Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 18

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 6-12, 2022

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

🕘 7.5 min read

In addition to any holiday festivities you’ve got on the books, you’ve got a bevy of new spots to check out boasting comfort foods galore - perfect for this time of year - and a whack of closures and events to catch up on.

And stay tuned – more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter.  

Here’s the very latest: 

OPEN

Women’s clothing destination Aritzia launched the first A-OK Café downtown back in 2019. The fits-and-lattes model worked so well, the Canuck chain debuted Aritzia Vaughan Mills (1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.) on December 18, 2021. Hot tip: A striking spot for coffee and treats while you shop bodysuits, tether sweaters, shackets. and vegan leather pants, just landed at CF Markville (5000 Highway 7 E).

Carlo's Bakery arrived in Toronto Winter ’19 and has been making moves across the GTA ever since. Find the latest express outpost right downtown. The Yorkville location (24 Bellair St.) opened Friday with Cake Boss - aka Buddy Valastro - signatures (cake slices, cannoli, sfogliatella lobster tail pastries) and coffee, with items specific to the tony address coming soon.

Oakville’s Flüf Soufflé Cheesecake (131 Lakeshore Rd. E.) specializes in pillowy cheesecakes in original or chocolate. Coffee, matcha latte, and sparkling teas and lemonades also on offer.

The wait for Haidilao Hot Pot’s first downtown location (237 Yonge St.)  is finally over. Doors opened Monday across from the Eaton Centre.

Uncle Betty’s Diner (2590 Yonge St.) is known for comfort food classics – burgers, poutine, mac and cheese, meatloaf. The daytime destination has a new concept come nighttime. Jane & Dick's Bistro (2590 Yonge St.) offers fondue ($25+), tapas (Cauliflower Bites $9, Salmon Tartare $9, Pork Belly $12), mains (Spinach & Squash Lasagna $19, Fish & Chips $19, Steak Frites $28), sides and cocktails, with live jazz on Fridays.

Johnson Family Bakery’s pop-up bakery at Bar Hop Session (681 Danforth Ave.) launched last November, but a permanent home for the well-known sourdough loaves, Swedish knots, and other baked goods has been found. City Bakers Collective (1352 Danforth Ave.) launched last month after a successful Kickstarter campaign. 

Brampton’s Junction Indian Street Food brings its array of authentic street fare including chaat and puri  alongside mashups such as noodle burgers, bhakhri pizza, and masala fries to Etobicoke (6210 Finch Ave. W., Unit B107).

Smack dab in Koreatown, find Kanayama Sushi (686 Bloor St. W.) with an array of affordable fare and grand opening specials featuring maki, sushi and sashimi. 

Kung Fu Tea continues on a roll across the city, Get your boba fix at the latest addition in Mississauga (6750 Winston Churchill Blvd.), Bonus: To celebrate the soft opening, enjoy 20 per cent off all drinks and Large 38 Milk King for $4.88 at this location until October 22. Terms and conditions apply. 

Patties Express has been a part of the downtown landscape since 2014, first on Elm Street, followed by a spot on THE PATH (65 Queen St. W.). After the OG Elm location shuttered on January 31 thanks to condo development, the strip hasn’t been the same without the flaky fresh authentic patties. Insider tip: A new outpost just opened a few blocks south inside CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St.) on Level 1 on the Queen side near Shoppers Drug Mart.

Peaches Sports Bar (1554 Queen St. W.) debuted in Parkdale last night. Your new favourite local takes over what was recently Tenny’s, following Gianna's debut in Summer ‘20 and Tennessee Tavern in 2017. Fun fact: Owners and BFFs award-winning cocktail bartender Veronica Saye - whose resume boasts top spots across town including The Harbord Room, Bar Begonia, Pretty Ugly, and Tennessee Tavern - and Anthony Fushell worked at The Merchant Tavern in downtown St. John’s with world-renowned Chef Jeremy Charles and Sommelier Jeremy Bonia.

Sprezzatura Spaghetti Disco debuted on Ossington around this time last year. Subterranean slip of a place no longer - they just moved into Grape Crush/SoSo Food Club/Contender’s large space around corner. (1166 Dundas St. W.).

Wasted Youth Bar (834 Bloor St. W.) packed up at the end of August, to set up shop at Dundas and Ossington (1185 Dundas St. W.), across the street from SSD above. 

Wings Up touched down in the 6ix for the first time just four months ago. Yesterday, the poultry-centric chain debuted the 25th location in Vaughan (10019 Keele St.). Hot tip: Get in on the grand opening special: 15 per cent off all online orders with code VAUGHAN15 until October 25. Condition apply 

CLOSED  

Boutique Bar’s home in the Village (506 Church St.) is coming to an end. After 13 years, the stalwart party spot and watering hole has to move out and find new digs. Last day is October 31.

La Parisienne Crêperie (90 Bronte Rd.) in Oakville may have closed, but sibling Verlan (304 Barton St. E.) in Hamilton has your crepe cravings covered.

LGBTQ+ cocktail bar and resto Lavender Menace’s (1062 Gerrard St. E.) closure on October 1 was announced just days before.

The space where Korean eatery Lim Ga Ne Restaurant  stood (686 Bloor St. W.) is already something else. Details above.

Sorry Coffee Co’s prime location in Yorkville tucked inside chic comfy clothing brand Kit and Ace (102 Bloor St. W.) has come to an end, but it’s not the end-end: “… look forward to sharing a cup of coffee with you again in future.”

Tenny’s (1554 Queen St. W.) had a short run. See what’s taken over above.

Wasted Youth left Bloor and Ossington (834 Bloor St. W.) to go further west. Details up top.

EVENTS

From fall feels to Halloween haunts, the TR October Fests + Events Calendar is your one-stop-shop for food and drink fetes in Toronto and across the GTA. Pro tip: Check back often – new events are added weekly.

NEWS

You may want to rethink how you pay for food now.

Food recalls continue with this week’s certain Nature's Best and Zavat Chalav Mozzarella Cheese products due to Listeria monocytogenes. 

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast: I wrote about 100+ new arrivals in July alone. 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.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook.

Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal 

TR Fests + Events Calendar October 2022

🕘 12 min read

After a two-year hiatus, food festivals and events are back and better than ever. This month’s spectacular lineup is jam-packed with festivities celebrating everything from bbq to butter tarts. The only challenge? Trying to fit it all in.

Pro tip: Be sure to check back for additions, follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates.

Continuing until October 1
TORONTO OKTOBERFEST
Ontario Place 

The two day festival takes returns with all things German inside a Festhalle tent, with an outdoor Bavarian Village, celebrating ten years. Erdinger’s Oktoberfest Brew, specially brewed for the season, is exclusive to this event. 

Bonus: Free German glass beer stein to the first 500 attendees per session.

Continuing until October 2
EAST END'S FOREVER FEST
Maple Leaf Forever Park - 62 Laing St.

This fun-filled three-day event highlights all-Canadian food, drinks, and music, in support of Legacy of Hope - 100% of NET proceeds raised will be donated to the charity. Entry is free, with VIP options.

