Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 27

At The Pass with Dento Lam

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. Introducing Dento Lam.

🕒 5 min read

Currently

Baker, Forno Cultura

Formerly

Hotel X Toronto, Cho-Kwok-Lat, Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie, Brick Street Bakery

Favourite dish to make right now

Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Katsu. Very dangerous as it takes like 30 minutes. Makes a great sandwich on a sesame filoncini! 

Last cookbook purchase

Let’s Make Ramen! A Comic Book Cookbook by Hugh Amano and Sarah Becan. Shockingly good content.

Have you read it/tried any recipes

I read it unintentionally since the artwork drew me in, next thing you know… I have made all parts of ramen including broth, chashu, noodles, marinated eggs and flavoured oils. I then turned them into ramen kits for friends and family!

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

Mint, never liked it.  

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

Korean Rice Dogs… I would like to see so many more types being made and how far people will go with their ideas! 

Who doesn’t love a cronut?

Biggest influences

Christina Tosi, Chad Robertson, and Alton Brown for chefs. My past coworkers who I keep close contact with in the food industry.   

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

A Japanese conveyor belt sushi restaurant - it's been a dream and a goal for a long while!

Last thing you ate

A burrito from Grillies. They’re open ‘til 4am on the weekends.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Mayonnaise, eggs (I eat a shocking amount of them), and gochujang.

Guilty pleasure

Coke Zero and La Rocca Caramel Crunch Cake.

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After 9.5 years of taking testosterone - an important part of Dento’s transition - and paying out of his own pocket, work benefits cover them for the first time.

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

Chung Chun Rice Dogs, DZO Vietnamese Eatery, Daldongnae Korean Barbecue

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

The Shameful Tiki Room and Madrina are amazing. And since I don't drink, I would love to include Roselle as a bakery of choice to go to for others!

Go-to drink

N/A

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

The need to be fast… I often get told to SLOW DOWN at work by managers and staff since speed isn't everything.

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

My ability to tackle everything head on with nothing but passion, care for others, and hard work. The people I work with know that when I am in the kitchen, we are in it to win it!  

Hidden talent

I play the Ocarina for fun and only play pop music… So sometimes I jam to Beyoncé and Mariah Carey on my days off.  

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Dento’s croissant lamination game is strong.

Best career advice you ever received

That you don't have to work till you burn out and know your worth.

Worst career advice you ever received

The first head baker I had told me I will regret choosing to be a baker and this is a terrible job. I really can't picture myself doing something else and I love it so much! 

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

As long as you are enthusiastic to learn and work, the rest will come by easily! Always be ready to go with the flow and adapt with your team as well!  

TRANSGENDER RESOURCES:

Asian Community Aids Services (ACAS) - I went to this organization when I came out and they helped a lot.

The 519 - Local queer community centre.

Trans 101 - The Basics - Video.

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 September 30-October 6, 2021

Photo courtesy of Fonda Balam.

My iconic OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings (virtual/brick-and-mortar/popups/allll the things) and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #ifyouknowyouknow

🕒 19.5 min read

After writing hundreds of OPEN/CLOSEDs over the years, and especially the completely bonkers editions during the pandemic  (averaging +110 new arrivals every month), I’m still gobsmacked by the amount of activity happening across the GTA. Fact: This week’s issue containing 29 arrivals and insane amount of closures and events is the longest read to date, so you may have to book off some vacation time to get through it, but it’s worth it. Also, I miss the outdoors. Is it still nice out?

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Calii Love’s midtown location (2131 Yonge St.) was all set to launch last summer, but got pushed back to December, then delayed again this summer. Their new home at Art Shoppe Lofts + Condos nestled next to other eateries and retail: Farm Boy, West Elm, Staples, Hale Coffee, and coming soon: Oretta, marks the fifth location for the healthy brand, though the OG shuttered in June. Festivities kicks off tomorrow at 11am with free salad bowls, poke bowls, and Nava Social coffee (while supplies last) and a $1000 trip to be won. Celebrations run through to Sunday.

U.K. chai and desi street food chain Chaiiwala, began 90 years ago, growing to 42 tea rooms nationwide. The first Canadian outpost has arrived in Scarborough (55 Lebovic Ave, Unit C110), with more on the way. Tuck into an array of items include masala omelette, dal, and their signature Karak Chaii or coffee.

Calling all cookie monsters: Get your fix via Colossal Cookie Co.’s new Pickup Boutique opening inside the historic Fairmont Royal York (100 Front St. W.) tomorrow. Want to reduce your wait time? Place your order online got pick up within 30 minutes or if you’re in the area, scan the QR code in-store.

Korean soju bar Dalbam (640 Church St.) debuts tomorrow. 

Dave’s Hot Chicken launched the first of two locations in Canada this year, both in the 6ix: Parkdale in January and Midtown following in July. The third takes over the former home of Stratengers (1130 Queen St. E.), a Leslieville staple for 32 years before shuttering January 31. The Nashville hot chicken chain’s east end outpost welcomes the public tomorrow.

The seemingly endless menu at Dundas and Ossington’s Dumpling Dumpling (1116 Dundas St. W.) means you’ll never tire of takeout. Szechuan specialties ($11.99-$13.99), seafood options, lunch selections rice and noodle dishes abound. Pro tip: Pick up their frozen dumplings ($13-$15) help reduce meal prep and grocery fatigue. 

Readers of the OPEN/CLOSED were the first to discover the new home of Mexican eatery by chefs Matty Matheson, Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo back in July. This week, TR newsletter subscribers were the first to know Fonda Balam  (802 Dundas St. W.) quietly debuted this weekend. Doors officially opened yesterday. Read more about Kate and Julio in my acclaimed chef series, At The Pass.

Is cold-brew yogurt your new obsession? Likely, with Hi Yogurt (516 Curran Pl.) making their Lactobacillus bulgaricus concoctions with fresh ingredients from a sister co which happens to be an Ontario farm.

imPerfect Fresh Eats debuted a new location just last week. Should you wish for one above Bloor, their outpost between Eglinton and Davisville (2025 Yonge St.) should suit.

You heard it here first: First there was Egg Bae, then Egg Club and Wonder Egg followed. There’s a new Korean egg toast in town: Jjin Toast (792 Bathurst St.) across from Bathurst Station with a focused menu: Bokko Toast ($5.99), Wasa Mayo Crab ($7.99), Ham Cheese ($6.99) and Double Cheese Bacon ($8.99).

La Familgia New York Pizza (2318 Danforth Ave.) has set up shop in the east end smack dab between Woodbine and Main. In addition to an array of Manhattan-style ‘za including selections Shrimp Scampi, Clams Casina, Eggplan Parm, and Philly Cheesesteak. you’ll find Chicago style pies, stuffed rolls, hot and cold subs, pastas, and salads. Sweet: Customers receive 10 per cent off pickup orders. And don’t sleep on this feature: Their website boasts a “reorder” button for those of you who like to keep things on the regular.

Loop Line Wine & Food (643 Dupont St.) has landed at Dupont and Christie. The cozy wine bar’s got a boatload of good wine and nibbles by way of cheese, cured smoked meat and fish, pate, and small veg plates.

Listen up: The next drop of Maharani Ice Cream is Monday. So far, limited-edition flavours of this South Asian frozen dessert line have included Kesar Ras Malai, Rose Falloda, and Chocolate Barfi.

It’s unlikely you’ll forget this name: The Mask Restaurant And Lounge (965 Bloor St. W.) has taken over Disgraceland’s old digs in Bloorcourt.

In addition to the regular menu, Mayas Halal Pizza And Grill (1555 O'Connor Dr.) in East York offers walk-in specials: Large Pizza 3 Toppings, 1 Dipping Sauce ($12,99); Large Pizza 3 Toppings, 10 Chicken Wings, 1 Dipping Sauce ($23.99) and  X-Large Pizza 3 Toppings, 10 Chicken Wings, 2 Dipping Sauces ($28.99).

