Jamie RamsayI’ve always been the type who gets a little anxious about hunger creeping in—aren’t we all? That’s where sandwiches come to the rescue, offering a quick, satisfying fix that’s easy to grab.
Whether it’s a classic ham and cheese or something more adventurous, sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food that never lets you down. After embarking on the ultimate sandwich hunt around Vancouver, I can’t wait to share the best bites I discovered.
These sandwiches will tantalize your taste buds and keep your hunger at bay. Ready to find your new favorite? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
1. La Grotta del Formaggio
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Website: http://www.lagrottadelformaggio.com/
Address: 1791 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4, Canada
Contact details: +16042553911
Operating hours: 9 AM–6 PM
Pricing: $
La Grotta del Formaggio is more than just a deli; it feels like a slice of Italy right here. Founded by Fortunato Bruzzese, who came to Canada in the 1960s, this place has been a cherished spot since 1977.
Fortunato’s commitment to quality shines through, whether the house-made meats or those imported cheeses. If you’re wondering what to order, you can’t go wrong with their classic Italian sandwich.
The meatball sub is also a must-try—its rich flavor just hits the spot. And if you’re in the mood for something other than sandwiches, you must try their homemade pasta.
Pro tip:
Don’t skip their artisanal cheeses! They have an outstanding selection that pairs beautifully with any sandwich or can be enjoyed as a delightful snack.
2. Meat & Bread
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Website: https://www.meatandbread.com/robson
Address: 625 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5J3, Canada
Operating hours: 11 AM–8 PM
Pricing: $$
Meat & Bread is famous for its porchetta and meatball sandwiches, and honestly, I love that they focus on quality over quantity. The menu is limited, but every option packs a punch with bold flavors that make you sit up and notice.
Walking into Meat & Bread feels like stepping into a cozy neighborhood hangout. The vibe is super casual and inviting—think minimalist decor with a few communal tables where you can just chill and enjoy your meal with friends.
They often have these cool special events and promotions, and I once got lucky with a deal where a sandwich was just a dollar! How crazy is that? If you’re not all about sandwiches that day, their daily salads are worth trying, too.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their feature soup of the day alongside your sandwich—it’s always fresh and adds extra comfort to your meal!
3. DD Mau
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Website: http://ddmau.ca/
Address: 145 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T6, Canada
Contact details: +16045596076
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$
DD Mau serves Vietnamese banh mi with a modern twist. You can tell they care about what goes into each plate, using house-made sauces and locally sourced ingredients that make everything feel comforting yet innovative.
It’s casual, but this lively energy makes it a great place to hang out, whether grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner. The mix of modern and traditional Vietnamese decor mix creates a warm atmosphere, inviting you to stay a while.
Now, regarding the menu, you have to try their best-selling sandwiches! I couldn’t resist the “BBQ Pork Banh Mi.” On my last visit, they had shrimp toast on the menu, which went perfectly with their craft cocktails.
Pro tip:
If you’re not in the mood for a sandwich, try their Viet Carpaccio—it’s a delightful starter that beautifully complements any meal.
4. Say Hey Café
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Website: http://sayheycafe.ca/
Address: 156 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3, Canada
Contact details: +16045644604
Operating hours: 8 AM–4 PM
Pricing: $
Say Hey Café & Deli is a hidden gem, like stepping into a cozy Italian deli with a fun twist. It’s vibrant, with a quirky, artistic flair all around. There’s some fun 90s rap playing in the background, which just adds to the whole experience.
Prices range from about $14 for a roll to $18 for a full sandwich, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. They use fresh ingredients, like heirloom tomatoes and bread baked daily. You can genuinely taste the quality.
You’ve got to try the Doofer Hero hoagie—this spicy, mouthwatering creation loaded with meats and toppings just hits the spot. And then there’s the Meatball Hoagie, which is bursting with juicy meatballs swimming in San Marzano tomato sauce.
Pro tip:
If you’re into something a bit more adventurous, the La Bomba is a must. It’s got this hot soppressata combined with smoky chili mayo that takes the flavor to another level.
5. Finch’s Teahouse
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Website: https://www.finchteahouse.com/
Address: 501 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3E1, Canada
Contact details: +16045581644
Operating hours: 9 AM–4 PM
Pricing: $$
Finch’s Teahouse feels like stepping into a charming rustic country store: picture mismatched decor that works perfectly together and a big glass display case filled with mouthwatering baked goods.
One of the things that draws me in is their menu. Finch specializes in incredible sandwiches with unique flavor combos. For instance, the Pear Sandwich and Pepper Salami Sandwich are game changers.
Finch’s also offers seasonal specials and bestsellers, like its Egg Salad Sandwich, which keeps everyone returning for more. Plus, it frequently hosts fun events, like tea tastings or even sandwich-making workshops.
