Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 23

Toronto restaurants, bars, cafes and shops raising money for Ukraine

Photo: Heavenly Perogy.

🕘 7 min read 

The hospitality industry is coming together for those affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Discover the exciting initiatives - and delicious fare - offered by local chefs, eateries and hotspots supporting relief efforts in Ukraine.

BARBERIAN’S STEAK HOUSE

Barberian’s Steak House (7 Elm St.) has added a side of Pierogies ($13) to the menu - $10 donated for each order. To date, over 150 orders have been sold. Owner Arron Barberian made the first donation to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) a few days ago and donated 1,000,000 Aeroplan miles to Miles4Migrants to help refugees. 

BARREL HOUSE KORCHMA

Ukrainian restaurant Barrel House Korchma (2385 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) in Etobicoke has set up a cash donation box on-site for the Friends of Ukraine Defense Forces Fund (FUDF Fund). Anyone wishing to donate can take a homemade Ukrainian Heart Cookie made by Sonia Kostiw, a graduate of the Humber Baking & Pastry Arts Management Program and owner of home-based bakery Golden Sunflour. Two weeks ago, she created Cookies in Support of Ukraine, a fundraiser with all proceeds from the cookies went to Guardian Angels Ukraine Fund, raising $3,200. Currently, with every cookie or cake order she receives, 50 per cent of sales will be donated to humanitarian aid in Ukraine.

COOKERY
Kitchenware store and cooking school Cookery with three Toronto locations (303 Roncesvalles Ave. | 2302 Bloor St. W. | 2588 Yonge St.) is helping the Ukrainian war effort with a live online cooking class fundraiser on March 25. During the real-time Zoom with the store and Chef Sasha Gaponovitch, you will prep and cook a meal of traditional Ukrainian food - Chicken Kiev, fresh salad, Deruny (potato pancakes), and Biskvit (apple cake) - while enjoying a glass of wine or two from Amy McIntyre's pairings selected from the LCBO. All proceeds will go to the Ukraine war effort and local Ukrainian community  Register by March 18 and be entered to win free wine pairings. Winner will receive two wines selected, and all participants will be entered to win one of several prizes.

DISTRICT PIZZA

In solidarity with Ukraine, District Pizza in The Distillery District (32 Gristmill Lane) created Pierogies for Peace, with 100 per cent of the proceeds supporting humanitarian relief efforts. Order Cheese & Potato Pierogies ($8⁣)  (caramelized onions + $1, bacon + $2, onions & bacon + $3) directly from the pizzeria’s website.

THE GRAND TRUNK

Alison Barrie, owner of Parkdale's cozy watering hole The Grand Trunk (1718 Queen St. W.) and The Queen's End Cafe & Emporium (1664 Queen St. W.) that debuted in November, is constantly supporting others. For every $6 a shot of Ukrainian vodka at The Grand Trunk, $3 will be donated to the Kyiv School of Economics for safety equipment. Booze not your thing? Cash and e-transfer donations are also being accepted.

Photo: Gusto 101. Mafalade Ai Funghi.

GUSTO 101

Buzzy Italian destination Gusto 101 (101 Portland St.) “stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people during this humanitarian crisis,” and is donating $1 from each Mafalade Ai Funghi sold March 14-April 14 to World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization  providing fresh and nourishing meals to Ukrainian families fleeing home, in addition to those who remain in the country.

HEAVENLY PEROGY

Ukrainian restaurant Heavenly Perogy inside St. Volodymyr Cathedral (400 Bathurst St.) is collecting donations for medical and humanitarian supplies with drop-off locations in Toronto and Oakville. You can also donate to the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal and Friends of Ukraine Defense Forces Fund (FUDF Fund).

HOTBLACK COFFEE

Purchase a Ukrainian Cookie ($2) made with all-natural blueberry and lemon flavouring and colouring and/or a Blue & Yellow Duckie ($4 ea.) at any HotBlack Coffee location (1921 Yonge St. | 245 Queen St. W. | 2196 Bloor St. W.). All proceeds from sales will be donated to Humanitarian Efforts for the People of Ukraine, via the Ukranian Canadian Social Services Toronto. Founding partner Jimson Bienenstock said in a phone interview with Toronto Restaurants, “It’s not about being pro-Ukrainian or anti-Russian, Far from it. it’s about being pro-humanitarian.” 

Photo: Terrace Take-Away. Patychky (pork on a stick).

TERRACE TAKE-AWAY

Terrace Take-Away located inside Oakville’s St. Joseph’s Ukrainian Catholic Church (300 River Oaks Blvd. E.) specializes in homemade Ukrainian fare. Think: comforting fare such as soup, crepes, pierogies, cutlets, cabbage rolls, sides and desserts. Until April 15, ten per cent of all food sales will be directed towards humanitarian aid for Ukraine.

#CHEFSFORUKRAINE

Chefs Matt Dean Pettit and Tom Milosz Malycha are hosting a #ChefsforUkraine fundraiser at Pearl Diver (100 Adelaide St. E.) Monday, March 14 at 6-9pm. The event is drop-in (visit anytime, no RSVP or ticket required in advance). Enjoy a “Taste of Ukraine” plate and one drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) for $30 and purchase raffle tickets (3/$10) for a chance to wine great prizes. There’s a cash bar. Donations for humanitarian relief (coloured duct tape, construction gloves, emergency blankets, flashlights, sleeping bags, tents, candles, and new thermal clothes) will be accepted on-site. All donations (both monetary and relief items) will be delivered into Lviv and dispersed to relevant Ukrainian relief organizations with a support of Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Sophia. Can’t make the event? Donate via e-transfer: anna.voblaia at gmail.com.

Note: Menu items, prices and availability subject to change. Please contact establishments directly for information. 

Be sure to check back often, follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the newsletter for updates.

Are you or someone you know in hospitality raising funds and/or collecting donations for Ukraine? Get in touch.   

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News March 10-16, 2022

Photo courtesy of Sweetie Pie.

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.

🕘 12 min read

Masks are coming off, days are getting longer, and the comings and goings happening right now is out of control. This week’s 24 arrivals are just the tip of the iceberg.

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

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Chefs/owners Gerry Quintero and Mandy Sou are celebrating the soft opening of Alma + Gil’s new store today (1543 Dupont St.). Find breakfast sandos, power bowl, juices to go and pantry items Thursday-Friday 12-3pm for now.

The owner behind last month’s new Bar 244 (244 Adelaide St W.) also purchased Pravda Vodka Bar  (44 Wellington Ave. E.) approximately a year-and-a-half ago, with the intention to revamp the brand, but COVID lockdowns delayed everything. Say hello to Brash & Sassy Vodka Bar. Launch parties are happening this weekend. 

The Cat On Q’s grand opening took place Saturday. The new live music and event venue complete with all-day kitchen is sister eatery to The Cat Pub & Eatery (3513 Dundas St. W.) in The Junction and replaced 817 Sports Bar & Grill (817 Queen St. W.) that shuttered last winter.

Donut Hive has finally arrived in Mississauga (724 Lakeshore Rd. E.). Tuck into everything from Strawberry Basil filled to dipped confections that look like Spider-Man.

It seems the pandemic hasn’t slowed Gladiator Burger & Steak one bit. Check out their latest arrival at Kennedy and Ellesmere (1961 Kennedy Rd.) in Scarborough.

The menu at Happy Fishman Chinese Seafood Cuisine (3636 Steeles Ave. E., Unit 151-153) in Markham is extensive. How extensive, you ask? There are 40 “Chef’s Recommendation” dishes alone. 

Following a recent arrival just a few weeks ago, Holy Shakes and T.O.’s Kathi Roll Eatery (3035 Argentia Rd.,Unit 6) landed in Mississauga.

