Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 21

June 12, 2022

TR Fests + Events Calendar June 2022

🕘 8 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 and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates.

June 1-30
PRIDE TORONTO
Various locations

Pride Month returns to the 6ix with a lineup of exciting events including Pride Festival Weekend happening June 24-26.

Photo courtesy of Pride Toronto.

June 3-5, 2022
DO WEST FEST
Dundas St. W. from Ossington to Landsdowne

The summer festival in the heart of Little Portugal is back with a new name, local food trucks, extended patios, live music, artisan vendors, and much more.

June 3-26
HALAL FOOD TOUR
Various locations

Night Market Toronto presents Canada’s first halal food tour with destinations across the GTA this month including Oakville (June 3-5), Scarborough (June 10-12), and Toronto (June 25-26).

June 9-19
LUMINATO FESTIVAL TORONTO
Various locations

Toronto’s famed art and ideas fest is back with 11 days of free concerts, dance, theatre, music, art, literature and much more. Urban fairground Woodbine Weekend, takes place June 18-19 with an exciting lineup of music, installations, parades, food and drinks.

June 10-12
FOODALICIOUS
Downsview Park

The annual food and craft beer festival features food trucks, craft beer, live music, midway and more co-produced by Street Eats Market and Superior Events Group.

Photo courtesy of Foodalicious.

June 11
LAKESHORE VILLAGE GRILLED CHEESE CHALLENGE FESTIVAL
Lake Shore Blvd. W. from Islington to Second St.

Dig into a variety of cheese-stuffed sandos and vote for your fave. Enjoy live music and entertainment, beer garden and more.

June 11
ONTARIO’S BEST BUTTER TART FESTIVAL
Midland, Ontario

The world’s largest butter tart festival boasts 200K+ butter tarts and 120 will compete for top title. Stroll the 1 kilometer street festival filled with vendors, artisans, and take in a free concert. Free shutter Penetanguishene Town Dock to Downtown Midland. Cyclists can use the free bike valet.

June 16-19
LUCKY LION NIGHT MARKET
CF Markville Mall - 5000 Hwy 7

Enjoy over 40 food vendors/trucks and local performances at this night market in Markham.

June 17-18
MISSISSAUGA CREATIVE CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
CreativeHub 1352 at Small Arms Inspection Building - 1352 Lakeshore Rd. E.

The inaugural beer fest boasts 15 craft breweries and food vendors, large format games and live music available in three time slots/sessions.

June 17-19
THE MAC & CHEESE FESTIVAL
Street Eats x Scarborough Town Centre - 500 Progress Ave.

The cheesy comfort food gets its very own fest, available from a variety of food trucks at Street Eats Market’s Scarborough Town Centre location.

June 17-19
TASTE OF LITTLE ITALY
College St. from Shaw St. to Markham St.

Explore the tastes and sounds of Italy and more right in the middle of Toronto as College Street transforms into a classic Italian piazza. From restaurants and street vendors to the myriad of free tastings and samples, this annual event offers diverse and multicultural food options.

Taste of Little Italy. Photo courtesy of Little Italy BIA.

June 17-19
TACO FEST
Ontario Place

Thirty-five vendors feature a bevy of tacos, guacamole, churros, tequila, and hot sauce across the three day extravaganza presented by Taste Toronto and produced by Cravings Food Co.

June 17-19
VAUGHAN PIZZA FEST
Improve Canada - 7250 Keele St.

Tuck into pizza, pasta and dessert while taking in a live concert or comedy show.

June 19
JUNETEENTH BLOCK PARTY & FOOD MARKET
Junction Craft Brewery - 150 Symes Rd.

This free entry, family-friendly event will feature 15+ Black food entrepreneurs. Dig into Zimbabwean style pies and Jamaican rum cheesecake. Purchase items to take home or savour while strolling through the market listening to tunes from DJ Big Jacks.

June 24-26
BREW & BBQ
Canada’s Wonderland

Canada's Wonderland annual Brew & BBQ Festival returns with foot-stomping live music and entertainment, a variety of ribs, burgers, and BBQ chicken, and Ontario small-batch craft beer and cider.

June 24-26
TASTE OF ASIA
4300 Steeles Ave. E.

The largest Asian street festival in Canada, hosts over 180,000 attendees annually with food, vendors, live stage shows, concerts, competitions, contests and much more.

June 24-26
TORONTO BEACHES RIB & BEER FEST
Woodbine Park

Brews, ‘cue, live music, classic fair food, a kids zone and much more await in the city’s east end, part of Northern Heat Rib Series - North America’s largest rib and beer tour.

Photo courtesy of Northern Heat Rib Series.

June 24-26
TORONTO CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
Ontario Place

The city’s largest celebration of independent craft brewers returns ack for an anticipated fifth season, with four sessions and 40+ brands,

June 25-26
DURHAM CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL
1603 Eglinton St. W.

Get ready for the largest Caribbean extravaganza in Durham Region boasts an array of Caribbean fare, live entertainment, vendor marketplaces, domino tournaments, prizes and giveaways, and much more in the heart of Little Jamaica.

June 27-August 28
UNION SUMMER
65 Front St. W.

Visit a variety of food and drink vendors and enjoy live performances at this event outside Union Station.

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

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Published on June 12, 2022 08:28

June 9, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News June 9-15, 2022

Photo courtesy of IHOP.

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. #ifyouknowyouknow

🕘 11 min read

The city is exploding. Last week’s record-breaking edition is just a recent example (check out the complete catalogue for what’s truly been happening). That said, my discoveries this week are no slouch: 22 arrivals, in addition to some important closures and news you don’t want to miss.

And stay tuned. More news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter and big stuff in the works.

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Introducing Bar Habana, the new concept in Leslieville (1030 Gerrard St.E.) by La Cabana. Psst. The Cuban taberna, complete with bocaditos (shareable plates) made to pair with classic Cuban and original cocktails, vino and cervezas, does Cuban brunch on Sundays.

Caribbean takeaway, pantry items and produce have arrived in Riverside, courtesy of BlessedLove Caribbean Grocery & Takeout (753A Queen St. E.). Doors open Saturday 9am-9pm.

Heading to the airport? Fingers crossed you’re not stuck in delays. Find solace in cake, thanks to the two new Carlo’s Bakery Bake Shop Express ATMs at Toronto Pearson. The popular cake-dispensing machines doling out slices of Cookies and Cream, Red Velvet, Carrot Cake, and Rainbow ($9.99 ea.) from famed Cake Boss Buddy Valastro’s bakery chain can be found in Terminal 1 (Domestic, Transborder Area) and Terminal 3 (Domestic/International, Transborder Area). For those who prefer a more traditional retail experience, a Port Credit location debuted at the beginning of the year and a Yorkville outpost is underway.

The Hartly - a hearty mélange of resto, bar, lounge and variety theatre - arrived in the Fashion District (619 King St. W.) at the end of last year. Psst. DJs and drinks await upstairs at Darkroom. Open Thursday to Saturday after 10pm.

From Churros Tot Poutine to signature Milkshakes (100+ to choose from), if you’ve got a sweet tooth, Holy Shakes is for you. The newest outpost has landed in Scarborough (5651 Steeles Ave. E., Unit 6).

ihalo krunch just launched a dessert truck. To dig into Black on Black (activated charcoal), Meet Your Matcha (Japanese green tea), Ube All The Way (purple yam), and Bean There, Done That (Madagascar vanilla bean) visit the Street Eats Market Scarborough Town Centre location (500 Progress Ave.) on weekends.

The first IHOP in the GTA arrived in virtual form in Liberty Village (60 Sudbury St.) at the end of 2021. For those wishing for a more complete experience of the legendary pancake house from the U.S., visit the IRL version set in Brampton (50 Biscayne Cres.). Doors opened Tuesday.

Halal Indian Canadian eatery The Kettle (685 Queen St. W.) at Queen and Bathurst is “the first upscale fusion restaurant with crafted street touch spices and mouth-watering flavors of India in a Canadian way.” Tuck into an array chaat, sandwiches, burgers, and savoury pies (Vegetable Curry, Butter Chicken, Beef - $22.99 ea.).

Kibo Sushi House boasts 30+ outposts in the Great White North: across the GTA and Calgary. The latest just arrived in Richmond Hill at Hillcrest Mall (9350 Yonge St., Exit 3).

Mandy and Rebecca Wolfe’s famed Montreal create-your-own-salad chain Mandy’s made its entry into downtown Toronto just a few months ago. For York residents, the commute just got a lot shorter, thanks to a spot at Kitchen Hub Food Hall Castlefield (1121 Castlefield Ave.). Bonus: A dine-in space was just unveiled.

