Sometimes while traveling, if you're lucky, you'll find a hidden gem like Tonton Garby. My husband and I were heading to Bruges for a day trip, and we wanted to grab something to eat in Brussels before hitting the road. After walking around the main square, we went down a quaint little side street and stumbled upon this unassuming sandwich shop. The owner greeted us out front and told us he wanted to make us the best sandwich we've ever tasted. He said if we didn't like the sandwich, it would be free. We decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad we did. Not only is the owner one of the nicest people you'll ever meet, but his sandwiches are absolutely delicious! I can't even tell you what was in them, but they were incredible. Now every time we're in Brussels, we'll be stopping by Tonton Garby for a friendly visit, and a delicious sandwich. read more

Took about 30-45 minutes to get my sandwich and there were about only 4 people in front of me. My brother told me to come try this place out. I can see why it takes so long. The owner is so passionate and friendly and tries to strike up a conversation with every single customer, no matter where they're from. I thought the customer service was next level. As for the sandwich, I want to preface that I don't eat regular sandwiches. I'm super picky and usually just get meat and cheese. NOTHING else. So his sandwiches weren't really my style. They looked very good but I know I wouldn't enjoy it if I just ordered off the menu. He puts a ton of fruits and cheeses into your sandwich and asks a bunch of questions of what you like before putting it together. I went for a blue cheddar cheese and since I wasn't getting anything else, he cut a gigantic chunk for my sandwich. The only downside is I think the only meat he uses is small salami slices. He put in triple the amount he usually puts but the cheese still took over the whole sandwich (I ended up buying more meat from the grocery store to fill it up). Every sandwich he makes is the same price and comes with a drink. I wanna say that his normal sandwiches are probably amazing. Mine was okay after I added all the meat into it. I also didn't eat it right away. But I think the customer service itself should receive 5 stars. read more

Be prepared to wait. I mean it. You can get there and only see a few people in front of you. You will still wait. From my review, you can clearly tell it is worth the wait. There were 4-6 people in front of us. It took us about an hour waiting. I hate to keep harping on the wait time but setting expectations is key. There is even a story posted on the window about the wait time. So why the wait? Tonton Graby provides individual attention. You can order off their limited menu or just talk to him about your feelings, likes, and dislikes. From there, you get a tailored cheese sandwich exceeding any expectations you might have built up. You don't pay until you've at least tasted it - even if you opt'd for take out. "If you don't like it, I'll eat it" the owner will tell you. You might opt for fruit or veggies on top. You can add meat. There is a small area to eat in if like us you were in no hurry. A sandwich with meat ran 9 euros as of this writing. They accept credit but prefer cash. Enjoy! read more

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Yes, but waiting was too long, 2 hours for me. He provided excellent customer services, but should train someone to assist him. read more

Tonton Garby - My bread, it was yummy. - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

Definitely a must visit if you're in Brussels. We stumbled upon this place after searching online for places to eat and we were really happy we found this place! We came around 2pm and there was a bit of a line. The owner is super friendly and takes his time with each customer to customize the sandwich to their liking. Not a place for a quick sandwich but it's worth the wait. He started off asking about our likes and dislikes and crafted us two delicious sandwiches. The sandwiches come with a generous amount of cheese and are a great price for the quality. He even suggested which one to have first so we can enjoy the taste more. We dined in one of the few tables and he made sure we left with smiles on our faces. Highly recommend this place! read more

Tonton Garby - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

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A slightly hidden yet unbelievably AMAZING place to indulge your cheese and bread fantasies. Believe the hype written by every other person that's has been lucky enough to experience this place! The owner walks you through options for for YOUR tastebuds - no joke- and just when you feel overwhelmed by the kindness and choices he kindly recommends a choice or two with a promise that you'll be happy or he'll start from scratch until you are. Honestly one of the best experiences we've had - and we've traveled quite a bit- and the best cheeses and bread we can remember. Ever. For ingredients so simple yet so complex in flavor - every bite will have you wanting more. Be prepared to be patient and you will be rewarded by this outstanding option in Brussels. PROMISE. read more

Tonton Garby - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

Phenomenal. Amazing food. Incredible service. Best sandwich I have ever had - or at least top 5

Go, run don't walk. If you don't like to wait, get there early. Don't worry about the menu you get a custom sandwich just for you. This isn't just a fantastic sandwich it's an experience. They are so nice and it's so worth it. read more

