Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 11

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News December 14-20

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘  11.5 min read

Think things were hectic last week? Strap in: This week I uncovered over 30 establishments, more than half in closures.

Pro tip: If you haven’t already subscribed to the TR Newsletter, get on it. In this week’s edition, there’s an exclusive offer for subscribers to help with holiday shopping for all the food-lovers in your life.

Psst. Want to be the first to know what’s happening? In addition to the newsletter, keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good starting point) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Italian sandos are the name of the game at Little Italy’s new La Bella Sangweech in Little Italy (584 College St.). That’s not all. Keep reading.

Since its arrival late last year, celebrity chef Vikram Vij and Eat Up Canada’s Bombay Frankies has largely been an out-of-town adventure. The latest outpost filled with frankies, salads, bowls, and kulfi debuted Friday in Etobicoke across from Sherway Gardens (197 N Queen St., Unit C), right next to one of Eat Up’s other ventures. Details below.

Mercado had an eventful fall last year - shuttering, then moving into their former Casa Portuguesa spot (682 Caledonia Rd.). Great news: Casa Portuguesa has returned with its classic homemade Portuguese fare, this time south of the 401 near Yorkdale (180 Bentworth Ave.).

All about grilling your own food and AYCE spots? Head to Chako BBQ & Izakaya’s new digs in Scarborough (14 Lebovic Ave.). This marks the fifth branch, second in Scarborough, for the Asian chain.

“Toronto’s first keto restaurant” Ketodelia Restaurant (3187 Yonge St.) just added a second location. Shop gluten-free, sugar-free, and low carb items at Jane and Annette (403 Jane St.).

LA LA Bakeshop, known for its buns, croissants and cakes, softly opens in Mississauga tomorrow. Discover the modern Vietnamese bakery’s third destination inside Oceans Fresh Food Market (4557 Hurontario St.). Bonus: To celebrate, enjoy 10 per cent off your order this weekend.

Psst. Last Call Cocktail Club just launched behind La Bella Sangweech (584 College St.).

Lima Charlie (189 King St. E.) has replaced what was forever Gabby’s across from George Brown College. Don’t worry, pub classics are still in effect, including mozza sticks, burgers, wings, pizza, salads, fish and chips, and chicken tenders.

Los Compas Tacos (140 Spadina Ave., Suite A101) moved into a former weed shop at Queen and Richmond. Grand opening is happening Saturday, complete with free tacos (4pm-6pm) and mariachis.

I told you Maverick’s Donuts Parkdale (1618 Queen St. W.) was on the way. Doors opened Friday.

There’s a new Mexican resto, tapas and agave bar in town. Mezcantina kicks off service at Church and Bloor (640 Church St.) on Saturday with an array of tacos, enchaladas, botanas, and especialidades - house specialities.

Old Flame Brewing Company launched in the Distillery District (45 Tank House Lane) around this time last year, however closed temporarily in May. Newsflash: OFB’s back, just in time for The Distillery Winter Village.

In addition to coffee, cakes, Korean Street Toast, and bingsu, Yonge and Finch’s The Peachy (5650 Yonge St.) offers lattes you don’t see everyday. See: Super Sweet Corn, Real Sweet Potato, Mugwort, and 5-Grain.

After “coming soon” for over a year, Hawaiian concept Pokeworks finally arrived in Etobicoke in a former Panera Bread (197 N Queen St., Unit B) p.s. Stay tuned. Another is slated for March at The Well. Did you know? The poké bowl co. is part of Eat Up Canada’s portfolio - recent additions include MightyBird and frankie eatery noted up top.

Find Italian fishmonger Rimini De La Mare by new resto Rimini Rimini in Leaside (1543 Bayview Ave.) where De La Mer’s seafood shop stood.

ISO an aesthetic cafe to fill your feed? Look no further than The Tiny Cloud Café at College and Spadina (439 Spadina Ave.).

Turkish bakery Solmaz Patisserie debuts a second location in Etobicoke today at Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall, Unit 1108) teeming with lokum (aka Turkish Delight) and baklava.

“High-vibe, come-as-you-are, open to all walks of life” LGBTQ+ bar and resto The Well (not to be confused with the new mixed-use development downtown of the same name) was hatched in Hamilton and over the years has grown throughout the province: London, Windsor, Waterloo (coming soon) and until recently, here on Church St. Confetti bomb: They’re back in the 6ix, now on the Queen West strip between Bathurst and Spadina (482 Queen St. W.).

CLOSED

Forest Hill Village’s Aroma Espresso Bar (383 Spadina Rd.) has closed up shop. Coming soon: Café Landwer.

GTA born and raised Burrito Boyz has been adding to the fam lately, but after nearly two decades, said goodbye to its long-standing home in the Entertainment District (224 Adelaide St. W.). The reason for the closure? A common refrain these days: “The upcoming condo development on this piece of property.”

Dice launched in Yorkville (162 Cumberland St.) during the pandemic. The fruit bar and cafe’s moving online for now.

Salvadorian pupusa destination El Pulgarcito’s digs in Scarborough (20 Nugget Ave.) have come to an end.

Encounter Tea’s Chinatown location (439 Spadina Ave.) is home to another cafe concept now. Details above. It turns out ET’s venture in Markham at Pacific Mall (4300 Steeles Ave. E., Unit E65), has also shuttered. Both launched during the pandemic.

While the King East Gabby’s (189 King St. E.) may already be gone, 12 locations are up and running.

Halaleez Chicken & Gyro (1733 Eglinton Ave. E., Unit 5) came on the scene last year. It temporarily closed for “winter maintenance” until earlier this year, however it’s been marked as permanently closed on Google.

Sam and Wan’s authentic Thai restaurant MongKut Thai Gold landed in Greektown in 2002 - originally as Mong-Kut Thai at 596 Danforth Ave. (now Simone’s Caribbean Restaurant), followed by a spot across the street (471 Danforth Ave.). After 21 years of service, the couple announced they’ve decided to “take a break to return home to be with family for an extended period of time.” Opening soon in its place: Menali Kitchen – Nepali MoMo, Indian, and Hakka Cuisine. Did you know? MongKut was the first Thai resto on the Danforth.

Mr and Mrs Bao’s Vaughan outpost (9200 Weston Rd., Unit 12) debuted in 2019. Husband and wife Julia Hou and Steven Mao started the biz in 2017 with a food truck, eventually growing to brick-and-mortar establishments - five locations as of 2022 - but faced multiple break-ins last year. A food truck and location by the name of Mingle by Mr. & Mrs. Bao remains in London, Ontario, along with a Hawaiian venture, Poke Poke. They launched a Kickstarter campaign but the project failed to meet its funding goal last month.

Peter Pan’s wine bar and shop next door, Peter Pantry (371 Queen St. W.), arrived Fall ‘21. Doors close for good January 1.

That’s a wrap for Sausage King by Bespoke Butchers at St Lawrence Market (93 Front St. E.). While the local links shop has drawn to a close, Bespoke Butchers continues operations in The Annex, on the Danforth and in Leslieville. Did you know? Sausage King was a fixture at the world-famous food hall for decades under various owners including Oliffe Butcher Shop, who acquired it in September 2011, followed by Bespoke in 2019.

One week after I reported the closure of TuckShop Kitchen’s Leslieville outpost, owners Robb Eng and Jake Taylor announced the remaining and original outpost is shuttering Friday December 22. Being awarded a $20,000 grant earlier this year by Desjardins and starring in their commercial wasn’t enough to keep doors open. They cited the pandemic’s emotional and financial toll as the driving force for the closure.

CHANGES

Recent arrival Le Conciliabule Lab (350 Berkeley St.) goes by the name Bisou now.

NEWS

Convenience stores finally got the go ahead to sell beer and wine, however it’s not coming into effect just yet.

Toronto City Council approved CaféTO program improvements “to better support restaurants, diners and a longer outdoor patio season.”

The complete 2024 Winterlicious lineup, 211 restaurants in all, has been released.

Have you been keeping up with the food recalls? The latest additions: Certain Little Gourmet Organic Mealtime Bowls recalled due to pieces of wood. And last week’s Cantaloupe recall has been updated to include Loblaw banner stores: Loblaws, Superstore, Zehrs, Valu-Mart, Fortinos, and Your Independent Grocer. [UPDATE 15.12.23: Golden Mushroom Enoki Mushroom recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News December 7-13, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 7.5 min read

Whatever your budget and/or mood, this week’s arrivals cover all the bases - from fast casual comfort fare to sophisticated selections. And the closures continue to pile up.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates.  