Continuing until October 2
ISNA CANADA’S HALAL RIBFEST & NIGHT MARKET
2200 South Sheridan Way

Enjoy fresh Halal ribs, visit food trucks, and explore the night market at this free family-friendly event in Mississauga.

Continuing until October 2
MARKHAM FAIR
Markham Fairgrounds

From a truck and tractor pull to Superdogs daily shows, “Canada's largest four-day agricultural fair” is back with a full roster of events and performances, midway, vendors, and an abundance of food and drinks.

Continuing until October 2
ONTARIO GARLIC WEEK
Various locations

This cross-cultural celebration of Ontario garlic by local farmers, chefs and consumers of the pungent herb takes place at locations across the province.

Continuing until October 5
INDIGENOUS FOOD MARKET
Fort York National Historic Site - 100 Garrison Rd.

Dashmaawaan Bemaadzinjin, an Indigenous food sovereignty collective and social enterprise focused on “feeding the spirit of community through connections to healthy, whole and nutritious food,” invites vendors that are “connected to Indigenous Foodways, food sovereignty, and Elder and community wellness, to provide healthy, fresh, traditional and fun Indigenous food for the public” at the new Indigenous food market in downtown Toronto.

In addition to digging into Indigenous fare made by local chefs Wednesdays 3:30pm to 7:30 pm, shop and support local vendors while taking in live performances.

Note: Menu is cash only, though vendors accept debit as well.

Photo courtesy of Night Market Toronto.

Continuing until October 9
NIGHT MARKET MISSISSAUGA HARVEST FESTIVAL
Square One, Lot P3

Night Market Toronto in partnership with Tourism Mississauga, presents the second annual ode to fall. Over ten days enjoy autumn fare, cozy drinks, harvest marketplace, rides, games and a pumpkin patch.

Continuing until October 14
CULTURAL BAZAAR 2022
660 Dundas St. E. 

The Toronto Centre of Learning & Development’s marketplace in Regent Park takes place every Friday from 5-9pm until September 2.
The free event includes multicultural food, artisanal products, and fun fair treats such as cotton candy and popcorn for sale, live music, henna, raffles and much more. Take part in free Yoga in the Park 5:30pm-6:30pm. Note: Please bring your own mat. Starting Sept 8, classes will move indoors to 540 Dundas St. E.

Photo courtesy of Fall N’ Leaves TO.

Continuing until October 16
FALL N’ LEAVES TO
164 Bathurst St.

The popular outdoor food and wine bar pop-up with a “pumpkin patch vibe” returns to the downtown core.

Enjoy live acoustic music, DJ, wood fire bbq pit and oven, pumpkin painting, pumpkin bowling, snap a pic on the hay able sofa and more.

Until October 30
ST. LAWRENCE MARKET SUNDAY CHEF SERIES
Market St. next to St. Lawrence Market

The weekly series showcases Toronto chefs offering free cooking demonstrations, dish samples and recipes from approximately 12pm-2pm.

October 1
AFRICAN-CARIBBEAN FOOD FESTIVAL
Mississauga Celebration Square - 300 City Centre Dr.

This free. family-friendly event features a variety of food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, dance workshops, fashion parades, and other activities, revitalizing and promoting African/Caribbean people, culture, and community.

October 1
BLOORCOURT NUIT NUIT NIGHT MARKET
7 Bartlett Ave. (GreenP Lot at Bartlett & Bloor)

Bloorcourt BIA hosts the inaugural night market kicking off Nuit Blanche with artisans, live music, ping pong, snacks and mocktails from 4pm-10pm.

Photo courtesy of Sake Institute of Ontario.

October 1
KAMPAI TORONTO
Japanese Canadian Cultural Center (JCCC) – 6 Garamond Crt.

The 10th edition of Canada’s largest sake tasting event festival of Sake returns in conjunction with World Sake Day.

Discover an exciting range of sakes from Japan and around the world, chat with vendors and brewers as well as sample food from a selection of Toronto’s Japanese restaurants.

October 1
STIRLING ROAD BLOCK PARTY
Henderson Brewing Co. - 128A Sterling Rd.

Henderson Brewing Co.’s Block Party is back.  Enjoy a day of music and entertainment, food, beer, other beverages, shopping, and all-ages entertainment offered by local vendors and artists at this free, family and pet-friendly event.

Space Oddity Image by Meng-Ke Hsieh and Sophia Han courtesy of Nuit Blanche.

October 1-2
NUIT BLANCHE
Various locations

Toronto’s all-night celebration of contemporary art returns for its biggest event to date.

Explore 150 artworks by local, national and international artists in exhibitions located downtown as well as in North York, Scarborough and Etobicoke from sunset on October 1 to sunrise on October 2 

The Space Between Us, Nuit Blanche’s curatorial theme by inaugural Artistic Director Dr. Julie Nagam, invites artists to transform the city by creatively sharing stories about their connection to place while bridging cultures and connecting with communities and the environment.

Many businesses and restaurants will be open late for the event, including the TTC.

October 1-31
BLACK LAGOON POP-UP
Third Space - 875 Bloor St. W.

The award-winning pop-up bar is back. Get in on this immersive experience by industry vets Kelsey Ramage and LA-based Erin Hayes touring North America.

The Toronto stopover boasts a month of cocktails against a macabre backdrop. Costumes welcome.

October 5
STREET EATS 2022
40 Oak St.

Enjoy street-food inspired dishes prepared by 20 of Toronto’s finest chefs/makers at the sixth annual event by Fred Victor.

The outdoor street food celebration in the heart of Regent Park includes live music and prizes to be won, all for a good cause: raiseing money to help people experiencing poverty.

Photo courtesy of The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience.

October 6-December 4
THE QUEEN'S BALL: A BRIDGERTON EXPERIENCE TORONTO

Cinespace Studios - 8 Unwin Ave.

Get ready for an immersive Regency-era ball with period costumes and striking décor brought to you by Shondaland, Netflix and fever.

Take in a dance performance, enjoy a string quartet play songs inspired by the iconic Bridgerton soundtrack, enjoy interactive experiences and performances based on key moments of the show, sip cocktails, and snap pics to capture the experience.

October 8-10
RICHMOND HILL PUMPKIN FEST
Richmond Green Sports Centre and Park

Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with food trucks, vendors, live entertainment, and of course pumpkins.

From fall attractions including the large pumpkin patch and carnival rides, to “Under The Big Top” featuring daily circus acts including photo ops with exotic animals, carnival rides, there’s lots to do, see and eat.

October 8-10
WOODBRIDGE FALL FAIR
Woodbridge Fair Grounds – 100 Porter Ave.

The Thanksgiving weekend event offers a wide array of different competitions for people of all ages to take part in and enjoy.

Competitions include: Agriculture, Art, Culinary Arts, Floriculture, Antiques, Elementary School Arts, Photography and Needle Work/Crafts. And the fun continues with The Great Pumpkin Contest, Farmer Olympics and Colouring Contest.

October 8-10, 15-16, 22-23
PUMPKINFEST TORONTO
Downsview Park

The annual fall fest takes over Downsview Park on weekends throughout the month with food trucks , entertainment, rides and games, pumpkin patch, and more. Take the Pumpkin Express train through the venue to witness all that’s on offer.

