Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 15

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News April 20-26, 2023

My iconic 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

🕘 14 min read

While a plethora of launches and shutdowns occurred prior to the pandemic, the global crisis caused record movement across the city and GTA. Case in point: Last week’s turbulent ride and this week’s 33 establishments with more than a third in closures. Brace yourself. There’s much more to come. 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

Grand opening celebrations for Alpha’s Shawarma (598 Queen St. W.) took place earlier this week. The most popular order so far? The namesake dish, natch.

bb.q Chicken’s self-proclaimed “best K-chicken in your town” lands in Richmond Hill at Hwy 7 & Leslie (420 Hwy 7, Unit 26) and Scarborough’s Skycity Shopping Centre (3262 Midland Ave., Unit E-107) with a bevy of birds (Chicken n’ Waffle, Lemon Cheesling Chicken, Gangham Style) and and fowl-less fare (Cheese Balls, Dukk-bokki, salads, fries).

A year-and-a-half after shuttering their digs in Chinatown, Big Trouble Pizza is back, this time on Geary (191 Geary Ave.). slingin’ signature ‘za (Butter Jam Jam is still in effect) and smash burgers.

Comin’ in hot: Finer dining restaurants that ooze luxury and grandeur. The latest drop: Glowbal Restaurant Group’s lush two-storey 9,000 sq. ft. flagship in the Financial District Black+Blue (130 King St. W.) showcasing 28-45 day dry-aged beef, Japanese A5 Wagyu and certified Japanese Kobe beef, seasonal seafood, quintessential tableside Caesar, and show-stopping seafood towers ($250-$450). Doors officially open tonight. (Stay tuned for a sneak peek.) Psst. This is just the beginning: Emad Yacoub and his award-winning restaurant group out of Vancouver plan to further expand in the province this year.

Carolina Pizzeria (772A Dundas St. W.) moved into Queen Margherita’s former digs with similar fare. Makes sense: Owner/chef Graziano ‘Graz’ Tortora hails from Naples and helmed the QMP location for the last seven years.

From burgers to bowls. For their second Korean fried chicken spot, Thornhill’s Chibap chose right downtown at Queen and Spadina (463 Queen St. W.). The brand serves solely boneless chicken, available in a variety of flavours, with a few other options - Dupbap, Tteokbokki, sides - on offer. Did you know? The space was home to The Burger's Priest until recently.

After lengthy delays, Dallas ‘cue co. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit kicks off in Toronto. The American joint - the “world's largest barbecue concept” which has grown to 650+ restos since its start back in 1941 - opens the first Canadian branch today at Yonge and Carlton (472 Yonge St.), with more slated to launch across the province.

Foodrama at Queen and McCaul (232A Queen St. W.) has got you for Middle Eastern eats - shawarma, gyro, kafta, halloumi, fattoush salad, Jerusalem fries, kunafa - and as it turns out, burritos and tacos, including birria.

The latest establishment from Fab Restaurant Concepts - the group behind local pubs including Black Sheep, Brazen Head, and Pogue Mahone - isn’t so much new as a redo. Against the Grain is “re-opening under a new name with a fresh look.” Irene at Corus Quay (25 Dockside Drive) commences April 24 with a mélange of cuisines under one roof.

Joystar Café north of Lawrence (3451 Yonge St.) does everything from profiteroles and éclairs to Turkish baklava and coffee, with a few burgers to satiate deeper hunger pangs.

Kosher schnitzel sandos are the name of the game of Kapara in Thornhill (7700 Bathurst St.). Falafels, kebabs and fries are also readily available.

Grand opening for Madre De Lobo (1226 King St. W.) isn’t until the first weekend in May, but it’s already sold out - as is the entire month and the following two for that matter - therefore getting your hands on “exotic Mexican cuisine” by four chefs “well known from Tulum” that have a “massive following” is unlikely. The restaurant is private – no walk-ins, email appointment only – open Thursdays to Sundays. Owners include a demolition company and restaurateurs with establishments in Mexico City and Tulum,

Mamaz Shawarma Turkish Cuisine in Mississauga (488 Eglinton Ave. W, Unit 6.) celebrates grand opening on April 22. In addition to an array of shawarma and kebaps, find an extensive pide menu.

You already know INK Entertainment Group’s many establishments sprawled across the 6ix: Akira Back, Amal, KOST, Sofia Yorkville, and new arrival Bar Chica, to name a few. Tucked away on the fourth floor of their strictly-for-members-only club, Clio ( 600 King St. W.), Margo a “reimagined, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and lounge” opens to the public April 25

Mr. Puffs debuted in Mississauga last summer. By the time Christmas rolled around, another was added nearby. For those in the east end wanting in on their popular dessert bites, you’re in luck. Head to Scarborough’s West Hill to their new patisserie and cafe at Mornigside and Lawrence (259 Morningside Ave.).

Speaking of dessert, Nadège Patisserie lands in Oakville (249 Lakeshore Rd. E.) with an array of sweet treats including cakes, croissants and chocolates.

Corso Italia mourned the loss of sushi joint Shunoko (1201 St Clair Ave. W.) last fall (The space was filled less than two months later.) and fans awaited a possible reopening elsewhere. TR Insider tip: Doors have reopened at Yonge and Lawrence (3220 Yonge St.), though the set up is different this time ‘round. There are no sets, rolls or bowls. No takeout or delivery either. The concept is now strictly omakase (Omasake was previously on offer at the St. Clair location, in addition to à la carte items) at $100/pp to be consumed in a one-hour seating. Eight seatings per hour session are currently available (5pm to last seating at 8:45pm). The reason for the change? As per a post on IG, “As inflation grows, the cost of running a past restaurant was a real struggle as well as keeping the consistent quality among many of our staff despite our hard effort. Therefore, to offer my best in quality and value, I decided to minimize the team and focus on one menu.”

Souv Like expands with a second location westside in Roncy Village (217 Roncesvalles Ave.) complete with traditional Greek fare - gyros, souvlaki, potatoes, rice - made popular at the OG outpost across from Pape Station (708 Pape Ave.).

Tinga Kim Taqueria (1182 Queen St. E.) arrives in Leslieville, moving into Leslie Jones that shuttered earlier this year. Hot tip: Doors softly open tonight with tacos, nachos and cocktails.

CLOSED

The group that launched “urban tavern” Against the Grain lakeside at Corus Quay (25 Dockside Dr.) in 2011 is introducing a new look and feel for the latest iteration. See above for details. Of particular note, Fab Restaurant Concepts’ sudden closure of Dominion Pub and Kitchen (500 Queen St E.) in Corktown. Open at the beginning of the month and despite a large banner hung below scaffolding across the front of the building with the message, “Renovations in progress but our doors are still open” written in bold letters, the gastropub and historical landmark once home to Trivia Thursdays, Folk N' Comedy Sundays, and $13 Weekend Grumpy Brunch is not only closed, it’s been marked permanent on Google and no longer appears on the restaurant group’s website.

Boarded up Dominion Pub and Kitchen at 500 Queen St. E. Photo by Stephanie Dickison | Toronto Restaurants.

Long history short: Dominion Brewery’s The Dominion Hotel started out in 1889. According to the eatery, the hotel and brew pub underwent “massive” renos “sometime in the late 1980's to early 1990's” becoming local haunt Dominion on Queen. In 2015, “We restored the historic beauty of the building and reopened on November 31st as Dominion Pub & Kitchen. Our design team did a beautiful job exposing the original tin ceilings from when Dominion was first constructed and bridging the classic Victorian architecture with our contemporary vision!” p.s. Further east at Queen and Kingston Road, Murphy’s Law (1702 Queen St. E.) has been closed for renos since May, however remains a part of the FAB fam and is set to “be back soon.”

Barn Restaurant (598 Queen St. W.) was a staple at the corner of Queen and Bathurst for over 40 years. For who’s moved in, see above. 

The space formerly BlackBall Taiwanese Desserts (472 Yonge St.) is about low and smoked fare now. Details above.

Fried chicken and cocktails were just a few reasons to stop by West Queen West’s Councillor (1188 Queen St. W.).

Donerland (217 Roncesvalles Ave.) arrived Fall 2019.

Dufflet Pastries (787 Queen St. W.) has been a permanent fixture on Queen West for nearly half a century. Yesterday the cake shop announced after 48 years is closing its flagship location to focus on wholesale. Last day is April 29.

Etobicoke’s Ghost Kitchens (270 Brown’s Line) was home to numerous concepts during the pandemic. Good news: Taco Tuesdays will be in effect as the space will soon be home to Gus Tacos.

Parkdale’s Liberty Garden Chinese Restaurant (1508 Queen St. W.) is papered up. En route: Jimbu Himalayan Thakali Kitchen. 

Maiz Latin Food launched in 2017 and within a year debuted six locations including Queen and Portland (490 Queen St. W.) and the Junction (2901 Dundas St. W.). The remaining outpost at Yonge and Lawrence (3220 Yonge St.) came to an end recently, however you can find their signature fare and Maiz Pilsner at their new Burlington Brewery (3600 Dundas St.) that debuted in September.

The windows of Caribbean fusion tapas and cocktail destination The Mix 669 in Little Italy (669 College St.) are covered up.

I broke the news of the sudden closure of  Pandoughra’s Box.

After being awarded Michelin Recommended in the Fall, stand up sushi joint Tachi is leaving Chefs Hall. The last day to experience “Canada’s first and only stand-up omakase” serving top-tier sushi in 30 minutes is April 29. However, this is not the end for the sister eatery to Chef Masaki Saito’s Sushi Masaki Saito that received the only two Michelin stars in Toronto: A “new elevated omakase experience” is in the works. As for the food hall, it continues to evolve - the exit quickly follows the recent departure of Piano Piano, who made a different kind of move last week.

NEWS

According to a national restaurant group, the PSAC strike is adversely affecting the foodservice industry.

After last week’s food recalls, add these to your list: Boosh Coconut Curry Cauli Bowl recalled due to undeclared milk, M&M Food Market Angus Beef Burgers recalled due to undeclared gluten and wheat. [UPDATE: 04.21.23 Certain Oysters recalled due to improper harvest authorization.]

