foil and reveal the delicious mess in front of me...my destiny.
The negative points about this sandwich are undeniable. The veal isn't a very good cut, it's a long wait, the sandwich itself seems to be unnecessarily messy and the topping (such as peppers, mushrooms, cheese, eggplant, onions) are all extra making this an expensive sandwich, but in the end...it's worth it.
There's no getting around the fact that this is just a really tasty sandwich. It's certainly sufficient, even for a healthy (see: gluttonous) eater like myself. In fact a sandwich and a pop is usually all I need. I normally get the mild veal with cheese, mushrooms and onions. If I'm really feeling like ballin' strong I'll order some olives.
As for the other items on the menu...don't be a pussy, just get the veal. My friend "Chicken Parm" Phil used to only get the chicken (obviously) but after finally taking the plunge he claims he'll never go back. I guess he's getting his chicken parms at East Side's now.
Oh and if you're struggling with the ethical issue of eating veal, don't worry, I'm SURE it's not actual veal. Also, while typing this review I clubbed 3 baby seals to death. I wonder what I'll do with them...probably nothing.Listed in: Best Sandwiches in Toronto
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Review from Mary S.
Toronto, ON
10/10/2011
Love Cali Sandwiches!
My fav is the chicken sandwich "medium", so topped with a few stewed mildly hot peppers. OMG delicious.
I get sad on Sundays because they're closed. -
Review from Bijan V.
4/30/2009 1 Check-in Here
** 3.5 Stars **
I don't know if I had overly high expectations for this place from what people - and Yelpers - have been telling me but I didn't find anything to die-for at California Sandwiches.
Yes their sandwiches are large (mostly the HUGE buns) but it gets really expensive ($7 for veal sandwich and you HAVE to add mushroom and cheese which is $1-something each) comes out to $10.50 - $11 JUST for the sandwich. I'm a rather small guy and I ended up nearly eating the whole thing (okay fine I left TWO bites but only because I knew I'd be too lazy to make lunch the next day). And yeah it was a good sandwich but I can't justify paying that much for a sandwich similar to ones I've made for myself many times over.
I was kind of surprised to find this place hidden within a residential neighborhood but it really is a homey place and the staff are friendly and seem to know all the regulars and their orders!
Side note: I'd really like to know why the U.S. Secret Service gave them a certificate of appreciation.... hmmm -
Review from Paul F.
8/6/2011
I am on a mission for great cheap eats and California veal and eggplant sandwiches are well worth the journey from whereever you are in Toronto. These monsters closely resemble a veal or eggplant parm sandwich served on a fresh thick roll- I had mine served medium hot and the spice was perfect and I also got cheese and mushrooms on board- it is large enough for two and be careful they are loaded and ready to explode on first bite. Hard to find location- next to Little Portugal and on a network of one way streets. While I was there there was a mix of business people, students and garbagemen all joined through a good cheap eat found only in 'Toronto. Beware the basement bathroom should be for emergency only. Enjoy.
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Review from Phil S.
Toronto, ON
4/13/2009
When the Dynamic Dudes moved to England, and I moved to Gore Vale in Queen West, it was told to me, in fact, demanded, that I go to California Sandwiches because of how close I lived to the Claremont location.
Purely because of that demand, I ignored it. Not going once until they returned home a year and a half later. It was a mistake I will never live down. Yes, it can take a while to get your food, and sure its pretty sloppy when you are eating it - but the cleanliness of a meal is the last thing I would concern myself with - particularly when it tastes this good.
You could easily eat a full sandwich on an empty stomach - but saving the other half for later is always a nice treat. I have to say that the spice is done right, the sauce is fantastic and I have yet to have a sandwich taste better or worse than the last time, which speaks to the consistency of their meal.
I love that and its what keeps me going back. When you do something right, it should always be the same. -
Review from Matthew A.
Toronto, ON
3/22/2010
Schnitzle - Italian style. California needs to be on any list that has the word Schnitzel.
Amazing fresh baked kaiser with breaded chicken n' stuff in the middle.
Can be a bit of a wait at Lunch time, say, 5-10 minutes, but sooo worth it.
Parking can be a challenge to, if, you weren't on a bike or Vespa.Listed in: Schnitzel
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Review from Herminio D.