Holy Wiches (6039 Erin Mills Pkwy, Unit 1B) in Mississauga has got you covered for sandwiches, wraps and bowls. 

New burger joint Hong Bo Burger & Poutine in First Markham Place Food Court (3255 Highway 7 E., Unit 251), specializes in Asian-style varieties (Kimchi, Teriyaki, Crispy Shrimp). And while you can order it with a regular bun, the beet (pink) or charcoal (black) variety will definitely catch likes on your feed. Also available: selection of spaghetti, salad, poutine, sides and drinks.

Condo dwellers and workers in the King and Portland area have a few more healthy options thanks to Liberty Shawarma (565 King St. W.).

La Piscina (1615 Dundas St. W.) has been going by its new name and look since February 9. Known as Safehouse Coffee since 2016, the café, grocery and lounge has great local goods for the pantry – Mattachioni frozen pizza, Ontario Honey Creations Hot Honey, Huber Farms Turkey Sausage Patties, Propeller Coffee – but don’t sleep on the evening cozy bar vibes, accompanied by occasional paint nights.

New Pie Co.’s new digs at King and Niagara across from Stanley Park (852 King St. W.) launch Sunday. Enjoy $5 slices, a new pie flavour (Chai Mango!), new products, and much more. Read about founder Shiela Labao  in this week’s At The Pass.

Haligonians take their donair seriously. Oliver’s Pizza & Donair (400 Dundas St. E.) in Mississauga is receiving rave reviews on Google for the east coast wraps and pizza. 

Bubble tea lovers, get ready. The grand opening for Palgong Tea at Metro Square (3636 Steeles Ave. E., Unit 125) kicks off Saturday at noon. Pro tip: Get there early. The first 100 customers receive a free milk tea. The rest can enjoy a BOGO offer - Buy any drink, get a free original or taro milk tea with one topping until March 18. 

Grace ran her convenience store River Variety (117 River St.) in Regent Park for 20 years before having to move due to condo development. Luckily, her new home isn’t far away. She transformed a massage parlour at Broadview and Dundas (269 Broadview Ave.) into a welcoming space complete with high ceilings and artful touches without. Shop home essentials, fun treats (Uncle Ray’s!), flowers, lottery tickets, and other items.

Find Persian specialties such as Kashk-e-Bademjan, Aash Reshteh, Baghali Polo & Mahiche,  and Gheimeh Stew at Shamshiri Restaurant (280 Sheppard Ave. E.) at Bayview and Sheppard in North York.  

Barbecue season has officially arrived, thanks to Smokehouse & Co. (910 Rowntree Dairy Rd., Unit 23) in Vaughan. Traditional southern fare includes chicken, sausage, ribs, wings, pulled pork, and brisket, with a variety of accompaniments.

“Urban inspired” North American eatery State & Main Kitchen & Bar has 15 locations across the province. Their first ghost kitchen just landed in Toronto (212 King St. W.).

Sub Division (461 King St. W., Lower Level) is changing the game. A bar without phones or bottle service – are you in?

2021 was a banner year for Sweetie Pie. 2022 is also looking pretty great. Find the very latest dessert destination in Leaside (1639 Bayview Ave., entrance on Fleming). Doors opened yesterday.

Taiwanese tea chain TP Tea has kept busy during the pandemic. Find the latest at Yonge and Wellesley (10 Wellesley St. E., Unit 105B).

It’s raining mini doughnuts at 6ix Donutz’s first location near York University (45 Four Winds Dr.).

99 Bottles Craft Alcohol & Bodega (925 Kingston Rd.) debuted earlier this week. Pick up everything from craft brews and takeout to  plants and wine. So, pretty much all the essentials you need for the weekend.

CLOSED         

Ginger Restaurant (355 Yonge St.), a fixture at Yonge and Dundas for years, is papered up. The eatery known for “Viet famous food” has three other locations: Yonge & Bloor (695 Yonge St.), Queen & University (212 Queen St. W.), and North York (2590 Weston Rd.).

This is the final weekend to get in on Jack and Lil's (684 St Clair Ave. W., entrance via rear laneway). The South African commissary by mother-and-son duo Lauren and Dan Gütter launched six-and-a-half years ago.

Mi'hito Sushi Laboratory (4 Edward St.) shuttered as of February 15. Locations in Toronto (55 Avenue Rd. and 285 College St.) and Mississauga (90 Courtneypark Dr.) remain open.

Sunday’s the last day for Mi Taco Taqueria’s Queen and University location (247 Queen St. W.). 

Oakville’s The Wine Bar (100 Bronte Rd., Unit 9) may be closed, but it’s not forever. Stay tuned.

CHANGES

The Compass Foodbank provides food and support for people in South Mississauga who are affected by low income. (Everyone is welcome.) Find them in their new home in Port Credit (427 Lakeshore Rd. E.) Doors opened Monday. They are currently accepting donations.

EVENTS

Get in on the fun at MapleLicious – enjoy maple-themed promotions from Cabbagetown businesses, with a finale celebration on Sunday, April 3.

NEWS

The news of celebrated winemaker Paul Pender’s death last month rocked the industry. According to the CBC, a Hamilton man has been charged with second-degree murder.

Hugh's Room Live has finally found a new home. A fixture in the west end for years, is moving east. The new digs: A heritage church building (296 Broadview Ave.) just south of East Chinatown and north of The Broadview Hotel. The building designed by renowned Toronto architect Edward James Lennox (a few examples of his work: Old City Hall, Casa Loma) is just the first step. Funding is next.

Psst. Chef Patrick Kriss of award-winning Alo Restaurant, Aloette, Alobar Yorkville, and Salon is helming signature restaurant Alder at Ace Hotel Toronto (51 Camden St.) set to open this summer. The acclaimed chef will be at the new wood-fired restaurant "often," while "a chef team who will be running the day-to-day kitchen operations," Khuong Phan, in charge of F+B/PR for the hotel, confirmed via email. p.s. If you were a TR Newsletter subscriber, you would have received the two items above ahead of the crowd. Stop missing out and subscribe already.

Do you have what it takes to be on Top Chef Canada? Apply now.

ICYMI 

One of the most exciting launches of 2021? Little Sister Baking at Market 707. The micro Desi bakery by talented siblings Le Cordon Bleu alum Akash and marketing pro Tanvi, is THE place to be. (Hot tip: New menu juuust dropped. Get in on Black Pepper Chicken Puff, Rasam Galette, Narangi Shahi Tukda, Haldi Doodh and more!) Discover this dynamic duo’s favourite bars + restos around town, guilty pleasures, hidden talents and much more in this week’s fascinating At The Pass.

As of Monday last week, proof of vaccination is no longer required at restaurants. Some owners however, have chosen to keep the policy in place, while others have already changed their mind. Get the update.

Are you ready to hang up your mask?

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in February 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. Share the love: send a note or testimonial. 

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. 

At The Pass with Akash & Tanvi Swar

Little Sister Baking’s sisters and co-owners Akash (l) and Tanvi (r) Swar.

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 Akash and Tanvi Swar.

🕒 6 min read

Sisters and co-owners Little Sister Baking - Pastry Chef Akash Swar and Marketing Professional Tanvi Swar

Formerly

AS: Le Cordon Bleu, Auberge Du Pommier, Buca, Chase Hospitality Group, Nugateau
TS: I’ve only worked in advertising before.

Favourite dish to make right now

AS: Chicken Biryani.
TS: I’m obsessed with making Chicken Tinga. I meal prep it all the time – it’s easy and makes like six different meals and it’s just delicious.

