In a competition that was fueled by the fervour of veal sandwich lovers from across this great province, the Veal Farmers of Ontario (VFO) today recognized Kantene Restaurant in Mississauga, as home to Ontario’s Best Veal Sandwich 2019. With more than 80 sandwich makers nominated and three rounds of judging, their win has been well earned.

“Thousands of people in Ontario took the time to nominate their favourite veal sandwich maker,” said Jennifer Haley, Executive Director of the VFO. “We’ve found that the passion of veal sandwich fans is nearly equal to that of our members, who proudly raise grain-fed veal on their family farms. For our farmers, it’s fulfilling to know their hard work is coveted by so many!”

The final event in the sandwich search had the top three makers presenting their best in front of friends and family at The Market Kitchen in Toronto's historic St. Lawrence Market. Judging was overseen by John Catucci, host of You Gotta Eat Here! and the new Big Food Bucket List on Food Network Canada, last year’s winners Sian Burns and Dina Marsillo of Kitchener’s, Nostra Cucina and Tom Kroesbergen, Chair of the VFO. They were joined by Burlington’s own Melinda Paletta who won her spot at the judges’ table through a contest hosted by the VFO.

"Judging Ontario’s Best Veal Sandwich competition is probably the most Italian thing I have done in my life,” said Catucci. "It wasn’t a hardship by any means, but it was a real challenge to select just one winner.  Each maker brings their own inspirations and history to this simple combination of Ontario veal and tomato sauce on a bun.”

Rounding out the finalists were California Sandwiches, Claremont in Toronto and Tutti Panini from Richmond Hill. In the end though it was Mississauga’s Kantene Restaurant who earned the title of Ontario’s Best Veal Sandwich 2019.

Chef Harith Darshana creates a spectacular veal sandwich that surprises with bright, fresh flavours. Kantene’s Panko-breaded Ontario veal is a little thicker than most but remains tender with a light crispy coating. Named Veal Supreme, it’s topped with grilled eggplant, melted bocconcini in a fresh tomato-based basil sauce with melted Provolone and crispy Parmesan on a soft bun.
For more about Kantene, visit kantene.com.