If you’re not quite in the mood to dust off your dancing shoes and take part in one of the many events happening in Toronto to celebrate New Orleans’ legendary Mardi Gras festival, you can still get a taste of the Big Easy today by getting your hands on the city’s signature sandwich: the po’boy. These are Toronto’s best po’boys. 

Fresco’s Fish and Chips

Cute Kensington Market fish and chips shop Fresco’s Fish and Chips is old-fashioned in its approach to classic fried fish, which features a traditional batter made with wheat and yellow corn flour, but forward-thinking in its approach to sustainability. The menu features Ocean Wise or Marine Stewardship Council certified seafood, while orders are wrapped up in biodegradable takeout packaging. Po’Boys come in shrimp, cod, crab and halibut varieties, all served on toasted ciabatta bread with cheese, chipotle mayo and coleslaw.

Brock Sandwich

Sandwich spot Brock Sandwich has been a Bloordale staple for close to a decade. Their  po’boy sees fried shrimp and squid layered with coleslaw, peppered relish, tomatillo sauce and fresh cilantro. You can make it a combo by opting for the fresh cut fries and a pop, but we recommend adding on an order of their house-made poutine to really get yourself into the indulgent, Mardi Gras spirit.  

Buster’s Sea Cove

Popular Toronto seafood purveyor Buster’s Sea Cove offers a trio of po’boy options. Sandwiches are served on fresh focaccia bread with a side of coleslaw and customers can choose between deep-fried shrimp, oyster or calamari for the filling. For an extra $3, you can make it a meal by adding fries, rice or salad.  

Off the Hook Fishbar 

This seafood restaurant located on Broadview is best known for their oysters, but they also do a mean tiger shrimp po’boy. Cajun seasoned shrimp is deep-fried and nestles in a soft bun, along with lettuce, tomato, pickle sprouts and a tangy chipotle aioli.