Liam SmithPrepare to have your mind blown (and your belly filled). We’ve scoured the city, from cozy cafes to bustling delis, on a mission to uncover the ultimate sandwich experiences.
So, ditch those sad desk lunches and embrace a world of flavour-packed, hand-held masterpieces. Buckle up your tastebuds and get ready to discover the spots with the best sandwiches in Ottawa!
- Les Moulins La Fayette
- Kettleman’s Bagel
- Art-is-in Bakery
- Subito Sandwich
- Sherwood Supermarket
- Roberto’s Corner
- Gooneys Sandwichworks
- Shorty's Sandwich Shop
- Meltwich Food Co
- Sanguiccio Deli-Cafe
- Di Rienzo's Grocery
- The Sandwich Stop
- Firehouse Subs Ogilvie & Blair
- BanhMiYes
- Casa Nicastro Foods
- Paninaro
- Pops Paninis Carling
Les Moulins La Fayette
– Media from lmlfhintonburg
Location: 1000 Wellington St. W #103, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X9, Canada
Contact: +1 613-680-5653
Pricing: $$
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday – 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
This French-inspired bakery takes pride in its artisanal craftsmanship and it’s evident in everything from its crusty baguettes to its vibrant pastries. Yet surprisingly, they’re also masters of the humble sandwich.
Speaking of sandwiches. Their Baja Chicken Sandwich is a must-try. It’s known for its zesty spices, creamy avocado, and perfectly cooked chicken.
But if you crave a taste of Parisian café culture, the Croque Monsieur never disappoints. It’s full of gooey cheese and ham melted within slices of buttery grilled bread.
Kettleman’s Bagel
– Media from kettlemans
Location: 912 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-567-7100
Pricing: $
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Kettleman’s Bagel Co. offers an authentic dive into the world of Montreal-style bagel craftsmanship. Think of it as a sanctuary for early birds, night owls, and everyone in between seeking a bite of chewy, wood-fired goodness – their doors are open 24/7!
Since its inception in 1993, their commitment to the art of bagel making shines through with each bite – hand-rolled, kettled, then baked in a wood-fired oven using handpicked hardwood for that unmistakable crisp exterior and tender interior.
And hey, if simplicity is your jam, a fresh bagel slathered with one of their many cream cheeses remains a timeless joy (you can never go wrong with a classic).
Art-is-in Bakery
– Media from artisinbakery
Location: 250 City Centre Ave #112, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K7, Canada
Contact: +1 613-695-1226
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Forget those dainty cafes with their whisper-quiet ambiance. Art-is-in Bakery pulses with a different kind of energy – it’s where the smell of freshly baked bread mingles with a hint of rebellion.
This is pastry chef Kevin Mathieson’s domain (alongside his wife Stephanie), and you can taste his relentless pursuit of flavour in every bite, whether it’s a flaky croissant or a gutsy, reimagined sandwich.
Here, classics like the croque monsieur get an unexpected gourmet makeover, while familiar flavours take a wild turn – think eggs benny reborn within a crusty bun, or buttermilk brined chicken Caesar that’s anything but ordinary.
Subito Sandwich
– Media from subito.sandwich
Location: 389 Gladstone Ave, Ottawa, ON K2P 0Y9, Canada
Contact: +1 613-699-5008
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Tucked away on a little side street, Subito Sandwich has an Italian soul with a modern edge, and nowhere is this more evident than in their sandwich creations.
Word on the street is that their Meatball Sub is a must-try – tender, flavourful meatballs tucked into that perfect bread with a simple but deeply satisfying marinara.
The best part? Subito Sandwich feels like a happy little secret, the kind of place you want to tell your friends about, but also kind of want to keep to yourself.
Sherwood Supermarket
– Media from consumedbycarlo
Location: 111 Sherwood Dr, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3V1, Canada
Contact: +1 613-729-6011
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sherwood Supermarket’s approach is to let the ingredients shine. Freshly baked bread sets the stage, a perfect balance of soft and satisfying. Meats are sliced to order, and you can taste the difference.
But it’s in the toppings where things get interesting – vibrant roasted peppers, a drizzle of their tangy house dressing, and maybe even a handful of fresh herbs to make all the flavours pop.