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 April 13-19, 2023

My iconic 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

🕘 13.5 min read

This week’s 37 establishments - 20 arrivals, 17 closures - are a glimpse into the frenzied activity you can expect in the coming weeks and months. Luckily, there’s great grub to get us through the turmoil.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Sink your teeth into croissant bungeoppang, Korean fried chicken korokke, and dalgona bingsu, while sipping on injeolmi lattes at Kray’s new Yonge & Sheppard digs (4850 Yonge St., Level 2).

The Coop Wicked Chicken wants you to “stuff your beak” at their new chicken joint in Mississauga (Sussex Centre, 50 Burnhamthorpe Rd. W.). The Ontario chain distinguishes itself from other poultry-centric outfits with its “punk-rock meets rustic henhouse” vibe and menu items that go beyond basic bird - deep-fried deviled eggs, blackened chicken salads, “coop’d up” nachos, dirty bird tacos, and boozy brunches - with crowd-pleasing southern fried, picante, and waffle based selections at the ready.

I let you in on Dav’s Hotspot plans to expand back in 2021. Status update: Grand opening for Dav’s Express halal virtual kitchen in Etobicoke (20 Lockport Ave.) took place yesterday. Did you know? The new addition is a short drive from Davielle Rose’s OG spot for comfort food with an island twist in Mississauga (1365 Mid-Way Blvd., Unit 22).

Summer eats by way of homemade ice cream, soft baked cookies, and ice cream sandos have landed in Parkdale, courtesy of Disco at Queen and Dovercourt (1086 Queen St. W., Unit 1/2). Birthday Cake ice cream and Snickerdoodles - who’s in?

Gong Cha continues its rapid growth across the GTA with two more bbt shops: Mississauga (1525 Bristol Rd. W.) and Midtown at Yonge and Davisville (2027 Yonge St.). Enjoy BOGO specials during grand opening celebrations April 14-19.

Hi Yogurt adds to its fleet of farm-style cold brew yogurt stores with the latest perched in Midtown at Yonge & Eglinton (2350 Yonge St.) and Scarborough at Midland & Finch (3262 Midland Ave, Unit E108). The latter – the eighth location in less than two years – softly opened Monday with a BOGO offer on until April 16.

Il Gelato Di Carlotta kicks off today in Oakville (312 Lakeshore Rd. E.). Here, the frozen treat takes many forms including cakes, sandwiches, and on a stick. For cold weather warmups, look to items such as coffee, panini, and pasta.

Established in 1932, the Lakeview Restaurant (1132 Dundas St. W.) reopens today after a short closure as The Lakeview Diner under new ownership with Jewish deli fare. The interior remains largely unchanged. Stay tuned for a closer look.

The newest addition to Mount Pleasant Village, L'amour Cafe & Pastry (927 Mount Pleasant Rd.) commenced April 1 with an array of danishes, croissants, and cruffins in addition to savoury selections.

Pig-headed boba and poke bowls are the focus of east side’s Leni Poki (1027 Gerrard St. E.). Even desserts are porcine centric: kawaii custard buns, fro yo formed in the shape of sleeping swine available in a rainbow of hues. The Asian eatery claims to be “the first pig themed cafe in Canada.”

Grand opening celebrations for Ma Maison’s third boulangerie and patisserie are underway at at College and Bathurst (74 Lippincott St.). Look familiar? The space was home to brunch hotspot Aunties & Uncles for over two decades until doors shuttered in 2021.

The first Maharaja Bhog in Canada put down roots in Mississauga (6020 Hurontario St.). On the menu: Authentic Rajasthani and Gujarati fare.                                   

Mississauga’s butcher and prepared food market Meaty Eats broadens its horizons with a second outpost in Bloor West Village (2288 Bloor St. W.).

Calling all chocolate lovers: Patchi’s first Canadian storefront has arrived. The modern luxe chocolate brand founded by Nizar Choucair in 1974 in Beirut, Lebanon has locations across the globe including the Middle East, U.K. U.S., and now at CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall) in Etobicoke. Find them at Entrance 7, near Sephora. Fun fact: The brand once collabed with U.K. luxe department store Harrods to sell a box of chocolates emblazoned with Swarovski crystals. Price tag: $10K.

After launching and shuttering Toronto outposts during the pandemic, Punjabi by Nature flourishes in the GTA with the latest touching down in Oakville (261 Oak Walk Dr. ). The signature extensive menu boasts fan favourites Bharwa Rehri Wala Kulcha, Paneer Lababdar, and Butter Chicken.

Speaking of Oakville, Sabreen's Food (2530 Sixth Line, Unit 6) is serving up an array of Indian fare - Veal Qorma, Aloo Qeema, Bihari Keba, Chicken Biryani, Bindhi, Paratha Roll, Sesame Naan, Kheer – with select items available for breakfast to go. And due to the popularity of the previous occupant’s fare, Portuguese BBQ Peri Peri Chicken and Roasted Potatoes.

Tiny dessert balls - aka doughnut holes – are reason enough to head to the new Superballs Cafe (252 Queen St. W.) but it’s the cute car container they come in that puts them over the top. Fun fact: SC shares the same addy and is just a couple doors down from sister co. Members Only Waffle House, home of penis-shaped confections, who shared: “We wanted to bring the vintage retro vibe back to Queen Street West as it is one of the main focus of rebuilding the community, and bringing back the nostalgic childhood memories back to every guests who walks in.”

Wildly popular high quality seafood and sushi shop Taro’s Fish debuted a third location yesterday (7240 Woodbine Ave.) - the second in Markham. The business began back in 1996 with the first store located in North York.

CLOSED

Quickly following the closure of Beach Hill Smokehouse’s Danforth location, another new and notable east end barbecue joint has ended service. Trevor David launched The Art of BBQ – Smokehouse (2478 Kingston Rd.) in Scarborough Summer 2020. TR Insider tip: Slated to take over the space? Filipino resto Perlas De Pilipinas.

Atai Bistro came on the west end scene Spring ‘21, following up with an outpost in Summerhill early last year. Last day is April 15 due to staffing challenges, though the shutdown is expected to be temporary.

Avoca Chocolates’ third confectionery premiered on the Ossington Strip (148 Ossington Ave.) Winter ’21. The sizeable store was open for business last weekend for Easter but by a few days later, a letter notified patrons of the closure due to rent arrears. Two locations boasting handcrafted Fair Trade chocolates, gelato and ice cream remain: Danforth (176 Hampton Ave.) and Leaside (850 Millwood Rd.)

Another heartbreaking Fahmee Bakery closure. After flames engulfed Fahmee Bakery’s Montezuma Trail location last spring, owner Faiz Abdella has been on a mission to continue his beloved business no matter how difficult the road ahead. After recently helping launch other businesses, the outpost at Dundas and Landsdowne (222 Landsdowne Ave., Unit B) has come to an end after a three-and-a-half year run.

Gate 8 (73 Roncesvalles Ave.) came and went. 

You’ll have to look elsewhere for Italian fare from the heart of San Giorgio Morgeto, Reggio Calabria now that Mare Pizzeria in Kensington Market (185 Baldwin St.) has shuttered.

New Lanzhou Noodle Restaurant (43 Baldwin St.) launched August 2020. For the unique concept that moved in, see last week’s arrivals.

It’s too late to get in one more dance at Parlour (270 Adelaide Ave. W.) - the last hurrah was January 27.

Oakville’s Portuguese Rotisserie and Grill (2530 Sixth Line, Unit 6) may be gone but peri peri chicken is still on offer via the new occupants.

After the end of hotspots Rabbit! Rabbit! Rabbit! and Bar Coneja earlier this year, the Fashion District addy is undergoing further transformation. Liberty Entertainment Group - the upscale conglomerate that counts Casa Loma, BlueBlood Steakhouse, and Michelin-anointed Don Alfonso 1890 amongst its growing portfolio - just shuttered two venues: Resto Xango that once called MasterChef Canada judge chef Claudio Aprile culinary director, and poppin' bottles lounge Arcane. Moving in: Silent H, a "Mexican street cuisine restaurant elevated to a gourmet level." Spread across several floors, the space boasts a main room for up to 150 seated guests, two patios, and a tequila bar. Doors are slated to open early May. Psst. If you subscribed to the TR Newsletter, you’d already be in the know.

Korean fusion eatery Té on the Ossington strip (70 Ossington Ave.) is temporarily closed due to a chef work injury, as per a letter posted on the door. It reads in part: “We are a mom & daughter duo in the kitchen and our priority is always to our guests. Your support means everything to us. We will back as soon as mom is physically able.”

Time’s up for Time Sugar in Chinatown (397 Spadina Ave.). For what’s taken over, see last week’s arrivals.

Grenville St. has undergone numerous changes recently. Modern Asian tapas by way of  2021’s Tomyum Restaurant and Wine Bar (21 Grenville St.), for starters. The address was also home to Hana Sushi & Café, the “first monorail sushi in Canada.” For the newest addition to the strip, see last week’s lineup.

Despite the wild popularity of croissants right now, Yum Croissant (1917 Queen St. E.) in The Beaches has closed up shop. Moving in: Nana’s Creperie with “the sweetest crepes in town,” waffles, milkshakes and desserts.

NEWS

Legendary food writer and restaurant critic Mimi Sheraton died. She was 97.

Yorkville’s The Hazelton Hotel and ONE Restaurant are under new ownership. 

Piano Piano scooped up competitor General Assembly’s frozen pizza line.

Not able to keep up with the increasing demand for food, Toronto food banks are calling on the government to help.

It’s no surprise fewer businesses applied for this year’s CaféTO program. Even after a few amendments were made to the initial proposed changes, raised fees and regulations remain prohibitive for many.

After last week’s roundup, this week’s recalls are of particular note for chocoholics: Liesse Chocolatier Vegan Chocolate Bunnies recalled due to undeclared milk, Nelson’s Chocofellar Dark Chocolate products recalled due to undeclared milk

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 April 6-12, 2023

My iconic 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

This week’s 21 arrivals are all over the map - literally, and in terms of cuisines, concepts and dishes - providing a dizzying array of options suitable for spring’s customary erratic weather conditions. So yes, wintery warmups one minute, ice cream and cold brews the next.

Pro tip: Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and the inside scoop.