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

O&B’s latest destination isn’t only one of its splashiest - it’s also one of the highest. Aera debuted Tuesday on the 38th floor of The Well (8 Spadina Ave.), the new neighbourhood complex everyone’s talking about. “Reinvented classics” of elevated American fare are at the heart of the steakhouse vibes menu, e.g. Wedge Salad ($21), Shrimp Scampi ($28), Stuffed Chicken Breast ($39), 8oz Australian A8-9 Wagyu ($40), in addition to sushi ($8-$30), Caviar ($165), and Seafood Tower Raw Bar ($250).

Souvlaki and all the trimmings are the focus of Chefs Hall’s newest occupant, Aphrodite’s Taverna (111 Richmond St. W.).

Obsessed with Korean corndogs? Arirang Hotdog is in soft opening at Bathurst and Wilson (320 Wilson Ave.).

Following additions last summer, local coffee chain Dark Horse Espresso Bar embarks into retail with an outpost inside Indigo at Manulife Centre (55 Bloor St. W.)

Psst. Diavola Pizza (3 Glebe Rd. E.) is dishing out Roman style ‘za on a side street in Midtown.

Doors opened Friday for Corktown’s new F Mondays Coffee (368 King St. E.) in Tandem Coffee’s former digs. On the agenda: Coffee and carefully selected books.

Hot tip: Glass Kitchen (505 HWY 7 E, Unit 98-99) softly launched yesterday. Chef Keith Pears’ expansive eatery in Markham designed with Hexagon Studio is the latest spot for modern Asian-fusion fare.

Hand-rolled Montreal bagels are happening round-the-clock at Yonge and Eg, courtesy of Kettlemans Bagel (40 Eglinton Ave. E.). This marks the third location in Toronto/GTA, ninth in Canada, for the Ottawa bagel shop.

Head to Kyushu Yakitori Izakaya just north of Steeles (7181 Yonge St. Unit 31-32) for authentic Japanese eats.

Maestro's Gourmet Pizza softly opens in Leslieville (903 Queen St. E.) tonight. Note: Takeout only. The local pizzeria boasts four locations in the province - two in east Toronto- offering a variety of styles using four-ingredient dough (flour, spring water, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, Mediterranean sea salt), resulting in a crispy crust and minimal bloat.

Mr. Puffs is relatively new to the scene here, but since its entry, has been making serious moves. Hey Vaughan: It’s your turn to get your fix of MP’s loukoumades - aka Greek doughnuts - at Major Mac and Dufferin (1440 Major MacKenzie Dr. W.).

Osmow’s continues its journey across the GTA with an outpost downtown at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St., Unit F019).

The Rooster Rotisserie and Grill’s time-honoured spot at Bloor and Ossington (942 Bloor St. W.) has been temporarily closed for years now. Good news: The restaurant is up and running at Yonge & St. Clair (1395 Yonge St.), complete with signature Portuguese dishes including their famed roto chicken, roasted fish, and homemade lasagna. Grand opening festivities took place Tuesday.

Wanas Shawarma in Greektown (449 Danforth Ave.) has an assortment of Syrian fare: mixed bbq plates, Syrian style wraps, salads, and the like.

CLOSED 

The last day of operations for Bar Catalina (231 Lakeshore Rd. E.) is December 23. Chef Humberto Sanchez has sold his Spanish eatery that debuted a few years ago, but not all is lost. “We have a plan for a re-opening at a new location somewhere down the line,” the announcement reads in part. “We plan to be back and better than ever.” In the meantime, you can visit sister restaurant Cafe Panchita (152 Lakeshore Rd. E.) and the Gourmet Guyz food truck.

Earlier this week, The Gaslight in The Junction Triangle (1426 Bloor St. W.) announced after nearly a decade, doors are closing at the end of the year.

Hermie’s landed at Queen and Broadview (701 Queen St. E.) almost a year ago, but the location wasn’t meant to be. The Filipino and Canadian resto is on the move, heading soon to Leaside (1595 Bayview Ave.).

Leslieville’s OK OK Diner (1128 Queen St. E.), established in 1952, announced immediate closure earlier this week, but hints it’s not the end.

My Roti Place at Yonge and Davisville (3 Glebe Rd. E.) may have wound things up, however 20+ Ontario locations are open to serve you.

The final day to get in on all the goodness of The Tuck Shop x Breadhead (1265 Dundas St. W., entrance on Dovercourt) is December 31. p.s. Stay tuned for a new concept launching Spring ‘24 by Lucy Kirby and team.

Speaking of tuck shops, home of the handhelds TuckShop Kitchen’s Leslieville venue (1022 Queen St. E.) - two blocks from OK OK Diner - shuttered November 29. The OG location (1640 Dupont St.) remains.

NEWS 

David Illiatovitch-Owen, owner of recently shuttered local fish markets De La Mer, died after battling pancreatic cancer. He was 48.

The 2024 grocery forecast? Expect to pay more.

Yesterday, 13 leading organized labour organizations representing the brewing sector from the brewery to distribution and retail joined together to publish an open letter to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Honourable Chrystia Freeland. In the letter, the beer sector unions urge the government to cancel the upcoming automatic 4.7 per cent federal beer tax increase. Beer Canada says, “Raising beer taxes by nearly five per cent when Canada already has the higher beer taxes in the G7 would harm consumers, workers across beer’s added-value supply chain as well as the hospitality and tourism sector.”

In the latest recalls: Good Enoki Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes, GE 30” Knob-Controlled Electric Radiant Cooktops recalled due to burn hazard. [UPDATE 08.12.23: Fresh cut cantaloupe products recalled due to Salmonella, Kopi Thyme Sauces and Soup Bases recalled due to potential presence of dangerous bacteria.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

 

 

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News November 30-December 6, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 7.5 min read

After last week’s flurry of activity, you might expect a significant dip in arrivals. Not when I’m on the case. This week is nearly as frenzied with a whopping 20 new destinations offering global fare from Levantine cuisine to Uyghur eats, and more closures to take note of.

Psst. Want to be the first to know what’s happening? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN 

Dinner and a show. BeLeaf Vietnamese Cuisine (45 Carlton St., Unit 2) lands across from Carlton Cinema (20 Carlton St.) just in time to catch all the holiday flicks.

Reasons to visit Woodbridge’s new Cappadocia Bakery & Cafe (9000 Weston Rd., Unit 1): An assortment of savoury items (pides, kumpir - aka Turkish stuffed baked potatoes) and sweet (cookies, cakes).

In 2007, Linh Dung established a vintage-style Vietnamese cafe, Cong Caphe. It’s since blossomed into 70+ locations in Vietnam, Korea, and Malaysia. And now Canada. Discover a wide array of Vietnamese coffee, tea, smoothies, and other beverages in a cafe aesthetic at the first Canadian branch nestled in the heart of the Annex (424 Bloor St. W.).

Delphi Levant, the “first Khaleeji restaurant in Toronto,” is serving up chef Suman Ali’s Khaleej-inspired Levantine cuisine boasting Canadian ingredients at Finch and Dufferin (1000 Finch Ave. W., Suite 199).

Eva's Original Chimneys
brings its signature freshly baked chimney cakes and ice cream cones to Mississauga’s Square One (100 City Centre Dr., Food Court).

Hot tip for subway commuters: Frida’s Market (788 Broadview Ave.) across from Broadview Station has got you for Latin American groceries, pantry items, candy and sweets galore. Find it in El Charro’s former stead.

Around the corner, pop into Gelateo Cafe (189 Danforth Ave.) for hot drinks and cold treats in the space where De La Mer used to be.

Gus Tacos continues its jaunt across the GTA with a seventh taqueria in Bloorcourt at Bloor and Dovercourt (1028 Bloor St. W.).

ISO more bang for your buck these days? All-you-can-eat restos are the preferred method for some. Gyu Kyou is doing AYCE Japanese BBQ for lunch and dinner in Mississauga (Heartland Town Centre 5955 Latimer Drive, Unit 7).

IK Bar (2055 Dundas St. E., Unit 100-200) is Mississauga’s latest spot for upscale eats and craft cocktails.