Have you been keeping up with all the comings and goings of Mean Bao these last few years? An exciting addition just landed in the Financial District in Canada’s tallest office complex, First Canadian Place (100 King St. W., Concourse Level).

New Pie Co. has moved to Liberty Village and offers two new locations for pick-up starting tomorrow: Liberty Village (109 Jefferson Ave.) and Kiss My Pans (569 College St.) that opened in July. Find out more about co-owners Shiela Labao and Miguel Hernandez in At The Pass.

The October 13, 2020 edition of the TR Newsletter included the news of an exciting new opening “Last November, Giulietta’s David Minicucci and Chef Rob Rossi announced L’Unità’s final day would be New Year’s Eve, with their new concept taking over Spring 2020.” Osteria Giulia (134 Avenue Rd) was supposed the launch the following month, but of course like everything else, the pandemic delayed things. The wait is finally over: Reservations open Monday. 

Pegrolls - aka the why-didn’t-I-think-of-this-genius-move spring rolls with pierogi filling - are back at The District Kitchen in Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) for a quick pop-up this weekend.

Peter Pan (373 Queen St. W.) was one of the many restaurants that converted much of its space to a bottle shop and to-go operation with prepared foods and pantry items during the pandemic. Owner/chef Noah Goldberg took to the idea, expanding his offerings right next door. Peter Pantry (371 Queen St. W.) is part retail shop, and part dining destination for coffee, lunch, dinner and/or drinks. Menu standouts: Foie Gras & Brioche ($18), Avonlea Cheddar Welsh Rarebit ($14), Salmon Tartine ($14), Veal Tonnato ($20), Filet-O-Face (pig-head terrine, lettuce and sauce gribiche, $12).

Other outlets may be bigger (they all are: Toronto Restaurants is a one-person operation), but no one’s got their finger on the pulse like this (it’s sticky with wing sauce, but still). Last week I gave you the scoop on Piccolo Piano Pizzeria (89 Harbord St.). Doors open today. 

Atiq Ahmed is not a chef, but spent seven years in Japan before returning to Toronto to work in corporate training and FOH hospitality: five years at MLSE (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment), followed by stints at Hibachi Teppanyaki in Burlington and Aburi Hana in Yorkville. Wanting to bring something authentic from his travels in Japan to Canada, he’s settled on yakitori, “One of my first experiences in Japan,” he tells me in a phone interview. “I probably went once a week.” The pandemic allowed Ahmed, a self-described “amateur cook at home” to try and recreate the typically two-to-three hour intimate mindful dining experience. He “spent 12-18 months researching and creating the menu.” The premium 13-course menu is a three-to-four hour in-home dining experience for a minimum of four guests. Satori Yakitori debuts tomorrow. 

Sisaket Thai Kitchen (1466 Kingston Rd.) has moved into Jatujak’s old Scarborough digs. Despite sharing similarities – Lemongrass Soup, Pad Thai, Pineapple Fried Rice, array of curries – the new arrival offers specialities of its very own: Panko Crusted Tofu Wedges, Squash & Zucchini Battered Cakes, Vegetable King Mushroom Salad, Wok Fried Chichen And Long Bean Curry. 

Earlier this month, TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop on two powerhouses joining forces: Major Treat Coffee has set up shop within wood-fired Bosnian bread destination Somun Superstar (997 Kingston Rd.). Doors softly opened Sunday, complete with custom pastries.

Toronto’s Historic Distillery District is keeping true to its name with  the arrival of SpiritHouse (16 Trinity St.) which has a long history in the city (Remember when it was on Adelaide near King and Portland?) The whisky and cocktail bar returns with craft cocktails, whisky flights and food menu.

Pomegranate juice bar Tochal (1269 Dundas St. W.) brings its antioxidant and vitamin C packed juices and smoothies to Dundas and Dovercourt.

Tru Tea and I go back a long time: September 2019, in fact. Since then, there have been a flurry of openings. Including today’s new shop in Etobicoke (2348A Lake Shore Blvd. W.). p.s. Starting at 1pm, enjoy 20 per cent off all drinks⁠. Tomorrow and Saturday, buy any drink and get a free regular size Double Roasted Milk Tea with tapioca. On Sunday, the first 50 customers receive a free regular size Creme de la Crème.

After launching not one, but two locations this summer, Village Juicery is back at it with a new location east side. The Danforth shop (598 Danforth Ave.) replacing neighbourhood staple Athena Bakery, kicks off grand opening festivities this Saturday with smoothie samples⁠⁠, Tori's Bakeshop donuts, build your own kombucha, free boozy bevvies, and goodie bags to gift to a friend⁠.

Starting out as a ghost kitchen, 6ix Pizzas (638 Queen St. W.) s has gone the brick-and-mortar route, taking over former home of Smoke Bar and Kitchen and Lisa Marie prior to that. The halal pizza joint near Palmerston on Queen also does wings, Philly Cheesesteak and desserts.

CLOSED

I introduced you to Janrikk Millan’s JABS (Just Another Burger Spot) in April. The pop-up may have ended, but exciting things are in the works. Keep your eyes locked here.

Saturday is the last day to get in on the Cold Tea x Labora Pop-Up (1186 Queen St. W.)

First Choice Restaurant (1116 Dundas St. W.) has been replaced. See above for details.

Good Behaviour Ice Cream’s pop-up at Morellina's 146 Christie St.) ends Sunday. Visit their permanent home at  Artisan Factory (342 Westmoreland Ave. N.).

The Good Goods may be concluding their pop-up at Upper East Food Club tonight, but they’ll be back at it at Hippie Market (1200 Dundas St. W.) tomorrow from 5-11pm.

La Familgia New York Pizza has moved on from their East York location (1555 O'Connor Dr.) for a spot just south of the original. See above for details.

Nana Coffee & Tea arrived at the corner of Jarvis and Dundas (198 Jarvis St.) last summer.

Rudy’s Queen West location (69 Duncan St.) is temporarily closed due to a fire last weekend. According to CP24, “The blaze started from the restaurant's deep fryer.” No injuries have been reported.

Chefs David Schwartz, Braden Chong and Keith Siu launched Sunny’s Chinese, their regional Chinese food pop-up during the pandemic. It quickly became one of the year’s biggest successes. Now that the pop-up’s concluded, find out what’s next for this culinary dream team.

Vanta Coffee Club & Eatery said goodbye to their location of five years - 2101 Brimley Rd, Unit 111 in Scarborough. But it turns out, they’ve got another in the works. Stay tuned.

CHANGES 

Over the last two years, Kibo Sushi House has been rapidly expanding across the GTA. This time, they’ve simply moved a few blocks from 399 Old Orchard Grove to 1930 Avenue Rd.

EVENTS

Forever Fest is a free all-Canadian 3-day event featuring all-Canadian food, drinks and music taking place this weekend at Maple Leaf Forever Park. Transforming over 40,000 sq ft. the 30+ vendor festival will support Indigenous charity Legacy of Hope Foundation in support of Residential School Survivors.

If you read last week’s edition, you’ll be in on The Burger Bros latest opening. To celebrate the grand opening the first 100 customers tomorrow receive a free cheeseburger. Doors open at 11:30am.

Toronto Food Film Fest kicks off tomorrow.

Markham Fair, Canada's largest four-day agricultural fair, returns this weekend.

Knock at 46 Ossington is on until Sunday. The limited-time pop up sampling event by Innis & Gunn allows guests to sample their flagship brew.

You’ve got until Wednesday to get in on the fun at Night Market Toronto’s Harvest Festival at Square One (Lot P6).

This is the last weekend for The City of Toronto’s DineTOgether program. 

NEWS

Choosing to welcome all guests, the owners of Oakville restaurant Zuccinis Cucina are allowing non-vaccinated customers.

