Pisa Panino: A Breeze of Italian Nostalgia on St-Viateur Street

Do you remember Pisa sodas? Those Italian soft drinks you used to find all over Montreal back in the day? That very nostalgia inspired the name Pisa, the new sandwich counter that’s been making waves on St-Viateur Street.

Behind the project are Gianni Matera and Nicolas Chechile of Mattiniero, along with Jonathan Vannelli, co-owner of the legendary Café Olimpico. Mattiniero supplies Olimpico with its baked goods, and together, the trio wanted to create a simple, welcoming spot—a neighbourhood counter where you can grab a quick lunch rapido, but also a space where a small community could form. The idea was to give the neighbourhood a place you come back to several times a week, not just because the food is good, but because it feels good to be there.

The bread—pillar of any great sandwich—is in the hands of Edward Stanford Davis, a head baker from Manchester. He’s the mastermind behind the perfect loaf: crusty enough, tender inside, and essential to what makes Pisa’s sandwiches so exceptional.

The décor breathes warmth and simplicity. Wood accents add coziness, while vintage Italian decorations on the walls transport you straight into your nonna’s kitchen. That was exactly what the team wanted to evoke: the nostalgic atmosphere of their childhoods, those moments when their grandmothers would prepare them a sandwich before school. Even the radio and TV play Italian stations, extending the experience—and, between us, it’s also the perfect spot to catch a soccer match with friends.

The menu is short but well-crafted: four sandwiches, each carefully executed. There’s the Porchetta, layered with Swiss cheese and mustard coleslaw. The Classico, rich in Italian cold cuts—mortadella, capicollo, prosciutto, and sopressata—paired with mozzarella, fresh vegetables, and a house balsamic dressing. The Cotoletta, with its crispy breaded chicken, “secret slaw,” Swiss cheese, and spicy mayo, is already a crowd favourite. And for the vegetarians, the Caprese Pisano brings together creamy burrata, red onions, cherry tomatoes, arugula, harissa, and pesto. Prices remain reasonable, true to the house philosophy.

One fun detail: Pisa doesn’t serve coffee! There’s no need, since Olimpico is just steps away. You grab your sandwich at Pisa, then head next door for an espresso—a perfectly natural combination, just like the partnership between these friendly neighbours.

Pisa is a love letter to Italy—past and present—a simple, generous, and unpretentious counter that’s bound to become a Mile End favourite. Buon appetito!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Last update: November 11, 2025

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