Last cookbook purchase

AS: Room For Dessert by Will Goldfarb. It was actually a present.
TS: Pangat, a Feast: Food and Lore from Marathi Kitchens by Saree Koranne-Khandekar  

Have you read it/tried any recipes 

AS: I've read the book, but haven’t tried any recipes out yet. It has inspired me though.
TS: I haven’t, but I have my eye on the Green Fish Curry!

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

AS: Gimmicky foods made for Instagram that taste mediocre. Gimmicky foods made for Instagram that taste amazing are GREAT.
TS: Under seasoned food. 

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

AS: South Indian food - South Indian food has so much complexity and flavour and it’s just under-explored in Toronto right now!
TS: South East Asian Curry Laksa has finally arrived in Canada and I’d like to see more of it in the West End. Selfishly, I’m also really excited about the explosion of Sri Lankan and Malaysian food right now! 

Desi Pasta. Spiced pasta sauce topped with Chicken Tikka or Paneer Tikka. “The spices really give the sauce some extra body.”

Biggest influences

AS: The bakery culture in Mumbai, my family’s cooking, Will Goldfarb for his unique approach towards pastry.
TS: Family recipes, bakeries in Bombay, and a lot of food historians and anthropologists.

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

AS: I don’t really have specific restaurant choices, but I truly enjoy the simplicity of home cooked meals and street food in Mumbai.
TS: Honestly my list is super long and would probably start in Mumbai, but right now closer to home I really want experience Oji Seichi and Mark Sushi.

Last thing you ate

AS: Shawarma in Dubai.
TS: Worst question right now because I ate a mishmash dinner of butter bean tuna salad, fries, pickles, pickled lupini beans, and watermelon with Tajin.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

AS: Ginger garlic paste, chillies, butter.
TS: Cheese, pickles, hot sauce.

Guilty pleasure

AS: Popcorn.
TS: Cactus Club Café - I dream of their Szechuan Chicken Lettuce Wraps daily.

Narangi Shahi Tukda. Shahi Tukda is “South Asia’s answer to bread pudding.”

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

AS: Chef Harwash, Banu, Pizzeria Badiali.
TS: I honestly have too many… Bernhardt’s, Lakeshore Food Company, Banu.

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

AS: Civil Liberties, Rhum Corner, WVRST.
TS: Birriera Volo, Paradise Grapevine, Bang Sue.

Go-to drink  

AS: N/A.
TS: Anything on a menu that has gin, cucumber or lime and rum - Dark + Stormy or Negroni.

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

AS: Eating irregularly.
TS: Being messy… Don’t worry, I don’t cook in the LSB kitchen! 

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

AS: Creating a prep list, and then following it to the t, being super super super super super organized.
TS: Experimenting even when it feels like no one cares.

Chai and Pakoras.

Hidden talent

AS: I actually have a really good singing voice and studied Indian classical singing as well as Kathak, a classic Indian dance form.
TS:  I paint and cook well - but suck at baking and don’t cook professionally.

Best career advice you ever received

AS: Don’t give up and always fold your towels. - Will Goldfarb who signed my Room for Dessert book.
TS: N/A.

Worst career advice you ever received

AS: N/A.
TS: N/A.

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

AS: Plan everything in advance, keep a positive mindset and be ready to learn everything and anything you can.
TS: N/A.

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 newsletter.  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News March 3-9, 2022

Photo courtesy of Maker Pizza.

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.

🕘 10 min read

If you thought it was busy before, just you wait. With spring just around the corner and restaurants back to full capacity, things are just ramping up. This week’s 20 arrivals and slew of closures are just the beginning. But don’t ditch your vaccine passport just yet.

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

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Pro tip: Add Alforat’s Iraqi street food at Victoria Park and Lawrence (1756 Victoria Park Ave.) to your to-do list.

858 Eglinton Ave. E. has been a real hotbed of culinary talent since its debut last summer. First with Conspiracy Pizza, then Churnt Up, and Phamilyeats. Midnight Cookie followed in October, with Southern Crown Caribbean Smokehouse added just last week. Bao Is Life marks the sixth venture to join the gang in Leaside. Woon Chung (Roger) Li started in six or seven years ago as a side catering hustle with a night’s pop-up once a year, it grew to pop-ups here and there, but nothing consistent. Until now. Li launched the Taiwanese eatery at the beginning of the month with the help of Conspiracy Pizza, where he’s been working since 2017. The menu - traditional Taiwanese and Chinese street food with “a unique twist” – is “in some way a reflection of Toronto's culture - the best of many cultures gathered in same place.” 

Chef Gunateet is cooking up a storm of Indian and Hakka fare at Bloor and Dundas West. Bawara (1570 Bloor St. W.) opened earlier this month.

Benny’s Barbecue (2409 Yonge St., Unit 106) by owner/executive chef Ben Slan and assistant pitmaster Andrew Golden specializes in ”traditional Texas style barbecue, with a craft smokehouse twist.” What does that mean exactly?  You’ll have to visit to find out. Doors open Wednesday.

Better Half Bar (663 Greenwood Ave.), the east end’s new destination for beer, wine, cocktails and pizza, launched last Tuesday, while North of Brooklyn Pizzeria arrived a little earlier.

Gastropub Blackburn Social House (488 College St.) debuted in Little Italy November 11. Armin Eftekhari, Mac Savage, Collin Wong, and Coulton Speight have banded together to recreate their time and memories in Sandy Hill, Ottawa. Chef Speight’s finer dining experience (London Steakhouse Company, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Victor Restaurant - Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer, Taboo Muskoka) gives the comfort food driven menu - Dirty Poutine ($16), Hennessey Garlic Shrimp ($16), Duck Confit Sandwich ($24), The Toronto Cheesesteak ($24), Vegan Gnocchi ($22), Truffle Lobsta Del Cheese ($30) - a sophisticated touch.

Monique and Jess are the mother-daughter duo behind uptown’s grounded. Coffeebar (3454 Yonge St.). Doors opened Tuesday.

A mighty trio - Asian tea bar Icha Tea, succulent shop Springer Garden, and fashion accessories by June Studio - has moved into what was Montgomery’s (996 Queen St. W.) that shuttered almost a year ago.

In the Dufferin and Eglinton ‘hood? Impact Kitchen’s new virtual kitchen at Kitchen Hub Food Hall Castlefield (1121 Castlefield Ave.) has got you for their signature power bowls, smoothies, soups, baked goods and other nutrient dense food.

Nashville hot chicken lovers in the east end are in luck: Juicy Birds just launched at Pape and Danforth (721 Pape Ave.).

The second GTA location of  Ottawa-based 24-hour chain Kettleman’s Bagel launched downtown today at Front and Niagara (33 Bathurst St.). Hot tip: If you’re all about St. Patrick’s Day festivities, you’ll want to get in on their hand-rolled Montreal green variety and Irish Cream cream cheese while you can. 

Khazana by Chef Sanjeev Kapoor has locations in Brampton and Milton, but the first Toronto outpost of the fine dining eatery just landed across from the Eaton Centre, next to CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre in what was formerly Tim Hortons. Acclaimed chef Sanjeev Kapoor has published over 175 cookbooks, has more than 100 restaurants across the globe and is the recipient of the Padma-Shri Award for his “culinary contribution and for putting India on the world's culinary map.”

Kitchen Hub debuted right before the pandemic. The virtual food hall has since built up its roster, expanded with a second location and most recently, added a third outpost (1121 Castlefield Ave.) at Dufferin & Eglinton, with a new restaurant already in the mix. (See above.)

Soft vegan chocolate chip cookies are the name of the game at Major’s Cookies. Find them at their freshly baked pop-up at The District Kitchen at Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) until March 13.

Maker Pizza has been making serious moves this last while. Store #4 kicks off at Bloor and Dovercourt (995 Bloor St. W.) tomorrow. FYI: If you were a TR Newsletter subscriber, you’d already be in the know.