A number of Toronto establishments have closed indoor dining due to proof-of-vaccination requirements including The Goods and the St. Lawrence Market, while others are currently not accepting medical exemptions including Bistro on Avenue and Farside. Some businesses are requiring proof of vaccination for patios including Godspeed Brewery and Osteria Rialto.

Shopping at the mall? Bring your ID and proof of vaccination if you want to dine. Shopping centres have security guards stationed by food courts to check identification and proof of vaccination prior to dining indoors. 

Toronto made Forbes ‘Best Chinatowns Around the World’ List.

Fast food chains in Canada are pulling out all the insane stops this week: KFC is bringing back The Double Down Sandwich, Wendy’s is giving away phones, and Tim Hortons dropped mere yesterday - Double Double Collection - that’s already sold out.

Does newly minted vegan restaurant Eleven Madison Park have a secret meat menu?

ICYMI

Get the scoop on Sunny’s Chinese and MIMI Chinese Restaurant now.

The pandemic enabled a multitude of chefs to launch new projects, product lines, and in many cases, their first solo venture. It turns out, a myriad of FOH staff - bartenders, GMs, servers - followed suit. Meet James Pottie, a server at Toronto’s buzziest chicken joint Bernhardts and creator of Juicy J’s Creamy Scoops - this summer’s most fascinating ice cream.

p.s. 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.  

NATIONAL TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION DAY

A number of businesses are donating a portion of sales to charities and organizations to honour those impacted, including small businesses including Glory Hole Donuts, Little Sister Baking, One Night Only Pizza, Tori’s Bakeshop, Union Restaurant and large chains such as Tim Hortons.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 new arrivals in August 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.

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

Sunny’s Chinese is launching two new ventures, this time brick-and-mortar destinations

Sunny’s Chinese Shaanxi-Inspired Menu April 2021: Lamb Ribs, Charred Cabbage, Fresh Belt Noodle, Smacked Cucumber Salad, Beef and Chive Dumpling, Steamed Jasmine Rice.

🕒 5 min read

Pop-ups and ghost kitchens dominated the industry throughout the pandemic, but one outfit immediately stood out from the crowd for its authenticity, transparency, and polished execution.

Sunny’s Chinese by chefs David Schwartz, Braden Chong, and Keith Siu was always meant to be a full-on restaurant. Curtailed by the global crisis, the pop-up iteration offering carefully curated menus featuring Chinese regional dishes launched in November.

The undertaking could have resulted, like many other chef-driven projects during this time, in a reasonably successful endeavour. Instead, the talented trio created such exquisite fare, it didn’t matter if you were eating it on a paper plate in your bathrobe on the couch, the result: a fine dining experience start-to-finish, boasting dishes punctuated with bold, elevated flavours and mesmerizing textures. An experience that was also remarkable as it was available exclusively to select newsletter subscribers for preorder pickup at Avenue Road and Davenport, and required heating (instructions were provided) unless you lived nearby.

All this, paired with deeply researched notes about the influence of other cultures on the region and its food, and history and geography of the region you were about to get a taste of (included on Instagram and a richly illustrated hard copy information card tucked in with the fastidiously packed to-go containers), led to menus selling out within minutes. At first, it was more of an industry “if-you-know-you-know” secret, before exploding in popularity - currently at 13.5k followers on Instagram, with a staggering amount of newsletter subscribers vying for a shot at the city’s best takeout.

The nondescript spot for Sunny’s Chinese pop-up pre-order pickup: a parking lot on Davenport. The new location is just as inconspicuous.

These days, you only have to utter ‘fresh belt noodle,’ ‘smacked cucumber salad,’ or ‘charred cabbage,’ and the majority of local food obsessives know who you’re talking about. Now when a menu drops, it’s not only a frenzy to get your order in, it’s a status symbol - you’re one of the chosen few to line up in the nondescript parking lot for your meal - one that is further solidified with a post (or six) on Insta.

Thus, the level of excitement and anticipation of not only one, but two new ventures, this time brick-and-mortar endeavours from the Toronto-based regional Chinese restaurant, is palpable. 

COMING SOON

Sunny’s Chinese Kensington
60 Kensington Ave.

The exceptional takeout operation has been put on hold to focus on setting up in an equally inconspicuous location: In Kensington Market where Cold Tea, one of the city’s top bars, reigned for a decade.

The new digs, set to launch Spring 2022, will put the spotlight on wok and charcoal-grilled fare, with tipples by way of natural wines and beer slushies.

MIMI Chinese Restaurant
265 Davenport Rd.

The project, in the works for two-and-a-half years, while remaining focused on regional Chinese cuisine, this time round will concentrate on southern Chinese ingredients and dishes, alongside an array of hand-selected wine, sake, and cocktails.

MIMI is also taking over a former destination: the ground level of 265 Davenport where chef Massimo Capra’s Mistura debuted in 1997, white tablecloths and all, before shuttering in late 2019. Fun fact: Sunny’s has been operating the pop-up out of the Mistura kitchen since last year.

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Previously, the only way to secure a Sunny’s Chinese order: subscribe to the newsletter and place your order the second the menu dropped.

The company started out small – three chefs, with a few folks in front and back of house – but like its throng of fans, has since grown. Executive chef David Schwartz, executive sous chef Braden Chong, senior sous chef Joseph Ysmael, junior sous chef Keith Siu, and Peter Nguyen and Michael Ovejas make up the kitchen team. Newly appointed GM Anthony Yeung and Mica White (who was the entire front of house during the pop-up) are also joining the service team at MIMI.

Psst. Reservations for MIMI open in the next two weeks. The best way to stay in the know? Follow @mimichinese, @sunnyschinese, and keep your eyes locked on Toronto Restaurants iconic OPEN/CLOSED, the most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings, news and events in the GTA.

Read about Chef Bradon Chong of Sunny’s Chinese in the acclaimed chef series, At The Pass.

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

Photos by Stephanie Dickison | Toronto Restaurants.

How a Toronto server created summer’s most fascinating ice cream

James Pottie serving scoops and vibes on Queen West.

🕒 5.5 min read

Pre-pandemic, artisanal scoops in the 6ix were already on the rise, but it was the global crisis that pushed cravings – and emotional need - for the ubiquitous frozen dessert beloved by people of all ages to new heights. Shops and services flooded the city on an almost weekly basis, with established chefs turning their attention to developing evocative creations, resulting in a renaissance of the nostalgic treat.

James Pottie isn’t a chef, though a taste of his concoctions might have you believe otherwise. The Haligonian transplant currently works front of house at one of the city’s buzziest restaurants, Bernhardt’s, five nights a week. An effervescent charm and effortless polish at the table illustrates his clear love of serving, his vocation for many years. The rest of the time is spent on his “passion project”: Juicy J’s Creamy Scoops, a pop-up currently residing inside Ration | The Beverley, helmed by Chef Jef Edwards.

Method Man

His mission, like many ice cream and other single food item pursuits, began during the pandemic, but envisioned months prior. Despite having “no culinary background whatsoever,” he started making ice cream. “I really wanted to workshop custard,” he says on the Ration patio on Queen West. “Egg yolks are the way to go. I didn’t want to use stabilizers.” The launch took longer than expected – getting his hands on organic dairy used in all varieties except the vegan option, proved difficult. The pop-up softly launched on August 13.

“Flavours that have never been done before”, being his prerogative, quickly led to new and fascinating results. “My brain just started exploding with flavours, ” he says. The very new wave, very structured,” hyper-artisanal flavours are available inside Ration as scoops to go ($5) or containers ($9/12 oz).

A closer look at the new wave, hyper-artisanal scoops.

The current lineup may sound gimmicky at first, but ingredients are  deftly executed to replicate specific dishes or cuisines using the iced treat as the medium without anything too molecular or sleight of hand involved. Appearing over the top on the menu, on the spoon, elements work in unison to create a rich landscape of flavours and textures.