OPEN

A former Subway shop at the corner of Queen and Parliament is now Afghano Restaurant (344 Queen St. E., Unit 1), offering rich Afghan comfort fare. Think Lamb Shank, Kubli Pulai with Tandoori Chicken, and Koofra Kaadi - meatballs accompanied by naan, salad and sauce.

Bevy - a rad triad of cafe, shop and gallery - came on the Regent Park scene last summer. Following its east side debut, a west end counterpart was essential. After recently popping up at The Combine (225 Wellington St. W.), they’ve set up shop permanently on the second floor.

In the move to Yonge & Finch, Big Mao (5519 Yonge St.) packed the essentials: Signature Roast Duck Post, assorted Japanese don, and Handmade Ice Jelly with Brown Sugar.

Chantecler. Has. Been. Through. It. It’s a long story (stay tuned). Here’s the shortish version: Chef Jonathan Poon and restaurateur Jacob Wharton-Shukster debuted their bijou Parkdale resto in 2012 with “progressive Canadian cuisine” and elevated cocktails. Poon left in 2016 after opening Bar Fancy, and is a partner in Toronto hotspots including Superpoint, Paris Paris and Michelin Bib Gourmand awarded Favorites Thai BBQ. That year, Wharton-Shukster transformed the slim space into a French destination with quintessential fare - escargots, steak tartare, frogs legs, the whole neuf mètres - and expanded with butcher and sando shop Chantecler Boucherie next door in 2019. Not long after, fire shuttered the restaurant and store. (CB reopened during the pandemic, permanently closing last July.) During the absence of all things Chantecler, Le Phénix alighted across the street (1263 Queen St. W.) right before the pandemic. While it was always meant to be temporary, LP quickly became one of the buzziest spots in the city, garnering a large and loyal following in its short lifespan. The "forever closure” took place two years later at the end of last year, but the glimmer of hope of the return of Chantecler (aka Bar Chantecler, Chantecler 2.0/3.0), was confirmed via social last summer. For over a decade, Wharton-Shukster has kept the party going, creating magical boîtes and culinary gems in Parkdale. He’s done it again in striking new digs in Bloorcourt (798 Bloor St. W.). Don’t call it a comeback. Call it a must-visit.

Roast pork is the main attraction of Markham’s new Char Siu Manor (9255 Woodbine Ave., Unit 25) however there’s more Chinese barbecue to be had. For starters, duck, free range chicken, lou mei, marinated cuttlefish, spicy chili oil pig ear, and “soup rice spaghetti noodles.”

Cibo Wine Bar on King West (522 King St. W.) is back in business as of April 5, after a fire broke out at the address last month.

Despite being open a few months, Vaughan’s Club 216 (7777 Keele St.) claims to be “the number one Afrobeat’s club in Ontario.” The new venue is “bringing the Club 216 vibe to the 6ix” and “redefining luxury in the hospitality industry” with Gold Room Sundays, 216 Saturdays, premium services (bottle, bar, hookah), and “unique selection of West African-inspired foods.”

Hot tip: El Trompo’s famous housemade tortillas have a spot to call their very own now. Bonus: You don’t have to travel far. The “first Mexican taqueria in Toronto” and Kensington Market staple (277 Augusta Ave.) debuted El Trompo Tortilleria (279 Augusta Ave.) right next door. Fun fact: The space was previously home to Model Citizen a men’s clothing store (slogan: "You Deserve a Better Dressed Boyfriend"), a mainstay in the market in the early ought’s after relocating from from its shop on Dundas West.

Good Earth Coffeehouse launched Monday at the NE corner of Yonge and Wellesley (8 Wellesley St. E., Unit 102). It took over the former Starbucks location - a move the Canadian chain with 50+ locations already made in Western Canada with Chapters and Indigo stores and local hospitals, as well as here in Toronto and the GTA - with many more to launch this year. Grand opening festivities to follow April 20 with ribbon cutting, live music, samples, giveaway, and free brewed coffee all day.

Get in on Indo-Chinese specialties such as Cauliflower Manchurian Gravy And Soya Chaap Chilli Gravy at Mississauga’s The Hakka Hub (6970 Lisgar Dr, Unit A2). Doors open tomorrow.

Keeping Koi Café (1145 Dundas St. E.) is under new ownership. The bubble tea shop in Mississauga boasts a new interior and additional halal Vietnamese fare and drinks to previous menu selections.

Kiokii and…’s sleek shelves are lined with skincare, makeup and other personal care items from Korea, Japan and China, however it’s the Asian snacks you want to focus in on: Kitsune udon, Asahi melon cream soda, salty lychee drink, limited edition hot chili potato chips from Japan, tarte tatin chocolates, and sakura peach cake, etc. The latest outposts - CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St., Level 1) celebrated grand opening on March 31 and CF Markville in October 2022 - join other locations scattered throughout the GTA. 

Turkish desserts, particularly pistachio festooned baklava, are the focus of North York’s new halal Turkish bakery Ma Belle Baklavacisi (1110 Wilson Ave.).                          

Discover the latest offering from the Zakkushi Group tucked beneath their steadfast yakitori izakaya, Zakkushi on Carlton (193 Carlton St.): New Retro, a subterranean Japanese snack bar with fusion tapas, Japanese whisky, sake, and other bevvies. Did you know? NR isn’t the first Japanese basement bar to take over the space: Imanishi Japanese Kitchen debuted Imanishi Basement Bar in January 2020.

Karan Bajwa and Balraj Chauhan’s numerous Oh Bombay locations across the GTA haven’t included Toronto. Until now. The first “upscale casual” Indian and Hakka eatery touched down near Yonge and Bloor (21 Grenville St.).

“Canada's largest Mediterranean restaurant chain” Osmow’s boasts 140+ locations. Find the latest in Scarborough at Markham and Sheppard (1780 Markham Rd., Unit O110).

Luanne Ronquillo’s premium small batch Asian-inspired custard ice creams and other goodies formerly launched as an ice cream scoop pop-up shop back in July 2018. Ruru Baked has been wildly popular ever since. Fast forward to: The first storefront at Bloor and Lansdowne (659 Lansdowne Ave.) in 2021, and just over two years later to premiering in “the largest Asian shopping mall in North America,” Markham’s Pacific Mall (4300 Steeles Ave. E., Unit E69). Grand opening is April 8.

You got the inside scoop on Broadview and Gerrard’s latest arrival last month. Supreme Taste (351 Broadview Ave.) in East Chinatown offers an array of Chinese barbecue with space for in-door dining.

The focused menu of Yun-nan flavour pork bone soup and Yun-nan Flavour dried noodles, snack and optional sides served in bowls on a plastic tray is just a part of the unique experience of Yunnan Noodle Shack (43 Baldwin St.) in Baldwin Village. The setting is wildly unique: Designed with sole diners in mind, individual wooden cubbies are minimally adorned: incense, holders for phone, utensils and napkins on top, drawer underneath to store your belongings. Then there’s the “Solitary Dining Etiquette” rules posted on the front door: “To allow for the experience of solitary dining in full, we can only welcome, at most, parties of two per table. A group of three or more will be separated and seated at different tables, subject to current seating arrangements. A situation may arise where all guests may not be seated at the same time or may sit alone at a different table.We appreciate your understanding and kindly thank you for respecting our arrangements. Enjoy your time at Yunnan Noodle Shack!”

Whitby and Stouffville’s halal Asian destination The Zen Hakka Chinese & Thai has landed at Queen and Bathurst (263 Queen St. W.).

CLOSED  

Brown Brothers Meats in the St. Lawrence Market (91 Front St. E., South Market ), is closed until further notice. See news for details.

Coffee and Clothing’s Pape outpost (348 Pape Ave.) has come to a close, however not all is lost: Their expansive destination on Gerrard  is just a few blocks away (841 Gerrard St. E.), complete with The Nite Owl Barber Shop in back. 

This week Shawn Adler announced he’s shuttering Pow Wow Café in Kensington Market (213 Augusta Ave.) as of May 28. 

NEWS

Claudette Gasparro, of Brown Brothers Meats in the St. Lawrence Market South Market (91 Front St. E.), died April 1 at the age of 75.

The federal government temporarily capped the excise tax on alcohol.

Following last week’s recalls: President's Choice Chopped Sesame Wonton Salad Kit recalled due to undeclared mustard, egg and milk; Salento Organics Dark Chocolate products recalled due to undeclared milk. [UPDATE: 07.04.23 Plantein Plant-Based Schnitzels recalled due to undeclared milk.]

ICYMI 

Jahlea Henry’s impressive CV boasts award-winning finer dining establishments Scaramouche, Miku Toronto, Laissez Faire, and current role at Michelin Recommended Ten, however her favourite haunts around town are as down to earth as she is. See for yourself in this month’s captivating At The Pass to discover her go-to spots, fridge essentials, biggest influences, how she combats anxiety in the kitchen and more.

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

At the Pass with Jahlea (Lea) Henry

The acclaimed long-running At The Pass series showcases Toronto and the GTA’s best chefs. You won’t find any celebrities featured here. Perhaps you already know these fine cooks, but maybe not. They’re not famous - yet. But it’s time these talented, passionate, hard-working chefs got a bit of the spotlight. Meet Jahlea (Lea) Henry.

 🕘 7.5 min read

Currently

Line Cook, Michelin Recommended Ten Restaurant 

Formerly

Scaramouche, Miku Toronto, Laissez Faire

Favourite dish to make right now

Tom Yum soup! I’ve been researching Thai cuisine recently, and discovering all of the techniques and flavours behind such iconic dishes like tom yum has been a crazy delicious experience so far.

Last cookbook purchase

Culinary Artistry by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg. Thrifted for two bucks. Best steal of the century!

Pistachio Financier with Roasted Strawberry Hibiscus Sorbet, Rose Diplomat Cream and Poached Rhubarb.

Have you read it/tried any recipes 

I could take notes from Culinary Artistry all day - not only is it my new go-to from a creativity stand point, but it’s incredibly insightful as it breaks down every sensory building block to great dishes.

One dish or ingredient you’d like to see gone from menus 

Because the menu at Ten is so dynamic, I wouldn’t quite say I’m holding out for anything to be gone – but if I had to choose in this moment I’d say squash, because it’s been everywhere since last September!