Tonton Garby - No meat but lots of flavor & cheese! - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

Definitely going to have to wait a little while during peak lunch hours, but the wait is well worth it. Easily the best sandwich in Belgium, arguably the best sandwich I've ever had. Quaint little restaurant seating area but cozy nonetheless, where you can watch the magic happen when the very energetic owners make your sandwich. read more

Long wait but fantastic sandwiches. Excellent customer service. The sandwich makers are extremely caring and proud of their craft. They will literally help you choose which ingredients to put in the sandwich if you cannot decide. They take credit but prefer cash. Bring cash! There were only three small tables in the shop so you may not get a seat. I am still thinking about how good the sandwich was. All components were delicious but together, even more amazing. read more

A refreshing must stop in Brussels amongst the sea of chocolate and waffle places. There is most likely a 40 min. to 1 hour wait depending on the time of the day. Each sandwich is tailored for each customer using the freshest ingredients. read more

Tonton Garby - Custom sandwich - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

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Amazing sandwiches and even better experience, despite the 30-minute wait. Would definitely go back if I ever find myself in Brussels. read more

Tonton Garby - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

I would go far enough to say this is was one of the most amazing food experiences of my entire life. And no, that is not an exaggeration. Very tiny unsuspecting building. Not a lot of signage. I think they have their name on the window. You walk in. Two gentlemen dressed to the 9's welcome you in every possible language (that's likely an exaggeration) until they find the dialect you speak. They welcome you and make you feel comfortable. You wait until they take care of the customers that came before you. It can get a little cramped inside. You grab a drink, you show it to the to gents working, they respond, "Yes yes yes anything for you!". While you wait, you browse the guestbook. People from all over the world come here for the amazing cheese and sandwiches. When it's your turn to make your sandwich they listen to what you like, dislike and make a suggestion. These sandwiches are made like a fine piece of art. They measure the cheese to the nearest millimeter (not true, they don't use the metric system). The salami/pepperoni are perfectly tucked under their tomato blanket. The tomatoes are so fresh and actually add a nice flavor. One of the sandwiches I tried had pear in it which blended so nicely. All the ingredients sit inside the freshest baget for you to eat. It makes a perfect crunch for the sandwich. Get the Fiona and a freshly squeezed orange juice. My wife and I went back two days later to enjoy another sandwich on the train ride to Brugge. The two gentlemen working were very interested in our trip and even helped us with navigating the train. You 100% need to stop here if you're in Brussells. read more

Tonton Garby - These gentlemen are too nice and make magical sandwiches - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

The service is amazing when you interact at the counter; your sandwich is being made solely from a conversation. The ambiance is beyond friendly (mom and pop shop) relaxing, small, and cozy. This is truly the best sandwiches you'll have in your life when you visit here. It is a wait but so worth it! Words can not describe how amazing the 1st bite was, I couldn't put it down, and I will be back constantly for more. read more

Tonton Garby - Savory with meat, cheese, and veggies - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

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You'll wait, but who cares. The two owners/chefs/artists, the food, and vibe is all awesome. Definitely a must-go in brussels.

Best sandwich shop in the world! It's a long wait, but worth it. Shop owner will chat you up, walk you through a custom sandwich, and won't let you leave without tasting it (and loving it) first. A real gem of a restaurant. read more

Tonton Garby - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

Shoutout to this gem of a place and the guy who works there! I didn't get his name but his personality shines in the quality and dedication to his food. He speaks English and Spanish. I wanted to practice my Spanish and had no problem explaining to me his recommendations. I wanted something with chorizo and asked I liked queso fuerte o suave and I chose the strong cheese which then he recommended two options. One with a marscapone and bleu cheese (I think) or another with Italian herbs and something else I can't remember but I got the one with Italian herbs. He then cleaned off a table told me to sit and relax while I waited. Damn did he not skimp on the cheese. He had mini premade cheese wheels(? I don't know the word for them) and I was expecting just a thin layer, maybe half of the cheese). But he put that whole thing on there!! And then more of the other cheese! I even saw him layering the tomato and chorizo in the manner than he wanted so that each bite was perfect. I wanted it for take away (para llevar) so half the sandwich was in a bag wrapped up and the other half was on the plate and he encouraged I try and taste it before I left. If I didn't like he, he would give me something else. I wish I was able to sit there and finish it because it was so damn good. But I had to run. By the time I was able to eat it, the cheese kind of melted and was not like my first bite but still amazing. Great atmosphere and was well worth the wait just to interact with him and listen to him explain his products. He was explaining to the customer behind me that he wanted to explain everything to her and what goes together so she knows what she's getting and understand how the flavors go together. read more