Fun fact: they provided during the early days of the pandemic when they became a lifeline for folks struggling to find basics like flour and yeast.
Roberto’s Corner
– Media from robertos_corner
Location: 1034 Pleasant Park Rd, Ottawa, ON K1G 2A1, Canada
Contact: +1 613-799-0195
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
This Italian deli may come across as a dainty sandwich shop, but this is where Ottawa goes to satisfy serious hunger pangs. Picture this: construction crews flock here for the hefty portions and bang-for-your-buck prices.
Let’s talk tastebuds. Their chicken parmesan sandwich lives up to its name – it’s a cheesy, saucy, flavour bomb on fresh bread. Want a taste of Italy? The Italian Prosciutto Sandwich delivers with its classic combo of cured meats and tangy accents.
And don’t forget to leave room for their Chocolate Dipped Donut – sometimes, simple sweets are the best.
Gooneys Sandwichworks
– Media from gooneysottawa
Location: 294 Albert St suite 102, Ottawa, ON K1P 6E6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-233-2460
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Gooney’s Sandwichworks is the kinda place that feels like home, only with way better sandwiches than your mom ever made (sorry, Mom!).
They’ve got a way of taking those classic flavours you know and love, then add a little twist – a bit of Europe here, a touch of South America there. You gotta try those arepas, they’re like warm flavour pockets.
And their Pernil Sandwich? That slow-roasted pork melts in your mouth – it’s insanely good. But the real heart of Gooney’s is the folks behind the counter. They just want you to have a good meal and a good time, and that shines through in everything they do.
Shorty’s Sandwich Shop
– Media from shortyssandwichshop
Location: 174 Colonnade Rd #1, Nepean, ON K2E 7J6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-224-5333
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Friday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Shorty’s Sandwich Shop is the kind of place that feels like it’s been in Ottawa forever. It’s got that family-run vibe, where everyone seems to know your name and the smell of fresh bread just makes you feel good. But make no mistake – they’re all serious sandwiches here.
They’re obsessed with using the best stuff, so whether you go for their Smoked Turkey or a classic Genoa Salami, you know it’s going to be fresh and delicious. And don’t sleep on those daily specials! That’s where Shorty’s gets a little creative, and you might just find your new favourite.
Now for their showstopper – it’s definitely their One Egg Breakfast Sandwich. A mix of cheese, bacon and a jalapeno bagel… it’s the kinda thing that gets you out of bed in the morning.
Meltwich Food Co
Location: 381 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5X4, Canada
Contact: +1 613-212-5790
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM
Meltwich Food Co. is the place you go when you’re hankering for something cheesy and seriously satisfying. Think grilled cheese sandwiches that ooze with goodness, burgers that make your mouth water, and a whole lotta options to pile on the toppings.
See, they understand that cheese is life. Cheddar, mozzarella, whatever your heart desires – they’ve got it. And they’re not afraid to get a little messy in the name of deliciousness.
Want bacon and jalapeños in your grilled cheese? Go for it! A juicy Philly loaded with mushrooms? Absolutely!
Sanguiccio Deli-Cafe
– Media from sanguiccio
Location: 183 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7P8, Canada
Contact: +1 613-569-0456
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Forget those chain sandwich places – Sanguiccio Deli-Cafe is where it’s at for anyone who loves a truly delicious sandwich.
If you’re a fan of classic Italian flavours, their Imported Prosciutto with Provolone is a must-try. It’s perfectly simple, letting those quality ingredients shine. This is the type of sandwich that reminds you what good food is.
Oh, and don’t underestimate the power of their Tomato Salad. It’s a bright and fresh counterpoint to all that richness, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Di Rienzo’s Grocery
– Media from littleitalyottawa
Location: 111 Beech St, Ottawa, ON K1S 4P1, Canada
Contact: +1 613-729-4037
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Di Rienzo’s Grocery has been a family-run spot since 1972, and you can feel that history the moment you walk in. The smell of fresh bread, the sight of all those Italian goodies… it’s like a hug for your senses.
