When Chef Babak Fami told his wife Shabnam Moier he wanted
his own restaurant, she listened and supported him. What type of restaurant? Even
though he worked at Terroni, Chef Fami had no desire to cook Italian. Instead,
he wanted an inclusive menu where numerous cultures were represented and to
share the diversity through a sandwich. Eighteen months later, FAMO (a
combination of Fami and Moier’s surnames) finally greets Queen East.
I know what you’re thinking … sandwiches? What’s special about that? FAMO stays away from the overdone BLT and cold cuts. Instead, you’ll find ingredients like beef cheeks, lamb and tongue. Moreover, each incorporates spices, herbs or ingredients from different cultures so they’re global sandwiches. Oh my!
In tribute to our city, the Six ($13) takes beef tongue and
braises it in red wine for hours until it becomes a flavourful piece of meat.
For those who haven’t tried this part of the cow before, when prepared
correctly, it’s like eating beef tenderloin.
After thinly slicing the tongue, it’s topped with truffle
mayo, arugula slaw and red onions. Overall, a delicious combination of flavours
– the truffle essence is evident but not the first thing you taste. However,
the tongue does get lost between all the ingredients and thick bread. Perhaps a
different bun or more meat would help.
The Cheek and Bun ($13) consists of slow braised beef cheek
and caramelized onion – already a good start in my books – then adds arugula
slaw for a bit of crunch and freshness. Of course, the beef is succulent and
tender and this one of the more flavourful sandwiches I tried.
Since the East Ender ($12) uses chicken breast for the base,
the meat is drier than what you’d expect from pulled chicken, but is lighter
tasting and seems healthy. I love the spicy mango slaw that tops the creation,
which adds a tropical twist and interest to this safer sandwich. If their
vinegary hot sauce is available that day, be sure to grab plenty as it goes
great with the chicken.
Although they’re all good, my favourite is the Famous Lamb
($13), which pays homage to the owners’ Persian heritage. In between the crusty
toasted baguette are thick slices of slow roasted lamb leg rubbed in earthy
spices such as cloves. Topped with a fragrant turmeric onion slaw this is a
tasty sandwich. It goes even better with some of FAMO’s house made green chili hot
sauce, just use it sparingly … it’s powerful.
Chef Fami tries to keep the sides that come with their
sandwiches healthy with a variety of slaws (beet, fennel or green apple). Even
the FAMO fries won’t leave you feeling guilty since they’re blanched and only fried
once, instead of the multiple dips that competitors often rely on. Despite only
one kiss with the hot oil, the wedges are crispy. Made with huge wedges of
fingerling potatoes, these fries are hearty and will leave you full.
Drinks are affordable with $5 red or white wine that’s
chosen to complement their sandwiches. For a non-alcoholic alternative, try the
Station cold brew coffee ($4.50), which steeps the ground coffee in water for
18 hours so there’s no risk of scalding the beans. The coffee is so mellow, but
still flavourful, I drank it black.
Even though sandwiches are made-to-order, they’re finished
quickly so it makes for a quick lunch. Additionally, FAMO’s dining area has
long communal tables so you can sit and eat if you’re not taking out. Plus, you'll get to check out the heritage fireplace that the owners preserved when restoring the building.
Shabnam is pleased with the great feedback they’re receiving
from the neighbourhood. She notes they’re sticking with the seven sandwiches
and burger for now. But, every week there’s also a special creation and depending
on its popularity, may become part of the permanent fixture. Moreover, office
lunches may soon get tastier as FAMO expects to start catering later in
December. Goodbye cold cuts, hello tongue and cheeks!
Disclaimer: The above meal was complimentary. Rest assured, as noted in my mission statement, I will always provide an honest opinion.
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____________________________
Gastro World's Grading System
- Anything under 5 - I really disliked and will never go back
- 6 - decent restaurant but I likely won't return
- 7 - decent restaurant and I will likely return
- 8 - great restaurant that I'd be happy to recommend
- 9 - fantastic restaurant that I would love to visit regularly and highly recommend
- 10 - absolute perfection!
Is That It? I Want More!
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