October 14-17
TORONTO FOOD FILM FEST
Various locations

The fourth annual film fest dedicated to “supporting and showcasing thought-provoking independent films about food from around the world” returns with food flicks, curated snacks, tastings demos, workshops and more.

October 15
APPLEFEST
Bayview Ave. from Parkhurst to Davisville

Bayview Leaside BIA’s annual celebration offers fun for the whole family from live entertainment and shopping to food sampling and face-painting.

As a nod of the area’s farming and orchard history, the streets will be lined with apples and hay.

Image courtesy of A Taste of Nigeria.

October 16
A TASTE OF NIGERIA FESTIVAL
Royal Event Center - 30 Gordon Mackay Rd.

The ninth annual celebration of Nigeria's independence art, history and culture presented by Arispop  is touring across North America. Next stop: Toronto.

In addition to an array of food and drinks, discover music, art, dance, fashion, market and more. Bring the entire family.

October 28-29
POUTINE FESTIVAL
Mississauga Celebration Square - 300 City Centre Dr.

Street Eats Market presents a two day fest celebrating the Canadian comfort food.

Dig into over 50 varieties including lobster, unicorn, shawarma, bulgogi, fried chicken and more. Activities include roller skating, games, artisan market, marshmallow fire pits and much more.

Photo courtesy of Variety Village.

October 29-30
HALLOWEEN FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Variety Village — 3701 Danforth Avenue, Scarborough

The second annual family-friendly, accessible two-day truck n’ treat event by Variety Village and Canadian Food Truck Festivals features food and drinks from local food trucks and craft breweries, farmers’ market showcasing local items, kid-friendly activities, costumes, treats, live entertainment, and open house. Guests are encouraged to attend in costume.

Entrance to the festival is a minimum $5 donation to support Variety Ontario’s unique programming for individuals with disabilities.

Continuing until January 2, 2023
THE FRIENDS™ EXPERIENCE TORONTO
Yorkdale - 3401 Dufferin St.

Immerse yourself in the world of Monica, Pheobe, Rachel, Chandler, Joey and Ross, including photos ops in Central Perk and food and drink related props, costumes, and merch.

Note: Events and information subject to change.

For more food/drink destinations, news and events, check out the iconic OPEN/CLOSED.   

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

Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

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

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 29-October 5, 2022

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

As predicted, autumn is intense with activity: 17 openings, and a slew of closures, events, and news you need to get up to speed on.

Note: Some businesses are closing for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation , so double check with establishments before visiting.

And stay tuned – more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Bar Copa (230 Adelaide St. W.) replaces Casa Fuego beneath Copacabana. The extension of the Brazilian steakhouse above offers cocktails and separate “sharing-style” menu in the heart of the Entertainment District.

Nearly a year after touching down in Leslieville, The Belly Buster Submarines continues its expansion across the 6ix. Find the latest outpost in Little Italy (572 College St.) in Soundscapes’ former stead. Doors opened Saturday.

The motto at Betty’s Burger? “A burger your grandma would be proud of.” Nana must be a carnivore, ‘cause the namesake item boasts a beef triad - double patty, grilled salami, bacon - stacked amongst caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato and ‘Betty’ sauce on a brioche bun. The burger joint joins 2021 arrival Brazilian Burger Bar and last month’s Logan Avenue Bodega & Cantina in the new Leslieville Street Food Market (28 Logan Ave.) housing the virtual concepts. 

Black Lagoon Pop-Up is back. The award-winning bar and immersive experience by industry vets Kelsey Ramage and LA-based Erin Hayes is touring North America. Next stop: Bloor and Ossington upstairs at Third Space (875 Bloor St. W.), running October 1 until Hallows’ Eve.

2022 has proven to be a great success for bubble tea chain Cha Miao². The good times continue to roll with a shop at Dundas and University (201 Dundas St. W.), currently in soft opening.

Turkish Indian street food concept Charcoal Biryani debuted in Leaside a few months back. Don’t want to make the trek updown? Get your fix inside Chef’s Hall (111 Richmond St. W.). 

I let you in on ChickQueen’s entry into Canada Summer ‘21. A second location launches downtown (247 Queen St. W.) tomorrow. The first 100 customers receive a free drumstick and biscuit, with lots of other prizes to be won. Doors open at 11am.

From burgers and wings to chicken and goat biriyani, Fusion Kitchen (2344 Danforth Ave.) keeps true to its name.

TR Newsletter subscribers already know: There’s a new pop-up you need to get in on. Good Gang Ice Cream (852 Dundas St. W.) is here today and tomorrow 2-8pm with 12 rotating flavours available in scoop, bowl, sampler/flight or sando. The next level confections (Cà Phê Misu ~ mascarpone-marsala base, Vietnamese coffee syrup, savoiardi, cocoa; Uno Dos Tres Leches ~ three milks, layered with dulce de leche and  cake pieces; Toast ~ Blackbird sourdough, housemade seasonal jam) debuted this summer and made an appearance at Smorgasburg Toronto earlier this month. Kat and Margaret Bolinas have made ice cream at home “for about ten years,” but also have plenty of professional experience to back it up: working at several ice cream shops and bakery over the years before establishing their company at the end of 2019, right before the pandemic hit. Fun fact: They took Penn State University's famed ice cream science course.

Insider tip: Don’t sleep on Maria’s Taverna collab with Paradise Grapevine at their new location on Geary (218 Geary Ave.). ‘My Big Fat Gay Greek BBQ’ kicks off Saturday at 3pm.

Psst. The “biggest Izakaya in Markham” has softly opened. Ryu Izakaya (115 York Blvd., Unit 2) boasts “luxury fine dining” across 150 seats in 7,000 sq. ft. of swank. Head’s up: According to their Instagram bio, alcohol is being served “Thursday to Saturday (for now until we get our liquor license).”

“Ontario’s first stock market themed Indian restobar”  The Sauga Bar X-Change (3920 Eglinton Ave. W.) opened Saturday. In addition to a Wall St. sign and wall featuring a bull charging a bear silhouette, the securities motif continues with fluctuating drink prices “based on real time demand.”

Sinjeon Food Sys boasts over 700 locations worldwide. Their first bunsik eatery in the GTA touched down in Thornhill (7051 Yonge St.) September 2020 with an array of tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and deep-fried fish cakes. Did you know? "Korea's No.1 street food chain" just opened downtown at Church and Carleton (377 Church St., Unit 1). p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop.

Today marks the launch of the Stuu Stuu pop-up at Upper East Food Hall (5317 Yonge St.). Try Chicken Curry and Wagyu Stew created by restaurateur, cookbook author and one of Japan’s most popular yoshoku chefs, Katsuo Omiya; and chef, cookbook author, and curry expert Monko Ichijyo official menu developer of S&B’s ubiquitous Golden Curry and Otsuka Foods Bon Curry and star of her own curry TV show, Monko of Curry. Pop-up ends October 13. Note: Limit one Chicken Curry and one Wagyu Stew per customer.

Triple O’s, known for its burgers, thick cut fries, hand-scooped shakes and Triple “O” sauce, debuted a fourth location at Ultramar gas station in Vaughan (2268 Rutherford Rd.).

