Happy sunny Saturday! Today is 2023 Car Free Day in Vancouver's vibrant Commercial Drive neighbourhood, so in true fashion, we walked 5 kilometres there from our home. We have tried all the food trucks that are part of the event, so I searched Google Maps for restaurants with more than a 4.5-star rating that are open now and sorted it by distance. The first recommendation is La Grotta del Formaggio.
Established in 1979, La Grotta Del Formaggio has been a culinary cornerstone of Commercial Drive. With its roots firmly planted in Italian tradition, the deli brings a taste of Italy to Vancouver. It's where food lovers gather to experience the essence of Italian cuisine, specifically deli meat.
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| La Grotta del Formaggio |
We entered the historic spot with high expectations. All the reviews raved that it's one of the (if not the) best sandwiches you can get in Vancouver. I opted for their Il Classico Panini.
The first bite was a revelation. The perfectly toasted bread was the ideal canvas for the ingredients. The delicately rich mortadella danced in perfect harmony with the spicy capicollo, creating a balance of flavours.
The provolone cheese added a creamy note, while the artichokes (a personal favourite) and tomatoes provided a refreshing burst of tanginess to cut through the rich meat. The olives, baby spinach, and hot banana peppers contributed layers of earthy and spicy flavours. The crispy and slightly pungent red onion lent a satisfying crunch, while the pesto mayonnaise and olive oil balsamic vinegar tied it all together with a silky, herb-infused finish.
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Il Classico Panini from La Grotta del Formaggio Mortadella, spicy capicollo, provolone cheese, artichokes, tomatoes, olives, baby spinach, hot banana peppers, red onion, pesto mayonnaise, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar |
The Il Classic Panini at La Grotta Del Formaggio is more than just a sandwich; it's a culinary journey through the flavours of Italy. Each ingredient is carefully chosen and thoughtfully combined to create a satisfying and memorable masterpiece.