Dig into everything from Indian hot dogs and curries to gulab jamun and suji halwa at Khatta Mettha in Mississauga (1 Glenn Hawthorne Blvd., Unit 3).

Need noods? Kinton Ramen adds to its growing portfolio with a debut in Vaughan (8099 Weston Rd., Unit 6) on Saturday, complete with grand opening offers.

Modern Afghan chain Naan Kabob’s tenth location (240 Queen St. W.) kicked off Tuesday, moving into what was until recently, Me Va Me Kitchen Express.

Plant-based Nuttea’s third Canadian outpost just landed in Koreatown (637 Bloor St. W. ) with drinks featuring their signature nut milk and cream made from five varieties of baked and cold-pressed nuts.

Oguz Uyghur Cuisine (1110 Finch Ave. W.) has arrived in the Great White North with food from the Xinjiang region. Think beef fried with hand-pulled noodles, lamb kidney kebabs, and Quail Quardak.

Get a jump on your 2024 health goals at Qwench Juice Bar (Heartland Town Centre 5985 Rodeo Dr., Unit 9).

Australian iced coffees, hojicha lattes and iced Spanish lattes are happening at North York’s SPACE Coffee & Stars (5463 Yonge St., 2nd Fl.).

Thai Barn Na, a relative newcomer in Etobicoke, just added a sibling in Mississauga (888 Dundas St. E).

Egg-centric brand from Brampton Uncle Omlet claims to be the “best Indian-style Desi eggetarian eatery in Canada.” See for yourself at the new set up in Etobicoke (1771 Albion Rd.) filled with omelettes, fry-ups, egg bites, momos, sandos, chaat and more.

U.S. chain Wetzel’s Pretzels is doling out its signature warm pretzels and hot dogs at Union Station (65 Front St. W., Unit 447A). Did you know? The first Canadian outpost touched down at West Edmonton Mall in 2014.

CLOSED

While Hotopia’s downtown location (45 Carlton St., Unit 2) has come to an end, locations in North York, Richmond Hill, Scarborough, and Mississauga remain.

Kibo Sushi House’s “first upscale sushi house” Kibo Secret Garden in Yorkville (154 Cumberland St., Upper Level), is wrapping things at the end in January, slated to reopen elsewhere in the city mid-2024.

You’ve got until December 24 to visit Laylow Brewery at their Brockton Village digs (1144 College St.) until ‘Phase 2’ - which you can help finance via LB’s GoFundMe Campaign.

Paradise Fine Chinese Dining was a fixture in North York at Finch and Leslie (5505 Leslie St.) for over a decade. Psst. Coming soon: Joyous Chinese Cuisine.

Korean restaurant Sopung (140 Carlton St., Unit 33) was located across from Allan Gardens.

CHANGES

King Blue Hotel Toronto in the historic Westinghouse building (355 King St. W.) is now The Sutton Place Hotel Toronto.

NEWS 

George Cohon, Founder of McDonald’s Canada, died. He was 86.

Attn Business Owners: The CEBA forgivable deadline is on the quick approach. Dan Kelly, President and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, has some advice.

Taste of the Danforth 2024 is at risk.

Are you caught up on the recent food recalls? Add Nissui Frozen Baked Wheat Cake with Octopus recalled due to undeclared fish to the list.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

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OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News November 23-29, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 12.5 min read

The first time my findings were so voluminous they had to be divided into two editions occurred during the pandemic. It happened a few times and tbh, it would be warranted here. As I’ve said time and again, businesses continue to face unprecedented challenges at this time. I’m clocking record numbers of arrivals and closures and I predict it will continue to ramp up into Q1 2024. Case in point: This week alone, I uncovered an eye-popping 47 establishments - 30 arrivals, with over half (17) in closures.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Balista Bistro’s Indian fusion fare - think salad bowls, wraps, burgers, and fries infused with Indian flavours - has touched down at Sheppard and Neilson (19 Lapsley Rd.), marking the fourth eatery of the India-based chain in the GTA, first in Scarborough.

During the wild west that was the pandemic, Bear Steak Sandwiches operated out of a backyard in 2021 before moving indoors for a short time. Update: BSS’s first brick-and-mortar venture just landed in Little Italy (550A College St.).

Hot tip: In the mood for ‘za? Parkdale’s new The Bell & The Beacon (1648 Queen St. W.) moved into Amico’s former digs with an assortment of pies, wine and cocktails.

Bhojan Ghar’s (1870 Danforth Ave.) menu features an extensive array of Nepalese and Indian fare including lamb, seafood, and vegetarian specialties, tandoori selections, thali sets, and momos. Grand opening celebrations took place Monday with 15 per cent off until December 20. Conditions apply.

Holy guacamole. Following a debut in Moss Park (320 Richmond St. E., Unit 107) earlier this year, The Burrito Bros. launched in The Beaches (2214 Queen St. E.) on September 29, with a third materializing in Forest Hill (359 Eglinton Ave. W.) on November 6.

ISO wine, cocktails and coffee in the east end? Head to Buvette Pacey (141 Berkeley St.) nestled in-between Corktown and South Cabbagetown, where Runner Market’s café/store stood until recently.

CaféClub Toronto is offering remote work solutions in a homey environment at Queen and Coxwell (3 Rhodes Ave.) via memberships. Enjoy unlimited coffee and 15 per cent off all items by way of Day ($9), Werk-Week ($36), and Monthly-VIP ($99) passes.

Cluck Clucks Chicken and Waffles has been steadily adding to the fam since 2015. Introducing the newest member: Oakville (511 Maple Grove Dr., Unit 30)

Whipping up Caribbean, Creole and Latin American inspired morsels in Little Italy, Conejo Negro (838 College St.) is already receiving raves for its ceviche and cocktails.

Authentic Mexican cuisine is the focus at Etobicoke’s Corazon Agave (765 The Queensway). Pro move: Save room for the Pastel de Elote.

Q: Hey Scarborough, in search of a new Korean fried chicken joint? A: You’ve got a Dakgogi to call your very own now at Finch and Midland (3372 Midland Ave., Unit B112).

Fun fact: Hokubu Ramen in The Beaches (2250 Queen St. E.) boasts housemade noodles.

Dak-kkochi - aka Korean chicken skewers - are what’s up at HomeBase Chicken (550 Yonge St.) at Yonge and Wellesley.

Calling all beer lovers: The second outpost of local watering hole, Left Field Brewery, is now yours to discover in Liberty Village (40 Hanna Ave.).

Milestones Grill + Bar has emerged at the CF Eaton Centre (218 Yonge St.), taking over the footprint that has been Hendriks Restaurant & Bar since 2018, and prior to that, steakhouse chain from Montreal, Baton Rouge. Note: Entrance is currently from Yonge Street only.

A fixture in the Koreatown community for a few years now, Ninetails Coffee Bar extends its reach with a second Japanese-style cafe, this time in Chinatown at the edge of Kensington (398 Spadina Ave.).

OEB Breakfast + Brunch’s eggs benny, pancakes, breakfast poutines, and other victuals are now on offer at two Toronto locations - the latest dropped downtown (20 Toronto St.) on Tuesday.

The offerings at O-neul in Koreatown (694 Bloor St. W.) include everything from Okonomiyaki ($18) and Squid Butter Yaki ($19) to Perilla Soba ($17), Grilled Pork Belly ($21) and soju. Bonus: Into music and movies? You’re in luck.

Penelope Social opens in Woodbridge (125 Hawkview Blvd.) tomorrow. Pro tip: You should go.

Hawaiian-inspired fare is happening in The Beaches, thanks to Poke Eats (1934 Queen St. E.).

Richmond Hill’s newest arrival Saray Turkish Restaurant (9737 Yonge St., Unit 217) is accompanied by spreads including Breakfast for One/Two ($24/60).

In under a year, Stacked Pancake House has made a lot of moves across the 6ix: Lately, in Woodbridge, Greektown and Richmond Hill. For hotcakes and other breakfasty items, check out their new set-up in Richmond Hill (12270 Yonge St.) and at Queen and Spadina (394 Queen St. W.).

Sumoki (18 Fred Varley Dr., Unit 9) is in soft opening. Discover casual bites (Kakiage, Age Mochi) and elevated fare (Uni and Duck Liver bowls) at Markham’s newest izakaya and yaiktori bar.

What to order at Utopia Waffle (7 Roncesvalles Ave.)? The Oreo Croffle is a popular choice.

