Sandwich Showcase: Cuban Doner at Tom’s Little Havana

A “Cuban Doner” sounds like a cross between a cuban sandwich and a donair (or more appropriately, a doner kebap). In reality, it does neither sandwich any justice. It bears no resemblance to the Cuban sandwich – the name is merely playing on the “Havana” reference in the bar’s name. The beef is also not cooked on a spit, as required by the definition of “doner”. Instead, it is sautéed with pickle, onion and tomato. It is served in a crispy pita with tzatziki sauce, fresh parsley and melted cheese (the latter is not mentioned on the menu but is definitely present).

Some of the toppings spilled out and there was some dripping, but the structural integrity is mainly impressive for a sandwich of this nature.

And it’s delicious. Great flavours are happening here (you must like pickles), and my only complaint is that I found the beef, though generous, to be under-seasoned and chewy in places. Otherwise – fantastic. I was sad when the sandwich was gone.

The Cuban Doner stands alone at $11.50, but you can add the soup-of-the-day or a salad for $2.50. I had a curried cauliflower soup.

While I would return for this sandwich, I suspect that the Blackened Chicken Panini warrants a Sandwich Showcase of its own. To be continued!