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How can I leave 100 stars for Tonton? We got super lucky. We made it a point to make this our first stop of the day. We arrived around 10am and did not encounter a line! Woot woot. Garby invited us in and had us sit down at a table. We were welcomed into his "home" as he explained his shop and what was to to come next. He handed us menus but asked us for our likes/dislikes. He recommended 3 different sandwiches based on our responses. In the meantime, we each had a cup of his homemade soup which was absolutely delicious!!!!!!!!! It was a cold day and a cup of hot soup really started off our morning right. Once we decided on our sandwiches (we ended up ordering 4...2 to eat and 2 to go), we watched Garby do his magic. He bakes his own bread, makes his own chorizo, and makes his own olive tapenade. It's a one man show and the care shows in his sandwiches. He is t skimpy with the meat and cheese. He used a block for each sandwich which I have no problem with whatsoever! We watched as he met with other guests as they walked in. He never cut corners. He gave every single person the best customer service I've ever seen. He has you take a bite of your sandwich before you leave to ensure you like it. If not, he'll make you a different one! I can't imagine disliking any sandwich there. All 4 were amazing and I am so sad that this spot is all the way in Brussels. If you are reading this and happen to be in town, drop everything and visit Garby. 5 solid stars for service and the best sandwich I've ever had! read more

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the best thing we ate in belgium wasn't chocolate or waffles, but this sandwich! this little shop seems unassuming, but the experience was so lovely. the man that runs the place has so much passion for what he does and takes 10 minutes with each group because he converses with all his customers. he gets to know you and lets you try things so you can have the perfect sandwich. the sandwich i had consisted of pear, papaya cheese, some other type of cheese, chorizo, and honey. all the ingredients were fresh and went well together on a warm baguette. after we finished, he handed us his phone and asked us to make a tiktok for him LOL. it is now posted on their official tiktok. read more

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If you're within any reasonable distance from Brussels. You absolutely must come to this little hidden shop. The owner and server and sandwich maker Hussain is the most thoughtful, serviceable, kind human. He will spend 30 minutes just going through cheeses with you. He will connect with you and ask you about your travel, you will feel like you made a friend. His shop. Wow. Amazing cheeses. Amazing fresh produce. Amazing fresh squeezed juice. Truly an experience. Bought some cheeses to take back to the USA from him. Wish I was planning to be back in Brussels sooner. read more

We got to Tonton Garby at 2pm on a Friday, and were surprised that the line was relatively short - about six people in front of us. Little did we know we'd be standing in line for a little over an hour. Tonton spoke Spanish to the people in front of us, and French to the people in front of them, and perfect English to us. He asked what our preferences of cheese were, and if we eat meat or not. He showed us the menu and recommended the sandwiches with goat cheese and chorizo. We each got one, and he generously cut them in three's so we could all share. Each sandwich came out to 6 euro, mind you they were perfectly crafted and very hefty sandwiches. My perception of a sandwich has been changed forever, and if I ever visit Brussels again, Tonton's sandwich shop will be the first place I go. read more

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A lovely place with a lovely owner working behind the counter. We came here on a recommendation by a friend and were absolutely impressed. Trust the man; he knows his cheeses and the best combinations! read more

Tonton Garby - Inside - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

This hole in the wall has a line for a reason- dedicated sandwich lovers waiting to get a sandwich custom made for them by fellow sandwich enthusiasts. The brothers that run this shop are incredible- so welcoming, chatty, and personable. They get to know each customer and design an unbelievable sandwich for them with top of the line ingredients. The baguettes were the perfect crunch to chew ratio, cheeses balanced with salty, sweet and spicy elements like veggies, tamponades and fruits. These sandwiches are worth the wait. There were 4 folks ahead of us and we waited about 30 minutes. They are passionate about what they do and making their customers repeat customers. Highly recommend! read more