Wang Lang (669 King St. W.) is the latest Thai concept from Michelin Recommended Koh Lipe and recent addition Som Tum Jinda. What to expect? Authentic dishes you won’t find elsewhere deftly executed by Chef Num-Oy.

Unionville’s Watercolour Mediterranean Restaurant (166 Main St.) doesn’t play. Caviar (30g/$120) and Wagyu ($130) lead the charge, however it’s not all high falutin fare . Discover Gnocchi ($27), Half Chicken ($34), B.C. King Salmon ($39) and other mains under $50 in Blacksmith’s Bistro former home.

Wings Up came on the scene last year and has been doing it up ever since. For drums, flats, chicken fingers, and other pub grub, head to their new branch in Oakville (358 Speers Rd.).

The Wolfe Tone Irish Pub kicks off Saturday in the Beaches (1961 Queen St. E.), in what was a short-lived piano bar.

CLOSED

Chicken N’ Dough (1706 Dundas St. E. Unit B) announced immediate closure of their first location in Mississauga due to “lease issues.”

The Civic Restaurant debuted on the ground floor of The Broadview Hotel (106 Broadview Ave.) in 2017 and went through a few changes before recently being converted to a private event space. Current dining options at the hotel: Bistro + Bar, open during the day, with The Rooftop available evenings and during the day on weekends.

After 60+ years, one of the last remaining diners in the city, Coach House Restaurant (574 Yonge St.) has shuttered.

Owner/chef Montree Tangkit’s Coco Rice Thai Cuisine (669 King St. W.) debuted at King and Bathurst in 2003, when Thai restaurants were few and fare between and long before regional Thai food caught on. It was Thai Select designated, awarded by the Ministry of Commerce, Royal Thai Government, to “guarantee the authenticity of Thai restaurants and Thai food products.”For what’s in its place, see above.

There’s something in the place of Markham’s Corner 20 Bakery & Cafe (18 Fred Varley Dr., Unit 9) now.

Following the recent closure of the Augusta location, Egg Bae shared the first and last remaining location will closeon Sunday. The egg sando shop got off the ground May 2018.

The space that was forever Queen and Roncy’s one-stop shop Greenfield Market (7 Roncesvalles Ave.) is home to something else now. Details above.

Hendriks Restaurant & Bar debuted at CF Eaton Centre (218 Yonge St.) in 2018.

Another chef-driven eatery comes to the end. Anna Gedalof and Rauni Whiteley’s The Ellery Market & Catering (1870 Danforth Ave.) has closed after three years.

While the Beaches branch of Genji Sushi (2250 Queen St. E.) has wrapped up, North York (2899 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 15) is up and running.

Milkcow Cafe (2651 Yonge St.), home of the viral watermelon ice cream sandwich and other Korean sweet treats, has come to a close here in the 6ix. A location remains in Richmond, British Columbia.

Ink Entertainment’s King West Peruvian destination Mira Restaurant (420A Wellington St. W.) is temporarily closed. The eatery’s outgoing message includes they’re “not taking any calls or reservations at this time” while closed for “immediate repairs,” and to “Please stay tuned for the new year.” The website is also currently not available. Did you know? After a lengthy closure, the resto group reopened Spanish resto Patria last week.

Koreatown’s Paldo Gangsan (694 Bloor St. W.) has been replaced with another Korean concept. Details above.

The Beaches Raj Palace Indian Cuisine (2214 Queen St. E.) Did you know? The addy was also previously home to Delhi Bistro.

Chinatown stalwart Rol Jui Seafood Restaurant (472 Dundas St. W.) has come to an end. For what’s there now, see last week’s edition.

Earlier this week The Rosedale Diner (1164 Yonge St.) announced closure at the end of the year. It was established in 1978.

The Veggie Thali’s li’l nook at Queen and Kingston Road (1712 Queen St. E.) started back in 2021. Visit them in North York at O’Connor and Victoria Park (1410 Victoria Park Ave.).

NEWS

Canada’s largest resto group has thoughts about the 2023 Fall Economic Statement.

The city is allocating more funds for the local small business community.

Food recall: Following a recent recall on Malichita cantaloupes, the Canadian government has issued a Public Health Notice regarding an Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to the fruit. [UPDATE 24.11.23: Secondary recalls have been issued for products made using recalled Malichita brand cantaloupe and produce items that were processed alongside them. This includes other fruit such as honeydew, pineapple, watermelon, and various fruit trays, as well as Rudy brand cantaloupes. As of November 24, there have been 63 laboratory-confirmed cases of Salmonella Soahanina, Sundsvall and Oranienburg illness linked to this outbreak in provinces across the country. Additional Salmonella infections are under investigation and more illnesses associated with this outbreak may be confirmed. Seventeen individuals have been hospitalized. One death has been reported.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News November 16-22, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

The OPEN/CLOSEDs have been giving big ‘everything everywhere all at once’ energy lately. This edition is no exception. The flurry of high end destinations mixed with casual haunts continues, as does the ramping up of closures. Word of advice: Make the effort to get to places on your must-visit list because similarly to last December, the end of the year will be accompanied by a record number of closures.

Psst. Want to be the first to know what’s happening? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The Backyard Smokehouse’s (264 Dupont St.) signature low and slow barbecue is now within reach in Mississauga (4188 Living Arts Dr.).

De Mello Coffee has been making its way across the 6ix this last while. Find their newest coffee shop north of Eglinton (2389 Yonge St.), where Saporito Caffe stood until recently, just a few blocks south of the Castlefield outpost (2489 Yonge St.).

Delysées Luxury Desserts and its array of luxe French pastries including modern cakes, macarons, brioche, and chouquettes, landed at Yorkdale (3401 Dufferin St.) on Friday. It’s the latest in a recent influx of eateries to drop at the fashion-forward mall.

Grand opening celebrations for Indraprastha Indian Kitchen and Bar’s first downtown location (5 Baldwin St.) took place yesterday.

After showcasing their artisan sourdough bread and pastries at local farmers’ markets, pop-ups, and being a part of east end businesses for some time, Johnson Family Bakery finally has digs to call their very own in Leslieville (993 Queen St. E.).

The Joneses by local hospitality group Oliver & Bonacini (O&B) opens tomorrow at the corner of Yonge and Wellington (33 Yonge St., Unit 100) in the space formerly occupied by Pick 6ix Sports. What to expect: A mélange of offerings including premium steaks, pressed sushi, and Detroit-style pizza.

In search of cookware for yourself or the food-lovers in your life? Le Creuset’s iconic enamelled cast iron items are on full display at their new boutique at The Well (486 Front St. W.).

After debuting downtown last spring, Laylak’s second modern Lebanese resto kicks off Wednesday in Oakville (1515 Rebecca St., Unit 19).

Hot tip: Across the street from O&B’s latest concept (above), Hotel Victoria’s new Mossop’s Social House (56 Yonge St.) is doing Levantine-inspired breakfast and lunch for now, with dinner coming soon. The menu by chef Tomer Markovitz of recently launched Romi’s Bakery includes Salatim Breakfast Platter ($15), Shakshuka ($20), Roasted Cauliflower Pita ($15), Hummus Bowl ($16), and Za’atar Fries ($8). Pro tip: It’s first come, first serve (no resos), so get there early.

A “boutique-style” Nespresso featuring a drop-off for used capsules, coffee order pick-up service for no additional cost, and laser engraver machine got under way yesterday at Union Station (Bay Street Promenade, 65 Front St. W.).

Patria (478 King St. W.) reopens tomorrow, but you knew that already.

Following the launch of Mira Mira Diner in Spring ‘21 and closure of OG Mira Mira earlier this year, comes The Rosebud (498 King St. E.), the latest iteration from chef Amira Becarevic and husband Justin Cheung. The Corktown restaurant and wine bar focuses on classic fare - Shrimp Cocktail ($24), Lobster Salad ($32), Denver Steak ($42), Duck Confit ($30) - and vino.

Scotty Bons Caribbean Grill boasts eight locations across the GTA filled with an array of tantalizing fare: Curry Chicken Roti, Cajun Fish Sandwich, Oxtail Bowl, and Beef Patties, for starters. The latest spot at Old Weston and Rogers Road (501 Rogers Rd.) opened yesterday.

The third branch of Tita’s Mexican Food just landed in Mississauga (1852 Lakeshore Rd. W.) with everything from pozole and sopes to Taco Nopales con Mole and “Real Mexican Nachos.”

