Best Sandwiches in Ottawa
From classic Italian delis to Venezuelan arepas and artisanal bakery sandwiches, Ottawa's sandwich scene delivers quality and variety. Here are 4 top spots.
Ottawa's sandwich scene spans classic Italian delis, Venezuelan-influenced shops, and artisanal bakeries. Whether you're craving traditional porchetta, gigantic Italian subs, or creative gastro-bakery builds, these 4 spots deliver quality sandwiches worth the trip.
1. Di Rienzo's — The Old-School Giant
Di Rienzo's has been serving authentic Italian deli fare near Little Italy for over 40 years. Their sandwiches are legendary for size — customers regularly report they're big enough for two meals, loaded with quality meats and toppings at reasonable prices.
This family-owned institution focuses on what matters: fresh ingredients, generous portions, and consistent execution. The no-frills approach has built a loyal following that spans generations.
What to order: Italian Sandwich (signature build), Prosciutto & Mozzarella, Sausage Sandwich.
Good to know: Mon-Fri 8:30am-7pm, Sat 10am-7pm. Come early for lunch.
Neighbourhood: Little Italy (111 Beech St)
2. Gooney's — The Creative Counter
Gooney's has been a downtown favorite since 2011, offering a unique twist with Venezuelan influences. Specializing in sandwiches, arepas (Venezuelan corn cakes), salads, and wraps, Gooney's brings Latin American flavors to traditional sandwich formats.
The combination of creative builds and counter-service efficiency makes it ideal for the lunch crowd. With 11+ years of consistent quality, Gooney's has earned its local following.
What to order: Arepas (Venezuelan corn cakes), Signature Sandwiches, Wraps, Salads.
Good to know: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun Closed.
Neighbourhood: Centretown (294 Albert St)
3. Sanguiccio — The Handcrafted Artisan
Sanguiccio in Little Italy takes handcrafted to the extreme — everything is made from scratch, including bread, tomato sauce, pickles, mustard, porchetta, and sausages. This commitment to in-house preparation with locally sourced ingredients sets them apart.
The Preston Street location places it alongside other Italian businesses that maintain traditional standards. The deli-cafe format works for both quick takeout and casual dining.
What to order: Porchetta Sandwich (house-made), Sausage Sandwich, Prosciutto & Mozzarella.
Good to know: Everything made from scratch. Check website for hours.
Neighbourhood: Little Italy (183 Preston St)
4. Art-Is-In Bakery — The Gastro-Bakery
Art-Is-In Bakery combines Parisian boulangerie techniques with Brooklyn cafe vibes in an edgy Westboro gastro-bakery. Featured on Food Network's You Gotta Eat Here!, they're known for breakfast sandwiches, creative lunch builds, and artisanal breads.
The menu balances sweet pastries with savory sandwiches, all made with attention to technique. Extended weekend hours and artistic atmosphere make it a Westboro destination.
What to order: Breakfast Sandwiches, Lunch Sandwiches, Pastries, Artisanal Breads.
Good to know: Open until 9pm Thu-Sat. Featured on You Gotta Eat Here!
Neighbourhood: Westboro (250 City Centre Ave)
The Quick Comparison
| Shop | Style | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Di Rienzo's | Italian Deli | Gigantic portions, value | $ |
| Gooney's | Creative Counter | Venezuelan flair, arepas | $ |
| Sanguiccio | Handcrafted Artisan | Everything from scratch | $$ |
| Art-Is-In | Gastro-Bakery | Breakfast, artisanal quality | $$ |
Sandwich Terms to Know
- Porchetta — Italian roast pork, slow-cooked with herbs and spices.
- Prosciutto — Dry-cured Italian ham, thinly sliced.
- Panini — Pressed Italian sandwich, served warm.
- Arepa — Venezuelan corn cake that opens like pita for fillings.
- Hoagie/Sub — Long sandwich on Italian bread with multiple meats and toppings.
- Caprese — Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil with balsamic.
Tips
- For huge portions — Di Rienzo's sandwiches are often enough for two meals.
- For downtown location — Gooney's in Centretown.
- For something different — Gooney's arepas bring Venezuelan flavors.
- For artisanal quality — Sanguiccio makes everything from scratch, Art-Is-In uses bakery techniques.
- For breakfast sandwiches — Art-Is-In Bakery excels at morning builds.
- For Italian authenticity — Di Rienzo's or Sanguiccio deliver traditional Italian deli quality.
🍴Featured Restaurants
Di Rienzo's
Authentic Italian deli near Little Italy serving famous sandwiches for over 40 years. Known for gigantic portions often enough for two meals.
Gooney's
Local sandwich shop serving Ottawa since 2011. Specializes in sandwiches, Venezuelan arepas, salads, and wraps with unique flavors.
Sanguiccio
Handcrafted Italian sandwich deli-cafe in Little Italy. Everything made from scratch including bread, sauce, pickles, porchetta, and sausages.
Art-Is-In Bakery
Edgy gastro-bakery inspired by Parisian boulangeries and Brooklyn cafes. Featured on Food Network's You Gotta Eat Here!
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