And one dish or ingredient that you’re excited about right now and would like to see on more menus

While I appreciate what it does have to offer, I feel like winter is a relatively uninspiring time in Ontario. So right now, I’m dreaming of sweet summer corn in one hundred different ways - sweet, savory or just straight out of a butter bath.

Cheesy Polenta with Pan-Seared Venison, Caramelized Cippolini Onion and Crispy Pancetta.

Biggest influences

Anthony Bourdain, that man soaked up all the best parts of life like bread does with good soup.

Mashama Bailey, because she was the first person I’ve seen in this industry who looks like me, and pushed the same boundaries that I hope to push some day. 

Gennaro Contaldo, because he has a passion for food that just can’t be mimicked, and he knows how to have fun with his food like no other.

And my Grandma, for supplying me with enough food-related nostalgia to make me love it in the first place!

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

Perhaps typical, but I would love to visit L’Arpège and actually experience Alain Passard’s food first hand. France is the world’s fine-dining blueprint after all - although, there is one small crispy dumpling shop I ate at in Taipei that I can literally and dramatically say, changed my life. I always want to go there! 

Last thing you ate 

Korean ghimmari, homemade on a day where I had a bunch of extra time: Deep-fried nori rice rolls dressed with kewpie mayo, scallions, and gochujang sauce.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Day-old rice because I can’t name anything more versatile; Limes because where others might put hot sauce, I am usually squeezing citrus; and butter.

Caramelized White Chocolate Panna Cotta with Peach Sorbet, Dalgona Honeycomb and Chamomile Sablee Crumb.

Guilty pleasure

Smash burgers, fresh Japanese mochi, a super ripe, in-season mango, or good vanilla ice cream - I’m talking the one with vanilla seed specs, fancy container, uncomfortably overpriced - on top of grocery store apple pie!

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

PAI for their Thai pork belly/oxtail stew, Mom’s Pan-Fried Bun, and Ikkousha Ramen.

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

I’m not much of a drinker, but Hanmoto’s is the only bar I’ve went to and fell in love with the food, and how it tastes with Tsingtao beer. Thank you for the recommend Rebecca!

Go-to drink

All I know is, if soju or makgeolli is involved, I’m in.

Morel Mushroom Soup with Ground Cherry Oil and Glazed King Oyster Mushrooms.

One habit you have in the kitchen that you should lose, but can’t seem to shake

I do struggle with anxiety, and a lot of times it can get in the way of what’s right in front of me. In the kitchen it slows me down, can cloud my judgment, or cause me to be forgetful. In the past, it has caused others to put me into a box and effected how I thought about myself, but, I’m breaking out of that box every day!

And one habit you have in the kitchen that will inspire young chefs

Still going despite my doubts. My anxiety can hold me back, but powering through it was one of the best things I’ve learned to do. I keep it under control by staying clean, organized, and planning for three steps ahead.

Hidden talent

Writing! I write poetry and have completed one YA novel to date.

Best career advice you ever received

My first chef Chris Waye gave me words that have stayed with me: Simply not to underestimate myself, because even though I’m still young and definitely making mistakes of every size, my value as a cook, creative, and learner is there, and it won’t remain stagnant. It’s something that’s helped me recognize my worth in and outside of the kitchen.

Worst career advice you ever received

“See how much you can get away with.” When you start using this mentality outside of an occasional pinch, it’s only downhill from there.

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

Like Kitchen Confidential says, socialize with your co-workers! This industry is hard work, physically, mentally, and emotionally, and you have to grow with that – but when you go through it with friends by your side, it makes it that much more worth it. 

Discover more chefs in the At The Pass series.

Know someone in Toronto or GTA who should be featured? Submit their name for consideration. (And yes, you can nominate yourself.) 

For breaking news, updates, interviews + much more, follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter.   

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 March 30-April 5, 2023

My iconic 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

With this week’s addition of 15 arrivals, I uncovered 100 new establishments and a record number of closures in March alone. This is simultaneously shocking and the norm these days - My research thus far reveals April is going to be just as rocky.

Insider tip: To keep up-to-date, follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates and more.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN                       

For tandoori dishes, biryanis, and other fragrant fare infused with in-house Indian and Pakistani seasonings and spice blends, head to Scarborough’s Ammis (1760 Lawrence Ave. E.) at Victoria Park and Lawrence.

BOCA (488 Cosburn Ave.) in East York is dedicated to all things brunch, hence the name - an acronym for Brunch on Cosburn Avenue. The wide-ranging menu features everything from Waffles Benny to burgers and poutine, with selections and activities for the kiddos.

World Food Market’s latest addition Burning Pizza (335 Yonge St.) arrives with signature ‘za boasting fluffy dough, creamy cheese, and fresh halal ingredients. Note: Google mistakenly lists BP’s address as on Eglinton Av. E.  The Yonge and Dundas location is their sole location at this time. 

ISO of HK cart noodles? It’s the specialty of Cart Noodle House in Richmond Hill (360 Hwy 7, Unit 5).

Debe’s Roti & Doubles at Jane & Finch (2881 Jane St.) is tha spot for Phulorie, Doubles, Alloo Pie, Bake and Saltfish, Boneless Curry Goat and other delicacies. Hot tip: In the Vaughan area? Head to the new location at Weston Rd. & Steeles (4000 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 10). Bonus: The second outpost of “The Original Taste of The Islands” halal destination boasts indoor seating, a patio, and liquor licence.

Mississauga’s G C Burger (3920 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 28) is all about smash burgers, with hot dogs, chicken, fries and shakes also on offer.

Grand opening celebrations for Leaf Doner’s new digs in Kensington Market (180 Baldwin St.) took place March 17. Signature items include doners doused in hot sauce of varying degrees on the Scoville scale, or for a Canadian twist - local maple syrup.

Psst. The east end has a swish new haunt. Los Carnitos (1030 Gerrard St. E.), a real looker, playing on the bones that was until recently Bar Habana*, debuted Saturday. While taking in the decor, sip cantaritos, margaritas and tequila and tuck into sopes, pambazos, and tacquitos. (*After launching Summer’ 22, BH is setting up shop across town.)

Head to Etobicoke’s Lume Kitchen and Lounge (72 Park Lawn Rd.) for all-day menus and brunch on weekends.

Bakeshop, pantry, kitchen, and event space Mess Hall recently made a short move down the street. Discover Butter & Spice Bakeshop (get to know owner Marchelle McKenzie in TR’s acclaimed chef series At The Pass), Lami by Mama Linda’s, and The Magpie Cakery by semi-finalist of The Great Canadian Baking Show Maggie Frith, all under one roof.

As I reported last week, the inaugural NBA Courtside Restaurant (15 Queens Quay E.) kicks off Monday.

There’s a new food truck in town and it’s not like the others - not even close. In an exclusive interview with TR, Melissa Zabulon shared how Quickie Pastry came to be: It all started when her mother sent a video of a phallic-shaped waffle in Paris. “We are from France,” Zabulon says. “I was inspired right away.” After earning a degree in human resources in Montreal, working as a flight attendant, and owning a PPE company, she swiftly changed course, starting QP in March 2021, ordering the distinctly-shaped waffle makers two months later, and working hard to find a “unique” recipe - In addition to its arresting appearance, “I want it to taste good.” Wheels started officially rolling in the 6ix last fall, staking the claim: “First food truck serving D-Cakes in Canada,” with plans to introduce more. For secret recipe, nether region waffles dripping with melted chocolate - aka D-Cakes and V-Cakes - and d-ice pops in summer - just look for the truck with the unmistakable shaped waffle on the side, parked outside of U of T (44 St George St.) or on the road.

Chef Sandeep’s cooking up traditional and contemporary Indian grub at Scarborough’s new Rowdys Indian and Hakka at Kingston Road and Lawrence (4352 Kingston Rd., Unit 9).

Pre-opening for Sang-Ji Fried Bao’s downtown location (3 Charles St. E.), took place last Saturday but closed for a few days for an “upgrade” before reopening again. Find them in the spot where Wish restaurant stood until recently.

Chef specialities at Chinatown’s Zao Bar and Grill (421 Dundas St. W.) include Spicy Blood Tofu, Stir Fried Chicken Gristle, and Bullfrog with Pickled Pepper.

CHANGES

Casa Sonora (1165 St. Clair Ave. W.) recently upped sticks - luckily just around the corner (1688 Dufferin St.).

CLOSED

The space that was Etobicoke’s Avenue Café & Bistro (72 Park Lawn Rd.) is home to something else now. See above for details.

After launching a GoFundMe campaign to keep doors open at the end of January to help combat the financial strain brought on by the pandemic, Minh La and Victor Su are permanently closing their Chino Locos (4 Greenwood Ave.). Last day is March 31. Did you know? The fusion restaurant was originally located at the corner of Broadview and Gerrard  (368 Broadview Ave.).

Like Chino Locos, Green Earth Vegan Cuisine (804 Danforth Ave.) started out at Gerrard and Broadview (as Green Earth Vegetarian Cuisine back then at 385 Broadview Ave.) and moved to Danforth & Jones in 2018. The owners made the difficult decision to shutter for good as of March 27, “due to the financial impact of COVID-19,” as per a farewell message they shared online.

Someone’s moved into where Long Time No See BBQ (421 Dundas St. W.) in Chinatown used to be. Details above.

Our Spot (180 Baldwin St.) was a mainstay in Kensington Market for nearly a decade before doors closed in September. Luckily the popular breakfast spot merely outgrew the space. Find them on the Danforth just east of Coxwell (1779 Danforth Ave.) with all-day breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and dinner available Thursdays to Saturdays.

Paul’s Spaghetti House (488 Cosburn Ave.) in East York was a neighbourhood staple since its launch in 1996.

Piano Piano Pizzeria is saying arrivederci to its food hall days downtown. This marks the last week to pull up to the pizza counter for slices, whole pies and salads at Chefs Hall (111 Richmond St. W.).

Runner Market's brick-and-mortar shop (141 Berkeley St.) permanently closed last month. Online operations continue.

Scarborough’s Sail Sushi (4352 Kingston Rd., Unit 9) has come to an end. For the current occupant, see above.

NEWS

After years of speculation and anticipation, popular U.S. burger chain Shake Shack is finally opening in Toronto.

Police are on the lookout for two men after a restaurant in the Bloor & Church area was broken into.