Tonton Garby - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

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Tonton Garby, or Uncle Garby, is a one-man show running a tiny cheese shop with energy and passion. Despite how busy his shop gets with both locals and tourists, he treats each and every customer like they're the only one that matters, and he emphasized over and over again that his goal was to make you "happy or money back!" It was worth stopping in just to meet this legendary sandwich maker--the minute we arrived, we sat down at one of the three tables in the tiny shop, and Garby's son brought us complementary cups of split pea soup (made only with fresh ingredients!) as we waited. Then Tonton Garby asked a few questions about our preferences and provided a few top recommendations from his menu, along with an explanation of the ingredients. After we ordered, the man got to work, creating each sandwich with care and attention to detail. My pick was the Baguette Fiona, a crusty baguette with homemade black olive tapenade; chevre italie mio amore (a Belgian goat cheese so named because it was crusted with herbs and red chili); slices of chili gouda; chorizo; and tomatoes. Each ingredient was sliced fresh and layered with precision onto the bread, and the resulting combination was delicious--the creamy, spicy flavor of the cheeses, the saltiness of the olive tapenade, the smokiness of the chorizo, and the brightness of the tomato all came together perfectly! Another popular item on the menu were the omelette baguettes, and we got one with brie, honey, and freshly cracked black pepper. The freshly cooked omelette was wrapped around the creamy brie, and the slight sweetness of the honey and spice of the black pepper made for an amazing flavor combination. This man was clearly a culinary master, but it was his hospitality and passion that made this an unforgettable experience! You're guaranteed to leave with a smile, a delicious sandwich, and perhaps even a new outlook on life.. read more

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Amazing! You have to wait a long time due to the owner speaking in depth with each client about what they like or dislike, but it is well worth the wait. It's simple yet amazing. Fresh baked bread, high-quality cheese, topped with other yummy ingredients from chorizo to walnuts to organic honey. Highly recommend the wait, and the food! read more

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Uncle Garby. If there had to be one place to visit, this would definitely be it! This spot should be put into the Brussels number one must visit spot. If you don't like cheese and meat sandwiches, just come for Uncle Garby. No matter who you are, you are leaving with a smile. From the moment I walked in to the moment I left, I didn't stop smiling. Such a great attitude towards customers. You feel like family and that you are his only customer. Many other restaurants should take note of Uncle Garby and learn and thing or two. On top of that amazing service, the sandwiches were delicious and exactly what you want even if you didn't know before you walked in. read more

Tonton Garby - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

All you need to know is that they make great sandwiches, and provide the best sandwich experience I've ever had. If you are are in Brussels, you must stop by. And don't let the line (there is almost always a line) discourage you. Trust me: you will get the same personalized experience as the people ahead of you, and the same amazing sandwiches. When you get to the counter, the owner will greet you like an old friend. Every sandwich is fully customized, so the owner will ask you a number of questions about what you like and don't like to eat. He will then discuss with you the variety of cheeses that he thinks you will enjoy and let your sample them (it's really a cheese shop and so there are a *lot* of cheese choices). Next he will discuss the toppings, including meats, veggies and spreads. Note, too, the trays of bread on the wall behind him. He bakes then all himself. Once you've picked out your ingredients he will then assemble it for you. If you are fortunate enough to see an open seat at one of the tables inside, grab it and he will bring your sandwich to you (the tables are communal, so make some new friends while you wait). And note that he will tell you that if you don't like the sandwich, you won't pay for it (I'm guessing that no one had ever had to take him up on this offer). The sandwiches are pure bliss. Each of the three we had contained a perfectly balanced set of ingredientsb that perfectly complemented the cheese. Go. Wait. Discuss. Order. Watch. Eat. read more

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"If you're happy, then I'm happy." This is the most commonly heard sentence in the small, bustling sandwich shop known as Tonton Garby. Never have I felt so at home in a foreign country before - Mr. Garby has a gift for creating the warmth of hospitality with his food and his personality. There is a pre-set menu of different sandwich combinations you can choose, but if you know what's good for you, you'll let Garby show you the way. He'll ask you questions to determine what mood you're in and what flavor combinations will best suit your needs. I guess in this way, he is a sandwich doctor, as he carefully runs through different possibilities in order to make the most accurate diagnosis. This kind of attention to detail does mean that he can spend up to 10 minutes on one customer, so be prepared to wait in line. Garby uses fresh baguettes, high quality cheeses, and an endless amount of energy and care to keep customers coming back. I tried a sandwich with goat cheese studded with cranberries and thinly sliced chorizo, which perfectly satisfied my sweet and savory cravings. The sandwich doctor made sure to tell me, "No obligation. Tell me if you don't like it, and I can make you a different one." I compare this type of customer service to honest politicians - incredibly hard to find, but something to treasure immensely when you do. I would vote for Mr. Garby as my president any day. And if all my words weren't enough, just know that I went back twice during the three days I had in Brussels. So please, do yourself, me, and the world a favor by getting yourself to this petite sandwich shop in the heart of Brussels. read more