Palm Bites touched down in Mississauga two summers ago. A second retail store just debuted not far away (167 Lakeshore Rd.).

Panash Bakery has been a fixture in Markham (5308 Highway 7 East, Unit 4A) since 2016. A second outpost in the area (9750 Markham Rd.) debuted Monday. Until Friday, enjoy 20 per cent off during the soft opening.

This weather calls for soft serve. Find Pull Snack Bar east side in Corktown (510 Queen St. E.), currently open Saturdays and Sundays. Hot tips: 1. Don’t sleep on the halo halo. 2. Include it in an ice cream crawl with The Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream + Frozen Treats in Toronto/GTA in hand.

Revel Foods (503 Pinegrove Rd.) in Oakville is no ordinary grocery store. The vegan market features prepared foods by Margie Cook, Certified Vegan Lifestyle Coach & Educator (VLCE) and Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN). You probably know her best from her vegan fare at Il Fornello. Doors open today.

Served Co. (6355 Kennedy Rd.) in Mississauga promises “an authentic Indian street food experience like no other” with interactive cart side service.

ISO of Bengali fare? Head to The Spicy Grill (3210 Danforth Ave.) at Danforth and Pharmacy.

Tenny's (1554 Queen St. W.) in Parkdale officially opens Friday. The new bar that was recently Gianna’s and formerly Tennessee Tavern by the same group behind award-winning Bar Isabel and Bar Raval, Bar Piquette, El Rey, Harry's Charbroiled, and Quetzal will have some familiar menu items (pretzels are back!) as well as new additions.

Thai Sushi And Bar (387 King St. W.) has replaced Thai Princess, but don’t panic: The owner and chef remain the same and the menu has been tweaked slightly, mostly with the addition of more sushi rolls. The Thai-owned restaurant with the “Best Green Curry in the GTA” has been in operation since the ‘90s.

Constant companion and roomie to Holy Shakes, T.O.'s Kathi Roll Eatery landed in Scarborough ((5651 Steeles Ave. E., Unit 6) with its signature lineup of kathi rolls, Punjabi tacos, Bombay fankies, fusion burritos, burgers, and other fun fare.

Grand opening festivities for Turkish bazaar Urla Fine Foods (77 Samor Rd., Unit 1) in North York kick off Saturday with live music from 1-2:30pm. Get a sneak peek of the sleek, modern interior.

Wok and Bowl (3023 Bathurst St.) at Bathurst and Lawrence is reportedly Canada’s first kosher pho restaurant, though the menu of “authentic Asian fusion” fare extends way beyond pho, from dumplings and wontons to poke and pad Thai.

CLOSED

Camp 4’s digs (1173 Dundas St .W.) became Bouffe by Adjey last month.

It was quite the ride for Leslieville’s Core. Established in 2019 a fine dining restaurant with five-course tasting menus and curated wine dinners. Two months after the pandemic hit, Chef Hyun Jung Kim transformed it into Core Korean Kitchen a destination for comforting Korean fare including fried chicken. The new iteration was followed by Core Bubble Tea last summer. It closed on Labour Day but returned within the Korean restaurant until permanent closure on June 1.

Gianna’s (1554 Queen St. W.) arrived Summer ‘20. For what’s in its stead, see above.

Greektown’s Son of a Bean Coffee (508 Danforth Ave.) shuttered just shy of its first anniversary.

A fixture at King and Spadina since the ‘90s, Thai Princess (387 King St. W.) has changed. Luckily, it’s mostly the name that’s changed. See OPEN section for details.

CHANGE

Poop Cafe - home of the ‘Toilet Paper Roll’ and all matters fecal - has moved from Bloor and Christie (706 Bloor St. W.) into Good Neighbour’s old digs (678 Bloor St. W.) a bit further east. Features of the new interior include toilets swapped in for dining chairs, a ‘Fart Zone’ warning sign and wall illustration of a person defecating into a toilet.

Yonge Sushi Japanese Restaurant didn’t stray far from their post between Lawrence and York Mills (3421 Yonge St.) when they moved Find them in their new home just steps from Yonge and Lawrence (3187 Yonge St.)

NEWS

A man was shot and killed inside Caribbean Love Restaurant and Bar (1602 Eglinton Ave. W.) on Sunday.

Brace yourself. Despite the recent increase, milk prices may go up again.

Sriracha is the latest product to be impacted by weather.

Recalls continue to roll in fast and furious. Add an IKEA espresso maker to the list. [UPDATE: 10.06.22 Another refrigerator has been recalled.]

Model and star of Keeping Up with the Kardashians Kendall Jenner launched 818 Tequila last year. Controversy followed, but with 241 million followers on Instagram alone, it likely will continue to fly off the shelves. It’s now available exclusively at Canadian chain restaurant Moxies, frequently located in shopping malls.

ICYMI

Ice cream szn is in full effect.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in May alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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

View more on Stephanie Dickison's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on June 09, 2022 20:46

June 2, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News June 2-8, 2022

🕘 14 min read

In case you haven’t heeded my words thus far, take note: This week’s RECORD-BREAKING ISSUE is just the latest example of the insanity happening.

And there’s lots more on the way. So follow on Insta and Facebook, subscribe to the TR Newsletter , catch up on previous editions (I uncovered 100+ new arrivals last month alone) and WATCH THIS SPACE.

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Chef/owner Emily De Beus of Toronto-based Sausage Party Toronto has been creating vegan versions of classic comfort fare – think Herby Seitan Roast with Sourdough Stuffing, plant-based Fennel & Ale Sausage, Maple Fakin’ Bacon, and whole plant-based Salami – for years. The grand opening for her brick-and-mortar destination Aunty Em’s Deli & Coffee (1672 St Clair Ave. W.) is happening all weekend long.

Starting today, Azkadenya’s Middle Eastern and Arabian fare is available at Kitchen Hub’s newest outpost (1121 Castlefield Ave.).

Mercatino E Vini (1091 Queen St. E.) arrived in Leslieville last summer, just steps away from its Ascari sibling Ascari Enoteca (1111 Queen St. E.). FYI: There’s a secret new spot in back, Bar Ciccio.

Vegan bakery Bloomer’s new doughnut trailer is launching Saturday, June 4) in Liberty Village at 109 Atlantic Ave (behind West Elm). They'll be serving fresh, handcrafted vegan donuts and coffee daily (11am to 7pm, or until sold out) until October 31. Seasonal specials (Key Lime Pie, Lemon Poppyseed Campfire S’mores, and more) will be on hand in addition to bestsellers such as Birthday Cake!, Cinnamon Sugar, Rose Pistachio, and Vanilla Sprinkles.

Burger Delicious (820 Church St.) debuted earlier this week with a focused menu: five burgers, four salads, one side (fries) and drinks. Find them in King Palace Restaurant’s former digs at Yonge and Daveneport

Chatime is always on the move. Find their latest in Etobicoke (3812 Bloor St. W.). Grand opening festivities (including a BOGO promotion and early bird special) kick off tomorrow.

Cops Yorkdale (3011 Dufferin St.) has been open only a few months before a car crash shut things down for a while - no injuries were reported. They’re back in business slinging hot coffee and doughnuts.

Craig’s Cookies (1332 Queen St. W.) moved its Parkdale digs a few city blocks. Doors opened yesterday.

The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament St.) in Cabbagetown has reopened after being temporarily closed due to fire.

F.L.I.P. Kitchens (5210 Yonge St.) is a project by the City of Toronto run by nonprofit caterToronto. The new concept is intended for first time lease holding food businesses with a focus on newcomer, women, queer and BIPOC entrepreneurs. There are five restaurants (four currently open) complete with indoor and outdoor seating, takeout and delivery:
1. Bunhaus - Eastern European style stuffed buns
2. Chic Peas Veg – vegetarian/vegan grub
3. Da Endz - Jamaican comfort food
4. Teta’s Kitchen - Lebanese and Indonesian fare
5. caterToronto – opening soon.
Take a peek.

Goodfellas Wood Oven Pizza’s first spot in Streetsville debuted October 2013. Their “authentic Neapolitan-style wood oven pizzas” and other Italian fare has been making its way across the GTA ever since. The seventh outpost just debuted at Oakville Place (240 Leighland Ave.).

Indo Chinese restaurant The Hakka Club has been a part of Mississauga for some time now. The “blend of Desi Hakka inspiration from Delhi street hawkers” by the folks of Desi Bar & Grill just got another outpost (3021 Argentia Rd.).