They make sandwiches that put all those fancy places to shame. Fresh bread piled high with all the best Italian stuff – meats, cheeses, maybe some roasted peppers for good measure.
Don’t forget their homemade pasta, either, or those cannoli for dessert. Honestly, those cannolis are legendary! But the best part? Even with prices going up everywhere, Di Rienzo’s still keeps their classic sandwich under $10.
The Sandwich Stop
– Media from thesandwichstopottawa
Location: 2285 St. Laurent Blvd Building C #10, Ottawa, ON K1G 4Z6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-680-6844
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The Sandwich Stop has this way of taking simple ingredients and turning them into something truly crave-worthy. Think portions that make you wonder if you should share (but you probably won’t!), and flavours that stick with you all day.
Their bread is the real deal – soft, fresh, and not about to fall apart on you. And the fillings? They pile them high like they know you came hungry.
If you like a little heat, Manny’s Sandwich is a must. All those Italian meats, provolone cheese… then BAM! Spicy eggplant, peppers, and a bunch of sauces to bring it all together. It’s a lot but in the best possible way.
Firehouse Subs Ogilvie & Blair
– Media from firehousesubsca
Location: 2014 Ogilvie Rd Unit 1, Gloucester, ON K1J 7N9, Canada
Contact: +1 613-747-3473
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
The name of this place isn’t just for show. Sanguiccio Firehouse Subs’ founders are former firefighters, and they bring that same dedication to their subs. Big portions, bold flavours – you won’t leave feeling shortchanged.
They don’t skimp on quality. Think juicy, hand-sliced meats and premium cheeses, perfectly melted and piled high. It’s a carnivore’s paradise, but even veggie lovers can find satisfying options.
BanhMiYes
– Media from banhmiyes.ottawa
Location: 1129 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Y6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-728-7688
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Most places buy their bread, but not BanhMiYes. Here, the day starts before dawn, when the fragrant baguettes are baked fresh. That crisp outer layer, the soft, pillowy center – it’s the perfect canvas for their creations.
If it’s your first time, the Saigon Special is a classic for a reason. The mix of meats, pate, and crisp veggies is banh mi perfection. But honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of their flavour-packed options.
Sure, Ottawa might have those fancy banh mi places (and trust us, those are delicious too). But when you need a sandwich that delivers a knockout punch of flavour, BanhMiYes is your undisputed champion.
Casa Nicastro Foods
– Media from cookororder.eat.repeat
Location: 304 Preston St, Ottawa, ON K1R 7R6, Canada
Contact: +1 613-238-2018
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Casa Nicastro is family-run, and that warmth and passion are woven into every sandwich. They know their regulars by name, their knowledge of Italian delicacies runs deep, and they take the time to build your sandwich just the way you like it.
No pre-made, soggy subs here. You get to call the shots. Just pick your bread, your meats, your cheese, and all the fixings your heart desires. They toast it to perfection, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.
Paninaro
– Media from eatpaninaro
Location: 642 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K1R 5K4, Canada
Contact: +1 613-663-5145
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Tucked in the back of a building, Paninaro rewards those who venture off the beaten path. Expect a laid-back vibe, graffiti-adorned walls, and a menu that delivers big on authentic Italian flavours.
It’s clear that taste, not trends, reigns here. They make their ridiculously delicious stracciatella cheese in-house and source high-quality, carefully selected ingredients.
Now, if we’re talking about must-tries, then it’s their Porchetta sandwich. It’s full of juicy pork and herbaceous salsa verde – you know, the kind of sandwich that makes you grateful tastebuds exist.
Pops Paninis Carling
– Media from popspaninis
Location: 2255 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2B 7Z5, Canada
Contact: +1 613-422-1472
Pricing: $
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
You know, the kind where the melty cheese stretches a mile and the savoury meat practically jumps off the bread? Pops Paninis Carling is that place. It’s no frills, just pure, delicious satisfaction.
We’re talking about portions that’ll leave you happy for hours and sauces so good they’ll make you want to lick the plate (well, maybe not in public!).
They also know that sometimes the classics are the best, so expect to see juicy Philly cheesesteaks and epic grilled cheeses that put your childhood efforts to shame.
