Team behind Gus Tacos open Mexican-inspired sandwiches spot in Toronto

San Wich is a Mexican-inspired sandwich shop from the team behind Gus Tacos.

Opened in July of 2024, this no frills takeout spot occupies a small unit on Gladstone Avenue, just north of Bloor.

The space is clean and utilitarian, with a red, white and green colour palette reminiscent of the Mexican flag.

Cartoon turtles can be found posing on posters or lounging against the menu. These adorable mascots are a cheeky nod to the type of sandwiches the restaurant serves: namely, Mexican tortas.

Seating is limited to a few metal benches and tables are practically non-existent. As a result, the restaurant is a constant hub of activity. During the lunch rush, customers and couriers stand shoulder to shoulder, waiting for their orders to arrive.

All the while, upbeat pop music plays over the sound system and delicious smells drift out of the open concept kitchen.

San Wich’s menu is divided into four sections: sandwiches, add-ons, drinks and desserts. Everything on the menu is made to order and prepared in-house.

Breakfast sandwiches are available until 1 p.m., while lunch items are served from noon onwards. Both types of sandwich are much larger than your average meal, with the lunch items being particularly filling.

The egg chorizo jalapeno cheese ($11) is the most popular item on the breakfast menu. With a straightforward name and a deliciously spicy flavour, this sandwich is the perfect way to start a busy day.

The beef barbacoa ($14) layers tender shredded beef, havarti cheese, avocados, onions and mayo between two pillowy soft buns.

Of all the sandwiches on offer, this one was my personal favourite.

The chicken milanesa ($13) combines crispy breaded chicken with avocados, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise and mustard, resulting in a meal that is equal parts creamy and crunchy.

The cubana ($13) is San Wich’s take on a classic Cuban sandwich. In addition to the requisite ham and cheese, this dish is topped with pickles and mustard, giving it a pleasantly tangy aftertaste.

The jamaica ($4) is one of two agua frescas, light non-alcoholic beverages made from fruits, flowers and grains.

Named for the hibiscus flower, which is known as the flor de jamaica in Latin America, this deep red drink tastes a little bit like a fruity iced tea.

The cucumber lime fresca ($4) is the jamaica’s opposite number. Made with cucumbers, lime and mint, this drink offers a crisp, slightly sour flavour, similar to lemonade.

If, by chance, you’re still hungry after finishing your sandwich, consider trying the tres leches cake ($8). This milk-soaked sponge cake has a soft, moist texture, making each spoonful practically melt in your mouth.

San Wich is located at 616 Gladstone Avenue.