Marquin (2523 Yonge St.) offers handcrafted, Venezuelan fare inspired by the area of Mérida.

In the mood for shawarma? Mr Eater (73 Queen St. E.) at Queen and Church has got you covered. 

This weather calls for ramen. The North Japanese Noodle Bar in Markham’s Langham Square (28 South Unionville Ave., Unit 1056 – Upper Floor) is currently offering 20 per cent off pick up orders until April 30 to celebrate the soft launch.

Psst. There's a new restaurant-discothèque in town. Pizza Wine Disco (788 King St. W.) debuted Saturday in what was formerly Ovest Cucina e Vineria. Call it dinner and dancing for the modern age. Fun facts:  1. It’s not the first (Sprezzatura Spaghetti Disco) and mark my words, not likely to be the last. 2. TR Newsletter subscribers got the intel first. 

Shop for a variety of fruit and veg at Season Fruit House (679 Mt Pleasant Rd.), next to the iconic Mount Pleasant Theatre.

CLOSED 

Arepatite (2523 Yonge St.) is “Closed until further notice” and the space is already occupied. See above.

The folks behind Spice and Aroma have closed the chapter on Aroma Food Hall (639 Yonge St.) at Yonge and Isabella for now.

The space that was Döner Express in Greektown (721 Pape Ave.) is already occupied. See above.

Old Bleu Café (73 Queen St. E.) has permanently closed after being a fixture at Queen and Church for what seemed like forever. 

Est. 1984, Orwell’s Pub (3373 Bloor St. W.) served the Etobicoke community for 37 years before closing for good earlier this week.

After four years, Lindsey Bevan and Jordan Williams of Sidenote in Mimico-by-the-Lake’s Seaway Plaza (2461 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) are “taking a step back from small business ownership to focus on new opportunities and our growing family.”

South China Restaurant (513 Mt. Pleasant Rd.) was a staple in the Davisville neighbourhood for over 65 years.

As of Monday, Stack Market (28 Bathurst St.) is partially closed for scheduled site maintenance until May. All Bathurst St. storefronts remain open during this time.⁠

Viva Napoli Pizzeria (679 Mt Pleasant Rd.) has been closed for some time. Psst. A new occupant just moved in. Details up top.

ICYMI 

Proof of vaccination is no longer required at bars, restaurants + other businesses in Ontario. Or is it? Discover why you shouldn’t delete your enhanced vaccination certificate with QR code just yet.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in January 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. Share the love: send a note or submit a testimonial.

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. 

Ontario ditches proof of vaccination, but some bars and restaurants are playing it safe

Hot tip: Don’t delete your enhanced vaccination certificate with QR code just yet.

🕘 11 min read

On February 14, the provincial government announced all regions in Ontario will move into the Roadmap Exit Step on March 1, 2022.  

Effective today, almost all COVID-19 restrictions come to an end in Ontario, including the lifting of all remaining capacity limits for indoor public settings and proof of vaccination is no longer required for all settings.

This easing of measures (O. Reg. 364/20) swiftly follows previous restrictions lifted less than two weeks ago. As of February 17, 2022, restaurants and bars and other food or drink establishments without dance facilities no long have:

- Capacity limits
- Table seat limits
- Physical distancing
- Patrons to remain seated while eating or dining
- Capacity signage
- Contract tracing (as of January 31).

Restrictions for businesses at that time included other changes, such as: no dancing if the establishment does not have dance facilities. If it does, establishments such as nightclubs, restoclubs and other similar establishments, 25% capacity is permitted indoor, 75% outdoor, and singing is finally permitted again.

This quick change is in sharp contrast to government mandates in previous weeks: On December 17, 2021, new measures and restrictions in response to the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant were announced including time limits for operating hours, service and the sale of alcohol. Indoor dining was banned as of January 5, 2022, then permitted at half capacity on January 31.

In the almost two years since dining rooms were first ordered to close due to COVID-19, the hospitality industry has had to adhere to a battery of strict lockdowns, closures and protocols other sectors were not subject to. Understandably, some owners remain wary of these newfound ‘freedoms.’

PASSPORT, PLEASE

Now that businesses and organizations can “choose to require proof of vaccination upon entry,” a number of local establishments have decided to keep Ontario’s vaccination “passport” with recently enforced QR codes and active screening in place. For now, anyway.  

Stuart Sakai, owner of Japanese eatery and sake bar Sakai Bar at Dundas and Brock, posted a message on social. In part: “We’ve a very small team working a small room with a small group of lovely diners. As such, for the time being I feel that it’s in the best interest of our patrons and staff that we continue to check vaccine status via ontario’s [sic] enhanced vaccine certificate and ID’s of diners.”

Stephen Schweighardt. owner of café/bar Larry’s Folly in Parkdale shared a similar sentiment on social media: “As a team, we have decided it is in the best interest of our staff and to all of you - those who have trusted us and our space enough to spend time here during such tumultuous times - that we will CONTINUE to screen for proof of vaccination if you wish to join us inside. It’s been a long road for all of us to get to this point, where most of us can feel comfortable dining inside for a coffee or drink, or going to see live music like we did last night. We’re just not quite ready to risk losing that again.” He continues on a more personal note: “There are so many factors at play in this decision, professionally but also personally. I have loved ones who are not well, newborn nieces and nephews who I want to see and people I need to be there for. At the moment, this is a small part I can play to allow for that in my life and for my staff. We will re-evaluate in a month’s time and make an informed decision then. If you have any issues with this, please contact me directly. There will be zero tolerance for anyone who decides to take this up with my staff. Mutual respect is all we ask. See you out there, be kind to one another 💛”

In a post announcing folks appearing behind the bar for the evening of March 1, wine shop, bar and winery Paradise Grapevine closed with: “For the comfort of our staff and guests we will be checking vax passports for the event tonight.”

Mandatory vaccinations to enter or patronize a bar, restaurant, hotel, or other food and drink establishments in Ontario were announced September 1, 2021, and effective as of September 22, 2021. At that time, government issued photo ID and proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (two doses plus 14 days) either PDF printed hard copy or digitally was required. Enhanced vaccine certificate with QR code became required January 31, 2022 - just 29 days before the government nixed it.

Backlash and boycotts of businesses due to mandatory vaccinations occurred when they were decreed by government. The decision of what’s best for their employees and their customers, is again, in the hands of owners.

It might not be long before masks are no longer required.

MASK ON OR OFF?

While mask mandates continue, it might not be long before they too can be tossed aside. According to Premier Doug Ford during a press conference on Monday, as early as after March Break, only a few weeks away.

This follows the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada’s statement including the importance of wearing a mask released November 21, 2021, just over three months ago: “While COVID-19 is still circulating in Canada and internationally, public health practices remain crucial.” “In particular, physical distancing and properly wearing a well-fitted and well-constructed face mask when in public or private spaces with others outside of your household, provide additional layers of protection that further reduce your risk inall [sic] settings.”

Public Health Ontario’s 18-page Evidence Brief, ‘SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant and Community Masking,’ dated less than a month after the aforementioned statement (December 15, 2021), begins with the following key messages:

“Emerging evidence suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of concern (VOC) is highly transmissible, as it has higher growth rates and secondary household attack rates compared to the Delta variant, and associated with lower vaccine effectiveness. It is currently unclear if the observed increase in transmissibility could be related to an increase in infectiousness of aerosols.”

“Prevention measures should be optimized with a layered approach to mitigate against conditions conducive to transmission such as the “3 C’s”: closed spaces, crowded places, and close contact. This approach includes wearing well-fitting and well-constructed masks.”