Happy Sundae (85 Portland St.) is the 6ix’s newest ice cream shop. Doors softly opened yesterday for the latest venture by Toronto entrepreneur Angela Phung, owner of aka.THESTORE on Queen (711 Queen St. W.). Expect soft serve with an array of housemade toppings. Bonus: Get them in next-level brightly hued cones in lush flabours such as Lavender, Matcha, Orange Creamsicle, Red Velvet, and Salted Blue Corn.

Heading out of the city? Harry’s Charbroiled smash burgers have landed in Prince Edward County. Picton, be to exact (13633 HWY 33).

Oakville’s In and Out Convenience (108 Burnhamthorpe Rd. E.) has got you no matter when the munchies hit. They’re open 24 hours.

I introduced you to JABS (Just Another Burger Spot) last summer. Soft opening for the first permanent location (630 St. Clair Ave. W.) at St. Clair and Wychwood is happening Saturday and Sunday. In the meantime, get to know owner/chef Janrikk Millan in At The Pass. p.s. You would already be in the know if you got the TR Newsletter.

ISO of traditional Laotian fare? Check out the new Lao Food Co. shop inside Milkcow Cafe (2651 Yonge St.).

L'Watea Bubble Tea (635 Bloor St. W.) in Koreatown offers a variety of bevvies including teas (fruit, milk, cheese), slushes, smoothies and lattes.

Signature dishes at Mr. X Kitchen (394 Bloor St. W.) in The Annex include Black Pepper Tenderloin with Tiger Prawns, Thai Green Curry Chicken and Shrimp, X Chili Chicken, and XO Fried Rice.

Mumbai Frankie (formerly Bombay Frankie) has landed in Gerrard India Bazaar (1386 Gerrard Street, Unit 1) with frankies (Indian street food similar to a burrito made with a roti or chapati) and Irani Chai.

There’s more to Richmond Hill’s Pho Vinh (16 Vogell Rd., Unit 16B) than the signature Vietnamese beef noodle soup. Discover a variety of selections including vermicelli bowls, stir-fries, and curries.

Piano Piano The Pizzeria just arrived at Chef’s Hall (111 Richmond St. W.). Find the Brooklyn-style ‘za by Chef Victor Barry (Piano Piano, Piccolo Piano), next to Grateful Chicken by Chef Brandon Olsen that debuted last month.

Reliable Fish and Chips (954 Queen St. E.) has been around since 1930, but has seen its share of closures in later years. The Leslieville eatery shuttered suddenly in March 2017 before reopening five months later, and more recently what seemed to be for good in January. Doors softly reopened yesterday under new ownership.

Roll This Way landed at Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St., Unit 3-120) May 20 with an array of sushi, sushi sandos, and mochi ice cream chopsticks. The shop will be on-site until the end of September.

Psst. There's a new hidden destination for fish and chips. Sailor’s Fish and Chips tucked inside Hooked Danforth (1246 Danforth Ave.) Brought to you by shop owners Laura Cleland and Sean Kinghan, the eatery just east of Greenwood is in soft launch, with a permanent location is in the works and markets (Sunnybrook Farmers' Market, East Lynn Night Market) soon. Fun fact: Hooked's owners Kristin and Dan Donovan and Laura and Sean all worked together for 15 years in the restaurant industry. TR Newsletter subscribers got dibs.

Shah's Halal Food began life as a food cart in Queens, New York back in 2005. A full-on restaurant followed in Long Island in 2016, and its been on a road to success ever since. PSA: The first Canadian location soft launches tomorrow.

It was just a month ago that Roses Cocina launched at Hotel X Toronto (111 Princes' Blvd., 2nd Fl). Introducing the he latest addition: Valerie encompassing the entire rooftop as well as the 27th and 28th floors.

Wings Up has been serving Southern Ontario since 1988. Now it’s Toronto’s turn to get a taste. The first branch in the 6ix - 21st in the province - just touched down near Fort York with 18 flavours of wings in 18 flavours and other pub fare - jalapeno poppers, chicken fingers, perogies, poutine, etc.

Markham’s HK eatery Wonton Hut has touched down at Queen and Bathurst with a lineup of soups, noodles, beef brisket and more.

CLOSED

Asteria Souvlaki Place (292 Danforth Ave.), one of the last remaining Greek restaurants on the Danforth shuttered for good Saturday night. After 40 years, the owners are retiring to Greece.

Bar Wellington (520 Wellington St. W.) set in a striking Victorian, “carefully renovated” house, is available for lease. For what their neighbours are up to, see the ICYMI section below.

Nepali and Hakka restaurant Gorkha Durbar opened at the end of last summer.

Leslieville’s Lan Vietnamese Restaurant (755 Queen St. E.) has been closed for months and the space cleared out of furniture for almost as long, leaving diners wondering if or when it was ever to reopen. Answer: ‘For Lease’ signs have been posted in the windows.

Superfly (5 Brock Ave.) was a hidden gem in Parkdale. Doors closed what was hoped to be temporary in January, but an announcement of permanent closure followed in April.

CHANGES

Bombay Frankie chain, aka Bombay Frankie - The Original Bombay Roll, aka “An Irani Cafe with an Indian Heart“– changed to Mumbai Frankie, Note: A new concept, Bombay Frankies, is launching in the GTA this fall with celebrity chef Vikram Vij.

Meat & Pie Co. (10 Kingsbridge Garden Cir.) in Mississauga is now Smokey Sam's Barbecue.

Queen Margherita Pizza’s Dundas location/QMP Central (772 Dundas St. W. ), once an expansive restaurant, has closed to the public as its now the production space for their frozen product line.

NEWS

There’s been a staggering surge in recalls lately: candy including Lifesavers, Skittles and Starburst; oysters, even poppy seeds. This week’s discoveries include frozen bars, dried silver fish, spot prawns and refrigerators. When I inquired about the recent FreshKampo strawberries recall, a spokesperson for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency said the Public Health Agency of Canada “currently has an on-going investigation into FreshKampo strawberries,” but they are “no longer available for purchase in Canada. Currently, there are no food recall warnings associated with this outbreak.”

Do place your order at Tim Hortons via app? This might affect you.

Martin’s Famous Potato Rolls, a popular choice in many restaurants and available for sale in numerous stores across the GTA, has been making headlines lately.

ICYMI

Big news broke about Lee Restaurant this week. Of course, you had to know this would not be the end of the iconic restaurant. While the last service at the King West location will be December 31, 2022, a new location will launch around the corner in March 2023. As for the menu, a statement from Chef Susur Lee includes, “All of your favourite dishes (including the slaw, the cheeseburger spring rolls, and our chefs banquet menu) will also live on.”

Le Sélect Bistro (432 Wellington St. W.) is coming back, though in a different iteration, on June 24. Stay tuned for more details.

TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop first: W Toronto (90 Bloor St. E.) officially opens July 21, 2022.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in April alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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

View more on Stephanie Dickison's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on June 02, 2022 20:04

May 26, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News May 26-June 1, 2022

Photo courtesy of Kumain Kitchen.

🕘 11 min read

While this week’s edition is full of exciting arrivals (24) and options (1000s), there are some big closures and shocking news. Brace yourself.

And stay tuned – more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. Bonus: Check out new feature #Breaking. Last week, subscribers got the scoop on a few things, including a buzzy wine bar’s expansion. Get. On. It.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The thousands of establishments downtown and the GTA keep me hoppin’, so covering spots outside the city limits is a rarity. Occasionally, people and places merit mention. Muskoka BeerSpa (1006 Clear Lake Rd.) in Torrance, Ontario - not far from Bala and other cottage country in the Muskoka region – makes the cut for its beer garden, cabanas and pool, for starters.

FINALLY. Part art gallery, shop and café, Bevy (738 Dundas St. E.) debuts in Regent Park tomorrow.

It’s been over a year since Brett’s Ice Cream (1698 Queen St. E.) had to shutter due to condo development. Psst. Check out Brett Young’s sweet new destination in Scarborough (3148 Kingston Rd.) at Kingston Road and McCowan. Doors opened yesterday. Bonus: Coffee and pastries to be added to the lineup next week.

Chowpatty Culture (1966 Queen St. E.) just launched in The Beach (in Cinnamon Indian Bistro’s old digs). Tuck in Bombay Special Grilled Cheese served with Masala fries, Chicken Tikka Kathi Roll, Pro Salad Bowl, array of chaats, sides, and more.

Grand opening celebrations for vegan cinnamon roll chain Cinnaholic’s. latest outpost in Oakville (259 Lakeshore Rd. E.) take place tomorrow. Pro tip: Arrive early. Cinnamon rolls are just $1 between 10am-2pm.