Tonton Garby - The man himself at work - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

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The workers were amazing. They took their time to make sure you were happy with the sandwich they make for you! They actually ensure that you are happy with your baguette! Very friendly and makes you feel at home! read more

My favorite sandwich place in the world! If you're in Brussels, you must visit it not just for food but also for the atmosphere!! €6 a sandwich is well worth the experience read more

Tonton Garby - No.37 with meet and olives - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

I came here for lunch during the ISICEM conference at the Brussels Square. Great sandwich but it took an hour to get it during lunch time rush hour. Cash only. No receipt. Um, I'll go to Panos next time. read more

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We read the amazing reviews and couldn't wait to experience this delightful sandwich & cheese shop. Believe the hype - I've never had a better sandwich more suited to my taste than this delightful sandwich guru made for me! We waited and watched while he prepared an array of sandwiches for other customers before us and were nothing short of dazzled watching him work. All I knew was that I had to have a papaya studded soft cheese from the case and I let the proprietor choose the rest. He suggested my papaya cheese be paired with chorizo plus sliced apples and pears. Yes, please!!! Once it was finished, he insisted I taste it to make sure it was to my liking before we paid. Customer satisfaction means the world to him. My sandwich couldn't have been more perfect for me! If you have no idea or only a partial idea of what you're looking for, do yourself a favor and ask this knowledgeable shopkeeper and sandwich doctor to help you build the sandwich of your dreams!!! read more

Tonton is so passionate about his sandwiches. The store is small, so I was waiting in the doorway until someone offered me a seat at their table. Tonton immediately asked what kind of cheeses I liked and matched various flavor profiles. I chose the cheese with papaya, chorizo and apples. YUM! Despite the small store, Tonton made me feel at home. He told me not to rush when eating. I didn't wait in a line that was 20 people deep, so can't tell you to do the same. I came on a Thursday at 3pm. Just go at an off hour, so you're not wasting time in line. The location is close enough to the square and some of the main sites in Brussels. Sandwiches are 6 euros and drinks are around 2 euros. I was tempted to buy another sandwich to take it on the plane. read more

Really a find. Great sandwich, incredible flavors, unmatched in my travels. Long wait but well worth it. Great guys who only cared about your experience. Passionate about their craft. read more

The best sandwich in Europe. He takes time with each customer and prepares everything in-front of you.

We heard great things about this place & We almost walked right by! A little hole in the wall sandwich shop with so much personality. Garby is very passionate about his business, his cheese, and customer service. We also heard that the wait in sometimes lengthy. We got lucky, only waiting maybe 20-25 minutes. But that is because Garby is so invested in the happiness of the customer. He speaks 4 languages, let's you ask any questions and answers them all. Once you order, he carefully prepares the sandwich in front of you. If you're dining in, he doesn't require payment until after you've eaten. If you're getting take-away, he asks you to take a bite before you go. If you don't like it, he will happily prepare something else, but neither of us had any complaints!! read more

Tonton Garby - Baguette with pecorino, chorizo, black olive tapenade and tomato. - Fast Food Near Me - Brussels, BRU

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Amazing!! Best sandwich ever! Such good service and friendly and we felt welcomed and cared for there! Would definitely go back :)

Wow. We arrived at 10 and we're welcomed by the owner. He said we should sit down, relax and then he asked our preferences. He then picked the sandwiches we'd like the most. The ingredients are amazing. Incredible cheeses, meat, honeys, jams etc, but like from the best delicacy store. Everything about this place is amazing. read more

Literally the best sandwich of my life. All of the ingredientes were extremely fresh and delicious starting with the fresh baguettes!! The guys were so nice and accommodating. Definitely the best thing to eat in Brussels. read more

This place lives up to the hype. Get there early in day, as if the bread runs out, they no longer can make the sandwiches. We had Tonton Garby assemble our sandwich...THE most hospitable shop owner ever! It's 10 min per customer so be prepared to wait, but worth it. Sandwiches are worth every minute. Get anything with the spicy Gouda cheese! read more