Pro tip:
Don’t skip their house salad; it’s a refreshing complement to any sandwich you choose
6. Harvest Deli
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Address: 2963 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2G9, Canada
Contact details: +16047393354
Operating hours: 10 AM–3 PM
Pricing: $
Harvest Deli is a little gem that captures the essence of a deli but with a fun, modern twist. It’s known for its hearty sandwiches, like the Reuben, and its signature smoked meats are to die for.
The vibe in Harvest Deli is so warm and inviting. Picture this: rustic wooden tables and quirky décor that make you feel like you’re in a little countryside retreat. It’s a small place with only a few tables, which gives it this intimate feel.
You might find yourself sharing a table with fellow food enthusiasts; honestly, that’s half the fun! The staff is super friendly and genuinely cares about your experience. They’re quick at the counter and will bring your order right over.
Pro tip:
Don’t overlook their breakfast options; the Shakshuka is legendary and praised as the best in town! It’s made with a rich tomato-pepper sauce bursting with flavor—perfect for starting your day.
7. Tokyo Katsu-Sand
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Website: https://tokyokatsusand.ca/
Address: 700 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1T2, Canada
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–7:30 PM
Pricing: $
Tokyo Katsu-Sand is my new obsession. They serve Japanese-style katsu sandwiches that are out of this world—think crispy, breaded cutlets of beef or pork tucked into the fluffiest bread ever.
Their authentic and delicious take on traditional Katsu-sando offers several options, such as Gyu-katsu (beef), Ebi-katsu (shrimp), Ton-katsu (pork), and Chicken-katsu.
And their homemade sauces add this drop of magic that makes it all come together.
The vibe at Tokyo Katsu-Sand is casual. You’ll find it outside the Vancouver City Centre Skytrain station, making it a great stop for anyone shopping or commuting. While you wait—usually around ten minutes—you can people-watch from nearby benches.
Pro tip:
Don’t overlook their side dishes; the crispy fries are a fantastic complement to any sandwich and worth adding to your order for that extra crunch
8. DownLow Chicken Shack
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Website: https://www.dlchickenshack.ca/
Address: 905 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 2H2, Canada
Contact details: +16042831385
Operating hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Pricing: $$
DownLow Chicken Shack is known for the “Cannibal Lector,” with its juicy boneless chicken thighs fried to a golden crisp. And get this: the chicken is hormone-free and sourced from local farms.
The atmosphere is casual and lively as if you’re part of this cool neighborhood hangout. While it’s mostly takeout, they have some high-top chairs inside and outdoor seating for sunny days, perfect for enjoying food in the fresh air.
When you place your order, be ready for the fun shout of “PILE OF THIGHS!”—it’s just part of the whole experience! And if you’re lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday, don’t miss “Big Wings Wednesdays.”
Pro tip:
If you’re not in the mood for a sandwich, definitely try their Pimento Macaroni Salad—it’s creamy with just the right amount of tang! It pairs wonderfully with their fried chicken options and adds a delightful twist to your meal experience.
9. Petite Bao
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Website: http://www.petitebao.ca/
Address: 2825 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2G6, Canada
Contact details: +16048000080
Operating hours: 11 AM–9 PM
Pricing: $
Petite Bao is run by the Hong Kong couple Jay and Jessica, who brought their culinary vision to life. They opened up in late 2022, and they’ve been whipping up some fantastic Asian-inspired bao burgers that are unlike anything else you’ll find around.
The vibe is welcoming, with playful neon lights and minimalist decor that makes it feel super casual. It’s a small space, perfect for grabbing a bite with a couple of friends—groups of four or fewer definitely fit best.
Now, let’s get to the food. I couldn’t resist ordering the Pork Belly Bao, a bestseller for good reason—it’s so juicy and flavorful! Try the Fried Chicken Bao during happy hour; it’s a crowd favorite.
Pro tip:
Try their Parmesan Fries. They come with this delicious dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with the baos. Trust me, you don’t want to skip those.
10. La Galleria in Edgemont Village
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Website: http://www.lagalleriafinefoods.ca/
Address: 3055 Highland Blvd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2T9, Canada
Contact details: +16049909162
Operating hours: 9 AM–3:30 PM
Pricing: $$
La Galleria is a local favorite for its chicken sandwiches and house-made sauces.
The vibe is warm and inviting. It’s like a cozy café with a modern flair. You can pretty much sink into the comfy seating and just kick back.
Now, let’s talk about the sandwiches. They’ve won awards for a reason! They use fresh, homemade ingredients, and the creativity they put into their menu is impressive. Each sandwich features specialty goodies like locally sourced meats and artisanal breads.
A must-order is their prosciutto baguette sandwich. This sandwich has garnered rave reviews for its quality ingredients and perfect texture, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Pro tip:
Don’t skip their soup of the day—it’s the perfect complement to any sandwich and showcases their commitment to fresh ingredients!