Looking for next-level snacks? Fruity Pebbles King Size Birthday Cake Bar? Yup. Korean Hot & Spicy Sun Chips? Sure thing. Fanta Jasmine Peach from China? You’d better believe Dank Mart’s got you. Grand opening for the long-awaited 6ix outpost (399 Queen St. W.) is happening Saturday.

Turkish eatery Doner-Chi Kitchen (750 Spadina Ave., Unit 2) just landed in The Annex at Bloor and Spadina next to Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre.

Dynamite Sushi (1661 Bloor St. W.) has moved into Viajero Cantina‘s former digs in the city’s west end between Dundas and Keele.

Chinatown’s newest addition Eat Yet (409 Spadina Ave.) offers an array of dishes including Basil Eggplant, Bourbon Chicken, BBQ Beef & Kimchi, Red Wine Beef Stew, and Lemongrass Pork Chop accompanied by rice.

GoodGood unveiled its first local convenience store and café concept back in December and has been on a roll ever since. Two more launched today: 1. the OG pop-up location at Spadina and Adelaide is now next door (410 Adelaide St. W.) and permanent. 2. Queen and Tecumseth location (709 Queen St. W.). [UPDATE: 27.05.22 12:47PM - The opening of the Queen location has been delayed. Details to follow.]

I introduced you to Kumain Kitchen last summer. Starting Monday, find the Filipino-inspired fare at Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) in The District Kitchen at until June 9. To discover more about twin chefs Jason and Ryan Buising, check out the great interview in At The Pass.

Mira Sake (390 Silver Star Blvd., Unit 163 ) at Midland and McNicoll in Scarborough is serving up a variety of pork bone noodle soup and sushi.

ISO of a unique patio? A glass house coffee bar set in the middle of a garden hits different. Queen Garden Cafe quietly launched inside Riverside's Queen Garden Centre (771 Queen St. E.) over the weekend. Grab some baked goods, De Mello coffee, and enjoy the sights and sounds of an outdoor oasis. #staycationgoals p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers got dibs.

Parkdale folks have a new place to grab a coffee and pick up pantry items thanks to the arrival of Soepa (1540 Queen St. W.), softly opened yesterday.

Soulful Delish (1005 King St. W.) at King and Shaw helps get your healthy eating on track with protein and power bowls, wraps and paninis and juices and smoothies. Did you know? They use biodegradable packaging whenever possible.

When one bakery closes… another opens right away, these days anyway. Sticky Bakery (621 St. Clair Ave. W.) moved into recently shuttered Leah’s. The new venture by Jean Blacklock of Prairie Girl Bakery fame (shuttered Jan ‘21) includes cupcakes natch, but the roster’s rounded out by butter tarts, puddings, “fudgies” (personal-size brownies) and namesake sticky buns. Grand opening is tomorrow.

Non-profit fair trade cafe and community hub Studio 89 established in 2014, has a lot to celebrate: A new space in Mississauga (2520 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 1). Grand opening celebrations take place Saturday 2-5pm with light refreshments, games, music, prizes and more.

Chinese bubble tea chain Sun Tea’s been busy lately. The latest Mississauga shop (325 Central Pkwy. W., Unit 2) marks the seventh location in the GTA. Bonus: Grand opening deals are on until tomorrow.

Sharwarma HQ Tahini’s just touched down in Oakville (300 North Service Rd. W., Unit B3A).

The lineup at Scarborough’s Tandoori Feast (670 Coronation Dr., Unit 6) includes curries, karahi, barbecue, comfort foods, snacks and Halwa Puri on the weekends. Looking to dine outside? They claim to have the “largest patio in Scarborough.”

The first brick-and-mortar location of THG’s Hot Chicken by Chef Aleem Syed softly opened in Scarborough last weekend (4830 Sheppard Ave. E., Unit 8)., but you’d know that already if you were a TR Newsletter subscriber.

Yumiko Sushi & Poke (200 Marycroft Ave., Unit 22) in Vaughan offers an expansive menu from build-your-own poke bowls to pan-fried udon and chow mein. Psst. Enjoy a grand opening offer of 20 per cent off everything until June 30, 2022 – excluding credit card orders.

Is life cooler by the pool? Absolutely. Lucky for you, 450 Dufferin Café arrived just in time for beach szn. Find them inside Bather (450 Dufferin St.).

CLOSED

Fahmee Bakery is permanently closing the Scarborough location (119 Montezuma Trail) after 40 years due to a fire a few weeks ago. See below for how to get your hands on their beloved patties this weekend.

You’ve got until Sunday to say goodbye to Leaside’s Green Canoe Cafe (900 Millwood Rd.).

Hoagie Station set up shop in the Annex just three months ago, but the business has shut down for good.

Doors have closed at Nama Sushi (750 St. Clair Ave. W.) in Hillcrest Village.

After being temporarily closed for months throughout the pandemic, the space where “Toronto's most accoladed patisserie” The Tempered Room (1374 Queen St. W.) co-owned by business and life partners Humera Ali and executive chef Greg Laird is currently for lease.

EVENTS

Beverly Crandon’s Spring Into Spice - The Social kicks off Saturday at Canada’s largest shipping container market, Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St.) with food vendors, wine tent, and pairing seminars.

Henderson Brewery’s Under the Big H Beer Festival and Carnival on Saturday takes place in their parking lot (128A Sterling Rd.). On the lineup: food, brews and ciders, and circus performers.

Street Eats Market is hosting a one-day pop up on Sunday to sell the rest of Fahmee Bakery’s patty stock at the Scarborough Town Centre location (500 Progress Ave.)

NEWS

Earlier today, HotBlack Coffee’s co-founder Momiji Kishi announced the sudden passing of co-founder Jimson Bienenstock last Thursday, May 19. No further details were provided at press time.

The Irv Gastro Pub (195 Carlton St.) in Cabbagetown is throwing a fundraiser for their executive chef Clayton Gilbert who was recently attacked on the street while walking home with his father. Facing a long recovery after “stab wounds clipped his heart and his abdomen,” the pub is hosting ‘Clay Day’ on Sunday May 29. Half of the revenue from the day’s sales will go to help pay his bills. Can’t make the event? Reach out to donate.

Readers of the OPEN/CLOSED will know the insane amount of food recalls lately, from poppyseeds to oysters and Kinder treats. Jif Peanut Butter has been added to the list.

Junction Craft Brewery acquired Woodhouse Brewing Co. through new parent company, Junction Craft Beverage Co.

Local fast food chains have been quick to add Nashville Hot Chicken items to the menu in recent months. Swiss Chalet is the latest to hop on the bandwagon with a roster including a Nashville Hot Crispy Chicken Ice Cream Sandwich, for dine-in only.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in April alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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

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Published on May 26, 2022 20:49

May 19, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News May 19-25, 2022

Photo courtesy of Burger Fiancé.

🕘 9.5 min read

The only way to get through this week’s epic 25 arrivals , and get caught up on last week’s insane edition TOTALLING NEARLY 50 DESTINATIONS COVERED IN A SINGLE WEEK?! Pack in as much as you can this weekend. That extra day’s going to come in handy.

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

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

From Volcano Cheese Chicken to New Orleans Chicken Leg Bento, Thornhill’s AITaiker Taiwanese Fried Chicken (9200 Bathurst St., Unit 7) has all your chicken cravings covered. A Markham location just debuted (5990 16th Ave., Unit 218).

The grand opening for Bake Code’s Scarborough outpost (3250 Midland Ave., Unit G108) took place this weekend Scarborough. Good news: Make any purchase at the fifth location of the modern Euro-Asian bakery and café and receive a ten per cent discount voucher for your next visit.

Baomama has a lot to celebrate: The Filipino/Asian-inspired eatery kicks off their grand opening this weekend (4419 Sheppard Ave. E.) and they’re part of a new virtual lineup - see below for details.

Blessinglicious (2849 Kingston Rd.) by Chef Blessing debuts in Scarborough’s Cliffcrest today. The affordably-prices Nigerian restaurant is serving up everything from Peppered Kponmo ($10) and GizDodo -plantain/gizzard sauce (sm $10) to Suya Chicken (3pcs/$10, 8pcs/$20), and Jollof Rice ($15).

Vegan fast food is comin’ in hot, folks. The latest entry in the 6ix: Burger Fiancé at First Canadian Place (100 King St. W., Food Court), complete with “cheeze” burgers, fried “chick-en”, pulled “pork” aka shiitake, kimchi fries, cauliflower bites, and oat shakes.

