Toronto Retro Sandwich Shop Opens on Ossington with Deli Classics
Toronto retro sandwich shop lovers have something new to be excited about. A fresh lunch spot is opening its doors on Ossington Avenue, and it’s bringing a lot more than just sandwiches. Linny’s Luncheonette, created by renowned Toronto chef David Schwartz, is set to open on May 9. This new fast-casual eatery is a tribute to traditional delis, serving up handcrafted sandwiches, house-made sides, and old-school charm in a modern setting.
Inspired by a family legacy, Linny’s aims to blend comfort food with a taste of the past. It’s the latest venture from Big Hug Hospitality, the group behind hit restaurants like Sunny’s Chinese and MIMI Chinese. This time, the focus is on simple pleasures—fat pastrami sandwiches, pickles, and a space that feels straight out of the 1980s.
A Nostalgic Lunch Spot in Toronto
The vibe at Linny’s Luncheonette is unmistakably retro, right down to the counter design. The space was designed by IPSO Studio, with colorful Formica tops, diamond-patterned stainless steel, and nods to the hot dog cart Schwartz’s family once ran in the ’80s.
“We wanted to celebrate the tradition of deli sandwiches and bring that warmth to this community,” Schwartz said in a statement. “This space let us fully realize the Linny’s vision.”
The menu has all the hallmarks of a classic deli, with some Toronto flair. Whether you’re on a lunch break or out for a casual bite, the options are hearty and satisfying.
Here’s what customers can expect at the new spot:
- Hand-carved, slow-smoked pastrami sandwiches with mustard
- Smoked fish sandwiches
- Potato salad and creamy coleslaw
- Knishes, karnatzel (dry-cured sausage), and crunchy house-made pickles
- Old-school sodas like Vernor’s and Cherry Cotts
- Linny’s private-label hot sauce and pastrami spice
Even though classic steamies (steamed hot dogs) aren’t on the menu right now, Schwartz has hinted they may arrive in the future. For now, the team is focused on building a menu that offers depth and nostalgia without being overly fussy.
Retro Dining Meets Toronto’s Modern Food Scene
Unlike Linny’s adjacent steakhouse, which leans upscale, the luncheonette invites a more casual experience. The idea is to grab a great sandwich, maybe sip a soda, and enjoy the simplicity of well-made food.
The space is located at 174 Ossington Avenue and is already generating popularity among locals. With Toronto’s love for comfort food on the rise, Linny’s Luncheonette is arriving at just the right moment.
As Schwartz puts it, “This isn’t just about food. It’s about memory, comfort, and sharing something timeless.”
And for anyone craving a bite of the past with a modern twist, the new Toronto retro sandwich shop promises to deliver just that.
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