Most board game cafes have worn-in, shared apartment living room vibes. Not Twilight Cafe’s downtown outpost (252 Victoria St.). It’s all clean lines and modern fixtures here. With 200+ games, extensive menu and bubble tea, TC might be your favourite new hangout.  

Italian fare is the name of the game at Wood 900 (372 Queen St. E.). Find pizza, pasta, thick cut bruschetta, truffle fries, and wings at Queen and Parliament.

CLOSED

There’s a massive construction site next to where Asahi Restaurant (640 Church St.) served the community. Doors closed after 11 years.

Today marks the last day for Café Plenty’s PATH location (333 Bay St.). A spot nearby - Commerce Court West (199 Bay St.) - is set to launch next month.

Food Truck'n Events (1 Resurrection Rd.) wraps things up tomorrow.

Love Child Social House (69 Bathurst St.) is the latest destination to close due to an incoming Metrolinx station. Starting Saturday, enjoy farewell parties featuring weekly guest DJs and surprise guest performances up until doors close November 29. A permanent spot is in the works.

Momofuku Toronto (190 University Ave.), which includes Noodle Bar (first and second floors) and Kōjin (third floor), announced doors are closing December 23. A fixture in the downtown core for a decade that originally housed four concepts under one roof - Noodle Bar, Daisho, Nikai, Shoto - and Christina Tosi's Milk Bar for a time, the company founded by chef David Chang decided “not to renew our lease at this location.” During the pandemic, the iconic brand announced the permanent closure of Momofuku DC and Momofuku Nishi and Momofuku Ssäm Bar’s move to Bar Wayō in May 2020. Six months later, a former employee reported working conditions were anything but peachy. Note: Prior to the company’s announcement, local headlines declared Momofuku’s departure from the Shangri-La Hotel Toronto. A Shangri-La Hotel spokesperson confirms “Momofuku Toronto is not part of the hotel.” While guests can access the restaurants via an entrance at the hotel, it is “a separate entity” at a different address (188 University Ave.).

TR Newsletter subscribers heard it first. Nava Social launched two popular coffee destinations last year: Corktown (514 King St. E.) in springtime, followed by Hillcrest Village (744 St. Clair Ave. W.) in December. Both abruptly shuttered as of August 27. Still to come: A “blow out sale” on all retail items. 

You’ve got until October 29 to visit Mississauga’s Ombretta Cucina + Vino (121 Lakeshore Rd. W.) as the business has been sold.

EVENTS

New events have been added to TR September Fests + Events Calendar. And stay tuned for the October edition dropping soon.

NEWS

Helen Papas, matriarch and co-owner of Patrician Grill, passed away.

Joseph Martyn, full-time chef at The Grover Pub (676 Kingston Rd.), passed away.

Today the Government of Canada announced the removal of all COVID-19 entry restrictions, including “testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada,” effective October 1.

Eataly’s been acquired for nearly $200 million. 

Aegis Brands acquired St. Louis Bar And Grill for a cool $50M.

Dalhousie prof Sylvain Charlebois is calling on grocers to freeze food prices.

Pizza Hut Canada is testing new robot delivery in Vancouver. As for whether it will fly in the 6ix, Torontonians weren’t fans of machines delivering food around town recently.

Minimum wage increases 50 cents to $15.50 starting Saturday.

The recalls keep rolling in. This time it’s oysters.

ICYMI

Did you know the Michelin Guide includes hotels? Discover their “hand-picked selection” of boutique and luxury destinations across the 6ix that “meet every taste and budget.” And because food and drinks are always top of mind here at TR, find links to on-site restaurants, lounges, bars, bakeries, cafes +/or patios to help make your stay/cation complete.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about 100+ new arrivals in August alone. 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. 

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook.

Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 22-28, 2022

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 min read 

With the barrage of Michelin announcements last week, there’s a lot to catch up on. This week’s no slouch either: 18 arrivals and slew of fests and events to explore.

And stay tuned - more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. 

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The second Toronto outpost of Añejo Restaurant debuted earlier this week at CF Shops at Don Mills (1090 Don Mills Rd.). Find an armload of tacos and “Canada’s largest tequila selection” at the Mexican eatery where Rose Reisman’s Glow Fresh Grill & Wine Bar used to be. Pro tip: Reservations recommended. 

Black Pearl Nightclub opens tonight at 5pm, but you’ve got to find it first. (Insider tip: Look for the black dot-marked door at 184 Pearl St.) This ain’t no hole in the wall. The bar by Scale Hospitality Group (the folks behind hotspots including Byblos, Lapinou, Toronto Beach Club and new addition Miss Likklemores) has capacity for 600 standing (more likely, dancing), 160 seated. As for activities: Grab cocktails and late night eats, play pool, and/or catch a live band or DJ set.

For wagyu and other high-end meat, head to The Butcher Boutique in Markham (33 Bridle Trail, Unit 9B). This marks the third outpost (second in Markham) for the local meat market chain.

Bubble tea has arrived in Regent Park thanks to Chatime located at Dundas and Sumach (662 Dundas St. E.).

Following the launch of an express location downtown last month, Chicken N’ Dough brings its signature wings, burgers and fire fries to the Forest Hill nabe. Doors open tomorrow at Bathurst and Eglinton (1100 Eglinton St. W.).

Get ready Toronto. Craig Pike’s namesake desserts are coming to a location near you. The Craig’s Cookies Food Truck launches Tuesday. Keep an eye out for the bakery on wheels bathed in the company’s signature pink with a rainbow finish for all your chocolate chip cookie studded with everything from pop tarts to maple bacon needs.

Leslieville’s Little AAA shuttered earlier this year, making way for fried chicken centric Daddy’s Chicken (1276 Queen St. E.). Doors opened earlier today. Fun fact: Fried poultry concept Backdoor Chicken launched at the same address in 2020.

Elisa Cart operates Korean restaurants and Korean/Japanese grocery stores in Ottawa. Find their latest destination for groceries and Korean tapas at Dundas and University (203 Dundas St. W.). Psst. Stay tuned for the opening of their food hall complete with Korean buffet opening soon next door (209 Dundas St. W.)

Luis Hernández started El Nahual Tacos back in 2016: first at Keele and Eglinton (1993 Keele St.), most recently as a vendor in The Annex Food Hall until the emporium’s abrupt closure in January. Find his gourmet tacos alongside an array of homemade fare including enchiladas, chailaquiles, fajita burritos, and fajita quesadillas in the heart of Cabbagetown (556 Parliament St.).

I’ve been tracking Gong Cha’s movements across the GTA for years and it’s paid off: their new waterfront cafe is the third to drop in three months. Make that four. Enjoy grand opening BOGO specials on select drinks until Sunday at the Fort York shop (85 Housey St.).

Speaking of boba, whether you prefer the bubble, milk or fruit variety, Richmond Hill’s Hana’s Tea (10096 Yonge St.) has it all, sometimes in a bear-shaped bottle.

I alerted you to Komi Banh Mi Bar’s Vietnamese eats at Bloor and Dufferin back in 2020. Eastenders can get in the action at the Greektown outpost (467 Danforth Ave.), currently in soft launch.

Mediterranean chain Lazeez Shawarma boasts over 50 locations across the GTA. Find the latest at St. Clair and Weston (573 Rogers Rd.).