Leaside just got a Turkish Indian street food eatery. Introducing Charcoal Biryani (1595 Bayview Ave.) replacing Bombay Snack Bar, “An Irani cafe with an Indian heart,” now a ghost kitchen.

Brick-and-mortar Gohyang Restaurant + Bar (5096 Dundas St. W.) in Etobicoke specializing in sushi and dim sum, is home to five ghost kitchen concepts: Hayasee Hajime (Japanese), Iron Wok (Chinese), Kuro Tsuki (Thai), Whorganic (Vegetarian), and RAD (plants & aupplies). Two new takeout/delivery only just joined the fam: Cha Lau: Dim Sum Emporium and Rakki: The Sushi Experience, bringing the total to ten concepts under one roof.

To celebrate the grand opening of CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice (8601 Warden Ave.) Unionville, enjoy a Large Bubble Gaga and Two Ladies for $3.99 until May 27. Conditions apply.

Cowboy's Grill (85 Kincort Street) at Keele and Eglinton offers a wide variety of comfort food from burgers and sandos to schnitzel and halal fare. The Cowboy’s Grill Smoked Plate ($35 pp) allows you to sample St. Louis pork ribs, beef brisket, chicken wings, and pulled beef, served with your choice of French or Belgium fried, pickles and housemade sauce, in one go.

Cloud kitchen Crave Food Hub (1285 Morningside Ave., Unit 7) at Sheppard and Morningside bills itself as a “New age food court concept,” with three vendors so far: Filipino-Asian-inspired Baomama, Himalayan/Nepalese The Hakka Guy, and L os Vietnamita Taqueria focused on Vietnamese Mexican fusion.

Psst. Get a sneak peek of Florette (1168 Queen St. W.), popping up at Nuit Social until Saturday, before fully opening this summer.

Four-ounce stuffed cookies are what’s up at Foxies Bakeshop (669 Mount Pleasant Rd.) in Mount Pleasant Village. Doors open Saturday.

IKEA debuts downtown at Yonge & Gerrard on Wednesday. The 66,000 sq. ft. store occupying the first two floors of Aura Shopping Centre (382 Yonge St.) is cashless outfit and will house a new food concept, Swedish Deli, offering “modern, healthy meals and speciality beverages to eat in, along with on-the-go food options and sustainably sourced essentials to cook at home.” Swedish meatballs, however, are still in effect.

Little Kitchen Academy (2052 Queen St. E.) has landed in The Beach. The “first-of-its-kind Montessori-inspired cooking academy” is suitable for three-year-olds to teenagers.

Opera Caffe (700 Dorval Dr, Unit 100.) launched in Oakville last week. Stop by for authentic Italian eats: pizza, pasta, panini, salads, coffee and pastries.

Speaking of Italian, Penne (2761 Kingston Rd.) kicks off today near the Scarborough Bluffs with an array of pasta, gelato and coffee.

The stunning Prime Seafood Palace (944 Queen St. W.) by chef/restaurateur Matty Matheson (Cà Phê Rang, Matty’s Patty’s Burger Club, Birria Balam, Maker Pizza, and Matty Mattheson’s Meat + Three in Fort Erie) kicked off last night. Reservations briefly opened up for June, but likely will be gone by the time you read this.

Something in the Water Brewing’s flagship brewery and café has opened in Liberty Village (151 East Liberty St), complete with patio.

Supreme Burgers joined Etobicoke’s Lockport Food Hall (20 Lockport Ave.) in March.

Bubble tea shop TasteT House just launched inside location of Basil Box Oakville (2508 Winston Park Dr.). Enjoy 25% all drinks during the soft opening.

TuckShop Kitchen (1640 Dupont St.) has been a fixture in the city’s west end (Junction Triangle) for 6.5 years. East enders now have an outpost in Leslieville (1022 Queen St. E.) stacked with burgers, sandos, salads and side to call their very own.

Velouté Bistro left The Beaches earlier this year, but had a spot picked out at Palace Pier (2045 Lakeshore Blvd. W.) in Etobicoke. Open to residents re for some time, the public can now enjoy the new digs at the water’s edge.

CLOSED

The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament St.) in Cabbagetown in temporarily closed due to fire. Details below.

The space formerly home to Italtable (85 Kincort St.) in York is something new.

Nuit Social (1168 Queen St. W.) d is closing after service on Saturday. After eight years on Queen West, they’re transforming their space into something new. Details above.

EVENTS

The Northern Heat Rib Series returns to Yonge-Dundas Square this weekend

Street Eats Festival kicks off tomorrow night.

Fizz Fest, “Canada’s first festival dedicated to premixed cocktails, seltzers, ciders, wine and more” by the folks behind Toronto’s Festival of Beer is happening Saturday and Sunday.

NEWS

Another fire to report this week.The Epicure Shop (473 Parliament St.) in Cabbagetown in temporarily closed due to fire. The f ire occurred in the back of the building. No injuries were reported.

The food recalls keep pouring in. This week includes Life Savers, Skittles and Starburst gummies and Below Zero brand Whole Raspberries IQF.

And recent car crashes include COPS’ Yorkdale location and a Keg in London.

While City Councillor for Toronto-St. Paul’s Josh Matlow’s push for drinking in parks didn’t pass in time for the long weekend, he has questions about Casa Loma properties, “and a quiet plan to turn a beloved publicly-owned place into a private, ‘Michelin star’ restaurant.” In a post on Facebook, he wrote, “There are questions that merit honest answers.”

Congratulations to all Ontario winners of this year’s Canadian Brewing Awards: Amsterdam Brewing Co., Anderson Craft Ales, B anded Goose Brewing, Boshkung Brewing Co., Burdock Brewery, Cameron's Brewing Company, Cassel Brewery, Clifford Brewing Co., Equals Brewing Company Inc., Farm League Brewing, Fixed Gear Brewing Co., Flora Hall Brewing, Folly Brewpub, Four Father's Brewing, F ull Beard Brewing Co. Inc., Kensington Brewing Company, Lake of Bays Brewing Company, Little Beasts Brewing Company, Merit Brewing Co., Old Flame Brewing Co., Rainhard Brewing, Ridge Rock Brewing Company, Shacklands Brewing Co., Sons Of Kent Brewing Co., Spearhead Brewing Company, Stray Dog Brewing Company, Thornbury Craft Co., Walkerville Brewery and Wellington Brewery.

ICYM

Attention: Sandwich lovers. This IG Giveaway was made for you.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in April alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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

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Published on May 19, 2022 20:49

May 12, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News May 12-18, 2022

Photo courtesy of Auntie’s Supply.

🕘 12.5 min read

Big announcements this week: the end of COVID-19 emergency order in Toronto and MICHELIN is in town. Making it even more eventful, a gobsmacking 24 arrivals, ten closures, and not-to-missed news and events. The landscape has already drastically changed from a few months ago and the sea change is far from over. Stay tuned. And I’ll have more news in The Tip Off, available exclusively in the TR Newsletter.

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The grand opening for Parkdale’s Bobacha Bubble Tea & Snack Bar (1660 Queen St. W.) is happening Saturday, complete with 30 per cent off all drinks all day. Pro tip: Get there early: The first 75 guests get free treats from neighbour Craig’s Cookies.

It was just three months ago that chef David Adjey shuttered his last venture. His next incarnation just landed at Dundas and Ossington: Introducing French eatery Bouffe (1173 Dundas St. W.).

Chatime is constantly expanding. Find them at “Canada’s first virtual food hall” Kitchen Hub’s new Dufferin and Eglinton outpost (1121 Castlefield Ave.) that debuted early March.

TR Newsletter subscribers got dibs on this one. For those just catching up: Creamery X has been a virtual venture since its inception last March. Starting Saturday, you can visit Bonnie & Melissa’s fabulous scoop shop at Queen and Jarvis (124 Jarvis St.) across from Moss Park for scoops of frozen custards and vegan ice creams, in addition to coffee, ice cream bars and sandwiches, ice cream cakes, take-home pints and merch. Bonus: To celebrate the launch, enjoy seven days of deals starting Saturday (Mon/Tues skipped) with surprise freebies and discounts every day. Did you know? They continue to offer community support with a portion of sales donated to local charities. This month's Charity Flavour supports Canadian Women's Foundation.

Danforth & Westlake (2408 Danforth Ave.) had been a fixture at Danforth and Main for years. At the beginning of the pandemic, alongside takeout, inventory was up for sale “to pay our mounting bills and try to stay alive,” followed by a liquidation sale of contents in October 2020. After operating as Easton’s last summer then closing for some time, the “premium dive bar” softly re-opened last weekend with Quesadilla Cart and Maple Leaf games on the big screen, back at it this weekend.