Toronto, ON
1/22/2011
What could I say about California Sandwiches. The only thing that comes to mind is for the past 36 years I've been sinking my teeth into there sandwiches. If I live another 50 years or so I will continue to sink my teeth into there great sandwich, there out of this world. On the down side I've seen some chances in the past years. The sandwiches have become smaller in size and the prizes have gone up way up! The thing that gets me is the F@#king line-ups to place an order, regardless if u phone,camp over, buy the house next door u are going to wait. Once u enjoy a great Veal sandwich at California's, u will become hocked and screwed for life. Look at what it has done to me, I'm a Vegetarian for F@#k sakes, my eating of veal has gone against my believes and now I'll eat any live creators on my plate. Vegetarian's please stay away u will be sorry!
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Review from Oscar F.
Oakville, ON
8/11/2009
Been going here for 20 years and the sandwiches are still amazing!
Would definitely recommend for either steak or veal sandwiches. -
Review from Sam G.
Toronto, ON
4/23/2010
I'm willing to give it another shot but I went here last night and the sandwich, while hefty and meaty lacked taste. I had it plain and sweet so maybe more sauce or hot peppers or other toppings would have helped.
San Francesco (couple min walk away, where I go much more frequently) is $1.75 cheaper and a more reasonable (eg. smaller) portion for one. Also a longer wait at California.
Their website states a veal sandwich 500 calories, 25 Grams of Fat & 20 Grams of Carbohydrates. "I think I'll type that up on my invisible typewriter" Chief Wiggum.
ETA - OK, OK... I guess I can't update my review after only a few days but went here as part of a Yelp event and had part of someone's chicken, cheese, mushroom sandwich. Much better. Next time I will order a sandwich with cheese and extra sauce (medium heat) and would go to a 4 if all goes well. -
Review from Magdalena R.
Toronto, ON
11/23/2010
This place is KING of sandwiches. One of these gigator sandwiches can take a person out. Seriously. The following events happen every time you visit:
You smell it; your nose is on fire with love for that fried meat smell. You see it; it is a humongous slab of meat between two fresh pieces of bun, dripping with sauce, cheese, and extras. You touch it; it feels soft and warm and drippy with sauce. You bite into it; the experience of the tongue is one with the experience of the nose. You keep eating, and eating, and eating, and there is still a lot more sandwich left. Unfortunately for you, by now, you are addicted to the whole experience and cannot stop. Your stomach starts sending messages to suggest that perhaps the rest of the sandwich should be saved for later, but gets quickly vetoed by the nose and tongue. In time, you finish the sandwich. The stomach is beyond full and possibly angry. You sit there hoping and waiting for the stomach to digest a bit, and get rid of some of the discomfort you are feeling in your mid-section. You even begin considering that perhaps you may have over done it; maybe your stomach cannot get you out of this one. You sit for another 15 minutes in slight panic, but begin to realize that a fraction of the discomfort has subsided; you will live another day, and you will definitely be back. -
Review from Mike B.
Toronto, ON
9/18/2008
I really enjoy a veal sandwich that's been cooked properly. Properly cooked means the veal is tender, not tough. One must pan fry it rather than bake it, which means the breaded cutlet crisps up well. Veal is a mild meat, but you can taste quality. Gamey veal is old veal. My ideal veal sandwich has hot peppers and maybe some sauce.
California Sandwiches chain does a great job of doing veal sandwiches how I like them. The menu is limited, but they know what they are doing. I have yet to have a tough sandwich. The veal is not too old and tastes mild, not too beefy. It comes hot or not and you can add extras like cheese, mushrooms or onions.
My biggest problem with the Claremont location is that it can get brutally busy during peak times. You can usually park within a block, but the the lines when you arrive during lunchtime can be long. If you are going to do takeout during busy times like lunch, it's much quicker experience to call a head. You will be assigned a number and that allows you to skip part of the line when you arrive for your pickup.. -
Review from Chris G.
Oakville, ON
3/1/2010
Best sandwiches ever. End of story full stop!
Huge deep fried breaded chicken breasts, smothered in cheese and tomato sauce on a fresh kaiser.
