Toronto’s Famous Bacon Sandwich Makers Say Goodbye After 50 Years. CTV News
Two brothers who turned a simple sandwich into a Toronto legend have received the city’s highest honour. Robert and Maurice Biancolin, longtime owners of Carousel Bakery at St. Lawrence Market, received the Key to the City on Tuesday. Mayor Olivia Chow presented the award as they stepped into retirement after nearly 50 years in business.
The sandwich that became a symbol
Their famous creation — the peameal bacon sandwich — helped define Toronto’s food identity. It’s a hearty sandwich made with slices of salty, cornmeal-crusted bacon on a soft bun, often topped with mustard. The sandwich was officially named Toronto’s signature dish in 2016.
The mayor praised their legacy, saying, “Peameal bacon was invented at St. Lawrence Market and is now known around the world as Canadian bacon.” She called the sandwich a part of Toronto’s identity and thanked the brothers for their contribution.
A worldwide reputation
Carousel Bakery’s sandwich earned international fame. Celebrities like Anthony Bourdain and Barbra Streisand tried it. Bourdain made a point to eat it when visiting the city in 2012. Streisand had it brought to her during a 2016 concert stop.
The bakery's bold yellow signs describe the sandwich as “world famous” and “a Toronto tradition,” and it truly became both under the Biancolins’ care.
A family story, decades in the making
The story began in the 1960s when their father, Elso Biancolin, took over Carousel Bakery. Robert joined the family business first, then Maurice. They ran the bakery together for decades, becoming familiar faces at the market.
Their shop has stayed in the same location at St. Lawrence Market for over 30 years. Customers returned again and again not just for the sandwich, but also for the warm welcome and consistency the brothers brought.
A well-timed goodbye
Robert, 69, and Maurice, 78, decided it was finally time to step away. They recently shared that the new owners will keep things the same. The staff, recipe, and the much-loved tradition will continue.
Maurice said, “As you age, life squeezes in on you. There’s a time and place for everything to happen, so it was the right time to say goodbye.” Robert added, “We’re going to help everyone carry on the tradition and legacy we’ve created.”
A farewell full of flavour
Though they’ve handed over the keys, the Biancolins’ impact on Toronto’s culinary scene remains strong. The sandwich they made famous will continue to serve smiles — one bun at a time.
