When we think of heading out for a bite to eat, it's usually in a specific space somewhere, with a recognizable and large sign outside. Not Caplansky's.
If not for the onslaught of gushing praise and increasing publicity, this would be one of those beloved secret spots just outside of the downtown core of Toronto that only locals know about. Nestled in Little Italy, Caplansky's is not a restaurant, but rather an idea and some smoked meat nestled in the old Monarch Tavern. This means that there is no special Caplansky's seating or space. Rather, an efficient kitchen run separately from the tavern that produces one special and delectable delicacy -- the smoked meat sandwich.
You go in, and peruse the simple and well-priced menu, figure out your smoked meat sides, and wait for flavor you can usually only find in Montreal. Conducting business this way, it's like a special little secret, but it may not remain one. These sandwiches are in such high demand that Zane Caplansky has blogged about the possibility of moving. But small or large -- if you liked smoked meat, Caplansky's is a must.
But even better is this idea of rented kitchen space -- of great ideas starting on the ground floor. There's just one specialty, no fuss, and the wow of the personal touch. (Zane himself came to check on our order when I took the above image in September.) Maybe that will change with expansion, but I can only hope that more creative food minds take his cue. Imagine the possibilities!
Hit the jump to see a video of the experience.
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