When a friend called me early this morning I knew my day was already planned out. We were heading to the Cabbagetown Festival for a steak sandwich. She's been reminiscing over her last one for close to a year.

When we arrived in front of The Epicure Shop the grill was covered with tasty slices of steak and a roasting pan full of carmelized onions was simmering off to one side.

I followed her cue and ordered one steak sandwich with cheese ($6). With food in hand we set out to find a curb and enjoy our meal.

Realizing the mess that was waiting for me I wrapped the butcher's paper tightly around the bottom half and took my first bite. After the swallow I knew my friend was right, this sandwich is worth the annual wait. The fiery marriage of meat, cheese and onions was full of flavour. My hunch is the steak was seasoned with a relative of the Tex-Mex family but some things are better left a mystery.

Inside of The Epicure Shop is a full-fledged deli with a wide assortment of fancy smoked meats, cheeses and fresh baked bread. After examining the fare I found a whiteboard listing the staff's favourite sandwiches (all for $5.95).

While I wait until the grill comes out again next year I'll be sure to go back and try out "The Brody". A fresh mix of cappicola, veggies and sauce.

The Epicure Shop
473 Parliament St.
416-928-0291