Adding onto last week’s food recalls: Various brands of Chicken Soup Products recalled due to swollen containers, Komera Original Seasoned Hot Pepper Sauce recalled due to potential presence of dangerous bacteria, Liesse Chocolatier Vegan Chocolate Bunnies recalled due to undeclared milk, and Certain Wonton King Wontons recalled due to undeclared egg. 

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 March 23-29, 2023

 My iconic 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

No one covers this city like this. This month has seen an unprecedented number of arrivals: Including this week’s 20 additions, I’ve uncovered 85 new destinations in March so far. And it ain’t over yet…

Tired of missing out? Insider tip: Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter because there’s much more to come.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Home of the Chinese Crispy Burger, Beijing brand Bingz adds to its growing portfolio with a Yorkdale outpost (3401 Dufferin St). p.s. It’s not the only new food stop at the fashion-forward mall. Keep reading for details.

ChickQueen just touched down in Oakville (266 Hays Blvd., Unit 1), marking the third location in the GTA in less than two years for the halal fried chicken brand out of Dubai - with more on the way.

From grilled cheese and patty melts to doughnuts and hot ice cream sandos, Cousin Ricky’s (66 Dundas St. E.) is a one-stop shop for all the essentials.

Whitby’s Cucini Xpress is known for its Sri Lankan and fusion fare. Don’t live nearby? Skip the drive and chow down on Kothu Rotti and Deep Fried Ice Cream Burgers at their new digs downtown at Yonge and Gerrard (372 Yonge St.).

Despite the name, Scarborough’s Dudu Fish House (3272 Midland Ave., Unit B119) has much more on offer than seafood. A whack of offal, for starters: e.g. Deep Fried Chicken Soft Bones, Sliced Beef and Tongue in Chili Sauce, Marinated Pork Intestines, Braised Beef Honeycomb Tripe. For non-viscera selections, look to ingredient-dense soups and health-boosted mains of Black Chicken with Cordyceps, Spareribs with Ginseng, and Tea Tree Mushroom Duck. Bonus: ISO late night eats? Feast until 2-3am, depending on the day.

Fortune Villa’s (539 Bur Oak Ave.) extensive dim sum menu including Curry Cuttlefish, Glutinous Rice with Salted Pork & Preserved Egg Yolk in Lotus Leaf, and Foie Gras Shrimp Dumpling, is a fraction of the wide-ranging selections at Markham’s newest arrival. 

Taiwanese fried chicken brand Fried Chicken Master “combines fried chicken with the concept of Taiwanese hot frying.” Created by Young Qin International Co., Ltd. in 2014, the chain enters the Canadian market with a branch at Yonge & Wellesley (628 Yonge St.). Crispy bird is available by piece, in nugget and bento form, in addition to drinks and sides.

Crush award-winning subs and dawgs at Grandma Loves You’s second destination, now open at Chefs Hall (111 Richmond St. W.).

Devotees of buzzy Caribbean Asian joint Patois (794 Dundas St. W.) got a preview of sister concept next door, JunePlum by Patois (796 Dundas St. W.) courtesy of The Weekender Café pop-up last month. (Followers of Toronto Restaurants on Instagram got a first look in Stories). Hot tip: The chic boutique opens tomorrow. Come through for patties, snacks, drinks, and curated merch. 

The menu at North York’s Kizuna Japanese Dining Bar (5308 Yonge St.) runs the gamut from mini sushi pizzas to katsu.

Formerly Lily’s Pizza & Pasta, Love My Pizza in Mississauga (1107 Lorne Park Rd., Unit 5 ) specializes in thin crust pies. Signatures include BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Ranch, and Arugula Goat. 

Live every day like Taco Tuesday at Molkagtez Mexican Cuisine (1263 Queen St. W.) with tacos, tostadas, mezcal and margaritas. Find them in Le Phénix’s former digs in Parkdale.

Attention sports fans: Reservations for NBA Courtside Restaurant (15 Queens Quay E., Unit 101) are open for April 3. The first of its kind resto, courtesy of the National Basketball Association (NBA) with operations by Urban Dining Group Inc. - the folks behind Gabby’s, Hey Lucy, and District Eatery. What to expect? A “premium, sports-inspired dining experience celebrating the NBA.” The 10,000 sq. ft. space at the water’s edge includes room for outdoor dining as well as retail space.

The country’s first Paris Baguette debuted yesterday at Yonge Sheppard Centre (4841 Yonge St.).The inaugural bakery/café of “at least seven slated to open across Canada” this year boasts French and Asian-inspired baked goods - pastries, cakes and bread - and Lavazza coffee. Founded in 1988, the company boasts over 4,000 locations worldwide, is one of the many brands under South Korean food co. SPC Group, whose portfolio includes U.S. heavy hitters such as Jamba Juice, Eggslut and soon-to-arrive in T.O., Shake Shack.

It’s been a minute since Roywoods expanded the fam. Psst. Get in on all the good stuff - Jerk Shrimp, Oxtail, Curry Goat, their famous Wings, Patties and more - at their latest spot in Yorkdale (3401 Dufferin St.). Next stop: Miami, baby.

Home of the handhelds/no cutlery mandate since  2011, 416 Snack Bar at Queen and Bathurst (181 Bathurst St.) debuted Short Turn (576 Queen St. W.) yesterday. Steps away from the OG haunt, the stunning boîte is filled with cocktails, food and vibes for days.

Down the street, Trinity Market (768A Queen St. W.) arrives with a hybrid model - café, wine bar, bottle shop, market - to satisfy your many ever-changing moods/cravings and work/life demands. 

PSA: Caribbean Chinese destination The Zen Restaurant has arrived in Scarborough with a new takeout-only location (3260 Lawrence Ave. E.). Get in on Chow Mein, Pepper Shrimp, Black Pudding, and lunch specials starting at $7.99.

Dig into Halal Somali fare at Wanaag Restaurant Somali Grill and Café (224 Parliament St.) at Parliament & Shuter. Start with Mandazi and Samosa, warm up with Lentil or Goat Soup, and tuck into entrees of Salmon, Chicken Stew, or T-Bone Steak, accompanied by rice or pasta. 

I gave you the head’s up last month that Zellers is coming back and for a limited time, Zellers Diner on Wheels. Classic eats (Big Hot Chicken Sandwich, Z Burger, Fries & Gravy) and new additions will be available at food trucks parked at malls across the GTA. Here’s the sched: Thursday March 23 - Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Dr.), Saturday March 25 - Erin Mills Town Centre (5100 Erin Mills Pkwy.), Sunday March 26 – Burlington Centre (777 Guelph Line). Full lineup and details via Zellers’ website.

CLOSED

Auntie’s Supply at Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St.) is coming to a close after nearly two years. Last day is March 26. Good news: The Asian millennial suprette is still open at Superfresh (384 Bloor St. W.) with a new location dropping on Queen West this spring. Stay tuned.

With Nordstrom’s closure of all stores countrywide - 13 in total - comes the end of all food and beverage entities including Bar Verde, Habitant, and eBar at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (260 Yonge St.). The luxury department store chain out of the U.S. debuted north of the border in 2014 and set up shop across the GTA including Yorkdale Shopping Centre (3401 Dufferin St.) and CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall), in addition to two Nordstrom Racks: One Bloor (731 Yonge St.) and Vaughan Mills.

Hyde Social arrived on King West (803 King St. W.) last summer, however neighbour complaints quickly followed.

Mezza Notte closed its doors of 27 years (5304 Yonge St.) as of March 25, however it’s not the end for the North York trattoria: MN is slated to reopen at 3169 Dufferin St mid-April.

Roti’s To Go at Yonge & Dundas (66 Dundas St. E.) has come to a close.

NEWS  

Gordon (Gord) Jackson, owner of a number of breakfast/brunch-centric Sunnyside Grill locations including the Toronto branch on St. Clair West, died suddenly on Saturday. He was 54.

Chair of a local BIA is warning business owners of a scam regarding packages and delivery.

Despite recent reports, The Paddock Tavern is not closing.

In addition to last week’s roundup: Fried fish ball recalled due to undeclared egg, Nuba Carob drink recalled due to potential presence of dangerous bacteria, Salento Organics Dark Chocolate Products recalled due to undeclared milk. [UPDATE: 03.24.23 Green Sun brand Dark Chocolate Covered Pineapple recalled due to undeclared milk.']

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 March 16-22, 2023

My iconic 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

🕘 10 min read 

I told you this week was going to be a lot: 20 arrivals and almost half that in closures means you’ve got serious catching up to do. (Pro tip: Start here and work your way back. And make sure to follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates.) You’re in luck as your ‘homework’ involves digging into burgers, tacos, noodles, momos, and the like.

For industry, this steady influx means increased competition and continued upheaval, so all pricing has been reduced for advertising and consulting services.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Alforat Iraqi Street Food follows last year’s debut in Scarborough with an outpost in Mississauga (3460 Platinum Dr.).

BBQ @ Bloor’s motto? We grill, you chill.” In addition to smoked barbecue chicken, “famous” smoked BBQ ribs, and “fire tossed” burgers, the Bloor and Ossington eatery (914 Bloor St. W.) boasts authentic French crêpes and Belgian waffles.

Discover a “fusion of traditional Vietnamese culture and the modern Canadian lifestyle” via pho, banh mi, Viet coffee and bubble tea at Beyond Fusion (369 Church St.), softly launched earlier this week.

Psst. Bloordale’s Burdock Brewery (1184 Bloor St. W.) has expanded. Introducing BB’s stunning new retail shop and production brewery now open in Kensington Market (6 Denison Sq.). Sneak peek: Check out behind-the-scenes photos of the reimagination of the old SASMART building.

Local cheeseburger chain The Burger's Priest builds on more than 25 locations across Ontario with a Scarborough joint at Warden and Eglinton (900 Warden Ave.).

Calabria Bakery just added Unionville (206 Main St., Unit 1) to the mix, marking the third bakeshop for the the family owned and operated destination for baked goods for over 30 years.

Meal kit co. Crafty Ramen debuts its first brick-and-mortar outpost in Toronto today on the Ossington strip (217 Ossington Ave.) with Japanese inspired fare including a medley of snacks (karaage, fried brussel sprouts, gyoza) and distinctively dubbed noods (Tokyo Salary Man, Civil Servant, The Seeker).