Tomorrow marks the official opening of new community hub The Well, though the majority of food destinations aren’t arriving until next spring. The roster so far: De Mello Coffee set up shop at the end of last year, with recent additions of Prince St. Pizza and Le Creuset (above).

CLOSED

Established in 2003, Banaboia Restaurant served authentic Portuguese fare in the unmistakable azure building shaped in the curvature of the corner at Rogers and Old Weston Road (501 Rogers Rd.) until recently. To find out who’s moved in, see above.

Neighbourhood watering hole Bar Hop Session (681 Danforth Ave.) served the Greektown community and abroad for over five years before permanent closure. Two locations remain downtown: Bar Hop Brewco (137 Peter St.) and Bar Hop on King (391 King St. W.).

There’s one less East Side Mario's branch in Mississauga (1488 Dundas St. E.).

After a recent renovation and launch on the Danforth, El Charro’s longstanding Broadview outpost (788 Broadview Ave.) has shuttered.

Up the street, Golden Pizza (1201 Broadview Ave.) came to a sudden halt earlier this week. Already missing their ‘za and homemade Italian and Greek specialities? There’s a location in the east end between Woodbine and Main (2360 Danforth Ave.), complete with a vibrant mural by artist Jacquie Comrie. Did you know? Back in the day, GP was located in Leaside (1612 Bayview Ave.).

The windows are papered over at East York’s Long Time No Tea (62 Overlea Blvd.).

It appears breakfast centric Over Easy’s has come to an end with 208 Bloor St. W. closed for some time and the final location at Yonge and Wellington (56 Yonge St.) now home to another concept. Details above.

Next door to recently shuttered Daisy, Rowe Farms on the Queen West strip (565 Queen St. W.) has drawn to a close. Five locations across the city remain.

The northwest corner of Queen and Parliament has seen a lot of movement lately: Afghano Restaurant earlier this year, for a brief time Queen Subs (344 Queen St. E., Unit 1), and soon 33’s Delights.

NEWS

Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is calling for an extension of the current CEBA forgivable debt deadline - January 18, 2024 - to the end of 2024. According to the organization, “A majority (87%) of small businesses that took on a CEBA loan said they need a further extension to the end of 2024.”

The province is proposing changes affecting the restaurant and hospitality industry.

More reason to support small and local businesses whenever possible: Profits continue to soar for behemoth grocers including Loblaws and Metro.

Adding to latest food recalls: Panache Tikka Masala Cooking Sauce recalled due to undeclared cashews, PC Milk Chocolate Covered Raisins recalled due to undeclared almonds. [UPDATE: 17.11.23: Malichita Cantaloupes recalled due to Salmonella. 18.11.23: Various brands of Fresh Cut Fruit recalled due to Salmonella.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News November 9-15, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

This week’s dizzying lineup is full of ups and downs, luxe eats and cheap treats. p.s. There’s so much happening in fact, the arrivals and closures below represent a fraction of my latest findings, so watch this space - there’s plenty more on the way.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Doors open tomorrow for Bar Goa (36 Toronto St.), the Canadian iteration of the recent NYC debut by Toronto restauranteur Hemant Bhagwani, known for countless Indian concepts across the city including Amaya and Mumbai Frankie (formerly Bombay Frankie). On the menu? Modern Indian cuisine, cocktails, and curated wine program.

Dang Smoke BBQ’s food truck has been all over town lately, but no need to check for a location to get Chef Dang Quach’s signature Southern style barbecue - A brick-and-mortar outpost just dropped eastside at Queen and Greenwood (4 Greenwood Ave.), across the street from new arrival, Lambo’s Deli & Grocery (1372 Queen St. E.).

Earls Kitchen + Bar’s sixth resto in the GTA (59th in Canada) kicks off tomorrow in Yorkville (Manulife Centre 55 Bloor St. W., Unit 113), boasting exclusive menu items - Northern Divine Caviar and Conservas, to name a few. This comes on the heels of a launch at Yorkdale (3401 Dufferin St.) earlier this year, with King West on the roster for early 2024.

Ginsoy Canada in Erin Mills Center (3505 Odyssey Dr., Unit 75 ) is all about “Extreme Chinese.” According to GC, that translates to “authentic Pakistani Chinese, not Hakka.” Think Spicy Szechuan Soup, Classic Paneer Chilli (Dry/Gravy), Chicken Manchurian Gravy (Red/White), Crispy Beijing Beef, Honey Garlic Fish (Dry/Glazed), and Kindo Supreme Prawn.

Good Brothers BBQ’s slew of skewers includes but isn’t limited to: Lamb Shoulder, Chicken Skeleton, Beef Breast Oil, Beef Heart Tube, Shanshan Spicy Hairy Tripe, Grilled Meatballs, Gluten Skin, Pork Belly with Cabbage, BBQ Chives, and Roasted Cicada Pupae - in layman’s terms, a type of insect. Find them in the heart of Chinatown (478 Dundas St. W.).

Following the closure of Palmerston last week, those in the mood for Harry’s Charbroiled didn’t have to wait long - the Gerrard India Bazaar destination (255 Coxwell Ave.) opened yesterday. 

Haven Brews set up shop at Finch and Bathurst (222 Finch Ave. W., Unit 101) with an array of coffee, hot food, and baked goods in a setting centred around community.

Hong Kong Island Dim Sum (492 Dundas St. W.) takes over what for ages was Hong Kong Island Bakery. If you did a double take, thinking ‘Hong Kong Island’ had closed, you’d be correct, at least at this location. To add to the confusion, there’s a place around the corner (248 Spadina Ave.), also called Hong Kong Island Dim Sum House - aka Hong Kong Island Bakery & Cafe. Check out the latest iteration at the corner of Dundas and Spadina.

Kiss My Pans (713 College St.) has new digs. The city’s sole Singaporean cafe in a cheese shop is mere blocks from the old location (567 College St., Unit 101).

I broke the news of the temporary closure of Patria last winter. Hot tip: The Spanish resto (478 King St. W.) isn’t returning quite yet but pre-bookings are open.

Vietnamese eatery Pho An Vu threw open doors in Scarborough (3280 Midland Ave.) on October 20, roughly one year after its intro to Richmond Hill.

Punjabi Chaap Corner is all about chaaps (vegetarian ‘mock’ meat ) including Afghani, Haryali, Masala, Soya, and Tawa varieties. The GTA chain established in 2020 is swiftly adding to its portfolio. See: Yonge and Gerrard (38 Elm St., Unit 06A).

Sad Songs Cantina (1211 Bloor St. W.) says it’s “Mexican as f*ck.” Also on the premises: Rudy Ritz Hot Sandwiches.

Brunch lovers likely know Sisters & Co’s downtown location. Those looking for that same experience in Markham are in luck (7725 Birchmount Rd., Unit 18).

Psst. Toronto’s newest omakase restaurant has landed. Discover Michelin contender Sushi Yugen (150 York St.) featuring two distinct dining experiences by head chef Kyohei Igarashi: Main sushi counter (12 seats) Lunch $80/pp (45 min.), Dinner $98/pp (1 hr.) opening November 20 and reservations are now open; and Chef’s counter (8 seats) $265/pp (2 hrs.). Fun fact: It’s located across the hall from new arrival Alobar.

Sweet Sunset (567 College St., Unit 101) takes over the former Kiss My Pans space with an assortment of Vietnamese fare - banh mi, summer rolls, beef stew - with desserts and coffee also on offer.

Taisho Japanese Grill (29 Baldwin St.) replaces the first floor of Charidise Bubble Tea and Fusion Restaurant with AYCE fare including hand rolls, udon, poké bowls, tea quail eggs, duck breast, live clams (seasonal), marinated lamb, miso beef brisket. Did you know? The location used to be home to John’s Italian Caffe and a historic Yiddish sign.

CLOSED

Bauzza Bauzza (298 College St.) launched in 2019.

The footprint that was nightclub and event space BOX, aka The Box, [Box] (584 College St.) is about to be La Bella Sangweech.

While Dolce Gelato’s Little Italy location (697 College St.) has come to a close, you can satisfy your sweet tooth at shops in Kensington Market (234 Augusta Ave.) and on the Danforth (414 Danforth Ave.).

Four Zone (713 College St.) arrived in Little Italy in 2022.

Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Pizza Bar (760 College St.) shuttered earlier this year however a “new location” is in the works.