Flavour Flav

Take Parmesan & Bananas Foster Caramel, for instance. Inspired by the iconic tableside delicacy and his Acadian roots, Pottie’s signature dish is made in stages: Fresh parmesan (including rinds for intensity) is added to cream, caramel is made then folded into bananas before a triumphant flambé and pinch of cinnamon to finish. The good times roll in a Vitamix, resulting in a sweet and savoury banana extravaganza.

Triple threat Za’tar with Pomegranate Molasses Ripple & Pistachio Praline combines the earthy smokiness of the Middle Eastern spice blend with a hefty dollop of tart sweetness and nutty crunch. Thick, dark, soybean paste glaze delivers a serious umami bomb to Mango Infused With Cilantro, Hoisin Ripple & Toasted Coconut. And a whisper of polarizing herb cilantro delivers a bright zest in the super savoury dessert with fruity notes that will have you thinking ‘Mango Salad and Spring Roll’ for dinner all day. 

Ice cream n’ fries forever.

Frosti & Fries, a take on a certain fast food chain’s milkshake/soft serve hybrid and must-have side, is a dine-in only option for reasons that soon become clear. Malt powder and chocolate milk ice cream served with deep fried potato skins (upon my visit, crispy fries were used instead) for dipping, a pro move Pottie has been doing for ages (and one you’ll adopt for life now), is as delightfully genius and addictive as it sounds. And the salty element really activates your palate, so don’t be surprised if your willpower to stop goes completely out the window.

For those who don’t do dairy, Pottie asserts, “I will always have a vegan option.” Right now, it’s a funky, fruit-forward, herbaceous blend thanks to Corkumbucha, small-batch kombucha made by friend Sam Corkum, chef de cuisine at top Toronto restaurant, Aloette.

The aim for the product line, he says, is to “constantly be switching flavours.” This is in part due to his “love of the changing seasons,” so he’s always on the lookout for the freshest organic produce to produce the invigorating flavours inspired by “traveling and eating at Michelin-starred restaurants, and restaurants here in Toronto.”

“My goal,” he says, dunking fries into the creamy malt confection, “is to make flavours that people have never had before.”

Mission accomplished.

Juicy J’s Creamy Scoops
Ration | The Beverley Hotel
335 Queen St. W.

Discover +200 icy dessert destinations in The Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream + Frozen Treats in Toronto/GTA now.

For more stories of new ventures by chefs and FOH staff, read the iconic OPEN/CLOSED: the most comprehensive resource of openings in the GTA.

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

Photos by Stephanie Dickison | Toronto Restaurants.

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 23-29, 2021

My iconic OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings (virtual/brick-and-mortar/popups/allll the things) and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #ifyouknowyouknow

🕒 10.5 min read

It’s been a hectic week with proof of vaccination now in effect. That and the insane amount of arrivals (18) and events (10). The closures this week, not so much, but did you notice the onslaught last week? Brace yourself for more to come.

And stay tuned – exciting news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR newsletter. Don’t miss it!

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Tired of the same ol’ same ol’? Switch things up this week with enticing Egyptian fare from Aragoz (3456 Kingston Rd.). The Scarborough eatery has an extensive menu including vegetarian (Zucchini Bechamel $35), meat (Iskandarani Sausage $16) and seafood (Calamari $11) selections available for takeout and delivery. Pro tip: Plan your meals ahead of time as some of the dishes require advance prep time, such as the Hmamm Aragoz  - roast Squab stuffed with aromatic rice and hint of cinnamon (72 hrs) – Boori - Black Mullet (12 hrs) – and Duck à l'orange (72 hrs). 

bb.q Chicken, the worldwide chain known for its fried chicken in varying degrees of heat levels, just landed at Harbord and Spadina  (652 Spadina Ave.). The company’s goal? “To operate 50,000 franchise stores around the world by 2025.”

Chatime brings its signature beverages of bubble tea, smoothies and milk tea to bustling Liberty Village (171 E Liberty St., Unit 143).

Delysees Luxury Dessert is back - bigger and better than ever. Soft opening’s this weekend  (131 Ossington Ave.).

It’s not often you come across two vastly different concepts under one roof. Find time-honoured Canadian pub Gabby’s (est. 1989) and Thai/Malayasian resto Thairoomgrand huddled together in Mississauga (4096 Confederation Pkwy).

Last week I let you in on soon-to-open Gladstone House (1214 Queen St. W.). Bistro + Bar debuted yesterday as well. Breakfast selections include Harissa And Manchego Omelette ($16), Slow-Baked White Kidney Beans ($15) and Crispy French Toast ($18) with Nutella, bananas, and hazelnut brittle. Later in the day, tuck into Goat Cheese And Fig Flatbread ($15), Fire Roasted Eggplant ($22), Pan Roasted Kolapore Springs Trout ($24), and 8oz Grilled Flatiron Steak ($28).

The menu at imPerfect Fresh Eats by siblings May and Jeff Dang incorporates imperfect produce “to lower overall costs for customers without sacrificing nutrition or taste. This solution also helps save perfectly good food from going to waste and supports our local farmers and producers with an extra source of income.” Win-win. Visit their newest outpost opening Tuesday at the corner of Broadview at Danforth (106 Danforth Ave.) for signature bowls, wraps and smoothies. 

Pastry Chef Akash Swar (Auberge du Pommier, Buca, Nugateau, Chase Hospitality Group) and sibling Tanvi - aka Little Sister Baking – were all set to debut at Market 707 (707 Dundas St. W.) September 7, but sudden repairs put the kibosh on that. The bakery known for Ras Malai Cake, puffs and buns finally opened yesterday. Hot tip: The Peach Shrikhand Choux and Gulab Jamun Cake should def be on your radar.

TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to hear: Award-winning Ontario craft brewery and the GTA's only certified B Corp Brewery, High Park Brewery and Lost Craft  (839 Runnymede Rd.) has a new kitchen and menu courtesy of Love Chix. Tuck into fried chicken, flatbreads, signature dishes and snacks alongside local brews for lunch and dinner on the patio or take it to go.    

Psst. The Noodle Bar (3603 Highway 7, Unit 106) opened in Markham last week.

Ono Poké Bar just opened their fifth branch in the GTA. The newest spot for their Hawaiian Asian-inspired poke bowls and sushi burritos? Mississauga (516 Curran Pl.).

Grant MacPherson hasn’t spent the pandemic lazing about. Just the opposite: Last month he added his Prairie Boy Bread to the hotness that is Geary (201 Geary Ave.), and a long-awaited outpost at Yonge & St. Clair (1 St. Clair Ave. E.) kicks off tomorrow at 7:30am.

Redpath Juicery (132 Redpath Ave.) is whipping up an array of goodness via organic juices and smoothies, and juices using fresh sugarcane and coconuts. Find them in Midtown between Yonge and Mount Pleasant, just off Eglinton.

Get your hands on crispy mutton and fusion rolls this weekend at the Reggie’s Rolls pop-up at The District Kitchen in Square One (100 City Centre Dr.).

Roncy Village’s Sake Sushi (20 Roncesvalles Ave.) offers a little bit of everything: Sake Keto Rolls, Hotate Sashimi, White Tune Pressed Sushi, Pork Gyoza, Chicken Karaage, and Mango Salad, for starters.

Craving Mexican fare? Check out Tres Compadres hidden inside Watson’s (388 Richmond St. W.) at Queen and Spadina.

From antipasti to pizza and pasta to dolci (if you’ve still got room), Vivo Pizza+Pasta has authentic Italian fare for dayyys. Visit their latest satellite in the Canary District near Corktown Common (460 Front St. E.).

CLOSED

Pop-ups aren’t forever. Thus, the Prohibition Pie Pop-Up (14 Dupont St. back patio)  is terminato.

You’ve got until Saturday to visit Wise Bar/Bagel. While owner/operator Tamara Wise is closing after almost eight years, it looks like a new project’s in the works. Watch this space.

EVENTS

RendezBrews by Toronto Craft Beer Festival and RendezViews commences today.

Night Market Toronto’s Harvest Festival kicks off tomorrow at Square One (Lot P6).

Don’t miss The Abibiman Project Patisserie & Café Pop-Up at Leaf & Bone this weekend.

Fall Beerfest T.O. is on this weekend.

It’s the last weekend to explore Asian cuisines at 100+ participating venues with promotional deals for $10, $20, and $30 at this year’s AsialiciousTO.

New wine club pop-up series ‘Sabbatical Sundays’ by Lake Inez launches this weekend with K. Dinners.

Donna’s first Pop-Up Vintage Market is happening Sunday.

Big Trouble Pizza closed last month, but will reopen soon in a new location. Their legendary burger pop-up however, returns Monday, this time at Bar Ape.

Canada's largest four-day agricultural fair, Markham Fair, returns next weekend but you can buy tickets now.

And get tickets now for the Toronto Food Film Fest.

NEWS

Alo made The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021 51-100 list, coming in at 98.

Toronto Raptors Scottie Barnes stopped by Scotty Bons Caribbean Grill earlier this week. 

Chunkz, comedian Trey Richards and brother Jermaine Richards came thru Maha’s last week.

This week, Toronto’s Very Own Drake became one of the biggest investor's in the Dave's Hot Chicken chain. Drake said, “I tried the food, and it was amazing. After meeting the founders and hearing their story, I jumped at the opportunity to invest.” Stay tuned for news on their latest location.

ICYMI

As of yesterday, proof of vaccination is required in a number of settings including indoor seating at bars, restaurants and hotels. This compendium was created to help customers and hospitality professionals navigate this change and find relevant information with ease.

Think you have a lot on your plate? As newly appointed Corporate Head Chef of Scale Hospitality Group, Zachary Albertsen oversees some of the city’s top restaurants including new hotspot Toronto Beach Club  and recently reopened Shook. That’s in addition to helming ICONINK standouts such as Byblos, Patria, new arrival Pink Sky and others. In the midst of launching two new restaurants, he shared his favourite spots around town (*adds to list*), go-to cocktail from the Midwest (soon to be yours), unusual guilty pleasures (likely to lead to serious cravings and late night “research”) and much more in this week’s not-to-be-missed At The Pass.

Don’t miss your chance to win a fabulous Gray Jay Deluxe Canadian Whisky Prize Pack! For details on how to enter, visit our Instagram.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 new arrivals in August 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.

Need help finding staff, promoting your menu/bottle shop/patio, 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 Zachary Albertsen

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. 

🕒 5 min read

Currently

Corporate Head Chef, Scale Hospitality Group

Formerly

Weslodge, Drake Hotel, Wheat Sheaf Tavern, Shook Kitchen

Favourite dish to make right now

I’m in love with the Smoked White Fish at Pink Sky at the moment, plus the white fish from Affinity Fish that we are getting is just outstanding!

Last cookbook purchase

The Whole Fish Cookbook by Josh Niland.

Have you read it/tried any recipes

Yes, I loved the Whole Fish Kiev. Great idea!

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

Useless microgreens and edible flowers. If the dish needs it, that’s great, if not, don’t.

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

I think we are starting to see more and more farms and local producers being featured on menus, not just at high end restaurants but local eateries. It makes me happy to see that.  

Smoked Ontario White Fish. Chive, sour cream, lemon, cucumber, capers, dill pickle, toasted baguette.

Biggest influences

Ted Corrado, Corporate Executive Chef, Scale Hospitality Group - He is not only a super talented chef, but on top of that he is a great human being. It makes me happy to work for someone like that. I feel very lucky to be able to learn from him.

Hanif Harji, Owner/CEO, Scale Hospitality Group - I find that we like the same things in food, and our palate is very similar. I love working for him on new restaurants and menus.

David and Anna Posey at Elske in Chicago - I had one of the best meals of my life there and love the savoury and sweet food they produce. I always look to see what they are doing.

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

Estela in New York, Avec in Chicago or The Sportsman in England. I miss traveling and going out to eat so much!

Last thing you ate

A bag of salt and vinegar chips with a Guinness. It was perfect.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Mayo, dill pickles, butter.

Guilty pleasure 

Kraft singles, pickled eggs, and hot dogs, I love hot dogs. It doesn’t matter what time of day or where they are from, but in case anyone is wondering, Denmark has the best hot dogs.

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants 

Sakai Bar, Edulis, Brothers Food & Wine - I miss it so much.

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

Communist’s Daughter, Embassy Bar, The Hole In The Wall

Go-to drink

Gin & Tonic or a glass of Irish whiskey - Redbreast 12 Year Old -  with one rock. 

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

Misspelling on menus. Really good thing that I’ve worked with such great teams that they find them before printing!

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

Taste your food. It is so important to build your palate and taste for seasoning. If you don’t like it, why would the customer?

Hidden talent

I make a mean Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned.

Best career advice you ever received

It was very early in my career, from my first chef, Tim Larson at The Coopers Tavern, “Own your mistakes. That’s the biggest difference between an adult and a child.” 

Worst career advice you ever received

N/A.

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

Buy some good knives, keep them sharp, work clean, be professional, travel when you can, stage at restaurants that interest you, read cookbooks, and be prepared to live a different life then most of your friends and family. 

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. 

Ontario COVID-19 Proof of Vaccination Guide

🕒 6 min read

Want to visit a bar, restaurant, hotel, or other food and drink establishments in Ontario? As of Wednesday September 22, 12:01am, you need 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. This goes for other non-essential services and indoor settings.

Created to help both customers and industry navigate this change in line with provincial requirements laid out in the Reopening Ontario Act, this guide to Ontario’s Vaccination Certificate will be updated as needed so you don’t have to dig through numerous sites and articles trying to find relevant information. 

Where you need proof of vaccination status

As of September 22, proof of vaccination status will be required in the following locations:

Restaurants and Bars (excluding outdoor patios, takeout and delivery)
Nightclubs (including outdoor areas of the establishment)
Meetings and Event Spaces (Banquet Halls, and Conference / Convention Centres) -including weddings
Facilities used for sports and fitness activities (including facilities at hotels)
Sporting events
Casinos, Bingo Halls, and Gaming Establishments
Strip Clubs, Bathhouses and Sex Clubs
Racing Venues (e.g. Horse Racing) 
These requirements would not apply to outdoor spaces, including patios (with the exception of nightclubs).

Proof of vaccination status is not required

There are a number of instances you do not need proof of vaccine:

Seated on a patio*
Place or pick up an order
Pay for an order
Make a retail purchase
Purchase admission
Use a washroom
Access an outdoor area that can only be accessed through an indoor route.

*Note: Some establishments are opting to require proof of vaccination for access to their patio.

Exemptions

Children 12 years old and under.
Medical exemptions require written documentation and ID.

Penalties 

Failing to comply with the requirements of O. Reg. 364/20 can result in charges under the ROA. If charged under Part I of the Provincial Offenses Act (POA), set fine amounts are$750 for individuals and $1,000 for corporations. Maximum penalties based on a prosecution under Part I or Part II of the POA include fines of up to $100,000 and up to a year in jail for an individual; up to $500,000 and up to a year in jail for an individual who is a director or officer of a corporation; and up to $10 million for a corporation.

RESOURCES FOR CUSTOMERS

Book appointment(s) if you still need a first or second dose.

Download your proof of vaccination.

Print out your proof of vaccination for free at any of the 100 branches of the Toronto Public Library, as well as many locations across the province.

On October 22, the province will release an “enhanced” certificate. The digital vaccine passport will include a QR code that can be downloaded to your phone. In the interim, there is a new digital tool that converts your vaccination receipt from Ontario Ministry of Health to an Apple Wallet pass for easy access.

Accepted forms of identification when providing proof of vaccination: Birth certificate, driver’s licence, government (Ontario or other) issued identification card (health card), citizenship card, permanent resident (PR) card, Indian Status Card or Indigenous Membership Card.

The Office of the Premier released a series of Frequently Asked Questions regarding the new proof of vaccination requirement in certain settings.

RESOURCES FOR FOODSERVICE & HOSPITALITY

- Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) has created a has created a number of helpful resources for businesses, including:
Proof of Vaccination Required Poster and Samples of Canada’s Immunization Records.

Also important to note:

Guests coming from overseas are expected to be fully vaccinated.

Guests from other provinces will be excepted to be fully vaccinated and processes will be outlined in the future.

Contact tracing is still mandatory due to the passport not maintaining data due to privacy protection.

Capacity limits are not being impacted at this time.

A validation process and details will be brought forward.

- Restaurants Canada published a short Q+A regarding foodservice and hospitality employers and employee vaccinations.

- Ontario Ministry of Health has provided guidance for businesses and organizations in a 14-page document. Resources include how to find COVID-19 testing locations and check results, exemptions from proof of identification and vaccinations, as well as COVID-19 screenings for employees/workers and customers.  A 21-page document was released on the same day (September 14) of Q+As regarding vaccination policies, proof of vaccination, etc.

- The Government of Ontario has released Proof of Vaccination signs for businesses in English and French.

- The Office of the Premier released Frequently Asked Questions regarding the new proof of vaccination requirement in certain settings.

Visit Toronto Restaurants for more COVID-19 articles and resources.

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

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 16-22, 2021

Photo courtesy of Flora’s Deli.

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

🕒 16 min read

My 20 discoveries this week contain an array of fascinating concepts as well as the continuation of various chains further expansions across the GTA.

You’ll also notice many more closures and events than usual. It’s going to be a busy autumn in all respects, so please continue to support local businesses both old and new, whenever possible.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

In case you haven’t noticed, Korean hot dogs have taken over the GTA. New on the scene Arirang Hotdog claims dibs on the concept: “Korea’s leading hotdog and croquette brand that has grown to be the first ever to invent what’s called ‘Korean hotdog.’ in the history.” The first franchise location in Canada (5 Byng Ave.) was set to debut last weekend, but was delayed. Starting this Saturday, free hotdogs and croquettes will be on offer. Fun fact: The North York location is just steps away from one of the many Chung Chun Rice Dog eateries (11 Byng Ave.).

Live music is back! Introducing Bar Cathedral (54 The Esplanade), a venue, lounge and bar in the St. Lawrence Market ‘hood.

The fourth branch of The Burger Bros (4665 Central Pkwy. E) - and second in Mississauga – opens Friday. Grand opening kicks off at 11:30am, but get there early - first 100 customers receive a free cheeseburger. Did you know? The chain first landed in Mississauga November 6, followed by a Toronto spot at Bloor and Landsdowne two months ago.

Tracking CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice’s vast portfolio continues. The new shop in Markham (601 Warden Ave., Unit 10) softly opened Monday. To celebrate, enjoy 15 per cent off on all drinks in-store until October 31.

Three things to know about The Common’s latest outpost:
1. The address may read 36 Lisgar St. but it’s actually on Abell St. (just past Lisgar Park near Queen and Dufferin.)
2. It’s a slip of a place, but every square inch is oh-so-chic.
3. This marks the fourth satellite for the patisserie and coffee shop.

Fruitful Market (327 Carlaw Ave.), established 2015 at Dundas and Carlaw opened in 2015, is a kitchen and bakeshop specializing in “prepared healthy comfort foods and treats.” Say hello to exciting new addition The Donuterie boasting original selections such as Blood Orange Aperol & Toasted Almond Ring ($3.85), Ontario Plum  & Amaretto Fill ($4.75), Samoa Ring ($3.85),  Passionfruit Crème Brulee Fill ($4.75), as well as vegan gluten-free donuts. Owner Yannis Banks tells me it started as a pivot during the pandemic “to adapt to the situation and the shift to comfort foods.” It started small - 12 donuts, one flavour – but became so popular, launching the brand and provide enhanced options for pre-ordering for pick-up and delivery were the logical next step. He says it’s going to stay onsite at Fruitful for now, “but we envision it becoming its own independent enterprise over time.”

You heard it here first: Du Hsiao Yueh (7040 Warden Ave.) softly opens in Markham on Friday. Their specialty: Noodles made from a recipe that originated over 100 years ago!

Psst. Today was the grand opening of El Sazon de la Tia Flor on Eglinton between Oakwood and Dufferin (1698 Eglinton Ave. W.). In June I wrote about Berenice Lozano and María Osuna’s East York spot (1549 O'Connor Dr.) and the $1 taco special on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It became a top story across the GTA that week. You’ll find the same tantalizing dishes here as the original location, with the added bonus of seafood dishes and specials. See you there.

The owners of Oakville’s Colussus Greek Taverna (221 Lakeshore Rd. E.) have a new venture, conveniently located at the same address. Farma Greek Market offers a range of pantry items, prepared food items, and soft serve Greek yogurt.

Flora’s Deli has had quite the whirlwind journey thus far. The Italian sando pop-up by Chef Jesse Mutch and partners Tommy Conrad and Ailbhe McMahon launched at Mahjong Bar (1276 Dundas St. W.) in March, with a stellar event with Sherm’s Bagels in August. So news of their closure a few weeks ago was a surprise. Luckily it was short-lived (and bonus: not far from their original digs). Go see ‘em at Dundas and Ossington inside Grape Crush (1166 Dundas St. W.).

Gladstone House (1214 Queen St. W.) returns with a new name (formerly The Gladstone Hotel) and fresh face (newly renovated) Wednesday.

Mika Bareket’s cookbook and gift destination Good Egg was a Kensington Market staple for decade: 2008-2018. So how amazing to welcome them both back, just down the street from the original location (156 Augusta Ave.).

After years of ‘Coming Soon,’ Jollibee north of Eglinton has finally arrived. Doors opened for the Filipino fried chicken and sweet spaghetti chain at Yonge and Broadway (2383 Yonge St.) Friday.

TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to get a sneak peek of Joni Restaurant ahead of the much anticipated opening inside the sensational new Park Hyatt Toronto (4 Avenue Rd.) yesterday. Wait ‘til you see the… set your phone alerts and keep your eyes locked here.

The extensive footprint of Kung Fu Tea stores continues with this weekend’s launch at World On Yonge (7163 Yonge St., Unit 101) -  the second outpost in Markham this month.

The menu mashup at Scarborough’s Mexi Desi Tacos (34 Nelson St.) means you can indulge in your love for Indian and Mexican fare simultaneously. I’m talkin’ Paneer Tikka Spring Rolls ($7), Lamb Curry Naan Taco ($8), Butter Chicken Poutine ($8), and Shrimp Tikka Burrito ($14.50) action.

Detroit-style pizza lovers in North York and Vaughan, have I got the place for you: Oswald’s Pizza (5000 Dufferin St., Unit P). Get your orders for Cheese, Pepperoni, Half n’ Half, Mushroom Truffle, and This Is Not A Big Mac in fast though - they keep selling out.

Phoenix Café (4030 Confederation Pkwy) is celebrating their new Mississauga location big time this weekend. Starting at 1pm on Friday and Saturday, they’re giving away 50 sets of Mini Hainanese Chicken Dinners at their grand opening event. And don’t sleep on the new dessert series, Milk Nava French Toast - available exclusively at the Mississauga store in four varieties:Original Ovaltine, Mocha, Strawberry, and Green Tea.