Beast Burgers, Fire Fried Chicken, and Monster Potatoes are just part of the ‘madness’ at Crazy Burger (980 Danforth Ave.).

Coffee, wine and snacks are what’s up at Headspace (548 Annette St.).

Farm-style cold brew yogurt chain Hi Yogurt never stops. The proof? Numerous stores launched in under two years. Status update: A store softly opened in Etobicoke (58 Marine Parade Dr., Unit 116) this weekend.

International tapas has arrived in Koreatown, courtesy of Industry Snack Bar (594 Bloor St. W.), with endless tacos and tequila on Tuesdays, brunch and bottomless Mimosas on weekends.

Speaking of brunch, Me.n.u Cafe (3380 Midland Ave., Unit 20) - the coming together of Me.n.u Food Truck and chef Christopher Siu’s Daan Go Cake Lab under one roof, taking over former DaanGo Cafe - is serving the usually-reserved-for-weekends-meal Wednesdays through Sundays.

The MoMo House brings its renowned Himalayan cuisine and Tibetan dumplings to Greektown at Pape and Danforth (679 Danforth Ave.).

Part Korean fried chicken and soju destination, part social enterprise, Sarang Kitchen (1056 Bloor St. W.) is on a mission to “break down the employment barriers faced by the neurodivergent community.” The setting include sensory boxes and multi-sensory room to “allow guests to dine in our restaurant at ease knowing that there are fidgets, weighted blankets, and noise-cancelling headphones they can use, and a sensory room they can relax in if they are feeling overstimulated or anxious.” The establishment is also the latest to join the ‘hospitality included’ no tipping movement.

Stuu Stuu arrived on the scene in North York last fall. Hot tip: To get your fix of their signature Japanese curries and stews downtown, head to Torch Pressed Sushi (507 Church St.) in The Village at Church and Wellesley.

Tomar’s Doner opened Friday in Port Credit (94 Lakeshore Rd. E.) with an array of Turkish dishes including authentic rotisserie-style halal doner boxes, bowls, and plates. 

Stellar Argentinean resto Vos Restaurante Argentino (847 College St.) has extended its reach to west end. Find the second location at the lake’s edge in Humber Bay (2083 Lake Shore Blvd. W.).

Calling all AYCE fans: You can get in on the boba action now, thanks to all-you-can-drink bubble tea shop XOXO Tea (393 Spadina Ave.).

Closely following a downtown addition, Korean tofu pocket focused Yubu is introducing a third location, this time in Scarborough at Sky City Mall (3262 Midland Ave. Unit E109). Doors open March 20.

CLOSED

Formally Lick's Home Burgers & Ice Cream, Andy's Artisan Burgers (900 Warden Ave.) tried to keep the Lick’s vibes going despite the name change. p.s. You can still grab burgers at that address. Details above.

Bubblelicious brought bubble tea, ice cream rolls, and bubble waffles to Queen and Portland (514 Queen St. W.) Summer 2020.

The Burger's Priest held court at Queen and Spadina (463 Queen St. W.) for forever. As the lease was coming to an end, the chain’s third store closed for good as of December 31, 2022. (Two remain close by: King West and Adelaide.) With the recent closure of neighbouring Fancy Franks (453 Queen St. W.), the fairground/ballpark vibes of the block have greatly diminished.

Fleets Food (369 Church St.) arrived late 2018 with gourmet prepared food for “urban dwellers and workers.”

The Hogtown Vegan’s lively bar Hunny (1056 Bloor St. W.) kicked off service during the pandemic, temporarily closing last June “til who-knows-when.” A post on social concluded,” Inflation, Covid, food shortages and staffing has made it impossible to operate two businesses. We are focusing on Hogtown Vegan to survive through these tough times.” Find out who the new occupant is above.

Halal meat source Mesale Meat Market at Donlands (980 Danforth Ave.) has shuttered.

Pho 88’s downtown location in Koreatown (594 Bloor St. W.) has transformed into something completely new. See openings for details.

Rustic Social House (2083 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) arrived in Humber Bay Fall 2018. Discover what’s in its stead above.

The space formerly home to Japanese and Korean eatery Varsity (914 Bloor St. W.) is all about barbecue now.

ICYMI

Now that spring has officially arrived and temperatures are finally on the rise, ice cream shops are opening back up for business. To explore alll your options, you need the Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream + Frozen Treats in Toronto/GTA featuring a whopping 200+ destinations (and growing!) from local restaurants, bars, parlours, shops and markets to contactless delivery options dispensing every kind of icy confection. To add more ice cream, ‘nice’ cream, gelato, fro yo, frozen custard, sherbet, bingsu, milkshakes, paletas, shaved ice, ice pops, freezies and halo halo to your life, get the guide now.

NEWS

Loyalist College unveiled a new state-of-the-art culinary lab at the Belleville campus this week.

Grocery earnings continue to pour in: Empire Co. reports $125.7M net earnings.

Food recalls continue: The Chocolate Lab brand Signature Chocolate Almonds recalled due to undeclared milk, and Salento Organics Dark Chocolate Products recalled due to undeclared milk. [UPDATE 17.03.23: Bindle Bottles recalled due to the presence of lead, Nestlé Good Start - Soothe infant formula recalled due to possible presence of Cronobacter sakazakii.]

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

To help local businesses during this time, pricing has been reduced for advertising and consulting services. To receive the discounted rates, enter code SPRING23 when booking.

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

My iconic 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

It’s not even midway through the month and already between last week’s 20 arrivals and this week’s 25, I’ve uncovered 45 destinations in March alone - an astonishing result, particularly at this time of year - demonstrating the ongoing shakeup across the industry, with the following months likely to be just as frenetic.

Pro tip: To stay in the know, follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates and more.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

In addition to the usual cuppa, coffee and wellness bar Annex Espresso Bar (718 Bathurst St.) offers serious sippers boasting medicinal mushrooms for increased energy, focus and other benefits. Doors open Friday.

Hot tip: One of the many reasons to check out Cat’s Eye Coffee’s new spot at top dance studio City Dance Corps (950 Dupont St.)? The Japanese inspired Peaches & Cream Croissant. Signing up for Dancehall, House, Hip Hop, Waacking or Ballet Boot Camp classes while sipping a cortado? #Goals.

Crepes and galettes are a stone’s throw from Trinity Bellwoods Park with the arrival of Chez Paul Crêperie (833 Queen St. W.), taking over Dlish Cupcakes’ former stomping grounds.

Dear Saigon just landed across from U of T’s St. George Campus (185 College St.), marking the second location for the Vietnamese noodle bar formerly known as Little Saigon, the first in the downtown core.

Award-winning firm Studio Munge, known for its transformative hospitality properties across the globe including T.O. (Akira Back, Amal, Bisha Hotel, Kōst, Sofia Yorkville), worked their magic on Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville (387 Bloor St. E.), which burst on the scene last month. The sleek, modern, playful designs are on full display throughout the hotel’s restaurant Dia, featuring a fab bar and lounge area in front (Prediction: Most Instagrammed barstools of ‘23) with dining by fireplace in back, delivering a laidback yet sophisticated vibe. The kitchen, led by executive chef Justin Raponi, offers shareables such as Duck Confit Sliders ($20) and Sage Brown Butter Gnocchi ($16), Charcuterie Service ($25-$28), salads, Roman-style pizzas, entrees including Mushroom Garganelli ($24), Chicken Ras El Hanout ($36) and Alberta Steak Frites ($44), and desserts. Coming this spring: all day café Virtu Café & Provisions.

The first Toronto Fatburger launches today at Bloor and Bathurst (565 Bloor St. W.). The Cali chain’s claim to fame? “The biggest, juiciest burgers you'll ever taste” made with fresh, never frozen, Alberta Angus beef. Founded in 1947 and originated in Los Angeles in 1952, the fast food joint debuted north of the border in 2005. in Vancouver.

After a successful pop-up last May, The Happy Chocco secured permanent digs at Square One’s The Food District (100 City Centre Dr.) to showcase their signature éclairs and profiteroles.

“Chicken wing aficionados” Keep W!ngin It set up shop in Markham (226 Esna Park Dr.) after launching a year ago in the city’s east end.

Kinton Ramen has kept the party going in Toronto since 2012, rapidly expanding throughout the GTA in recent years. Find the latest outpost in Oakville (2501 Hampshire Gate, Unit 1 A-2) starting March 11.

Your commute just got a lot sweeter: American donut shop Krispy Kreme debuted the sixth location in the 6ix. Get your fix of fritters, filled and iced selections in Bloor West Village, right next to Jane Station (2424 Bloor St. W.).

Quebec chain L’ Afghan Grillade has arrived in Ontario. For grand opening celebrations and Afghan fare, head to Mississauga (3970 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 3) March 11.

Chef Martial Ribreau’s popular wholesale French bakery has added a storefront to the roster: La Bastille French Bakery debuted March 1 in Scarborough (760 Birchmount Rd., Unit 33) with beaucoup de French pastries, artisan breads and croissants.

King and Portland’s Ruby Soho (587 King St. W.) is perpetually overflowing with crowds. No doubt their Liberty Village venture Liberty Soho (139 East Liberty St.) will be as in demand.

Cupcakes have been hogging the spotlight long enough - a muffin renaissance is long overdue. Kicking things off, Mary’s Muffins in downtown Oakville (326 Kerr St.) with handcrafted selections made with various lifestyles and dietary needs in mind (vegan, gluten-free, sugar-free, keto), complete with a money back guarantee.

Dig into fried skewers (Electric Grilled Lamb, Chicken Joints, Sweet Sausage, Eggplant) at Perfect Meat Bowl (512 Yonge St.) south of Wellesley. And while the new resto takes over from previous occupant, Diyijia’s moniker is part of the new signage.

The 100th Real Fruit Bubble Tea debuted at Yorkdale (3401 Dufferin St,) with their tallest storefront to date (35 ft.) and the “biggest LED screen in North America” according to the designer.

Rol San opened Monday in their new Chinatown digs (388 Spadina Ave.) across the street from their long-running spot (323 Spadina Ave.).

Dinner and a show is very much on the agenda now that Japanese noodle bar  Sanuki Udon* (20 Carlton St.) has opened next to Carlton Cinema. *Not to be confused with Zen Sanuki Udon in Markham by Zen Japanese Restaurant - different owners.