The focused menu at Mattarello in Thornhill (230 Commerce Valley Dr. E., Unit 2A) features six apps (Bread & Butter $12, Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio $24), pizzas (Wild Mushroom & Truffle $24, Garlic Shrimp Pesto $26), and pastas (Duck Confit Ravioli, Shrimp & Seafood Bucatini $36), with four sides and three desserts.  

After nearly a year of being temporarily closed due to a fire, Rudy’s Queen West location (69 Duncan St.) reopened earlier this week.

TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to learn about Sanagan's Meat Locker opening in Butcher By Nature's previous digs. Doors open tomorrow in in the Junction/Bloor West Village (515 Annette St.).

The journey of bubble tea shop Tru Tea in Toronto goes back a ways. The ride continues with a new store in Markham (3601 Hwy 7 E, Unit 111). 

Ed Wong’s eponymous Wong’s Ice Cream & Store shuttered at the end of last year, but news of his addictive confections continuing through Southeast Asian restaurant chain Basil Box kept fans going. Hot tip: Signature flavours Vietnamese Coffee, Korean Banana Milk, and Black Sesame w/ Salted Egg Swirl will be available for pre-order on the BB website until 9pm tonight. Missed the deadline? Don’t panic. All Basil Box and Street Kitchen by Basil Box locations will be selling pints (500ml) for walks-in starting Sunday. Note: As freezer space is limited, stock may be as well, but Ed assures it will be replenished “multiple times a week.”

CLOSED     

The lease was up at Cross Cut Coffee (1142 Davenport Rd.) and the “conditions for continuing just aren't right.” Their beans are available online at Velvet Sunrise with delivery to Toronto on Wednesdays and Fridays.

EVENTS

There’s still time to get in on this month’s block parties, art crawls, fall fairs, and other exciting food and drink celebrations happening across Toronto/GTA. For the lip-smacking lineup, get the TR September Fests + Events Calendar now.

NEWS

Peter Oliver, co-founder of Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality (O&B), passed away after battling cancer.

Domeic Treglia, sommelier at Terroni and other Toronto restaurants, passed away after battling cancer.

Attention Industry: Applications for Winterlicious are being accepted until September 29.

New additions to this month’s food recalls: Eden Organic Apple Juice, M&M Food Market Prime Rib Beef Burgers, Viana Veggie Cevapcici, and various brands of salad products.

ICYMI

Michelin Guides have landed in the 6ix. For all the Toronto 2022 selections, check out the complete lineup of Starred Restaurants, Bib Gourmand, Recommended and Hotels.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast: I wrote about 100+ new arrivals in August alone. 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.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook.

Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal

Michelin Guide Toronto 2022: Hotels

Photo courtesy of W Toronto.

🕘 3.5 min read

Did you know there’s a Michelin Guide for hotels? While hotels are not eligible for Michelin stars, Tablet Hotels have been a part of the Michelin Guide since 2018. offering a “hand-picked selection” of hotels to meet “every taste and budget.”

Joining Toronto restaurant selections, discover 20 Michelin Guide selected hotels from charming boutiques to luxe destinations. For your convenience, find on-site food and drink offerings below.

The Annadore House
15 Charles St. E.
416-924-1222

Food + Drink: Constantine | HotBlack Coffee

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The Annex Hotel
296 Brunswick Ave.
647-694-9868 

Food + Drink: The Annex Cafe | Annex Wine Bar

Bisha Hotel Toronto
80 Blue Jays Way
437-370-8142

Food + Drink: Akira Black | French Made | KOST | Mister C Bar Room

The Broadview Hotel
106 Broadview Ave.
416-362-8439

Food + Drink: The Broadview Bistro + Bar | The Civic | The Rooftop

The Drake Hotel
1150 Queen St. W.
416-531-5042

Food + Drink: Lounge | Restaurant | Sky Yard Rooftop Patio

Executive Hotel Cosmopolitan Toronto
8 Colborne St.
416-350-2000

Food + Drink: Wildfire

Fairmont Royal York Hotel
100 Front St. W.
416-368-2511

Food + Drink: CLOCKWORK Champagne & Cocktails | Library Bar | REIGN Restaurant + Bar + Bakery

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
60 Yorkville Ave.
416-964-0411

Food + Drink: Café Boulud | d|bar

Gladstone House
1214 Queen St. W.
416-531-4635

Food + Drink: Bistro + Bar | Melody Bar

Le Germain Hotel Toronto Maple Leaf Square
75 Bremner Blvd.
416-649-7575

Food + Drink: Bar Le Germain

Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer
30 Mercer St.
416-345-9500

Food + Drink: Victoria Restaurant & Bar

The Hazelton Hotel Toronto
118 Yorkville Ave.
416-963-6300

Food + Drink: One Restaurant

Park Hyatt Toronto
4 Avenue Rd.
416-925-1234

Food + Drink: Joni Restaurant | Writers Room Bar

The Ritz-Carlton Toronto
181 Wellington St. W.
416-585-2500

Food + Drink: EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace | Ritz Bar | TOCA

Shangri-La Toronto
188 University Ave.
647-788-8888

Food + Drink: Lobby Lounge

The SoHo Hotel & Residences
318 Wellington St. W.
416-599-8800

Food + Drink: Moretti Caffe | Moretti Restaurant

The St. Regis Toronto
325 Bay St.
416-306-5800

Food + Drink: Astor Lounge | LOUIX LOUIS

W Toronto
90 Bloor St. E.
416-961-8000

Food + Drink: Living Room | Public School | SKYLIGHT

Windsor Arms Hotel
18 St Thomas St.
416-971-9666

Food + Drink: The Gatsby

1 Hotel Toronto
550 Wellington St. W.
416-640-7778

Food + Drink: Casa Madera | Flora Lounge | Harriet's Rooftop | Lobby Farmstand | 1 Kitchen

Photos courtesy of establishments.

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Michelin Guide Toronto 2022: Recommended Restaurants

Photo courtesy of Pompette.

🕘 5 min read

Michelin star and Bib Gourmand designations for Toronto restaurants have snagged the headlines this week, however there’s another selection that earns eateries a place in the global guide.

‘Recommended’ isn’t as widely touted a category and isn’t included in the ‘Distinction’ filter on the Michelin Guide’s website. Instead, you’ll find these restaurants peppered in with the city’s starred and Bib destinations. As for classification and methodology of selections, like most Michelin Guide protocols, it’s largely a mystery. An article on their site, What It Means To Be A Michelin-Recommended Restaurant, includes a loose definition by Michael Ellis, International Director of the Michelin Guide books: “A restaurant in the Recommended selection is the sign of a chef using quality ingredients that are well cooked; simply a good meal. It means that the inspectors have found the food to be above average, but not quite at star or Bib level.”

Michelin inspectors found 44 Toronto establishments of varying price points and duration of operation (some are just months’ old while others have been in business for a decade or more) worthy of the accolade.