There are a ton of businesses currently for sale. Usually, it’s done on the down low, but it’s becoming increasingly more common for people to just come out with it. Take Il Covo (585 College St.), for instance. Quietly on the market for some time, it’s now public. p.s. It’s not marked closed on Google, however passing by on the weekend, the iron gate was drawn closed over the entrance, with tableware stacked near the front window.

Jackson's Burger started out in 2014 at Yonge at Gerrard (374 Yonge St.) before relocating around the corner (38 Elm St.) in 2017 due to rent hikes.

Established in 2022, West African restaurant Jollof King (673 Spadina Ave.) was a recent arrival in The Annex.

Mavericks Burger Co. landed near the water’s edge (15 Merchants' Wharf, Unit 3) Winter ‘21 and announced sudden closure last week.

After two shops and many a pie, Shiela Labao’s current New Pie Co. journey is winding things up at the end of the year.

West Side Kitchen (449 Danforth Ave.) changed its name last year, but that wasn’t enough to keep doors open. Get ready for Wanas Shawarma.

There’s an empty space where Wine in the Market by Wine Rack in Kensington Market (267 Augusta Ave.) used to be.

NEWS

The city eases up on zoning for patios and live music for Summer ‘24.

The latest food recall: Lian Teng Enoki Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News November 2-8, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 8.5 min read

My findings this week continue to illustrate the intense movement not only in the downtown core, but all over the GTA - and becoming increasingly more prevalent, at a singular address (details below), offering an expanse of options from casual coffee to Michelin style fare. And act quickly - closures will soon outpace arrivals. This week, they make up nearly half the openings.

Psst. Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN 

Specialty cafe The Brick Room kicks off Monday at Brookfield Place (181 St., Unit C060). In addition to getting your caffeine fix, fuel up with baked goods by Kensington Market micro bakery, Nassau Street Cafe.

Dinner and a show is now a reality at The Second City’s new digs at One York Street. Introducing on-site eatery The Bentwood (110 Harbour St., 3rd Fl.), operated by Oliver & Bonacini (O&B), the hospitality group behind Canoe, Jump, et al. Chose à la carte selections or the casual three-course pre fixe menu ($45) featuring salad to start, main such as spaghetti and meatballs or smash burger, and dessert.

Chai, Samosa & Chaat lands at Greenwood and Gerrard (1291 Gerrard St. E.) with namesake items in tow.

After opening a staggering 6,000+ shops in 28 countries in just over a year, the Cotti Coffee chain recently debuted the 6ix. It appears CC’s just getting started: A second outpost at Bay & Gerrard (700 Bay St., Unit 5), and third - the 6,000th store worldwide - at CF Fairview Mall (1800 Sheppard Ave. E.) swiftly followed.

Eataly expands its footprint across the GTA, opening today in Etobicoke at CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall), with a third scheduled at CF Shops at Don Mills. The world-renowned Italian emporium debuted at Bay and Bloor (Manulife Centre 55 Bloor St. W.) in November 2019.

Luli and Ina Tare, the mother-daughter duo behind recently shuttered Cou Cou Bakery, have a new venture. Choose from an array of elevated, nutrient-dense salads, soup, and grain bowls at Greens and Grains (778 Dundas St. W.).

In need of winter warm-ups in the Gerrard and Jones vicinity? Hana Ramen (1024 Gerrard St. E.) replaces another noodle outfit in the east end nabe.

After making its mark in the GTA these last few years, Hazukido’s family continue to grow: Grand opening for their latest croissanterie at Union Station’s Union Market (65 Front St. W., Unit 420) is happening Friday and Saturday, complete with croffles, croissants, totes, and other goodies.

Master Pot brings its bao zai fan - aka claypot rice - to Chinatown’s Dragon City Mall (280 Spadina Ave., Unit C).

Pro tip: Put Alfred Siu’s Overpressure Club (815 Bloor St. W.) on your must-visit list. Project Gigglewater’s sister concept launched Wednesday and I got a sneak peek (follow TR’s Insta for a closer look). What to expect: Sophisticated modernist cocktails on draught paired with stellar shareables (kitchen will be open late) in a sleek, yet laid back setting. Behind the bar: Beverage director Sasha Siegel and industry vet Troy Gilchrist. p.s. Want the inside track? OPEN/CLOSED readers got the head’s up back in April, with TR Newsletter subscribers getting the full deets back in July. Get on it.

Seeti Maarr is the spot for pressure cooked pulavs in Scarborough (41 Lebovic Ave., Unit A121). Grand opening celebrations take place tomorrow.

I’ve had my work cut out for me at the seemingly quiet intersection at Queen and Coxwell. After the wild happenings at 1606 Queen St. E. lately, the neighbouring space has proven just as eventful. In the span of two years it’s been home to: most recently Shawarma Factory, before that Amor Fusion Doner & Kebab, Amor Doner, and ZIBA Berlin Doner, and now Shawarma Day (1608 Queen St. E.).

An outpost of fry-centric Smoke’s Poutinerie landed in Greektown (588 Danforth Ave.) just prior to news about its founder. Details below.

Psst. Michelin-starred Enigma Yorkville’s new St. Thomas Restaurant & Wine Bar (23 St. Thomas St.) puts chef Quinton Bennett’s Spanish-inspired fare in the spotlight by way of pintxo hour and à la carte menu.

Supreme Juice Bar at the corner of Coxwell and Gerrard (10 Eastwood Rd.) is just steps from Harry’s Charbroiled (255 Coxwell Ave.), set to launch any day now, making for a sensational combo.

North York’s Vietnoms just dropped a second location in Thornhill (7000 Bathurst St.).

3 Eleven Indian Bar & Kitchen (1988 Avenue Rd. 2nd Fl.) takes over what was fine dining Italian restaurant Rossini’s until recently.

CLOSED 

BJ Supermarket (1449 Gerrard St. E.), a fixture for decades in Gerrard India Bazaar, has permanently closed.

The space that was home to GB Hand Pulled Noodle (1024 Gerrard St. E.) has already been filled. Details above. Note: A GB location remains at Dundas and Bay (66 Edward St.).

Harry’s Charbroiled in Little Italy (239 Palmerston Ave.) has come to a close after four years, however you’ll be able to find them in the east end soon (details above) with another westside location in the works. Did you know? The Palmerston addy was formerly home to Woodlot (rip).

Chef Michelle Bouzide’s Lebanese restaurant Little Sito (840 Bloor St. W.) featuring made-from-scratch fare has come to a close, however “future plans” are on the horizon.

Windows are papered over at what started out at Bombay Frankie, then changed to Mumbai Frankie (1386 Gerrard St. E., Unit 5).

My Bar & Restaurant (934 Gerrard St. E.) was up for rent for a hot second last spring before shutting down this fall.

Pickle Barrel had a 15 year run at CF Markville Mall (5000 Hwy 7). Operations continue in Toronto, North York and further afield.

Tandem Coffee (368 King St. E.) announced closure only days prior to the abrupt end of their decade-long Corktown cafe, however owners Michie Yamamoto and Eugene Fung did leave customers with a glimmer of hope with postscript “More to come!”

NEWS

Ryan Smolkin, Founder and CEO of Smoke's Poutinerie, died of “unexpected complications from a recent surgery” at the age of 50. Have a memory you’d like to share? Post it to the website.

Adding to the food recalls of late: President's Choice White Sliced Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 26-November 1, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

With 23 arrivals and almost a third of that in closures, you’ve got a lot of planning to do.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Bar Prima (1136 Queen St W.), the latest venture by La Palma chefs Craig Harding and Julian D'Ippolito, opened last night with chef de cuisine Nicholas Iaboni and team doling out Italian fare in a striking setting by Future Studio.

Chicken Plus+, known for its Korean fried chicken, boneless chicken and tteokbokki across the GTA, has three new locations: East Chinatown (368 Broadview Ave.), Liberty Village (134 Atlantic Ave.), and softly opening Saturday, Vaughan Mills (3175 Rutherford Rd., Unit 81).

Hot tip: One of the city’s top dessert destinations just expanded. East York’s Circles & Squares Bakery (197 Bartley Dr.) found a second home at the corner of Yonge and Davisville (1909 Yonge St.). You’re going to need your stretchy pants for this one. See: Cruffins, butter tarts, cookies, brownies, danishes, et al. Grand opening is Saturday.