Sorry I’ve Got Plants launched on Roncy in 2019 with vegan and low-waste meal kits, produce and plant-based items. Find the second outpost in Trinity Bellwoods (1171 Dundas St. W.) kitted out with mealtime savers such as Bacon Cheese & Egg Sandos, Taco Bowl, Black Pepper Tempeh, Irish Smokey Mash, and Mushroom Stroganoff.

Kensington Market is teeming with taco joints, but can you ever have enough tacos? The latest addition, Tacos 477 (55 Kensington Ave.), offers an assortment to satisfy carnivores, pescatarians and vegetarians alike.

Chef DK’s Taste Bender has been on the go this last while. Find TB’s own dedicated space (316 College St.) down the street from the plot previously shared with Turkish eatery Lokum Eats, with signature fare of Bendwiches, Biscones, and Ben.To.Pan Loaf and other baked goods.

Toro Toro Sushi’s carefully curated, aesthetically pleasing premium boxes took Vaughan (3175 Rutherford Rd.) by storm just over a year ago. Psst. Toro Toro Sushi + Poke softly opens Saturday in Mississauga (4052 Brickstone Mews).

Wingzilla (1129 Queen St. E.) kicked off service with what else - drums n’ flats.

YOGO! Yogurt new store in Chinatown (385 Spadina Ave.) features yogurt made with “a natural milk source from New Zealand.” Drinkable versions include purple rice, oats, millet, and brown sugar boba, with frozen varieties (Rum Grape, Oreo Matcha, Black Swan Chocolate, Cheesy Snow Mountain) served in bite-size shape-of-the-moment cubes. 

The new it spot? Dupont and Ossington, thanks to the arrival of Asian high fidelity café and bar 915 DuPont (915 Dupont St.) complete with music and events, rounded out with coffee, cocktails and Japanese whiskey. Doors officially opened yesterday.

CLOSED

Back in May, I broke the news of celebrity chef Susur Lee’s restaurant closing on King West at the end of 2022. Last service for Lee Restaurant (601 King St. W.) was scheduled to be December 31, but as TR Newsletter subscribers already know, it was extended to March 11, before moving to the new Waterworks building (505 Richmond St. W). As I reported last summer, chain restaurant Earls is set to take over the King & Portland space. Originally slated to launch this year, it's now projected to open closer to 2024. 

Pizza in a cone concept Konz Pizza came and left King West (1029 King St. W., Unit 25). A Mississauga outpost was slated to launch last fall.

Ciao for now. Italian American joint Sienna's (403 Roncesvalles Ave.) announced closure on social last week, however indicated, “We’re hoping to share and even better Sienna’s with you all again in the future.” Luckily their other establishments - The Commoner (2067 Dundas St. W.) and The Commoner Bar Room (614 College St.) - are still in effect.

Looking to get in on Taste of Guang Xi’s signature noodles now that the downtown location (388 Spadina Ave.) has been replaced (see above)? Visit their location at First Markham Place (3235 Hwy 7, Unit 19-20).  

Wallace Espresso at St. Clair and Dufferin (140 Westmount Ave.) has come to a close, however two Junction Triangle locations and an outpost at King and Niagara remain.

Mini glazed doughnut shop 6ix Donutz is relocating their Queen West digs (1184 Queen St. W.). In the meantime, head to North York (45 Four Winds Dr.) to put a ring on it.

NEWS

Restaurants Canada is asking for an extension on CEBA loans for businesses and Canadian Federation of Independent Business launched a petition, calling on the government to extend and expand CEBA loans for small businesses.

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 March 2-8, 2023

My iconic 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

🕘 10 min read

After last week’s 25 arrivals, you might expect a deep drop off. Think again. Introducing: a staggering 20 new destinations to sink your teeth into. Naturally that means more closures. Fortunately, not all are permanent.

Insider tip: Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter because it’s about to get even busier…

Here’s the very latest: 

OPEN

TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop: Michelin Recommended Restaurant Pompette and sibling Bar Pompette added a new concept to the mix. Bakery Pompette softly opens today in Little Italy (655 College St.) with a lineup of top-notch French baked goods including Kouign Amann, Pain au Chocolat and much more. Get to know chef/owner Martine Bauer in the acclaimed TR chef series, At The Pass. 

Wildly popular casual Italian eatery Sugo (1281 Bloor St. W.) just debuted Bar Sugo next door (1279 Bloor St. W.), replacing their former venture, Conzo's Pizza. While remaining a neighbourhood pizzeria, a heavy dose of Italian American classics are also at the ready including Mozz Sticks ($9), Calamari ($24),and Burrata Caprese ($19) starters, hearty pant-stretching mains of pasta and parm, and tempting desserts of soft serve and housemade tiramisu. p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers got dibs on this one too.

Taiwanese bubble tea chain Chatime boasts over 1000 locations across 26 countries. Two just touched down in Mississauga: 480 Eglinton Ave. W. and 515 Lakeshore Rd. E., Unit 107.

Chick Wings (689 Queen St. E.), “powered by” local eateries Liberty Eats, The Bull BBQ Pit and Royal Bistro, brings drums, flats and more to Queen and Broadview.

Psst. Add Corner Crepe Co. at College and Spadina (267 College St, Unit 5) to your to-do list. While CCC may be one of the tiniest restos and creperies in the GTA, it’s mighty in all other aspects, earning high praise for their jian bing (Chinese crepes), prices and hospitality. Naturally. it’s takeout only.

Traditional Latin pastries from brazo de reina and pan de queso to golfeados and cachitos are the specialty at Dadys Le Patisserie in York (646 Oakwood Ave.).

Daldongnae Korean BBQ’s garnered lots a loyal following over the years, including K-pop’s Jennie Kim from Blackpink who came through before the holidays. Find the latest outpost right downtown near Yonge and Dundas (361 Yonge St., 2nd Fl ), next to adult entertainment club Zanzibar, complete with premium Wagyu beef.

From cheesecakes to waffles and ice cream D Spot Dessert Café is one helluva sweet destination. After a stellar year full of expansion, Richmond Hill (12270 Yonge St., Unit 1) got in on the fun.

Island Oysters landed in Bloorcourt, two blocks east of Dufferin in Spring 2021. Their new dine-in spot is now a few blocks west in Bloordale (1165 Bloor St. W.) with bivalves of the shucked and shuck yourself variety and other delights. Did you know? The space was formerly home to Caravan Café & Tea House (1165 Bloor St. W.), launched during the pandemic with eats by Afrobeat Kitchen. Soon after, Hotay's Mac & Cheese was added to the mix.

Kismet Turkish Restaurant (782 Queen St. E.) opens today in Riverside with an array of kebabs, pide, diner, whole rotisserie chickens, and desserts. 

What a journey Koh Samui Thai Kitchen has been on in Greektown: After launching near Pape (588 Danforth Ave.) late 2020, a notice posted on their door last summer confirmed closure. It turns out not for long: The Thai chain just launched a few blocks west (515 Danforth Ave.) in Mishwar’s former digs. 

Just in time for March Break, “first of its kind Montessori-inspired cooking academy” Little Kitchen Academy debuts in Vaughan (20 Jacob Keffer Pkwy) on March 6 for ages three to teen.

After flames engulfed Fahmee Bakery’s Montezuma Trail location last spring, owner Faiz Abdella has been on a mission to continue his beloved business no matter how difficult the road ahead. Take one of FB’s former locations, for instance - he's made it home for local food folks: Thursdays to Sundays, 1971 Weston Road transforms into Carol’s, where chefs are “bringing an old school Grenadian pot to a modern world.” Think Curry Duck, Mannish Water, Rock Buns, Cheesecake, and all-important Patties. Mondays to Wednesdays, it’s now Mateo’s Munchies & Mocktails, pop-up resto of Shannae Rowe’s luxury catering business named after her son, boasting deluxe platters of comfort foods galore - creamy mac 'n cheese, crispy Cajun fries topped with chicken wings, signature sweet & spicy chicken paired with cookies and cream waffles. These and Carol's creations are just what this weather calls for. p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers are already on it.

Head to Monarch Restaurant & Lounge (23 McCleary Crt.) in Vaughan for an array of African fare including Jollof Spaghetti, Whitening Fish, Ayamase, Pounded Yam & Efo Riro. 

Grand opening for coffee shop and art studio and gallery Nabulu Coffee Bar and Typist Studios (390 Dupont St.) takes place March 4.

If you’re of the mind that variety is the spice of life, Spicy 6ix Wings (813 St Clair Ave. W.) in Hillcrest Village is for you, with over 125 flavours on offer.

Pastry chef Engin Tiryaki’s sweet and savoury selections are the specialty at his new halal cake and pastry shop, Sweet Addictions (462 Sherbourne St.). Tiryaki knows his way around baked goods: In addition to his role of Professor of Baking and Pastry Arts at Centennial College School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts, he has decades of industry experience including five-star luxury hotels in Istanbul and here at home in the 6ix.

Oakwood’s Dam Sandwiches expands on their handheld offerings at The 1211 (1211 Bloor St. W.) in Bloordale. Expect Korean Mexican tapas, tacos, alongside cocktails and assorted bevvies, with sandos still in effect.

CLOSED

La Cubana‘s Bar Habana on Gerrard (1030 Gerrard St. E.) has come to an end. Psst. Not for long. It will soon be a “secret” Cuban cocktail and rum bar in the new BackRoom at the Cuban eatery’s Ossington location (92 Ossington Ave.).

Island Oysters hasn’t moved far from its previous spot (3 Bartlett Ave.). Details above. 

O'Frenchy’s Queen and Richmond outpost (141 Spadina Ave.) opened last summer, claiming to be “officially the smallest store in the world.” ISO another microscopic creperie? See arrivals. 

‘Za is still very much a part of what’s taken over Conzo's Pizza (1279 Bloor St. W.). More info up top.

Hillcrest Village has lost another gem. Kizoku Sushi (813 St Clair Ave. W.) did fresh fare at reasonable prices. For what’s replaced it, see arrivals.

Myth Restaurant (522 King St. W.) is temporarily closed due to fire that caused “significant damage” Tuesday morning. No injuries were reported. Police are investigating and officials say it’s “suspicious.” Cibo Wine Bar King West, sharing the same address, is also currently closed. 