Traditional homestyle Nigerian fare such as Eforiro served with Poundo Yam, Smokey Jollof Rice with Grilled Turkey Wings (spicy), Creamy Alfredo served with Butter Garlic Giant Tiger Shrimp, and Beans Pudding with Aganyin Sauce can be yours, thanks to Mississauga’s Fooddelicio Restaurant and Grill (6155 Tomken Rd., Unit 1 ).

Good Good Coffee Co. landed a sweet spot in the city’s west end last fall. Find them in their new digs at Society Club House (967 College St.) starting Wednesday.

This has been in the works for a long time. GLB Brewpub by one of the oldest independent craft breweries in Canada. Great Lakes Brewing Company based in Etobicoke opens by Sugar Beach (11 Lower Jarvis St., Unit 5-8) Tuesday.

In addition to coffee and tea, The Grind Café (570 St. Clair Ave. W.) at St. Clair and Vaughan offers soup of the day, sandos, panini, sides, smoothies and cold drinks.

Hijime Japanese (2209 Queen St. E.) kicked off service March 31 in The Beach. Choose from an array of aburi sushi, sashimi, okonomiyaki, noodles, sushi pizza, in addition to the special of the month (May: Pirate of the White Tuna).

The space formerly home to Let’s Be Frank at College & Spadina has been empty for years. Honeymoon Dessert (460 Spadina Ave.) just filled the vacancy. The third branch of the HK dessert chain currently in soft opening, is the first downtown.

The third outpost of The Islands Caribbean Cookshop softly opened in Liberty Village ((171 E Liberty St., Unit 131) last week with jerk chicken, oxtail, curry goat, king fish, ackee and saltfish and more.

From croissants to baguettes, L'Avenue Bakery (1850 Avenue Rd.) in Bedford Park has all your boulangerie needs covered.

The opening of Mademoiselle Raw Bar & Grill (563 King St. W.) was changed to today.

I’ve been waiting for Beauty Derosa’s next Naija Jollof for years. The day has finally come: the first Toronto outpost of the African/Nigerian restaurant kicks off Saturday at Keele & Finch (1300 Finch Ave. W.) next to Tim Hortons. Head to the opening for African and Caribbean breakfast available 6am-2am.

Nuna Kitchen & Bar (1265 Queen St. W.) debuted yesterday in the space previously home to three vegan concepts - Bar Vegandale, Mythology Diner, and Doomie’s Toronto. The “fusion dishes with Peruvian-influenced cuisine” featured on a focused menu include Ceviche, NY Strip Steak, Garlic Wine Shrimp Risotto, and Veggie Burger, with Flan and Tres Leches Cake for dessert.

Speaking of dessert, Pass the Syrup (60 Fort York Blvd.), in collaboration with Goppion Caffe, does ice cream cones and waffle-on-a-stick AKA waffle pops.

Full-service roastery, wholesaler, and café operator Pilot Coffee Roasters has been a fixture in Toronto since 2009. Having established numerous locations across the 6ix over the years, it appears they’re just getting started. Get ready for three cafes in 30 days, the first which just debuted at Bay Adelaide Centre (333 Bay St.), with grand opening celebrations to follow Monday, with folks handing out coffee vouchers in the area.

Crispy, crunchy poultry is the name of the game at Safa Fried Chicken & Cafe (2929 Danforth Ave.) in Danforth Village.

Part community event space, part café and bottle shop. Society Club House (967 College St.), is the brainchild of Erica Campbell and Jaimie Dobbs, co-owners of Society of Beer Drinking Ladies. Doors open Wednesday.

I let you in on the Superfresh deets back in March. The new food hall near Bloor & Spadina (384 Bloor St. W.) features Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean and Taiwanese chefs, restaurants and shops. Currently on the roster: Auntie’s Supply, Bao Bird, Bar Superfresh, Big Beef Bowl, The Good Goods, Jajan, Katsupan, and Ssam Cha. Doors open to the public Saturday.

All your party essentials (curated party boxes balloons, etc.) can be found at Unbox Your Party’s new home in Mount Pleasant Village (651 Mount Pleasant Rd.), officially opening Saturday.

Wilma’s Snack Bar (214 Ossington Ave.) has moved into Crosley’s old spot on the strip with a lineup of snacks (Grilled Mortadella, Ducki Liver Crostini, Bombette ‘Pugliese’, Mezze Rigatoni), raw seafood, sliced meat and bevvies for days.

Cairo sandos are the specialty of Zein Egyptian Shawarma (1725 Matheson Blvd., Unit 3). At the ghost kitchen in Mississauga find Egyptian shawarma dressed with tahini sauce stuffed into fresh buns.

CLOSED

Long before Tim Hortons came to town, the ruling coffee shop back in the day was Country Style. The Danforth Village mainstay (2929 Danforth Ave.) is now home to a popular fast food. See above for details.

TR Newsletter subscribers got the breaking news first. Award-winning fine dining destination Ēst (729 Queen St. E.) debuted in Riverside pre-pandemic (September '19) showcasing striking elaborate fare byc o-owner/chef Sean MacDonald and team. Psst. The restaurant has not been in operation for months now. Chefs MacDonald, Reece MacIsaac and Jose Balasico moved on to new projects a while ago, as did FOH staff. The ‘For Sale' signs in the window mark the end of this chapter for the east end eatery.

The Beach location of Hogtown Smoke (1959 Queen St. E.) the last in Toronto, is for lease. Current operations are out-of-town in Stoney Creek.

Japango in The Beach (2209 Queen St. E.) has been replaced by another Japanese eatery. Details above. Visit Japango’s other location near Dundas and University (122 Elizabeth St.).

Sunshine Restaurant & Bar’s (2879 Danforth Ave.) time at Dawes Rd. has come to an end.

Tilt Arcade Bar (824 Dundas St. W.) is closed due to fire. See news section below.

Toronto Popcorn Company (1948 Queen St. E.) is now an entirely online enterprise. The second location that opened Summer ‘19 has shuttered. The outfit will continue filling orders out of their our commissary facility in Scarborough. Note: The facility is not open to public.

Williams Landing (120 Lynn Williams St.) in Liberty Village was a popular spot with a great vantage point for years. Psst. It’s about to become NODO any day now.

Yummy Stuff Bakery, established in 2008, closed up shop in Parkdale (1660 Queen St. W.). For what’s in its stead, see above.

Zyng (730 Yonge St.) was a fixture at Yonge & Charles forever. It’s now a spot for KFC (Korean Fried Chicken).

CHANGES

Japanese Korean eatery (and one-person operation!) Moong Sushi (570 St. Clair Ave. W. ) has moved. Find the new the digs one block west (627 St Clair Ave. W.), access via rear laneway.

EVENTS

It’s your last chance to get in on La Pizza Week.

Mississauga Ribfest is happening at Erin Mills Town Centre this weekend.

ByBlacks Restaurant Week returns to the 6ix starting Monday.

Night Market’s Halal Tour kicks off tomorrow.

NEWS

Toronto’s largest retro arcade bar Tilt Arcade Bar (824 Dundas St. W.) has sustained smoke and water damage due to a fire on Saturday. A fundraiser has been launched to help rebuild and reopen.

The MICHELIN Guide for Toronto was announced on Tuesday. Stay tuned.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in April alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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 with others.

Need staff? Help promoting your menu, bottle shop, patio, private event space, but you’re on a budget? We can help. *Prices have been reduced tfor a limited time o help local businesses during this time.

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Published on May 12, 2022 20:44

May 9, 2022

At The Pass with Carol Thommen

Carol Thommen. Chef de Cuisine, Bar Isabel. Photo by Rick O’Brien.

At The Pass is a weekly series showcasing Toronto’s best chefs. You won’t find any celebrity chefs 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 Carol Thommen.

🕘 6 min read

Currently

Chef de Cuisine, Bar Isabel

Formerly

Back home (Brazil), since my teenage years I worked in my family’s restaurant. Also did some gigs in catering and as a personal chef. In Toronto, I worked at the former Mata Petisco Bar in the Queen West area.

Favorite dish to make right now

I think one of my favourite things to make will always be braised/stewed dishes. I find that seeing the transformation that heat and time bring to the ingredients is pretty amazing.

Last cookbook purchase

Brazilian Food by Thiago Castanho and Luciana Bianchi

Have you read it/tried any recipes

I did read it. The book is very pretty and explains a lot about the local ingredients. I didn’t try any specific recipe from it, but all the food described is familiar to me and part of my gastronomic memories somehow.