Tuck into “soulful Afro and Italian-inspired” victuals or toast to the weekend with bottle service at Cravin Kitchen + Lounge (5164 Dundas St. W.), the latest fine dining resto to touch down in Etobicoke.

Dhillon’s Karahi (1213 Bayview Avenue, Unit 4) just launched in Leaside and has already racked up rave reviews for their Tandoori Chicken, Lamb Curry, paneer butter masala, and cauliflower bites, amongst others.

Halal Turkish smokehouse Eat Meat in Mississauga (2273 Dundas St. W. Unit 6) was made for carnivores and protein-lovers alike. Discover an assortment of beef (brisket, kebabs, steak), lamb (shoulder, neck, ribs), and chicken (wings, fajitas, souvlaki) selections, alongside pizza, pasta, and veg-centric options.

Toronto’s newest craft brewery, Goldenfield Brewery (71 Sunrise Ave.), complete with bottle shop, tap and tasting room, boasts signature suds including Blonde Ale, IPA, Double IPA, and Witbier.

Grayson’s Rustic Bakery’s brick-and-mortar shop in Birchcliffe-Cliffside (1672 Kingston Rd.) has been in the works for years. Finally, GRB’s sourdough boules, baguettes, cinnamon buns, and breakfast sandos can now be yours.

Burger and taco joint Grillies is always adding to the fam. Find their most recent addition open 24/7 in Etobicoke at Royal York and Bloor (3075 Bloor St. W.).

Hakka Boyz/Dosa Boyz claims to have “Canada's largest South Indian and Indo-Chinese buffet.” See for yourself at their digs in Kennedy Commons (35 William Kitchen Rd.). Stay tuned: A Richmond Hill location is in the works.

TR readers got the scoop on Henderson Brewery @ YYZ back in June. For those just catching up, mark your calendars:The 28-seat bar at Toronto Pearson Airport by local brewery Henderson Brewing Company and iconic Canadian band Rush kicks off on Tuesday.

Dinner and a show? King Bolzano Ristorante (239 Broadview Ave.) - aka Bolzano Ristorante Pizzeria & Bar - opened yesterday, steps away from new arrival Hugh’s Room Live (296 Broadview Ave.). Grand opening spesh: Pepperoni Slice for $3.99.

Marusya’s Kitchen (2432 Bloor St. W.) in Bloor West Village is all about European comfort fare. Behind the new enterprise? Maria Janchenko of neighbouring Janchenko Bakery (2394 Bloor St. W.).

Craving Filipino food? Head to Max’s Restaurant in Vaughan (1520 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 121) for a stellar lineup including but not limited to: Kare-Kare, Sisig, Pancit Palabok, Bicol Express, Chicken Adobo Sa Gata, and made-to-order Whole Fried Chicken.

Montreal’s Mr Puffs has been setting up shop in the GTA since 2022 with their famed hot puffs finished in various glazes (think Strawberry, Hazelnut Chcooclate, Biscoff Bueno), speciality Illy coffees, and soft serve. Grand opening for the Scarborough store (3155 Markham Rd. Unit D-4) starts Saturday at 11am.

Celebrations for Neo Coffee Bar at King and Spadina (61 Spadina Ave.) takes place Saturday with a complimentary Matcha White Chocolate or Dark Chocolate mini cookie with every purchase and chance to win exciting prizes. This marks their third modern Japanese bakery and cafe in Toronto, with more in the pipeline.

Starting today, Prince St. Pizza’s Sicilian style pizza is available north of the border . The U.S. chain’s first location in Canada is one of the first concepts to debut at The Well (472 Front St. W.), the highly anticipated pedestrian village of sorts in the heart of downtown.

Suma's Egyptian Grill (977 O'Connor Dr.) is the spot for hawawshi, Egyptian pizza and smash burgers. And check out Chef Salah’s Cairo-style brekkie on weekends.

Pape Villages’s long-running Tzatziki opened a second branch at Mount Pleasant and Eglinton (758A Mt. Pleasant Rd.).

Tombic Shawarma at Oakwood and Eglinton (1639 Eglinton Ave. W.) is all about its namesake dish.

Find 68°C Stone + Grill (285 Dundas St. W.) across from the AGO with fish, meat and veg served sizzling atop hot stone.

CLOSED

Bad Blowfish Cafe (1595 Bayview Ave.) came and went in less than a year. It’s not the first to leave the space lately: The Leaside addy has been home to numerous concepts in the last few years, notably Charcoal Biryani, Bombay Snack Bar/Bom-Bay Snack Bar, Bombay Frankie, and Egg Bird.

Black Tulip Restaurant and Bar (807 St. Clair Ave. W.) came on the scene in early 2020. Last service for the Hungarian restaurant is Sunday.

Grand opening festivities for Chungchun Rice Dog’s Etobicoke location at Royal York and Bloor (3075 Bloor St. W.) took place July 7, 2021.

Cou Cou Bakery (988 St Clair Ave. W.) was a recent addition to Corso Italia.

After a four-year run in Riverside, Indian Spice Room (717 Queen St. E., Unit 1/2) has closed up shop.

Ma Maison on Bloor West (2432 Bloor St. W.) has come to an end. For what’s in its place, see above.

Earlier this week, Muddy York Brewing Co. announced the East York brewery (22 Cranfield Rd.) will permanently close at the end of the year. Plans to expand to Stouffville however, are still in effect.

Due to a fire in the landlord’s basement, Stop restaurant (1543 Dundas St. W.) is closed “unfortunately until further notice.” 

Siam Square Hut was a Bayview staple for a long time - originally in what was once Sunnybrook Plaza (660 Eglinton Ave. E., Unit 120), followed by a move not far south at Bayview and Moore (1213 Bayview Ave., Unit 4).

NEWS

According to news reports, Merrick ‘Owen’ Aries, co-owner of Toronto Jamaican restaurant The Diner's Corner (678 Yonge St.), died in Salt River, Claredon in Jamaica.

Food recalls are on the rise again. The latest additions: Lavergne Meat & Deli Breakfast sausages recalled due to undeclared milk, and Lian Teng Enoki Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes, and Insignia Multi-Function Pressure Cookers recalled due to potential burn hazard. [UPDATE 27.10.23: Various brands of caffeinated energy drinks recalled due to caffeine content and labelling issues.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 19-25, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9.5 min read

Think you know what’s happening? Think again. This edition, as with the majority these days, tracks the sheer volume of establishments setting up shop, with closures continuing to build momentum.

Psst. Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Long before the King Blue Hotel (355 King St. W.) came on the scene, the south east corner of King & Blue Jays Way was home to Indian Motorcycle Cafe & Lounge, with the iconic bikes serving as a backdrop to drinks and dancing. Fast forward 20-odd years: Introducing street level resto Abrielle by Ascari Hospitality Group, the folks behind Ascari Enoteca and Gare De L’Est to name a few - Ascari King a few blocks east, came to an end earlier this year. Heading up the coastal Mediterranean kitchen: Chef Olivier Le Calvez, recently of Casa Madera of the 1Hotel. p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to know.

Alice Restaurant & Bar (488 College Ave.) celebrates its grand opening this weekend. The new “upscale casual” resto and bar is doing modern American fare - burgers, tacos, steak, pasta - alongside wine and cocktails. Find them in Little Italy in what was home to Blackburn Social House until recently.

Columbus Café & Co, a chain from France that will be appearing in Indigo stores shortly, debuted a stand-alone destination earlier this week in the Entertainment District at Adelaide and John (283 Adelaide St. W.). This marks the first Toronto location.

“Italian-inspired” restaurant Contrada (537 College St.) kicks off in Little Italy on Tuesday, taking over from The Dog & Tiger.

Dahu Hotpot (47 Baldwin St.) has relocated to Baldwin Village, moving into the former digs of neighbourhood mainstay, Wah Sing Seafood Restaurant. The Chongqing hot pot restaurant states this is “the first and only flagship store in Canada,” and effective December 13, 2022, is “no longer affiliated or related with the business currently operating at 550 Hwy 7, Unit 280” in Richmond Hill.

Turkish delight, halva, baklava and other confections are what’s up at Funduk (330 Yonge St.) at Yonge and Dundas.

Boozy brunches. Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Dope fades. It’s all happening at Queen and Portland, courtesy of Good Company (498 Queen St. W.).

