Former Eataly chef opens downtown Charleston sandwich spot

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Chef Michael Toscano and his wife, Caitlin Toscano, have opened their latest Charleston venture — da Toscano Porchetta Shop.

Patrons will be able to choose between several sandwiches that suit the taste buds of meat lovers and vegetarians, including the signature porchetta sandwich, or build their own creation with a multitude of fresh ingredients to choose from, according to a news release.

After a trip through Tuscany, the Toscanos were enamored with street-side vendors, offering sandwiches made with fresh bread, delicious meats, cheeses and vegetables, the release stated. A time-consuming process, the local pork for the namesake porchetta sandwich requires days of preparation and hours of slow roasting, which is then sliced and served on warm, house-made Le Farfalle Focaccia with aged provolone, salsa verde, and extra virgin olive oil.

Guests will also find an array of vegetable sandwiches, showcasing local vegetables and Italian cheeses, according to the release.

da Toscano Porchetta Shop is located at 109 President St.

Michael Toscano started his career in New York City as executive chef at Eataly in the Flatiron District, before moving on to open Perla Ristorante, a contemporary Italian eatery in Greenwich Village where he worked as executive chef.

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“Our signature porchetta sandwich is a labor of love, prepared out of a deboned whole local pig, rubbed with traditional aromatics: rosemary, fennel, garlic, and black pepper,” chef/owner Michael Toscano said in the release.

The President Street dining destination is meant to transport you to another region with rich dark wood, moody lighting, and beautiful stone countertops throughout the space, the release stated. The Toscanos made sure every detail of the Porchetta Shop is reminiscent of a traditional Italian café, complete with an espresso machine and state-of-the-art rotisserie.

Grab-and-go items stock the shelves — including salads, focaccia, and a variety of take-and-bake items such as lasagna. Sweet treats have not been overlooked either with a freezer full of premium ice cream confections and housemade baked goods from Pastry Chef Lindsey DeCocker.