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

I don’t think it would be possible, or fair, to say something must be gone. There are so many ways to use ingredients and recreate dishes.

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

With spring around, there are so many beautiful vegetables and other seasonal ingredients that we will start seeing on menus everywhere.

Grilled Mushroom with shaved cured egg yolk. Photo by Rick O’Brien.

Biggest influences

There are so many incredible cooks in my family. Every family gathering was like a banquet with so many delicious dishes. Many of my happiest memories are related to cooking. So they had a big influence on me.

But there are also many professional chefs that I admire. I will name one because otherwise the list would be too long. Chef Paola Carosella. The story of her life is very relatable to me, and particularly the way she connects food and emotions is wholesome and truthful.

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

It would be Hisa Franko.

Last thing you ate

Late night takeout sushi from Sushi Place.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Garlic, Onion, and Bay Leaf.

Guilty pleasure

Mildly guilty pleasure - Eat a lot of chocolate.

Chef Carol Thommen at work.

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

I like Aloette. I think Quetzal is amazing. And I think everyone should try Taste of China in their lifetime, it is delicious.

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

I don’t drink, so I’m not particularly versed in bars, but I will name a couple based on things that are non-alcohol related.: Bar Raval, Bar Mordecai, and Paris Paris.

Go-to drink

N/A.

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

I still find it hard to delegate things.

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

To be patient. Believe me, this one is pretty hard to find in kitchens.

Hidden talent

I’m pretty sure I could be a professional hairdresser. I have many hair-related skills: cutting, colouring, styling, etc.

Best career advice you ever received

There are many things that I heard during my life and I somehow applied in work related situations. But one particular phrase that I heard at culinary school and I caught myself repeating a lot over the years is: “Everyone has something to teach you. Some people will teach you what to do and others will teach you what you shouldn’t do.”

Worst career advice you ever received

I would not say the worst, because according to my ‘best career advice’, you can learn things from every situation. But one thing that I heard and I wish I didn’t: “Never show your feelings and/or weakness at work.”

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

I don’t want to crush any hearts with this one, but here it goes: Love for food or for hospitality alone won’t make your business succeed. Yes, the passion factor is very important, but make sure your management game is strong as well.

In order to support chefs during this time, the monthly At The Pass series is now WEEKLY. 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.

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Published on May 09, 2022 05:45

May 5, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News May 5-11, 2022

Photo courtesy of Marben.

🕘 11.5 min read

This week my 24 findings include grand opening specials, mega expansions, serious star chef power, and a flurry of closures - with more to follow. Stay tuned - I’ll have more news for you in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Afreen Grill (3469 Danforth Ave.) near Warden Is serving up a host of halal Indian and Pakistani fare.

Attention burger lovers: The grand opening of the newest Burger Factory kicks off Saturday in Mississauga (4028 Confederation Pkwy). Why it should make it onto your schedule: The festivities includes half-price cheeseburgers.

Taiwanese tea house Chatime takes expanding seriously. Case in point: the new outposts in Scarborough (5981 Steeles Ave. E.) and Mississauga (Battleford Centre - 6475 Erin Mills Pkwy).

The Korean-style hot dog trend shows no signs of slowing down thanks to the rise (and expansion) of chains such as Chung Chun Rice Hot Dog. To see what the fuss is all about (two words: Ramen Chip), head to the new shop opening Monday in Vaughan (3175 Rutherford Rd., Unit 16). Tons of specials to be had including $2.99 hot dogs.

Global bubble tea brand CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice softly opened a branch in Scarborough (790 Military Trail, Unit 5) earlier this week. To celebrate, customers receive 15 per cent off all drinks until May 31. Conditions apply.

Currently in soft opening, Essence Bistro at Market Lane Shopping Centre (140 Woodbridge Ave.) in Woodbridge does farm-to-table fare with a “Latin-inspired twist” - Mushrooms Al Ajillo Taco ($6), Chaulafan ($25), Mimosa Springs ($25), PEI Steak (MP), for instance.

Chef Brandon Olsen, founder of Restaurant Le Melon, La Banane and CXBO Chocolates, has a penchant for crunchy poultry - Brando’s Fried Chicken, his precursor for new venture Grateful Chicken. Psst. GC quietly opened inside Chef’s Hall (111 Richmond St. W.). On the roster: Fried chicken sandos, pieces “Chicken Fried” Mushroom Sammy ($13/$18), and buckets ($21-$95) with champagne ($165-$190). As for what to expect? According to the CH website: “Imagine The Grateful Dead and Keith Herring sharing a bucket of fried chicken.”

Éclairs and profiteroles don’t get the attention they deserve in a sea of cheescake and macarons. Luckily, The Happy Chocco feels the same way. Check out the lineup of the halal, kosher, organic, vegetarian choux pastry at The District Kitchen at Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) until Sunday.

Speaking of sweets, Honey Honey Cakery (158 Main St.) opened in Unionville at the end of the year with alllll the cakes: roll, chiffon, Basque, and Thousand Layers Crepe.

Koh Samui Thai Kitchen’s debut on the Danforth in 2020 was just the beginning. Two branches followed: 1. Queen West 2. More recently, The Junction in February. Say hello to the latest addition at King and Niagara (791 King St. W.)

The pandemic doesn’t seem to have slowed Kung Fu Tea down one bit - last week alone ushered in two more stores. And one just touched down in Woodbridge (7777 Weston Rd., Unit 107) Bonus: 20 per cent off all drinks and Large 38 Milk King for $4.88 until May 20. Terms apply.

Coming off the state-of-the-art conveyor belt at Lahmajoun Factory: Fresh n’ hot Armenian pizza. Soft opening kicked off Thursday. Find them in Scarborough at Finch and Pharmacy (2533 Pharmacy Ave.).

In March, I introduced you to the new trio at College and Bathurst (409 College St.). Turkish eatery LokumEats just joined the crew.

Sunday was the first day for Macaronz’s Port Credit pastry shoppe (159 Lakeshore Rd. E.). Get in on everything from mini doughnut cakes to frozen cookie dough, including Mother’s Day Features such as Marie Antoinette Petits Fours and Classic Afternoon Tea In A Box Find their tea salon in downtown Brampton (43 Queen St. E.).

Mademoiselle Raw Bar + Grill (563 King St. W.) should win an award for biggest transformation during the pandemic. After all, the folks behind MARBL down the street (455 King St. W.) took what was formerly a strip club (For Your Eyes Only) and created a high-end destination, complete with caviar and champagne. At the stove: Executive chef Evan Dickinson (MARBL) with sushi chef Daniel Ken (The Hartly, Lobby, Lavelle, Blowfish). Doors officially open to the public tomorrow.

Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) just got a Turkish destination. Visit Mado on Level 2 near Entrance 3.

Marben Restaurant (488 Wellington St. W., Unit 5-104) found a home for its sustainably sourced, local pantry items at Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St.). Discover items such as housemade Chili Crisp, IPA Mustard and Kanzuri Sauerkraut at Marben Market.

Chef Nadège Nourian and Morgan McHugh’s latest Nadège Patisserie debuted in the Annex (494 Bloor St. W.) yesterday. This marks the fourth location in the 6ix for the renowned French bakery.

Head to Naomi Universal Cuisine (900 Don Mills Rd., Unit 12) at Don Mills and Eglinton for an array of Asian fare including dim sum, Cantonese Chow Mein. Grilled Jumbo Tiger Prawn with Diced Beef, and HK Milk Tea.

ISO Hyderabadi fare? Nawab's Indian Cuisine (1348 Kennedy Rd.) at Kennedy and Ellesmere has your craving for south Indian dishes sorted.

Princes Pastries (3331 Danforth Ave.) in Scarborough does baklava, maamoul, ashta pastries and other sweet delights - Aoama, Barazek, Basbousa, Coconut Macaroons, Faysayliya, Ghraybeh, Harissa with Pistachios, Moshabak, and Petits Fours.

Roses Cocina inside Hotel X Toronto (111 Princes' Blvd., 2nd Fl) debuts today. The new waterfront destination by chef/restauranteur Adrian Niman (The Food Dudes, Rasa, Sara, Pantry, Blondies, Sunny’s Chinese and MIMI Chinese) and Brandon Marek and Michael Kimel of Harlo Entertainment boasts modern North American cuisine that “highlights Tex Mex flavours.” Stay tuned for a closer look.

Hamilton’s premium handmade Japanese knife retailer Sharp Knife Shop just opened an outpost in Etobicoke (195 Norseman St., Unit 14), making it easier to your hands on beauts such as a Kajibee Kurouchi Santoku, Makoto Kurosaki Style K Suji, and Kawamura Tsuchime 165 Bunka.