Noodle bowls abound at GunGun Rice Noodle (565 Yonge St.). The new arrival at Yonge and Wellesley replaces recently shuttered Como En Casa.

The latest outpost of the Ichiban Sushi House chain quietly debuted in The Beaches at Queen and Woodbine (1864 Queen St. E.), in what was most recently a weed shop.

Maverick's Donut Company lands in Oakville (152 Lakeshore Rd. E.) with rotating selections including Apple Caramel, Black Forest, Cherry Cheesecake and Pumpkin Spice. TR Insider tip: A Parkdale location is on the way.

I gave you the scoop on Opal Lounge above newly opened Zaad (124 Danforth Ave.) months back. Update: Head upstairs for burgers, shisha, patio and more.

Coffee’s on at Yonge and St. Clair thanks to Pilot Coffee (1 St. Clair Ave. E.). Did you know? Their latest shop fills the modern space first occupied by now defunct Prairie Boy Bread.

Renaissance Detroit Style Pizza at Palmerston and Dundas (809 Dundas St. W.) is the latest to ride the Motor City pan pizza wave. Dig into global flavours via Tandoori Paneer, Greek, and Duck Confit selections.

It’s opening weekend for Parkdale’s Three Dollar Bill (1592 Queen St. W.). The new queer bar by Castle, Maro (Maria’s Taverna and 2SLGBTQIA+ community focused Queer Wine Night) and Meaghan Murray aims to “create a welcoming and safe space that serves as a hub for Toronto’s Queer community.” Enjoy trivia nights, dance parties and other events in a completely reimagined setting.

Tiger Sugar, the Taiwanese boba pearl milk tea chain, continues to expand its footprint across the city. Discover the latest at Yonge and Eglinton (2391 Yonge St.) with grand opening BOGO free offers this weekend: Friday (3-10pm) and Saturday and Sunday (12-10pm).

Hailing from Kitchener, halal restaurant Turkish Flames set down roots in Mississauga at Dixie and Eglinton (5200 Dixie Rd.) with everything from kebabs and pides to mixed platters.

CLOSED

Egg Bae debuted in in Kensington (189 Augusta Ave.) in 2019. While the original “Eggs Before All Else” eatery has come to a close, Yonge and Dundas (13 Elm St.) remains open.

A kitchen fire occurred at Figo (295 Adelaide St. W.) on Friday. No injuries were reported. The restaurant is “temporarily closed until the near future.”

Figures (137 Avenue Rd.) has been quietly closed for some time, however it’s official now that Paros’ owners are coming through with 137 Avenue Road. Hands up if you remember when the space was Coco Lezzone and Vittorio's on Avenue.

Glory Hole Doughnuts’ announcement yesterday of the abrupt permanent closure of the Harbord location (130 Harbord St.) comes just over a year after opening. The reason? Owner and pastry chef Ashley Jacot De Boinod’s post reads in part: “We were not welcomed. From the moment we stepped foot in the area. Unfortunately, some neighborhoods do not want to embrace change. I get it.”

There goes another Beaches stalwart. Following the closure of former neighbour Honey Bee earlier this year, Green Eggplant (2024 Queen St. E.) has shut the doors.

Me Va Me Kitchen Express downtown outpost (240 Queen St. W.) debuted in 2014.

Neon Tiger has been on quite the journey (catch up here). The latest changes: Dupont (14 Dupont Ave.) is done, while Queen (1166 Queen St. W.) is closed temporarily, set to return with “a new menu food and drink along with a slight different interior.”

Submarine At Broadview (239 Broadview Ave.), a fixture at the corner of Dundas and Broadview for eons, will soon be switched out for King Bolzano Ristorante offering an array of pizza, pasta, and wings.

Ultimate Kitchens (461 Carlaw Ave.), the ghost kitchen food hall that debuted in the east end in 2020, was home at one time or another for Durty Dawgs, Fresh Kitchen, Harvey’s, New York Fries and Swiss Chalet. Currently, the rotisserie chain is the sole concept in the space. The other Toronto location (18 Banigan Dr.), also now closed, opened in 2020 and included more chains in the mix. A branch in Montreal, then Hamilton followed in 2021.

NEWS 

, Co-Founder of Harvey’s and Swiss Chalet, died peacefully at home at 96 years of age.

Is City of Toronto’s announcement of “program improvements for summer 2024 CaféTO patio season” too little too late? 

Please support local businesses whenever possible .

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal 

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 12-18, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 6 min read

Tracking the movement of establishments both in the city and across the GTA has never been more challenging. As rigorously chronicled here, the waves of comings and goings continue - with the addition of multiple concepts moving in and out of a single space in record time (as illustrated below), making it particular arduous to track establishments. See for yourself.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN                   

Psst. Bar Avelo (51 St Nicholas St.) just debuted above Avelo. Not only is the plant-based cocktail bar nestled atop a Victorian townhouse, it’s breathtaking.

Kingston 12 Patty Shop (1808 Eglinton Ave. W.) is your one-stop shop for patties and Caribbean fare at the corner of Dufferin and Eglinton.

The LC Cafe’s wide-ranging menu spans the globe: Dig into Eisbein (ham hock) with Sauerkraut, Lobster Salad featuring a whole lobster, and Pork Chop Rice with ‘Typhoon Shelter Style,’ for starters. Find it at Midland and Finch tucked inside Scarboro Village Mall (3290 Midland Ave., Unit 2-3R).

The Annex is teeming with restaurants, but none like Maji Curry (515 Bloor St. W.). Curry obsessed founder Ken Takagi launched his first curry spot in 2018 in Kanda Jimbocho, an area in Tokyo known as 'the holy land of curry’ for its concentration of curry shops. The restaurant went on to win the prestigious Kanda Curry Championship just seven months after opening, and again when the competition resumed during the pandemic in 2022. This marks the first location in Canada.

Mazadar Restaurant (1606 Queen St. E.) has arrived at Queen and Coxwell with a lineup of authentic Afghanistan fare. Think: mantu, kebabs, lamb chops, and t-bone steak. Did you know? After being the last home for The Tulip until closure was announced January 2020, it only recently came back to life: In April as Smacks with halal Smack and Slap burgers, then signage briefly changed to another biz, Uncle Rams, before Mazadar opened.

Dosa and roti have touched down in Leaside, courtesy of dual concept My Roti Place/My Dosa Place (1574 Bayview Ave.). p.s. This address has also seen a lot of movement lately: Taste of Persia shut down in Summer ‘22, and was immediately replaced by vegan Indian resto HindusThali hailing from Montreal.

Korean fried chicken chain NeNe Chicken debuted in North York less than a year ago. Newsflash: A branch is now open at Dundas and Chestnut (171 Dundas St. W., Lower Level, Entrance on Chestnut).

Hot tip: Soft opening for Toro Toro Sushi + Poke’s first downtown destination took place yesterday. The third outpost at the corner of Yonge and Charles (675 Yonge St.) is quite the transformation: For decades the space was home to big chains including Starbucks and McDonald’s.

Varda (350 King St. W., 3rd Fl.), TIFF’s new cafe and bar at TIFF Bell Lightbox named in honour of French filmmaker Agnès Varda, kicked off Friday with select eats and drinks.

CLOSED

Today, Junction bakery The Butternut Baking Co. (2743 Dundas St. W.) announced doors are permanently closing. The keto and paleo bakery free of dairy, grain and gluten, started on Kickstarter seven years ago. Good news: TBBC will likely will continue in another form, as owner Michelle Moraes message reads in part: “This isn’t goodbye, but rather a transition that may just lead to an even more incredible chapter,” and the final date has yet to be announced.

The windows are papered over at Keep W!ngin It at Woodbine and Danforth (2075 Danforth Ave.). Doors opened February 2022. An outpost recently launched in Markham.

Earlier this week, Ration | Beverley disclosed this is the last week of service. The Michelin-recommended finer dining spot at Sonder The Beverley (335 Queen St. W.) is shuttering two weeks following the announcement of this year’s Michelin roster, in which they made the Recommended list once again.

The 1211 (1211 Bloor St. W.) started off in Bloordale only seven months ago, however it’s been marked permanently closed on Google.

ICYMI

Calling all beer and pickle lovers: Picklefest, Toronto’s first festival of pickles and all things fermented is happening Oct 21. Want to score tix? Enter Toronto Restaurants and Henderson Brewing Co’s exciting giveaway on IG now. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit Picklefest 2023.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal