Winner
Alumni Sandwiches
Alumni’s loyal following stems from its offering of exceptional sandwiches, such as the chicken parmesan with lemony kale, the wonderfully spicy hot chicken sandwich, the satisfying rosemary beef dip and more. Be sure to pair your choice with sides like mac salad, parmesan fries or charred broccoli. Plus, there’s a fun menu of inventive cocktails and local craft beers to enjoy with your meal.
725 17 Ave. S.W., 403-455-7255, alumnisandwiches.com, @alumnisandwiches
Runners-up
Spolumbo’s
With its sausages sold in a variety of restaurants and grocery stores, Spolumbo’s is well-known throughout the city. Fans can also stop by Spolumbo’s Inglewood deli and order a classic sausage on a bun topped with tomato sauce, or choose from a variety of hot paninis and Italian cold cut sandwiches. Ultimately, you won’t be able to leave empty handed, and can stock up on a selection of goods thanks to the in-store market.
1308 9 Ave. S.E., 403-264-6452, spolumbos.com, @spolumbosdeli
Peppino Gourmet Foods
More than 30 years after the first Peppino location opened in Calgary, the shop continues to deliver some of the best sandwiches in the city. Peppino now has five locations throughout the city and offers more than 42 fresh Italian sandwiches like the prosciutto bocconcini or hot Italian meatball. Peppino also sells a number of products in the in-store market like pasta sauces, soups and takeaway lasagnas.
Multiple Calgary locations, peppinogourmet.com, @peppinoyyc
Lazy Loaf & Kettle
Famous for its “kettle bread,” a dense loaf made with nine grains, Lazy Loaf & Kettle offers several homestyle sandwiches (as well as a build-your-own sandwich option) that are available on any of the fresh-baked breads. The café and bakery is located near the Bow River, providing the perfect opportunity for a picnic by the water.
8 Parkdale Cres. N.W., 403-270-7810, lazyloafandkettle.com, @lazy_loaf
Grumans Delicatessen
Grumans Delicatessen has been around since 2005, and describes itself as “a mostly traditional” Jewish-inspired deli. Sandwiches like Grumans’ famous reuben, the smoked turkey club and the jumbo all-beef hot dog topped with sauerkraut and mustard are all must-try items on your next visit. The restaurant also offers catering services.
5103 Elbow Dr. S.W., 403-452-6561, grumansbritannia.ca, @grumansdeli