EVENTS

Canada’s largest food truck park Street Eats Market opens tomorrow at Scarborough Town Centre (500 Progress Ave.).

CLOSED

The King and Yonge outpost of Bikkuri Japanese Restaurant (36 King St. E.) may have come to an end however the Beaches location (2197 Queen St. E.) remains open.

Chito’s  Pizza Wilson and Dufferin location (3616 Dufferin St.) is temporarily closed due to fire. Customers can visit their other location at Dufferin and Eglinton (1853 Eglinton Ave. W.).

Congee Star (900 Don Mills Rd., Unit 12) has been replaced by another Asian eatery. Details above.

That’s it for the St. Clair outpost of Dasoni (630 St. Clair Ave. W.). Psst. It’s soon to be home to JABS (Just Another Burger Spot) that I introduced you to last summer. Find out more about owner/chef Janrikk Millan in At The Pass.

Fahmee Bakery’s Scarborough location (119 Montezuma Trail) is temporarily closed due to a fire earlier this morning. No injuries have been reported.

Wychwood bakery Leah’s (621 St Clair Ave. W.), known for its biscotti and butter tarts, debuted 2011.

The One Eighty, the restaurant on the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre (55 Bloor St. W.) boasting panoramic views of the city, part of Eatertainment Hospitality, closed March 1. Psst. In its place: A new concept in partnership with Scale Hospitality will launch this summer - AP helmed by acclaimed chef Antonio Park of Montreal.

CHANGES

Due to the current conflict in Russia and Ukraine, Moscow Tea Room (161 Yorkville Ave.) is now Joy on Avenue.

NEWS

Fahmee Bakery’s Scarborough location (119 Montezuma Trail) is t emporality closed due to a fire earlier this morning. No injuries have been reported.

Michael Armstrong, produce manager of The Sweet Potato (and percussionist for King Cobb Steelie and Change of Heart) passed away. A GoFund Me Memorial Fund has been set up to help his family.

Mayor John Tory officially launched CafeTO patio season in Toronto on Monday.

Attn Industry: The deadline to apply for Summerlicious has been extended to tomorrow.

ICYMI

Take a peek inside The Casa Madera, adjacent to 1 Hotel Toronto (550 Wellington St. W.).

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in April alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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 with others.

Need staff? Help promoting your menu, bottle shop, heated patio, private event space, but you’re on a budget? We can help. *Prices have been reduced tfor a limited time o help local businesses during this time.

View more on Stephanie Dickison's website »

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Published on May 05, 2022 20:35

April 28, 2022

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News April 28-May 4, 2022

Photo courtesy of Happy Burger.

🕘 8 min read

My 20 findings this week truly offer something for every budget from cheap eats/drinks to sky high menus/views. And stay tuned – more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter and announcements on new projects coming soon.

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Taiwanese tea shop The Alley has been adding to its roster the last few years. Check out the latest branch in Mississauga at Eglinton and Winston Churchill (2901 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 8B).

If you’re a “but first boba” kinda person, the new Bobacha Cafe & Snack Bar in Parkdale (1660 Queen St. W.) will excite you. Soft opening is Saturday.

City Cottage Market (1427 Kingston Rd.) brings together a bevy of local everyday essentials under one roof. Doors open Friday at 8:30am.

D Spot Dessert Cafe (6987 Yonge St.) is right at the corner of Yonge & Steeles, making it extremely convenient for North Yorkers to stop for sweet treats on the way home.

TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop first. For those just catching up, the Toronto outpost of award-winning Italian fine dining restaurant Don Alfonso 1890 at King & Yonge briefly closed in 2020 before transitioning into a 60-seat pop-up at Casa Loma's Conservatory. Psst. Fire up the Ferrari because they've found a permanent home atop The Westin Harbour Castle (formerly Toula Restaurant & Bar) set to launch this summer. In the meantime, take a sneak peek. Pro tip: Reservations are open for June 16 and beyond.

Slinging signature drinks and empanadas at Queen and Ossington for years, El Almacen Yerba Mate Cafe at long last has a second location, at Lawrence and Weston (1917 Weston Rd.).

Happy Burger came on the scene as a smash burger ghost kitchen right before the pandemic hit, followed by a brick-and-mortar spot months later. The virtual concept is now available IRL (881 Yonge St.), just south of Bloor - previously home to Mykonos Mediterranean Grill.

Hakka fare is finally starting to make its way downtown. “The House of Chili Chicken,” aka Hakka Heaven, touched down at Dundas and Keele in the Junction (2865 Dundas St. W.).

Kakushin (Commerce Gate 505 Highway 7, Unit 6) in Thornhill sets its sushi apart from the crowd with menu selections of wagyu beef (U.S. and Australian), poke bowls (including a wagyu benny), a smoked duck roll, and Spam musubi.

Leeko Bistro (685 Lansdowne Ave., Unit 2) shares a space with its original Asian concept in Bloordale, Roll & Bowl, offering grab-and-go Korean brunch and dinner items.

If this week needs anything, it's freshly baked doughnuts. And Machino Donuts is here to help. The second location softly opened at Dundas and Bloor (1556 Bloor St. W.) Wednesday with their signature handmade vegan doughnuts and cronuts. You’re welcome. PSA: If you were a TR Newsletter subscriber, you’d already be in the know.

ISO Indian street food in Etobicoke? Look no further than Masala Blvd (3260 Lakeshore Blvd. W.).

Mocha Mocha (489 Danforth Ave.) has been a fixture on the Danforth since 1991. After more than thirty years, a second location recently debuted at Dundas and Kingston Road (64 Kingston Rd.), formerly Jody’s Deli.

Monga Fried Chicken’s ginormous Taiwanese fried chicken are now available in Richmond Hill (550 Highway 7 E, Unit 53).

Ossington Canteen (217 Ossington Ave.) is home to three ventures by local chefs: Gertie’s, Pies by Squires, and Republic Tacos. British meat pies, authentic Texas-style breakfast tacos, and peanut butter pies. What’s not to love?

The new home for Sea-Hi Famous Chinese Restaurant (7000 Bathurst St.) has finally officially launched. Fun fact: The Vaughan outpost is just minutes north of the original spot in Thornhill.

Basque cheesecake HQ Soft Dough Co. has a new home at Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St.).

Canada's largest shipping container market, Stackt Market (28 Bathurst St.), has been partially temporarily closed since the beginning of March. Everything’s back as of Tuesday, including new vendors Toronto-based art duo Broadbent Sisters, vintage clothing store Loose Fade, handmade Mexican accessories shop Mexī-Cool, swimwear brand Mylo Swim, and aforementioned Soft Dough Co.

Union Station has been on a reinvention journey in recent years. Introducing new addition Tao Tea Leaf, specializing in Chinese teas in addition to tea blends and herbs. Find them in the Front Street Promenade.

A few weeks back, I told you about Eadry Foods’ new digs. The Side Kitchen (1093 Queen St. E.) in Leslieville is also home to Uncle Chuck’s Rubs & Sauces by chef Cheryl Torrance.

CLOSED

The Junction location of Amaya ( 2865 Dundas St. W.) has shuttered. For whats in its stead. See above.

Enigma Restaurant (1556 Bloor St. W.) is now a vegan dessert destination. Details above.

Despite being a relative newbie, final service for 7-seater Sushi Nishinokaze (2950 Kennedy Rd.) in Scarborough is Saturday. Don’t bother trying to secure a reservation though - Chef Vincent Gee’s spot has been booked for months. Stay tuned for details on what’s to come.

Though Toula Restaurant & Bar was perched on The Westin Harbour Castle, it was owned and operated by a third party, closing during the pandemic.

EVENTS

It’s your last chance to get in on Filipino Restaurant Month.

La Pizza Week kicks off on Sunday.

Mark your calendar: the next Toronto Queer Wine Night for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is happening Tuesday at Paradise Grapevine (841 Bloor St. W.).

NEWS

No injuries were reported for Thursday’s fire at Portuguese restaurant Churrasqueira Costa Verde (370 Oakwood Ave.).

Attention shoppers: TJX Canada has recalled a brand of vegan truffles.

ICYMI

Pastry chef Roma Sanderson of Noctua Bread Project doesn’t waste time on bad advice, stocks her fridge with fab ingredients, and enjoys an activity that most see as a chore. Discover more in this week’s At The Pass.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in March alone. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook 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 with others.

Need staff? Help promoting your menu, bottle shop, heated patio, private event space, but you’re on a budget? We can help. *Prices have been reduced to help local businesses during this time. Limited space available.