Aanch
Indian
259 Wellington St. W.
416-599-0513

Actinolite
Canadian
971 Ossington Ave.
416-962-8943

Adrak Yorkville
Indian
138 Avenue Rd
416-413-0777

Aloette
Canadian
163 Spadina Ave. 1st Floor
416-260-3444 

Amal
Lebanese
131 Bloor St. W.
416-551-9929

Antler Kitchen & Bar
Canadian
1454 Dundas St. W.
647-345-8300 

Ardo
Italian
243 King St. E.
647-347-8930

Babel
Mediterranean
305 York Mills Rd., Unit 19
647-475-6240

Bar Chica
Spanish
75 Portland St.
416-479-9779

Bar Isabel
Spanish
797 College St.
416-532-2222

Bar Vendetta
Italian
928 Dundas St. W.
416-551-8854

Buca Osteria & Enoteca
Italian
604 King St. W.
416-865-1600

Cà Phê Rang
Vietnamese
147 Spadina Ave., Unit 109
(416) 546-8995

Canoe
Canadian
TD Bank Tower 66 Wellington St. W., 54th Floor
416-364-0054

Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen
Jamaican
104 Portland St.
416-792-8105

Dil Se Indian Restaurant & Bar
Indian
335 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-532-4141 | 416-534-6344

Dreyfus
French
96 Harbord St.
416-323-1385

George
Canadian
111C Queen St. E.
416-863-6006

Gia
Italian
1214 Dundas St. W.
416-535-8888

Giulietta
Italian
972 College St.
416-964-0606

Henry's Restaurant & Wine Bar
Contemporary
920-922 Queen St. W.
416-386-5352

Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse
Steakhouse
12 Brant St.
416-366-0200

Koh Lipe Thai Kitchen
Thai
35 Baldwin St.
416-599-9988

Kojin
Canadian
Momofuku Toronto
190 University Ave., Third Floor
647-253-8000

La Banane
French
227 Ossington Ave.
416-551-6263

Lapinou
French
642 King St. W.
416-479-4414

Madrina Bar y Tapas
Spanish
2 Trinity St.
416-548-8055

Maha’s
Egyptian
226 Greenwood Ave.
416-462-2703

Mother’s Dumplings
Chinese
421 Spadina Ave.
416-217-2008

Musoshin Ramen
Japanese
9 Boustead Ave.
416-537-3588

Pai Northern Thai Kitchen
Thai
18 Duncan St.
416-901-4724

Pho Tien Thanh
Vietnamese
57 Ossington Ave.
416-588-6997

Pompette
French
597 College St.
416-516-1111

Prime Seafood Palace
Contemporary
944 Queen St. W.
416-551-8038

Ration | Beverley
Contemporary
335 Queen St. W.
647-366-9206

Sara
Contemporary
98 Portland St.
416-985-5721

Scaramouche
French
One Benvenuto Pl.
416-961-8011

Shook
Middle Eastern
77 Portland St.
647-484-7476

Tachi
Japanese
Chef’s Hall 111 Richmond St. W.
437-989-6663

Ten
Contemporary
1132 College St.
416-538-3810

Union
Canadian
72 Ossington Ave.
416-850-0093

Viaggio
Italian
1727 Dundas St. W.
416-519-8165

156 Cumberland
Korean
156 Cumberland St.
416-901-3886

Restaurant 20 Victoria
Contemporary
20 Victoria St.
416) 804-6066 

For other Toronto Michelin ’22 selections, check out Starred Restaurants, Bib Gourmand and Hotels.

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OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 15-21, 2022

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

🕘 6.5 min read

The inaugural Toronto MICHELIN Guide dominated the news this week, but you and I both know that inspectors will never capture the true essence of this city and all it has to offer. As I’ve documented here for years, the culinary landscape is forever shifting and can change drastically within months, even weeks. What was the spot three months ago may already be old news for the fooderati. These days, with the exception of favourite old haunts, your chosen hot spots likely change as often as the seasons.

That said, there’s a lot to cover with the arrival of the guide (Did you know there are multiple designations, such as Bib Gourmand?) So this week’s edition is shorter than usual, but rest assured there’s plenty more to come. And more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Café le Majestik (2900 Markham Rd., Unit A45) just landed in Scarborough with an array of cha chaan teng eats, from Cantonese congee and clay pot rice to egg donbur and street side snacks. The dim sum crafted into the shape of bears, bunnies, pigs and the not-often seen swans however, will likely take precedent.

Sibling bakers Alysa (Bayfield Provisions) and Jenna King (Bakewell) launched their online marketplace during the pandemic – July 2020. Thanks in large part to $40K raised on Kickstarter, a brick-and-mortar version of City Bakers Collective (1352 Danforth Ave.) debuts Saturday. In addition to their own products, the bakery will serve as a rotating venue for “up-and-coming bakers and small businesses to make and sell their own products under a common roof.”

Psst. Krazy Dog softly launches today in Etobicoke (20 Lockport Ave.) putting Brazilian-style hotdogs in the spotlight.

After being a Parkdale fixture for a decade, Glory Hole Doughnuts’ last day in the ‘hood (1596 Queen St. W.) was Friday. Good news: Grand opening celebrations for the new Harbord Village digs (130 Harbord St.) are happening Saturday. 

Hi Yogurt’s signature farm-style cold brew yogurt came on the scene during the pandemic and continues to flourish. Find the latest shop across the street from U of T’s St. George Campus (199 College St.).

Momotaro Sushi claims to be “the best sushi in Canada.” See for yourself at their new spot in the Junction (2911 Dundas St W.).

Off World Bar (739 Queen St. W., 2nd Fl) debuts tonight. The “mobile interstellar cocktail bar” brought to you by the folks of Storm Crow Manor, offers an “extraterrestrial cocktail experience.” Find them at Queen and Tecumseth where The Raq Bar and Lounge stood for 23 years before shuttering in October 2020.

Keto schmeto. “The first potato bar in Canada” is here to fulfill your carb loading dreams. Find smoked taters with all the trimmings and even spud-centric desserts at Potato Bar (3525 Platinum Dr.) in Mississauga.

Pret A Manger began life in the U.K. in the mid-80s, but over the years has swelled to hundreds of locations across the globe and become a well-known stop for folks for sandos, soups, frittatas, coffee and baked goods. It finally arrived north of the border in Vancouver in July. Closer to home, they’ve landed in the Entertainment District (60 John St.) across from Metro Hall. Both Canadian locations are located inside A&W (60 John St.). The odd pairing is part of the Canadian-owned burger chain’s “two-year pilot” of the Pret brand in the Great White North.

Industry vet Evelyn Chick launched pop-up and event venue Ahma (1564 Queen St. W.) last winter. (Insider tip: Saint Island Pies, who set up shop in February for a short stint, is back.) Check out her new spot up the street Simpl Things (269 Dunn Ave.) opening tonight. On the menu: Ciccheti by chef Cody Philip Wilkes (Pasta Cartl), snacks by Betty Chia (Eats by Betty), and drinks by EC herself.

CLOSED

Good Behaviour’s newest outpost in Yorkville (874 Yonge St.) shuttered Sunday after just five months in operation, due to “plans for building redevelopment.” Psst. Find their signature subs and ice cream in Stock-in-Trade‘s former Gerrard location soon.

Nicky’s (2120A Bloor St. W.) run in Bloor West Village has come to an end. Find out what’s in its stead.