“With the emergence of Omicron, multiple European jurisdictions (i.e., Denmark, England, France, Finland, Germany, Ireland and Norway) have maintained or strengthened masking recommendations and requirements in public settings where they may have previously relaxed or were considering relaxing masking policies. Some jurisdictions (i.e., France, Germany and Italy) have recommended masks with specific filtering levels (i.e., medical masks or respirators instead of cloth masks) in select settings such as public transit and schools.”

“In the current Omicron risk context, it is recommended that mask fit and filtration are optimized. This can be achieved by wearing a non-fit tested respirator (N95s, KN95s) or wellfitted medical mask. A high quality 3-layer non-medical mask (i.e., cloth masks) can be a reasonable alternative if it promotes adherence. Respirators are designed to closely fit or seal to the face, and while fit-testing is not required for use in the community, N95s without fit-testing and KN95s cannot be assumed to filter all of the air inhaled (i.e., respiratory protection).” 

“Given the early evidence that Omicron variant is more highly transmissible than the Delta variant with potential increased contribution of aerosol transmission, and is associated with reduced vaccine effectiveness and increased risk of re-infection, selecting a mask that optimizes fit and filtration that can be worn correctly and comfortably by the general public in community settings may enhance the current public health measures.”

The brief above was published nearly three months ago. Changes with the variants are happening quickly. Is is time for masks to come off or do they continue to play a crucial role in the prevention of spreading viruses such as COVID-19?

PROCEEDING WITH CAUTION

March 1, 2022 marks the dawn of a new day for the hospitality industry in Ontario, but after the constant change of rules and regulations over two years, owners and workers have plenty of reasons to be trepidatious and to proceed with caution.

Are the current easing of restrictions too much too soon in the wake of Omicron or long overdue? However you view the changes, one thing is certain: the industry’s road to recovery is incredibly arduous, rocky, complicated, and still a long way off.

For more information about COVID-19 and vaccinations, visit the Ontario Health website.

Get caught up on the latest Toronto restaurant news and COVID updates.

For breaking news, interviews and much more, follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the newsletter.   

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News February 24-March 2, 2022

Photo courtesy of Mandy’s.

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

🕘 10 min read

A short workweek is a break for some; for others, it results in more work in less time. Complete disregard of the calendar (and weather for that matter) continues to be a driving theme when it come to hospitality openings. This week’s 23 arrivals and notable closures? Just the latest example.

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

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

New year, new vibe. Bar 244 (2 Bishop St.) at Adelaide and Duncan is under new ownership and has been revived and renovated. Doors open Friday at 8pm, with bottle discounts in effect for opening weekend. 

Tired of having to make separate trips to shop bubble tea and hoodies? Fashion bubble tea café Benkei Hime from China is about to change all that. Shop everything from hats and mugs to basketballs and skateboard decks  while sipping boba in the North America flagship. Doors open Saturday at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St., Unit A004, Lower Level).

Bhojan Alley (1424 Dundas St. W.) takes over Gayley’s Café former spot in Little Portugal that closed in November. On the menu: Ttandoor specialties (Murgh Malai Tikka) traditional fare (Dal Makhani, Chana Masala), and takes on classics such as Koliwada Fish & Chips) and “Alley Eats” – Indian street food inspired small plates such as arancini-eqsue Biriyani Bomb, and Naanza – a pizza-style dish with naan base. Soft launch continues until  February 28.

Blondies Pizza (419 Parliament St.) launched Friday, solely on Uber Eats due to oven shortages. Full operations for the Cabbagetown location are expected to follow sometime next month.

Burger Bloc (3870 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 53) in Mississauga has a focused menu with seven burgers, two sandos, nuggets, wings, and slew of sides.

Authentic Indian eatery on the east side Cumin Kitchen (1820 Danforth Ave.) has joined Kitchen Hub East (234 Parliament St.).

Daniel’s Chai Bar by ITEI Certified Tea Master Sommelier Daniel Lewis and wife Renata recently reopened at Bramalea City Centre. Get in on the Famous Lion Chai Latte until Monday at The District Kitchen at Square One (100 City Centre Dr.).

After entering the scene just two months ago, GoodGood launched a second shop (140A The Esplanade) today, the first with café/wine bar and patio. To celebrate, enjoy a free drink and mini doughnut from Tori’s Bakeshop throughout the day, with other promotions to follow through the weekend.

It’s easy to satiate your fish and chip craving in Vaughan now, thanks to Halibut House (1840 Major MacKenzie Dr. W.).

I introduced you to Chef Onur Yilmaz and his stellar ice cream shop almost a year ago. Since then, temporary digs followed last summer, but a permanent home has proved elusive. Until now. Ice Creamonology (250 Queens Quay W.) debuts Saturday at noon at. In the meantime, discover the unique rewards and challenges he and other top Toronto chefs face making this irresistible frozen treat. p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers got word first.

Bubble tea chain Kung Fu Tea is on a mission to bring their signature drinks to wherever you may be. For those in the Dixie & Burnhamthorpe area of Mississauga, you’re in luck. The latest store (4120 Dixie Rd., Unit 6) is celebrating the soft opening with 20 per cent off all drinks 38 Milk King for $4.88 (L) until March 12. This location only. Terms and conditions apply.

Modern Vietnamese bakery LA LA Bakeshop arrived downtown last fall. The #VeryAsian destination filled with full-size cakes (Salted Egg, Durian Supreme), minis (Vietnamese Coffee Tiramisu, Matcha Pandan), buns (Lava Cream Cheese, Huế Sausage with Crispy Shallots), croissants (Bánh Mì), and much more launched a second outpost in Scarborough ( 3272 Midland Ave., Unit B127). Doors opened Sunday. 

The motto at Mama's Liquor & Lounge (1602 Dundas St. W.) at Dundas and Brock: ‘Good drinks for bad people.’ Bonus: An Insta-worthy backdrop.

Mandy’s is an institution in Montreal. Co-founders and siblings Mandy and Rebecca Wolfe opened Montreal’s first create-your-own-salad bar in the back of a women’s clothing store in 2004 - with no prior food, business, marketing or advertising experience. Fast forward to present day: 8 locations throughout Montreal, a best-selling cookbook, signature dressings in grocery stores across Canada and more restaurants in the works, local and international. The  first Toronto outpost kicks off Tuesday on Ossington, just north of Queen (52 Ossington Ave.). Hot Tip: Can’t wait to dig into their vibrant salads, bowls, soups and smoothies? Delivery on DoorDash kicked off yesterday.

Naan & Kabob’s signature Afghan cuisine is now available in Woodbridge (7600 Weston Rd.).

TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to know: The secret to locating the city's newest hotspot, sushi takeout/market Oroshi Fish Co.? Head to 962 College St., then down the lane.  Psst. Look for the blue door. No password required

Southern Crown Caribbean Smokehouse joins the fab fam at Laird and Eglinton (858 Eglinton Ave. E.) featuring Conspiracy Pizza - the first to arrive in June, ice cream shop Churnt Up joined a week later, followed by Phamily Eats in July and Midnight Cookie in October.

Ta Fresk, home of the Salted Egg Sponge Cake, added a Vaughan shop (7600 Weston Rd.) last month. This marks the second location for the Vietnamese bakery.

Stop by Wild Hearts Café (509 Bloor St. W.) in the Annex for a coffee and fresh baked pastry.

Wow Bao’s signature bao and bowls are now available north of the border. The first Canadian branches of the fast-casual Asian concept established in Chicago in 2003 are available virtually through Ghost Kitchen Brands. There are eight in total in the GTA with four in and area Toronto: Etobicoke (270 Brown's Line), Mississauga (6200 Dixie Rd.), Erin Mills and inside Walmart (3757 Keele St.) at Keele and Downsview.

CLOSED

Chinese eatery Joyful House (543 St Clair Ave. W.) in Hillcrest Village shuttered.

Welp. After over 40 years in business, iconic Randy’s Patties (1569 Eglinton Ave. W.) is closing Saturday, causing lineups for blocks. You might want to camp out to ensure you get your fill.  And Toronto’s own Drake comment on Instagram  - “I’ll buy Randy’s right now.” –  is attracting press from around the world to the news.

A Notice of Termination is posted on the door of the Sultan of Samosas Dundas/Parliament location (1 Oak St.). Visit the East York location (1677 O’Connor Dr.) for all your samosa needs.

Final service for renowned 7-seater Sushi Nishinokaze (2950 Kennedy Rd.) in Scarborough isn’t until April 30, but tables are already booked. Doors opened October 2020 and temporarily closed last fall due to a medical emergency. Luckily, Chef Vincent Gee recovered and a new location is in the works. Watch this space. 

Uncle Mikey's (1597 Dundas St. W.) outgrew the space. Stay tuned. 

EVENTS

There’s still time to get in on Richmond Hill’s Winterlicious.

Taste of Oakville is on until March 10.

Get tickets for  The Roundhouse Winter Craft Beer Festival.

NEWS

Frito-Lay Canada is holding all the chips.

ICYMI

What does Family Day mean to you?

Follow Toronto Restaurants on Facebook or Instagram and show your favourite patty spots some love! #ShareTheLoveTO

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in January 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. Share the love: send a note or testimonial.

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.

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News February 17-23, 2022

Photo courtesy of Saint Island Pies.

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.

🕘 7.5 min read

Capacity limits at bars and restaurants are a thing (hopefully) of the past today. It’s the long weekend. And you’ve got 17 new destinations to give a whirl. This is more like it.

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

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The Alley unveiled new concept store The Alley Hub in Richmond Hill (8750 Bayview Ave., Unit 1) late last week, complete with areas for work or study. Bonus: Enjoy 15 per cent off drinks off our drink menu until February 20. In-store purchases only.

Find Vietnamese delights such as banh mi ($11), vermicelli bowls ($14), fried chicken boars ($11), viet donuts ($11), and taco peking bo kho ($12,  available Tues-Thurs) at Banh Haus (81 Huron St.) in Chinatown tucked below late night café, Lait Night.

The Bullger doesn’t play. Four locations in less than two years. Psst. The latest burger joint softly opens tomorrow. Find them in Scarborough at Ellesmere & Pharmacy (116 Ellesmere Rd.). Discover the rest of the roster.

Hot tip: Burger Factory opened Tuesday at Dundas and Dixie (1370 Dundas St. E.). Don’t miss the grand opening on Saturday: Cheeseburgers will be half price.

Crumbs Gourmet Patties has made Kensington Market home (160 Baldwin St., Unit 7B). Doors opened yesterday.

Cyphers Café (3505 Wyecroft Rd., Unit 3) claims to be “GTA’s first Halal breakfast brunch lunch dinner fine dining restaurant café lounge.” The Oakville eatery debuted mid-November. 

ISO authentic Desi fare? Look no further than Rajdhani Sweets and Restaurant (5390 Terry Fox Way, Unit 2) in Mississauga.

Saint Island Pies left their Dundas West digs last month. Psst. Head to Ahma (1564 Queen St. W.) that I introduced you to a few weeks ago. Pies out back.

Sam’s Juices landed at Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Dr.) in December. The  beachfront snack bar boasts refreshing bevvies, patties, and jerk chicken sandos.

Sansotei Ramen’s growth across the GTA has been steady these last years, including a debut right before the pandemic. Hot tip: Find the latest at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St.) in the Urban Eatery.

From offerings to décor, Scarborough’s Shu Kingdom General Hotpot (390 Silver Star Blvd., Unit 132-137) in Scarborough is all about opulence.

Big ups to Sushi Sama for the launch of their 30th outpost and first in the GTA: 1763 Avenue Rd. in North York.

You’ve been on the TasteT House journey with me for a while now. Discover the latest Basil Box on-site bubble tea shop at Yonge & Finch (5607 Yonge St.). Soft opening spesh: 25 per cent off all drinks every day 12pm-10pm.

When The Pig Came Home was a staple in The Junction on Dundas West for year. Check out their new digs not far away at Dundas and Keele  (384 Keele St.).

Obvs Wingin It (2075 Danforth Ave.) at Woodbine and Danforth has got you for drums and flats, but there’s burgers (Wagyu Burger/Smash Burger $14.99/$12.99), fries (Plain $5.99, Dill $7.99, Gar Parm $8.49 Loaded $7.99, Spicy Loaded $8.49, Sweet Potato $8.49) and other pub style fare on offer. Doors opened Saturday.

Speaking of wings, Wings Stall Bar & Grill kicked off their new home at Danforth and Donlands (937 Danforth Ave.) December 21. And despite the name, wings make up just a portion of the extensive menu.                                                                                                      

Little Sister Portland’s new speakeasy XXX (102 Portland St.) boasts cocktails, bar snacks and light apps. But with 20 seats and no resos – first come, first serve - you’ll have to act fast. But not just anyone is allowed entry. Tip: Ask the host/bartender on the main floor for a playing card. Cards change daily to keep things interesting.

CLOSED

Little AAA (1276 Queen St. E.) shuttered in Leslieville., but Big AAA (138 Adelaide St. E.) is in full effect. 

Southern Creole eatery Roux (2790 Dundas St. W.) has been a fixture in the Junction for 13 years. You’ve got ‘til Sunday brunch to say goodbye.

Bad news: Sushi Kira (67 Roncesvalles Ave.) is closing up shop as of Saturday. Good news: Sister resto AKAI Sushi (168 Major St.) is open, has an almost identical menu as well as dine-in, and Sushi Kira customers get to enjoy special discounts.

Wimpy’s Diner (116 Ellesmere Rd.) in Scarborough has been replaced – see above. The local diner chain known for its burgers, breakfasts, retro vibe, and juke boxes has many locations across Ontario including Toronto, Thornhill, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Mississauga, Markham, and Scarborough.

EVENTS

Richmond Hill’s Winterlicious features 13 participating  establishments and has been extended to February 28.

There’s still time to enjoy Stackt Market’s Hot Chocolate Fest.

You’ve got the rest of the month to get in on the Ocean Wise Seafood Festival

Taste of Oakville is on until March 10.

Tickets are on sale now for The Roundhouse Winter Craft Beer Festival.

NEWS

The food inflation rate is the highest it’s been in years.

David's Tea was in hot water earlier this week. The company tweeted a response Tuesday morning followed by another that same evening.

A car smashed through the front of Supermoon Cheesecakes on Valentine’s Day in Mississauga, but all’s good: Operations were back up and running the next day, and a caption contest launched today.

Do you have any information about these local restaurant break-ins?

ICYMI

Head to Toronto Restaurants on Facebook or Instagram and show your favourite date night spots some love! #ShareTheLoveTO

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in January 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. Share the love: send a note or testimonial.

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News February 10-16, 2022

Photo courtesy of Holt’s Cafe Bloor, Ocean Wise Seafood Festival participant.

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

🕘 8.5 min read

There’s a lot to dive into this weekend: Valentine’s and Super Bowl festivities, not to mention the insane amount of arrivals: 26!

And if you haven’t already subscribed to the newsletter, now’s the time. Get The Tip Off, a sneak peek at the upcoming OPEN/CLOSED (because who doesn’t want to be the first to know?), and fab deals and special offers from restaurants and local businesses (because who doesn’t want to save money?), all exclusive to subscribers. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The third Arts Market debuts tomorrow in East Danforth between Coxwell and Woodbine (1856 Danforth Ave.). Shop for vintage housewares, locally made treats and products, and stationery made with food lovers in mind.

It’s been a bb.q Chicken whirlwind lately. Find the latest bb.q Chicken & Pub in Mississauga (3038 Hurontario St., Unit G-9). 

Authentic Indian fare by way of omelettes, wraps, app and curries is what’s up at B Town Bar And Grill (6435 Dixie Rd, Unit 8) in Mississauga. Bonus: Guests can enjoy 20 per cent off first visit for a limited time and 10 per cent off for students. 

ISO variety? Black Pepper Indian Kitchen in Oakville (519 Dundas St. W., Unit 1) does a bit of everything - Hakka, Hyderabad and tandoor selections are just the beginning.

While Bonsai Asian Bistro & Bar (60 Lakeshore Rd. E.) in Port Credit  does maki and hand rolls, you’ll find sumptuous fare by way of Udon Carbonera ($18), Roasted Bone Marrow ($24), Sous Vide Duck Don ($32), and Wagyu Shabu Shabu ($56).

The sixth Chick-fil-A outpost in Canada – second downtown – kicks off tomorrow at Queen & Spadina (336 Queen St. W.). Discover the other locations of this iconic American fast food chain. 

Cabbagetown is home to mostly small independent restaurants, however Church’s Chicken has taken over Tim Hortons old spot on the corner of Parliament and Winchester (537 Parliament St.).

Daigyo (4909 Yonge St.) at Yonge and Sheppard is your HQ for all things matcha. Which is helpful for those who used to visit when it was Tsujiri.

Psst. Set your calendar alert: MasterChef Canada Season 7 Winner Chef Christopher Siu’s Daan Go Cake Lab debuts in Mississauga  (4557 Hurontario St., Unit B-9) Saturday 11am. Fun fact: The first 200 customers will receive a “special gift.” And there’s a grand prize: A pair of custom Daan Go Converse!

Evviva unveiled their third brunch destination north of Sheppard (5221 Yonge St.) with grand opening celebrations on Tuesday.  

Middle Eastern eatery and grocer FoodRama has arrived downtown at Yonge and Elm (361 Yonge St.). Select from burritos, burgers, jerk chicken, nuggets, tenders, seafood, pizza, manakish and more.

Frenchie’s Doughnuts (3830 Bloor. St. W.) at Kipling and Bloor in Etobicoke does everything from Margarita (Lime Dip topped with pink sea salt) to decadent indulgences such as Breakfast Of Champions, a Maple Dip topped with bacon and two egg candies.

The second Ghost Chicken has landed on the Ossington strip (74 Ossington Ave.) with Nashville lollipops, fried chicken leg and thigh sammies and cambos.

Did you know hoagie szn started a few weeks ago? The fun continues in The Annex with the arrival authentic Philadelphia steak and chicken hoagies by Hoagie Station (495 Bloor St. W.).

Doors opened for the first Canadian outpost of Korean BBQ chicken joint Hoolala (in Richmond Hill (1285 Elgin Mills Rd. E.) on Saturday. What makes their chicken distinctive? It’s charcoal-grilled.

Hot tip: Jumi Gozen Bar (56 Forest Manor Rd., Unit 3) in North York is doing omakase takeout.

Koh Samui Thai Kitchen debuted on the Danforth in 2020. Find their second outpost in The Junction (3132 Dundas St. W.).

Fun fact: Little Vietnam Restaurant & Bar at Queen and Portland (500 Queen St. W.) is “committed to using the best quality meat from Costco rare tenderloin beef” for their Beef Pho, the national dish of Vietnam. 

Nascosto Ristorante (688 Chrislea Rd.) in Woodbridge launched at the end of October. Expect sophisticated pastas (Paccheri Guanciale - Pork cheek ragu with fresh basil, spinach, parmigiano, arrabiata sauce $24) and mains (Branzino $36, Filletto Alla Griglia $42).

You may know The Port House Social Bar & Kitchen from their Port Credit and Burlington venues. Check out the latest addition in Etobicoke (3595 Lake Shore Blvd. W.).

Grand opening celebrations for Queens Sri Lankan Takeout & Catering (2150 Morningside Ave., Unit 6) in Scarborough took place January 1. 

Real Empanada Co’s authentic Colombian empanadas have been a  staple in Trinity-Bellwoods for over two years now. If you’re in and around Victoria Park and Kingston Road (281 Scarborough Rd.), you’re in luck. The grand opening’s Saturday.

Modern Indian eatery Rikki Tikki launches in Kensington Market (209 Augusta Ave.) tomorrow where Bonafide used to be.

Shawarma West (746 Queen St. W.) opened January 6 at Queen and Niagara. In addition to shawarma, find döner, falafel, souvlaki and salad.

Find Toronto Fried Chicken’s at a spot (20 Lockport Ave.) popular with other ghost kitchens.

Two Brothers Shawarma has arrived in Etobicoke (2324 Lake Shore Blvd. W.).

CLOSED

Daar (746 Queen St. W.) replaced award-winning Canis in 2020. Foe the latest occupant, see above.

Chef David Adjey’s La Nectarine came on the scene just two months ago, but shuttered last week. Plans to reopen elsewhere are in the works. Stay tuned. 

Maiz Dundas (2901 Dundas St. W.) may have closed but their uptown location (3220 Yonge St.) remains open. For what’s taken over, see last week’s edition.

CHANGES

I told you all about Nomnomnom in November. They’ve rebranded. Say hello to Playground Cafe.

EVENTS

Find local artisans Fleurs D’épargne, HoneyLux Silk, Nuchay, Shop Cins Creations and Blooming Cotton Candy, Chachalate, and The Night Baker at this weekend’s Valentine’s Market at Square One.

You’ve got 10 days to enjoy Stackt Market’s Hot Chocolate Fest.

The Ocean Wise Seafood Festival is on all month long.

You’ve got until Monday to get in on La Poutine Week.

Taste of Oakville kicks off Tuesday.

NEWS

Respected Niagara winemaker Paul Pender passed away.

For industry: Find out how to apply for COVID-19 wage and hiring support for businesses.

ICYMI

Head to Toronto Restaurants on Facebook or Instagram and show your favourite Japanese restaurants some love! #ShareTheLoveTO

Stay tuned. New features, collabs and giveaways coming soon!

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast: I wrote about +100 new arrivals in January 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. Send a testimonial.

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News February 3-9, 2022

Photo courtesy of Daimaru Sukiyaki.

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

 🕘 8.5 min read

What a week. Indoor dining returned on Monday - earlier, if you were at T.J. O'Shea's Irish Snug. And my exhaustive findings this week - 21 arrivals - offer every type of cuisine for every type of occasion and mood, with lots of expansions and hidden destinations. With lots more to come So stay tuned and get in on The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN 

Atai Bistro debuted in the heart of The Junction last May. Discover the French-Moroccan inspired eatery’s newest inside Thirty Six Knots (1212 Yonge St.). The upscale home décor store in Summerhill debuted in 2019.

TR Newsletter subscribers got the hot tip first: The city's newest destination for Hong Kong BBQ and bao. The Belly & Bao is tucked away inside The Craft Brasserie & Grille (107 Atlantic Ave.) in Liberty Village.

Unlike other pandemic ghost pizzerias, Casper's Pizza focuses on poolish, “a Polish style of making dough similar to sourdough.” Find it at three FAB Restaurant Concepts locations starting Monday: Dominion Pub & Kitchen (500 Queen St. E.), East of Brunswick Pub & Kitchen (720 Spadina Ave.), and Pogue Mahone Pub & Kitchen (777 Bay St.).

The folks of Fonda Lola branched out with Clandestina in 2019. Clandestina Mexican Grill & Bar (2901 Dundas St. W.) kicked off earlier this week in The Junction.