Sala Modern Thai Kitchen on the Danforth is well-known with east siders. Now Etobicoke has one to call its very own (20 Lockport Ave.). Did you know? Chef Mo also opened a spot in Mississauga’s Centre City Place a few months back called Mo Thai.

Writers Room Bar, the cocktail bar on the 17th floor at the new Park Hyatt Toronto (4 Avenue Rd.), debuted yesterday. Come for the views, stay for the cocktails and food.

CLOSED

The storefronts of A Bite of China and Simple Fresh (630 Danforth Ave.) at Pape and Danforth are boarded up.

Amsterdam Bicycle Club (54 The Esplanade) has made way for a new venture. See above for details.

Chef Victor Barry, Nikki Leigh McKean, and Brendan Piunno’s Café Cancan (89 Harbord St.) was put on hold during the pandemic, then transformed into a pickup spot for Piano Piano across the street (88 Harbord St.). Taking over the pretty in pink venue, their latest project: Piccolo Piano Pizzeria.

After 15 years, Daddyo’s Pasta & Salads (673 Spadina Ave.) has shuttered due to the pandemic.

Fresh on Eglinton (90 Eglinton Ave. E.) is on the move. Across the street, in fact.

Hot Star Large Fried Chicken (374A Yonge St.) at Yonge and Gerrard is for lease.

Kwan Dim Sum was a fixture at Yonge and St.Clair (1496 Yonge St.) for eight years before closing on Tuesday. Hands up if you remember when it was Didier. I was the first to tell you about Chef Didier Leroy’s new digs in June.

Mishwar Restaurant (675 Danforth Ave.) opened near Pape in November but moved up the street in July. Thus, the original location is now closed.

Montreal Style BBQ debuted two locations last fall, followed by an eatery in Greektown (679 Danforth Ave.) earlier this year. A Notice of Distress has been posted on the door of the Pape & Danforth location.

Proving that location doesn’t always guarantee success, Panera Bread at Yonge & Dundas (322 Yonge St.) is for lease. Six locations in the GTA remain.

North Indian restaurant chain Punjabi By Nature Bar & Grill (1961 Queen St E.) arrived in The Beaches last summer, but closed recently. Not to worry - their Leslieville location (782 Queen St. E.) that opened last July is just ten minutes away.

Condos are set to take over where “Toronto’s signature pool hall and bar” Roxy on King (284A King St. W.) was. Luckily, newly renovated sibling spot Watson’s (388 Richmond St. W.) isn’t far away and they serve food until 2am now.

CHANGES

Yonge & St Clair’s Sushi Gen Japanese Restaurant (1502 Yonge St.) has moved north one block to Delisle Court (1560 Yonge St., Unit 118).

EVENTS

The legendary El Mocambo (464 Spadina Ave.) is doing a mini concert series this month before opening in October.

Explore Asian cuisines at 100+ participating venues with promotional deals for $10, $20, and $30 at this year’s AsialiciousTO.

There’s still time to get in on Negroni Week.

Love ribs? Don’t miss this weekend’s Missisauga Rotary Drive-Thru Ribfest.

North America's largest Ukrainian fest, The Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival, returns this weekend, celebrating 25 years.

Street Eats Market Taco Fest is happening this weekend at Scarborough Town Centre with over 50 variations of tacos by top Toronto food trucks. Challengers will compete to win the title of Judge’s Choice Award and $1,000 cash prize. 

Celebrate Oktoberfest Saturday at Steam Whistle’s The Biergärten.

The City of Toronto’s DineTOgether program kicks of Saturday. Select from two-item menus from +270 restaurants for dine in, patio, takeout or delivery. Prices are $15-$50 pp.

The Dusty Star Drive-In Diner returns next weekend.

Get tickets now for the Rocky Horror Dinner Show at The Medley. 

NEWS

Kevin Gallagher - co-owner of Mildred’s Temple Kitchen with wife and business partner chef Donna Dooher - passed away. Read fantastic tales from his 40 years in the industry in The Brunch Chronicles.

Proof of vaccination comes into effect on September 22. The Province issued a news release Tuesday which reads in part, “Ontario is developing an enhanced vaccine certificate with a unique QR code to make it safer, more secure and convenient to show that you have been vaccinated, when required to do so.” The enhanced vaccine certificate and verification app “will be available by October 22, 2021.”

ICYMI

The exquisitely reimagined Park Hyatt Toronto opened to the public Wednesday. Sous chef Joshua Morin’s résumé boasts an array of award-winning restaurants including Richmond Station, Langdon Hall, and Fogo Island Inn. In this week’s At The Pass he shares his favourite dish to make right now, go-to bars and restaurants around town, wise words for those just starting out, and much more. Read the engrossing interview now.

The cooler evenings are a sobering reminder that patios won't be available for much longer, so GET OUTSIDE WHILE YOU CAN. I created the TR Neighbourhood Patio Guide series to help you navigate patio season in your own nabe and further afield. Instead of relying on played out ‘Best Of’ lists, discover all the outdoor dining options the city has to offer, from rooftop patios and secret gardens to sidewalk cafes and courtyards, one neighbourhood at a time. Check out the lineup so far. What neighbourhood do you want featured next?

Hold onto the last days of summer with luscious scoops of ice cream, gelato, or whatever chilled dessert moves you. The GTA is exploding with exceptional choices right now. What began as a compilation of +80 restaurants, bars, shops, parlours and contactless delivery options for every kind of ice cream, ‘nice’ cream, gelato, fro yo, frozen custard, sherbet, bingsu, milkshakes, paletas, shaved ice, ice pops, boozy freezies, and halo halo, has morphed into a whopping +200 destinations. Explore all your options in the Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream + Frozen Treats in Toronto/GTA.

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

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 new arrivals in August 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.

Need staff, help promoting your menu/bottle shop/patio, 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 Joshua Morin

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. Introducing Joshua Morin.

🕒 4.5 min read

Currently

Sous Chef, Park Hyatt Toronto

Formerly

Richmond Station, Langdon Hall, Fogo Island Inn

Favourite dish to make right now

One dish in particular from our dinner menu at Park Hyatt that I’m really excited about is this sweet potato dish. It’s a sweet potato that’s been cooked and dried, marinated in barley shio koji, grilled over charcoal, and served with an Ontario peanut miso.

Last cookbook purchase

Frantzén by Björn Frantzén

Have you read it/tried any recipes

I’ve read it front to back a couple of times now, but have only tried a few recipes so far. It’s a really great book filled with inspiring dishes and new techniques. Would recommend.

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

Unsustainable seafood.

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

Dried fermented herb powders, They pack serious flavour. Use them as a seasoning.

Biggest influences

I’d say Smyth in Chicago is a big influence of mine at the moment, but it’s always changing. There’s always new things to learn and this industry is full of talented people doing really incredible things.

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

Septime in Paris. I have a trip booked for next year.

Last thing you ate

Pork steam bun. Actually a Cubano Steam Bun, one of our snacks here at the new bar, Writers Room.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Mushrooms (Marc’s Mushrooms home delivery makes this easy), good quality soy sauce, fresh pasta.

Guilty pleasure

Nanaimo bars. Sickly sweet but so good.

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

Bernhardt’s, Edulis, Skippa

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

Burdock, Alchemy Food & Drink, Happy Coffee and Wine

Go-to drink 

Paper Plane.

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

Snacking on too much chocolate from the pastry kitchen.

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

Organization. I’m always cleaning and organizing while I work. In my opinion, it’s the key to working efficient.

Hidden talent

I’m a very good whistler.

Best career advice you ever receive
Choose where you want to work and work there. Don’t settle for anything less.  - Susan Shaw at The Culinary Institute of Canada

Worst career advice you ever received

I had a chef once tell me that I should reassess my career choice as he didn’t think I could make it in this industry. I think I proved him wrong.