The last day for Stock-in-Trade’s Gerrard India Bazaar shop (1324A Gerrard St. E.) was May 29. Luckily, the Danforth location (307 Danforth Ave.) that debuted last year is ready to serve you. 

EVENTS

There’s still lots of time to get in on the exciting festivals and events dedicated to your favourite foods, drinks and entertainment happening across the 6ix. For 45+ block parties, parades, markets and more, get the Toronto Restaurants Guide to September Fests + Events now

ICYMI

The results are in for the first Toronto Michelin Guide: Discover who received stars and Bib Gourmand designation, and stay tuned - more coverage to follow shortly.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about 100+ new arrivals in July alone. 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. 

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook.

Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal

 

MICHELIN Guide Toronto 2022: Bib Gourmand Restaurants

Photo courtesy of Favorites Thai.

🕘 2 min read

Michelin Guide inspectors found 17 Toronto restaurants “worthy of the Bib Gourmand designation, which recognizes great food at a great value. These are restaurants where one can have two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for less than $60.”

According to Michelin, The Bib Gourmand is “often known as personal favourites among the Michelin Guide's anonymous inspectors when dining on their own time.”

The Ace
Gastropub
231A Roncevalles Ave.
416-792-7729

Alma
Asian
1194 Bloor St. W.
647-346-1881

Bar Raval
Spanish
505 College St.
No phone number

Campechano
Mexican
504 Adelaide St.
647-350-2800 

Cherry St. Bar-B-Que
Barbecue
275 Cherry St.
416-461-5111

Chica’s Chicken
American
2853 Dundas St. W.
647-343-6562 

Enoteca Sociale
Italian
1288 Dundas St. W.
416-534-1200

Fat Pasha
Middle Eastern
414 Dupont St.
647-646-1698

Favorites Thai
Thai
141 Ossington Ave.
647-867-3283

Fonda Balam
Mexican
802 Dundas St. W.
416-815-8484 

Grey Gardens
Contemporary
199 Augusta Ave.
647-351-1552

Indian Street Food Co.
Indian
1701 Bayview Ave.
416-322-3270

La Bartola
Mexican | Vegetarian
588 College St.
416-792-1550

Puerto Bravo
Mexican
1425 Gerrard St. E.
416-551-3700

R&D
Fusion | Chinese
241 Spadina Ave.
416-586-1241

SumiLicious Smoked Meat & Deli
Deli
5631 Steeles Ave. E. Unit 5
Scarborough
647-347-8899

Wynona
Italian | Mediterranean
819 Gerrard St. E.
416-778-5171

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Michelin Guide Toronto 2022: The results are in

🕘 5 min read

The results for the inaugural Canadian edition of the Michelin Guide are in: Twelve One-Star restaurants and one Two-Star restaurant were announced in a ceremony last night.

MICHELIN GUIDE STAR RATING SYSTEM

Image courtesy of Michelin Guide.

The Michelin Guide selection follows “Michelin's historical methodology, based on five universal criteria, to ensure each destination's selection equity:”

1. Quality products
2. The harmony of flavours
3. The mastery of cooking techniques
4. The personality of the chef in the cuisine
5. Consistency between each visit (“Each restaurant is inspected several times a year.”)

MICHELIN GUIDE STARRED RESTAURANTS

2 STARS 

Sushi Masaki Saito
Japanese | Sushi
88 Avenue Rd.
416-924-0888

1 STAR

Aburi Hana
Japanese | Kaiseki
102 Yorkville Ave., Unit 4 (Lower Level)
647-343-8887  

Alo 
Contemporary
163 Spadina Ave., 3rd Floor
416-260-2222

Alobar Yorkville 
French
162 Cumberland St., Unit 57A
416-961-222

Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto
Italian
Westin Harbour Castle 1 Harbour Sq., 38th Floor
416-214-5888

Edulis
Contemporary
169 Niagara St.
416-703-4222  

Enigma Yorkville
Contemporary
23 St Thomas St.
416-961-1111 

Frilu
Contemporary
7713 Yonge St.
289-597-8867 

Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto
Japanese | Kaiseki
6 Garamond Crt.
416-444-7100

Osteria Giulia
Italian
134 Avenue Rd.
416-964-8686

Quetzal
Mexican
419 College St.
647-347-3663 

Shoushin
Japanese | Sushi
3328 Yonge St.
416-488-9400

Yukashi
Japanese | Kaiseki
643A Mount Pleasant Rd.
416-489-6993 

BIB GOURMAND & RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS

Additionally, 17 establishments received Bib Gourmand designation (offering “good quality food for good value”) and 44 were deemed “recommended.” The selected Toronto restaurants - 74 in all - join the Michelin Guide’s picks of local hotels, featuring “the most unique and exciting places to stay in Toronto and throughout the world.”

MICHELIN GUIDE SPECIAL AWARDS

In addition to Star and Bib Gourmand distinctions, the Guide announced three “special” awards:

• The Michelin Service Award presented by Air Canada to Edulis, led by husband-and-wife chefs Michael Caballo and Tobey Nemeth
• Sommelier of the Year to Christopher Sealy and his team at Alo
• Exceptional Cocktails Award to the team at Osteria Giulia.

Stay tuned for more details.

Photos courtesy of establishments.

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OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 8-14, 2022

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 min read

September is proving to be one of the busiest months of the year – this column and my monthly guide to festivals and events are a testament to that. This week the frenzy continues with 26 arrivals. And wait ‘til you see next week’s lineup.

Stay tuned – more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

BBs has been a popular destination in Parkdale since its arrival last fall. And luckily still is. Moving on from their temporary home at 1566 Queen St. W., find the new digs just down the street at Queen and Brock (5 Brock Ave.), recently home to Superfly. Psst. Weekend brunch and late night eats/drinks launches Saturday. In the meantime, check out Chef Robbie Hojilla's love letter to local chefs and restaurants, discover the Filipino comfort foods you should be making (and ordering) right now, why bad advice isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and much more in At The Pass. p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers got dibs.

Get in on jerk falafel, curry goat, stew beef, fried chicken, patties and roti at Caribbean soul fusion joint Big City Jerk and visit Green Destiny for salads, wraps, juices and smoothies at Queen and Parliament (356 Queen St. E.).

Cafe Paradise (1014 Bloor St. W) debuts in Blorodale today. The latest addition from the Paradise on Bloor Group (Paradise on Bloor, Osteria Rialto, Bar Biltmore) quickly follows recent addition Bloor Door Wine Shop (1010 Bloor St. W.) that launched in July.

Chef Mustafa (516 Danforth Ave.) softly opened in the heart of Greektown earlier this week with an array of pide, kebap, and Turkish soda. It replaces Gorkha Durbar that opened this time last year.

Steps from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) In the Garden District, tuck into Pakistani fusion street fare – think authentic Peshawari chapli kebab, chicken over rice, and paratha rolls at Chachu’s (113 Bond St.). Pro tip: Grand opening special – Chicken Paratha Rolls $4.99 is on until September 9. Did you know? This follows two new locations earlier this year.

It’s been a minute since Choco Churros last expanded. Psst. Claudia Rodriguez’s Mexican churros covered with sugar and cinnamon just touched down on the Ossington strip via food truck (21 Ossington Ave.).