Chinatown East constant Sing Sing Barbeque House* (351 Broadview Ave.) has closed. The addy has long been a barbecue joint: Sung Sung Barbecue House Ltd. in the early 90s, and in the mid-to-late 2000s licenced to Sang Sang BBQ House Ltd. Psst. Good news. It will continue to be an Asian ‘cue spot - word is, helmed by a “famous” Toronto chef. Doors are set to open at the end of the March. *Licenced to Cheng Gong BBQ House.

Yang Teashop’s Gerrard and Bay outpost (700 Bay St., Unit 106) that softly opened November 26, 2021 has shuttered. Pro tip: The Dundas location (183 Dundas St. W.) is just five minutes away.

NEWS  

George Weston reports big gains -  $369 million in profit for Q4, up 6.3 per cent from previous year, with revenue for the quarter totaling $14.1 billion.

Another busy section of the city will be inaccessible by TTC this summer.

In addition to last week’s food recalls, Deep Recipes of South India Sambhar Soup recalled due to undeclared milk. [UPDATE: 03.03.23 Various Global Choice Falooda Drink products recalled due to undeclared milk.]

Attn Industry: The City of Toronto is now accepting applications for 2023 Summerlicious Program. Reminder: Businesses have until Tuesday, March 28 to apply for CaféTO curb lane cafés.

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 February 23-March 1, 2023

My iconic 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

This week’s arrivals - a whopping 25 - include heaps of expansions (many right next door or steps away) and offer an array of cuisines and concepts, accompanied by some big closures.

Insider tip: Make sure to follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Beat the winter blahs with brunch and board games at A Corner Café’s new outpost in North York (5193 Yonge St.).  

Scarborough halal burger joint The Burger Alley (51 Lebovic Ave. Unit B104) broadens its horizons with the addition of nearby Alleys Paratha Rolls & Chai (41 Lebovic Ave. Unit A110). Discover Karachi style paratha rolls, doodh patti chai, and Pakistani desserts with a twist. Fun fact: They’re neighbours with new arrival Fish & Loaf. 

In addition to titular dishes, Aristos Souvlaki & Gyros (265 Queen St. W.) offers Hellenic specialities such as roast lamb and  spanakopita and fun-for-all-ages fare: fish n’ chips, chicken fingers and the like.

Go ahead and call it a comeback. After reporting Bar Wellington (520 Wellington St. W.) was up for lease last summer (naturally TR Newsletter subscribers got word first), I’m happy to report doors reopened yesterday in its original location by owner and founder Richard Parrott. New additions include “a top to bottom freshen up,” more sharable items joining fan favourites, and Nick Heels heading up the kitchen.

Satisfying your cravings since ’74, The Belly Buster Submarines spent the pandemic rapidly expanding, and is far from done. The sub shop debuted not one, but two locations: last week in the Annex (380 Bloor St. W.) in Soundscapes old spot, and this week in Etobicoke (3371 Bloor St W. ) where Little Nature's Market was.

I broke the news of the end of Café Belong late last year. For those still wanting in on chef Brad Long’s creations, head outta town to Belong Sharbot Lake (1004 Medical Center Rd.) for current ‘grab-and-go’ items.

Brochettes Nomads has taken up residence at Chefs Hall (111 Richmond St. W.). Their speciality? Grilled skewers using Canadian ingredients and global flavours. Psst. Award-winning Grandma Loves You arrives next month. 

Butter Baker (120 Dundas St. W.) set up a new shop - right next door. Adjacent to the original bakery, find a sit-down café to enjoy Avocado Croffle Toast and S’mores Waffles, and retail space stocked with kitchen items, sustainable beauty, wellness and lifestyle products - because you can never have too many reusable bamboo cups, incense holders, and hair scrunchies. 

North Riverdale’s Carlaw Pastry & Café (525 Carlaw Ave.) boasts a bevy of baked goods including beignets, croissants, danishes, cookies, cakes, and cupcakes.

Cool Cats Hot Dogs’ slip of a place at Dundas and Bathurst (755 Dundas St. W.) offers a focused lineup of dawgs. Sure, the Classic ($6.95) and Brat ($8.95) are great go-tos, but All Day Breakfast (2 eggs, 2 breakfast sausages, big cat mayo, fried onion bits, chives $6.95) and Banger & Mash ( English banger sausage, mashed potatoes, gravy, caramelized onion, and chives $8.95) are portable meals that go the distance. Did you know? It’s the same addy where onigiri-focused Oniguy recently came and went.

Fat Fork in Mississauga (2200 Dundas St. E.) offers an array of burgers, steaks, souvlaki, and more.

K-food chain Galleria Supermarket set up an Express outpost in Mad Radish’s former digs at Yonge & Eglinton (2293 Yonge St.) outfitted with Korean fare, groceries and prepared dishes.

Hong Kong style baked spaghetti, seafood combos, and noodle soups are just part of the lineup at Good So Good Chinese Cuisine in Richmond Hill (10610 Bayview Ave., Unit 2-3).

Last November I let you in on Goûter Patisserie previewing their new space in Etobicoke (34 Six Point Rd.) with Saturday pop-ups. Status update: Doors are now fully open.

Get your hands on Holy Chuck Burgers’ signature hand-rolled steak patties “ground fresh every hour” at Yorkdale (3401 Dufferin St., Food Court). In the game since 2011, this marks the third lcoation for the local chain.

Jason Jiang and Seng Luong, formerly of Sabai Sabai, debut their hot new venture, Lao Lao Bar (5 St Joseph St.). The “contemporary expressions of authentic Lao culture viewed through the lens of Toronto” has already captivated the crowd during soft opening.

Popular food truck Los Vietnamita Taqueria has come off the road to set up shop, brick-and-mortar this time, in East York. Head to St. Clair and O’Connor (2644 St. Clair Ave E.) to get your fix of Vietnamese-meets-Mexican fare including Mexicano Beef Egg Rolls, Banh Mi Tacos, Fries Supremes, and Junion Sammies - Fried Chicken (Chipotle Honey, LVY Hot) and Braised Pork Belly.

Midnight Cookie’s new Leaside digs (3 Manor Rd. E.) aren’t far from the previous setup at East York Eats (858 Eglinton Ave. E.), home since Fall 2021, so sweet selections of Cookie & Crème, Kinder, Red Velvet, White Chocolate Fudge, and Just the Dough are still within reach.

I’ve been tailing Midori Ramen since the get-go. Good thing. Home of “Toronto's creamiest tori paitan ramen” just added Richmond Hill (9625 Yonge St, Unit 6) to the roster. Grand opening takes place February 25 with BOGO offers, games, prizes and more. Hot tip: Next up, Vaughan.

From the owners of Long Branch’s popular Simon Sushi (3399 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) comes MJM Supermarket just steps away (3391 Lake Shore Blvd. W.), full of fresh flowers, produce and household essentials.

Pocha 1989’s second outpost featuring K-food best sellers of Spicy Creamy Udon, Army Base Stew, and Deep-Fried Boneless Chicken with Soy Sauce just touched down in North York (4852 Yonge St.).

I’ve been tracking robotic barista RC Coffee Robo Café’s movements across the city since the pilot location debuted Fall 2020. Find the latest iteration of Canada’s first coffee automat in St Joseph’s Health Centre (30 The Queensway, First Floor, Barnicke Wing, Cafeteria).

Get in on Nanchang noodles, cuttlefish soup, pork ear with chili sauce, spicy lamb spine and other delicacies at Slurpnoodle’s new digs downtown at Dundas and University (189 Dundas St. W.).

Local chain Thairoom brings their signature Thai and Malaysian fare to Little Italy (719 College St.).

CLOSED

After debuting Summer 2020, the Danforth branch of Beach Hill Smokehouse (429 Danforth Ave.) has come to a close, however two locations remain to satisfy your ‘cue cravings:  Main/Danforth (172 Main St.), Bloor West Village/High Park (2190C Bloor St. W.).

At a time when groceries reign supreme, the sudden closure yesterday of Fresh City Farms’ first store on the Ossington strip (111 Ossington Ave.) came as a shock to many. The city farm and food retailer founded by Ran Goel in 2011 debuted a second shop (695 Bay St.) boasting local and organic products and prepared food across 5,500 sq. ft. in April 2020, steps from five Toronto hospitals. “ At this unprecedented time, we want to make it easier for hospital workers and nearby residents to have safe access to food,” Goel said via press release. “…Opening now is one way that we can thank he hospital staff for everything they are doing." Fresh City Bottle Shop followed June 2021. Despite receiving an “injection of capital,” both shuttered. Luckily, you can still shop online and pick up items at the local businesses they acquired - Mabel’s Bakery (2018) and The Healthy Butcher i2019).

The last day to enjoy Beaches mainstay for 43 years Honey Bee Chinese Restaurant (1976 Queen St. E.) is February 28. Beach Metro Community News reports the neighbourhood stalwart is closing due to the retirement of owner Michael Lau.

Bao and bowl eatery Makan (265 Queen St. W.) announced temporary closure starting November 21, 2022 until further notice “due to unforeseen circumstances,” however ended on an optimistic note about “reopening in the near future.” This goes for on-site mini donut and ice cream destination Fugo Desserts as well. In the meantime, for what’s opened in the space, see above.

Canadian sub shop Mr.Sub was a constant at the corner of College and Spadina (267 College St.). The space will soon be “healthy” restaurant chain GoGrill, where you “choose it, weigh it, and we grill it,” scheduled to open this spring. 

Home of East York fish and chip stop Ocean Halibut (2644 St. Clair Ave E.) has become something else entirely. Details above.

Pakistani and Indian cuisine by way of Taza Kabab in Little Italy (719 College St.) has come to an end.

CHANGES  

It’s been Verdi (1566 Bayview Ave.) for as long as you can remember, and as recently as last week. The Leaside constant has reworked a few things including the name, kitchen, and dining room. Introducing: Buono Ristorante.

NEWS

Is olive oil coffee on its way to Canada?

Food recalls continue with certain models of Cosori Air Fryers recalled due to potential fire hazard, Deena Falooda Drinks recalled due to undeclared milk, and Sherbon Falooda Drinks recalled due to undeclared milk.

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