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

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OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 9-15, 2021

Photo courtesy of Maha's Fine Egyptian Cuisine.

My iconic OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings (virtual/brick-and-mortar/popups/allll the things) and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #ifyouknowyouknow

🕒 11.5 min read 

This week’s roundup, robust as ever with 20 arrivals, is hotel heavy, with a good sprinkling of burgers, bubble tea and other essential comfort fare to get you through the back-to-school/back-to-work/where-are-all-my-sweaters crunch.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Trinity-Bellwoods newest burger joint just dropped. The Bullger Burger & Steak took over neighbourhood fixture Churrasqueira Vila Verde Restaurant (869 Dundas St. W ), marking the third location for the local halal chain. The first debuted on the Danforth exactly one year ago, with a second closely following last winter.

Cango Sushi’s slogan was made for times like these: "Don't Think, Just Enjoy!" Find them in Little Italy at College & Ossington (808 College St.).

Daily Ritual Café debuted inside The One King West Hotel & Residence (1 King St. W.) Tuesday. Menu items currently include Eggs Benedict ($14), Mortadella Focaccia ($10.99), Tiffin Box ($29), and Action Packed Bowl ($11.99) - a bean-heavy rice bowl with sliced chicken breast, mixed greens, chia seeds and smoked chipotle dressing. Customers can also shop a selection of small grocery items, many from local providers.

ISO fish noodle soup and bubble tea in the downtown core? Head to Deer Garden Signatures (770 Bay St., Unit 1) at College & Bay.

Across the street, find Japanese eatery Gorudoya (761 Bay St.) next to Asian-fusion resto Lemon Tree S&S.* *Fun fact: Lemon Tree S&S’s other location can be found in my West Queen West Patio Guide.

The fifth outpost of burger/burrito/taco/rice bowl Grillies in Scarborough at Lawrence and Markham (3478 Lawrence Ave. E., Unit C) is open 24 hours, a rare feature pre-pandemic, and especially scarce in covid times.

I reported on incoming 1 Hotel Toronto (550 Wellington St. W.) two years ago. How time flies. Doors opened last month, including dining destination 1 Kitchen Toronto and Flora Lounge. Next up: Harriet's Rooftop, the first Canadian location for The h.wood group, the folks behind L.A. hotspots Bootsy Bellows, Delilah, The Nice Guy. Los Angeles is also home to a Harriet’s rooftop lounge. With a menu developed by Chef Derek Powers Jr., open concept sushi bar and poolside bottle service, it’s set to be one of the season’s buzziest destinations. Doors open Wednesday.

I first alerted you to the Annex branch of Hey Noodles (526 Bloor St. W.) back in July. The Bloor and Bathurst offshoot opens Saturday.

Impact Kitchen - known for its keto, paleo, and vegan options. –launches in Liberty Village Wednesday. This marks the fifth location for the health-centric fast-casual brand that debuted in 2015. 

From ready-made prepared meals (Hambagu Steak Patty Special, Korean Bento Lunchboxes) to Asian pantry staples and cookware, K-Chon Korean Shopping Village (7500 Woodbine Ave.) in Markham takes the drudgery out of grocery shopping.

La Diperie landed in Leaside just a few weeks ago. It turns out the ice creamery has also set up shop in Port Credit (150 Lakeshore Rd. W.). 

It’s been a minute since a new Mean Bao came on the scene. Say hey to the Kensington Market outpost (376 College St.).

Not Just Noodles (570 Yonge St.) has sat at the corner of Yonge and Wellesley for just about forever, so a change was long overdue. Lucky for you, the modifications work in your favour: the name remains unchanged, as do many of the menu items. The space was renovated, a new sign and some dishes added including Japanese fare and Thai selections including Pad Thai, with new owners and management on board. 

The Ocaso Tacos pop-up at stackt market (28 Bathurst St.) by Ration Food Lab ensures every day is Taco Tuesday.

Psst. Park Hyatt Toronto (4 Avenue Rd.) has a luxurious new look and feel thanks to world-renowned designer Alessandro Munge of Studio Munge. The  hotel’s 17th-floor cocktail bar The Writers Room boasting Ask The Dust - a revisited and improved White Negroni, Lamb Tartare, Uni Cream Puff; and a “new culinary destination” - yet to be revealed – are sure to set hearts aflutter. Doors open Wednesday.  

If the mere mention of Stuffed Peppers, Mozzarella Sticks, Chicken Parm, and Cannoli gets your pulse racing, Roncy’s newest occupant is for you. Brought to you by The Commoner* team, Sienna's Italian American Kitchen (403 Roncesvalles Ave.), opens tomorrow. *Take a closer look at The Commoner College location in The Reveal.

Mediterranean eatery Tahini’s has largely been making a mark outside of the GTA – London, Hamilton, Whitby and Barrie. But all that’s changed with the new Etobicoke location (2257 Islington Ave.), with more on the horizon.

Berlin street food ghost kitchen Wolf Down (950 King St. W.) debuts tomorrow, with plans to expand across Canada and the U.S. What to expect: The menu’s tiny by design (Döner in the form of sando, salad or rice bowl), all items are one price ($14.50), and they’re open daily until 3am. Did you notice? They share the same address as other ghost operations including recent arrival Vera’s Burger Shack and the MrBeast Burger Pop-Up that took place in February.

Calling all chicken wing lovers: Wow! Wing House’s downtown (772 College St.) and Vaughan (9587 Weston Rd.) locations will sate your cravings.

CLOSED

Yorkville gem Chabrol (156 Cumberland Ave.) has shuttered for now. When I inquired about the closure, Executive Chef Doug Penfold said, “We are not planning a reopening until at least sometime in 2022. We need to wait and see how the post covid world impacts high end dining.” Fingers crossed for its return next year (which btw, isn’t that far away).

I let you in on Core Bubble Tea (896 Queen St. E.) back in April and its subsequent opening in May.  While it may return next summer, for now, service ended Labour Day. Core Korean Kitchen (same address) luckily remains, complete with patio. Learn about its founder, Chef Hyun Jung Kim.

Affordable drinks and grub and were the name of the game at Nirvana Restaurant (434 College St.) at College and Bathurst.

Siri Kitchen (808 College St.) arrived in Little Italy last summer, but has already been replaced. See above for details.

EVENTS

Explore Asian cuisines at 100+ participating venues with promotional deals for $10, $20, and $30 at this year’s Asialicious. Launching Saturday, with the Asialicious Carnival kicking off festivities tomorrow. 

Pro tip: Don’t sleep on Soft Dough Co.’s Dessert Bar pop-up at The Annex Food Hall (384 Bloor St. W.) Friday and Saturday. Dig into Alice’s bestselling  Basque Burnt Cheesecake and Madeleines, as well as new items Tiramisu and German Apple Cake.

Toronto Veg Food Fest Popup 2021 is happening Saturday at Locomotive Hall at Steam Whistle Brewery.

If you read my chef series At The Pass, you’ll notice Negronis are by far the drink of choice. Starting Monday, get in on the action yourself during Negroni Week.

NEWS

Restaurants Canada is seeking sector-specific support from the next federal government to “ensure foodservice businesses can help create a million jobs in recovery and prevent labour shortages from becoming a long-term crisis.”

Yesterday, Conservative leader Erin O’Toole announced his plan to introduce a “Dine and Discover Program” that will “provide a 50 per cent rebate for food and non-alcoholic drinks purchased for dine-in from Monday to Wednesday for one month.” 

April Brown and Sarah Sklash, founders of The June Motel in Prince Edward County and Sauble Beach, recently made the pages of Architectural Digest and have a new show, Motel Makeoiver, on Netflix.

Actor Tia Mowry stopped by Maha’s  earlier this week.

And stay tuned, lots of exciting projects in the works. In the meantime, 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.  

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 new arrivals in August 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.   

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