Cluck Clucks has been in the game since 2015. After adding a branch in Scarborough last year, you can now get your hands on their signature chicken and waffles in Mississauga (70 World Dr.).

Tanya Arnold’s Rosy Kitchen in the east end concluded last fall, but new iteration The Commodore Kitchen at Kilt and Harp Pub (2046 Danforth Ave.) she says resurrects “some of our most popular items from the Rosy Kitchen menu, plus some new ones.” This week that meant Proper Curry ($15), Schnitzel Sando ($15) and Chili Con Carne ($14). As for the new moniker, Arnold says it’s a nod to “the history of the end end and the old Commodore Tavern,” located a block east of The Kilt.

Ferry Dessert’s Asian bubble tea, sweets, and street food just landed College and Spadina (314 College St.). Bonus: Enjoy a grand opening discount until the end of the week.

For those obsessed with The Bear series about a young chef's return home to run the family's sandwich shop, you're likely all about Italian Beef already. Marq's Chicago Beef in Market 707 (707 Dundas St. W.) has been on it since May '21. Woofdawg Hotdog, which debuted on Dundas West around the same time, has launched side hustle Frank Ranalli’s Italian Beef inside the shop, offering both sweet and hot varieties. Psst. TR Newsletter subscribers got the tip off first.

The speciality at Richmond Hill’s new Golden Piglet (9021 Leslie St.)? Char siu and other Chinese BBQ.

Hopson Grace’s closure this summer was luckily short lived. The modern home goods store and showroom’s move to their swish new addy is already complete (200 Dupont St.). 

From Callaloo and Saltfish (sm $14, lg $17)  and King Fish Dinner ($19) to Oxtail (sm $16, lg $19) and Cow Foot (sm $16, lg $19) Island Hot & Spicy Restaurant’s outpost at Bloor and Landsdowne (1334 Bloor St. W.) is the perfect post thrift shop stop. Another perk? It’s open 24/7.

TR Newsletter subscribers already know: Judaline (162 Danforth Ave.) quietly opened this week at Broadview and Danforth in the space formerly home to The Combine Eatery and later iteration, The Combine Reboot. Sibling to Her Father’s Cider Bar + Kitchen, the latest project by Joshua Mott (The Red Eye debuted earlier this year), features Canadian fare including bar snacks such as Peach Salad ($18), Sea Bream Crudo ($21) and Shoestring Fries ($11), with dinner offerings of Corn Risotto ($24), Beef Burger ($27), and King Salmon ($29). 

Jeff and Chef Nuit Regular of Pai and SukhoThai reopen Kiin, their acclaimed eatery in partnership with Gusto 54 Restaurant Group, just in time for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) with a Traditional Thai Sumrab Set Menu ($90 pp). Doors open today, but insiders (aka TR Newsletter subscribers) got the jump.

From the folks behind Koreatown’s Mapo Korean BBQ in (708 Bloor St. W.) comes Mapo Pocha Soju Bar (680 Bloor St. W.) with late night eats (Think Cheese Corn on Sizzling Hot Plate, Mapo Bossam, Korean Cold Noodle With BBQ Pork Belly) and assortment of that captivating Korean elixir.

The latest arrival at Scarborough’s Kennedy Commons (14 William Kitchen Rd.), Naan Kabob, is your go-to for Afghan fare. 

Whether it’s part of your commute, stroll through the ‘hood or staycation, Presse Café at Omni King Edward Hotel (37 King St. E.) has got you covered for all things coffee, pastries, and breakfast all the way to linner.

The barrage of openings and events of late should not overshadow the reopening of the legendary The Silver Dollar Room. Founded in 1958, it has been home to local and international artists including Levon Helm, Gordon Lightfoot and Veldt. While the original location at College and Spadina is no more, find the new destination in Parkdale at Queen and Jameson (1371 Queen St. W.), currently open Friday to Sunday midnight to 2am.

Stacked Pancake House has 34 locations across Canada. Make that 35 with the recent addition of the breakfast-centric chain in Woodbridge (3650 Langstaff Rd.).

Find the city’s newest brewery in Brockton Village. Steadfast Brewing (301 Lansdowne Ave.) is celebrating opening weekend with an “extra special cask beer” for the occasion.

TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop. For those just catching up: Street Eats Market has been a Scarborough fixture for years. Finally, Toronto is about to get its very own street food destination, and right downtown to boot, at the base of Rogers Centre (65 Navy Wharf Crt.). Grand opening festivities take place this weekend.

Tapps Bar & Grill moved on from Scarborough and set up shop in Greektown (561 Danforth Ave.), previously St. Louis Bar & Grill. Doors softly opened Saturday. 

Vanta Coffee Club & Eatery said goodbye to their  Scarborough home of five years last fall, but as I reported, another was in the works. Hot tip: Head to Yonge & Sheppard (4711 Yonge St., Concourse Level) to check out their modern digs.

Following an expansion downtown earlier this year, Zaza Espresso Bar’s signature coffee and  hand-piped cannoli have landed Midtown at Yonge Eglinton Centre (2300 Yonge St.) across from Metro.

CLOSED

Pop-up food truck stop Food Truck'n Events – established 2015 – is ending its reign in Islington Village (1 Resurrection Rd.) September 30.

The Hummussiah (113 Bond St.) had a good run.

While the Scarborough location (5830 Finch Ave. E. ) of Tapps Bar & Grill has closed, the watering hole is already up and running elsewhere. See above for details.

Woodhouse Brew Pub (301 Lansdowne Ave.) closed June 5 after the brewery merged with Junction Craft Brewing. To discover the new tenant, see openings above.

EVENTS 

The TR September Fests + Events Calendar is the largest guide dedicated to food and drink celebrations happening across Toronto/GTA: Nearly 50 destinations and growing! Get the entire lineup of block parties, art crawls, fall fairs + markets now.

NEWS

After the sudden death of local bartender and tour de force Sandy De Almeida earlier this week, many establishments closed for the day including Bar Mordecai, Civil Liberties, and Mahjong Bar. Industry vet Michael Webster launched a GoFundMe Campaign to help the family cover the funeral costs. 

A double shooting took place in a lounge in a Vaughan plaza last weekend.

ICYMI

If you or anyone you know are struggling, reach out at any time.

RESOURCES + SERVICES:

Distress Centres of Greater Toronto
GTA Call 416-408-4357 
PEEL Call 905-459-7777
NATIONWIDE 1-833-456-4566
TEXT 45645

LOCAL INDUSTRY SPECIFIC RESOURCES + SERVICES:

Not 9 to 5, a local non-profit that specializes in all things mental health specifically for industry, has resources including Crisis Support, Hospitality Focused Support, and Virtual Therapy Support.

Mind The Bar Foundation is a not-for-profit mental health resource, information and support initiative designed by the hospitality industry, for the hospitality industry. The only requirement to become a member is working in food and beverage services. Membership including  free and confidential 24/7 access to the Lifeworks Total Wellbeing App which provides a host of resources for Mental Wellbeing, Work and Life Issues, Health Assessments, and Financial Well-Being. Mind The Bar also has resources for Anxiety, Depression, and Suicide.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about 100+ new arrivals in August alone. 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.

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