If you missed it earlier this week: Cops Coffee and Doughnuts has got it going on with three locations but they're all downtown or east side. Psst. Should you be in the Yorkdale vicinity, their latest outpost (3011 Dufferin Ave.) will be of particular interest.

Psst. Scarborough has a new AYCE Japanese hot pot restaurant. Grand opening celebrations for Daimaru Sukiyaki (390 Silver Star Blvd., Unit 117) took place Monday.

I let you in on Dave’s Genuine Deli right around this time last year. Find them in their new digs in North York (1763 Avenue Rd.).

Chrissy Durcak launched an iced coffee delivery service in 2012, followed by Montreal's first coffee truck. The first Toronto outpost of Dispatch Coffee has landed at Temple Building (390 Bay St.) featuring sustainably sourced coffee. 

ISO Korean fried chicken? Drunken Chicken at Finch and Midland (4186 Finch Ave. E., Unit 28) in Scarborough has got you. Choose from bone-in and boneless varieties including Balsamic. Cheese Flakes, Creamy Garlic, and Honey Avocado. Want some heat? ‘Burning Hell’ likely delivers. 

Not far from the original location across from Broadview Station, El Charro added a second branch to the fam in Greektown (493 Danforth Ave.), where Brass Taps Pizza Pub used to be. Doors opened Monday.

After being a fixture in the city’s west end for half a century, Jumbo Burgers has expanded with a second outpost in Etobicoke (296 Rexdale Blvd.).

Winter warmups are in abundance at Koshaa (2314 Lakeshore Blvd. W.) from tomato soup Tamatar Shorba ($6.95) with fennel, peppercorns, cilantro roots, and ginger to fiery Beef Vindaloo ($17.95). The modern Indian eatery in Etobicoke cofounded by  executive chef Ushmeet Bhutani and Vineet Thakkar replaces Indian eatery Tich that closed at the end of the year.

After tracking Kung Fu Tea’s movements all these years, I often experience déjà, so I could have sworn I just wrote about their latest opening (I did.) Today marks the first day of soft opening of their newest shop in Markham (7700 Markham Rd., Unit MB2). Enjoy 20 per cent off all drinks and 38 Milk King for $4.88 (L) only at this location today until February 24. 

My Pandan Cake (246 Gerrard St. E.) in Cabbagetown is your one-stop shop for Singaporean desserts by way of chiffon cakes, tin can cakes, and pandan cheesecakes.

‘Ono Poké Bar’s seventh location softly launched in Markham (3603 Hwy 7 E, Unit 108) Tuesday. Curious about the rest? Get caught up.

Neapolitan-style pizzeria Pi Co. has been taking over the city since 2016. The Junction is their latest stop (2862 Dundas St. W.).

With six locations in four months, 2021 was a banner year for local Mexican chain Rico Burrito. Find the seventh in the historic Gooderham Building (49 Wellington St. E.), aka the Flatiron building, one of the most photographed sights in the city. 

Thanks to the folks of The Communists Daughter and The Three Speed, the former The Grow-Op spot at Dundas and Ossington has become The Two Twenty Two (222 Ossington Ave.). 

I uncovered Tong Mein back in March, followed by a pop-up downtown (207 McCaul St.) in December. Fun fact: The spot on McCaul became permanent yesterday.

CLOSED

You’ve got until the end of the month to get in on HOTMESS Tex Mex (615 College St.). 

Velouté Bistro (2343 Queen St. E.) was a staple in The Beaches for a decade before closing January 1. Good news: A new spot in Etobicoke is already in the works. Stay tuned.

CHANGES

Dora Keogh (141 Danforth Ave.) at Broadview and Danforth is now Noonan’s.

EVENTS 

The Ocean Wise Seafood Festival features Toronto shops, cafes and restaurants.

La Poutine Week is back.

NEWS

As a result of the sale of The McEwan Group’s 50 per cent ownership in ONE Restaurant, Chef Mark McEwan announced his departure earlier this week. “We have sold our 50 per cent stake in the restaurant to the new proprietors of the Hazelton Hotel and the remaining 50 per cent will be retained by our cofounding partners.”

The Cactus Club Cafe chain is now in the hands of another west coast chain.

ICYMI 

Indoor dining is back. Discover the new rules and regulations and how to download your enhanced vaccine certificate with QR code now.

Head to Toronto Restaurants on Facebook or Instagram and show your favourite fish & chips spots some love! #ShareTheLoveTO

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

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

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Indoor dining reopens across Ontario and easing of other public health measures

Indoor dining reopens at 50 per cent capacity in Ontario January 31, 2022.

🕘 5 min read

On January 20, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, released details of steps to cautiously and gradually ease public health measures at the end of the month.

Instead of having to sift through pages and pages of government documents, here’s a quick-and-easy guide for both public and industry regarding the province’s “easing of restrictions while maintaining protective measures,” with regards to food and drink businesses.

Discover all the changes – reopening of indoor dining at 50 per cent capacity, no more contract tracing, hour restrictions regarding the service or sale of alcohol, food and drink allowed at sporting events again, buffets are back, and much more.

Effective January 31, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. Ontario will begin the process of gradually easing restrictions, while maintaining protective measures, including but not limited to:

Restaurants, bars, meetings and event spaces

Capacity limits

50 per cent capacity limit. Businesses must post maximum capacity.

10 people per table maximum. Exception for customers who live in the same household. 

Physical distancing is not required in settings where proof of vaccination is required.

Dining indoors now requires an enhanced vaccine certificate with a QR code.

Proof of vaccination

Proof of vaccination is mandatory to enter indoor settings - takeout delivery, and drive-throughs excepted. Businesses must screen individuals prior to entry.

Proof of vaccination now requires an enhanced vaccine certificate with QR code. Individuals can download their QR code certificate from the provincial vaccine portal – no app required.

If you have a green health card:

If you are fully vaccinated, have an active medical exemption or are a participant in an approved COVID-19 vaccine trial, visit ontario.ca/getproof to learn how to get your enhanced vaccine certificate with official QR code. Vaccine receipts without a QR code are no longer accepted , with limited exceptions. Note: Expired cards are accepted.

If you have a red and white health card:

Call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 (Open daily 8am-6pm) to have your enhanced vaccine certificate emailed or mailed to you.

Learn how to add it to your Android device and Apple Wallet and Health. To print it out, visit your local library or go to a ServiceOntario location.

Businesses: 

Download the Government of Ontario’s Verify Ontario mobile app available for Android and Apple iPhone | iPad to screen patrons.

Contact tracing

Contract tracing is no longer required, but establishments must have a safety plan in place.

Hours of operation

No restrictions on hours of operation or sale/service of liquor.

Buffets

Buffets are permitted. Note: Individuals must be seated when eating or drinking.

Buffets are permitted as of January 31.

Dancing and singing

Dancing, singing and karaoke are no permitted by patrons – exception for workers or performers. Performers must be two metres away from patrons.

Nightclubs, Restobars & Food + Drink Establishments with Dance Facilities

As per ORHMA’s clarification of the rules and regulations: Open indoors if operated solely as a food and drink establishment without dancing and comply with the conditions set out in "restaurants, bars, food trucks, concession stands and other food and drink establishments." Open outdoors subject to restrictions (see regulation).

For measures regarding retailers, shopping malls, concert venues, sporting events, museums, casinos, and other food and drink businesses, see the government’s O. Reg. 364/20: Rules For Areas At Step 3 And At The Roadmap Exit Step.

This is the first step in the easing of restrictions. “In the absence of concerning trends in public health and health care indicators.” Two more are set to follow 21 days apart, on February 21 and March 14, 2022.

Stay tuned for updates.

For more information about COVID-19 and vaccinations, visit the Ontario Health website.

Get caught up on the latest Toronto restaurant news and COVID updates.

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