Hidden in the L'Esplanade Laurier concourse in downtown Ottawa, a small mezzanine counter serves some of the city's most delightful and affordable Japanese sandwiches. Some Coffee & Some Tea, owned by Xiang Xu, has been crafting wanpaku sandwiches for six years, offering a unique culinary experience that combines Japanese tradition with local accessibility.
What Makes Wanpaku Sandwiches Special?
Wanpaku, meaning "mischievous" in Japanese, perfectly describes these overstuffed sandwiches. Each one features a thick stack of breaded protein, shredded lettuce, cheese, and sauce sandwiched between two slices of bread. Cut straight down the middle and wrapped in parchment, the colorful cross-section is revealed when opened, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious.
The trend originated on Japanese Instagram in the late 2010s and spread to Korea and other parts of Asia, but it has yet to gain widespread popularity in Canada. Xu's versions are remarkably affordable, with everything on the menu under $10. Options include a vegetarian tomato and basil sandwich for $8.95, and meat fillings ranging from $9.25 to $9.75.
A Café Without Signage
Some Coffee & Some Tea relies on word-of-mouth and a loyal customer base of federal workers from the offices above, as there is no signage to guide newcomers from street level. The café operates without a dedicated kitchen, so fried proteins are prepared in advance to keep the line moving during the lunch rush, which peaks around noon. By 1 p.m., the surrounding food court seating empties, making it an ideal time for a quiet visit with no wait.
Customer Favorites
Among the three wanpaku sandwiches sampled by a group of colleagues, the shrimp tempura version was the clear favorite. The tempura is crisp, and the sauce, made in-house with Japanese mustard, offers a strong kick similar to wasabi but distinct. The chicken version features a tangy tartar sauce mixed with relish and lemon juice. Xu prepares all sauces in-house, ensuring fresh and bold flavors.
For early risers, the café serves pressed breakfast sandwiches from 7:30 a.m. onward. The edges of the bread are sealed to trap fillings like egg and cheese ($4.75), bacon ($7.25), or ham ($7.15) in a melted pocket. Before leaving, customers should check the pastry case for Xu's popular house-baked Basque cheesecake, which often sells out quickly.
Beverages That Impress
True to its name, Some Coffee & Some Tea offers a robust coffee and tea program. Xu sources coffee from a Toronto roaster that is certified organic and 100% Arabica. The bubble tea uses real dairy, unlike some shops that rely on powder, and Xu personally selects the teas. The Red Bean Jelly Matcha Latte ($5.45 to $6.15) features a mild grassy taste with a layer of red bean jelly at the bottom of the cup, providing a unique and refreshing experience.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, Some Coffee & Some Tea is a hidden gem worth seeking out for its impeccable wanpaku sandwiches and affordable, high-quality beverages.
