Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 28

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 2-8, 2021

Photo courtesy of Pür & Simple.

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 min read 

There’s a lot to dig into this week: Vaccination certificates were announced yesterday, it’s the long weekend and the Jewish New Year, school starts soon, and some of you may be going back into the office, at least part time. This means you need food, drinks, celebrations and distractions ASAP. I’ve got just the thing. Actually, 21 new things, to be exact.

Psst. Did you know? TR Newsletter subscribers get first dibs on the OPEN/CLOSED thx to The Tip Off, exclusively available in the weekly missive dropped Tuesdays. There’s also exclusive deals, contests, and more. You know what to do.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

The first Toronto A-OK Café tucked inside Canadian women’s fit destination Aritzia landed at Yonge and Bloor (50 Bloor St.) back in 2019 with a famous Ontario resident now.* The second spot in the 6ix – and fifth for the brand - debuted earlier this week at CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall). Take a peek at the striking space. *Fun fact: That now famous yellow puffer sold out in mere minutes and set off a domino effect of retailers rushing to sell sunny versions of the winter staple.

The bottle shop, and possibly the patio, portion of Alberta Avenue Provisions (1150 Davenport Rd.) softly opened this afternoon, with tomorrow marking the more official soft opening. Between the three industry vets, there’s three decades of hospitality experience happening here. Expect wine and grub for the patio and provisions to take home. The restaurant portion of the biz will follow next year. Pro tip: Don’t sleep on the pizza pop-up happening Saturday after 3pm.

Mississauga’s Bombay Frankie (285 Enfield Pl., Unit R104) by Toronto restaurateur Hemant  Bhagwani (Amaya, Eggbird, Goa, Pōpa) shares the same slogan as his Bom-Bay Snack Bar on Bayview: “An Irani cafe with an Indian heart.”

The team behind Inspire Restaurant (144 Main St. N., Unit 1) in Markham just unveiled KKINN down the road (76 Main St. N.), On the menu: Duck Prosciutto Caesar ($19), Tempura Hot Honey Hen ($20), Baked Goat Curry Rotini ($21), and a dish Nicki Minaj, Toronto’s own Drake, and Lil Wayne surely would have an affinity for - Truffle Butter Crustacean ($19).

Chicko Chicken (398 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 9) in Thornhill Is all about KFC - Korean Style Fried Chicken. Which is perfect, because these days, aren’t you too?

ISO Halal Arabic fare? Dewan Restaurant (6355 Kennedy Rd.) in Mississauga has got you covered.

I was excited to discover Ensanemada in July. Find an array of ”Filipino brioche with a twist” at The District Kitchen at Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) in Mississauga Saturday and Sunday. 

Despite back-to-back-to-back launches recently, Kung Fu Tea keeps it going with two more satellites this weekend: Grand openings for Rutherford Marketplace (9360 Bathurst St., Unit 4F/106) in Vaughan and Markham (8200 Birchmount Rd, Unit L)  include 30 per cent off everything and a BOGO Mix & Match offer Sat-Mon.

There’s never a dull moment when it comes to internet food sensations. This week’s come courtesy of Kurimi’s puddings that look like ramen, a hot trend in Asia right now. They’ve moved in with Panntea (5651 Steeles Ave. E., Unit 26), home of the famous Towel Cakes (aka matcha crepe cakes). With only 20 available day (they’re handmade), it’s best to call ahead.

TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to learn about this week’s hot new bakery alert (last week's was 🔥 too). For those just catching up, modern Vietnamese bakery LA LA Bakeshop (346A Bloor St. W.) softly opened this past weekend only to run out of everything like that. Doors reopen tomorrow. Word of advice: Get there early to avoid disappointment.

If soft vegan cookies are your spirit animal, head to The District Kitchen at Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) for a quick Major's Cookies pop-up kicking off Monday.

Puerto Bravo (1425 Gerrard St. E.) brings a strong taco and seafood game to Gerrard India Bazaar.

With the back-to-school/work transition starting next week, breakfast and lunch eatery Pür & Simple’s arrival at Mississauga’s Heartland Town Centre (6045 Mavis Rd.) on Tuesday sure comes in handy.

Soul Provisions has found a home at Queen and Niagara (847 Queen St. W.) - their second so far - packed with signature popsicles and other delights.

Sweetie Pie, home of hand-crafted artisanal pies and vegan baked goods, isn’t wasting time taking over the GTA. A new venue just dropped in July and an outpost is launching this weekend in Greektown (563 Danforth Ave.). p.s. That’s not all. Stay tuned.

Remember when Street Kitchen by Basil Box debuted right before Christmas last year? The sister concept of Southeast Asian chain Basil Box has a sibling. The new bubble tea brand softly opened TasteT inside the Asian resto at College and Bathurst (410 Bathurst St.) with more in the works. In the meantime, enjoy 25 per cent off of all drinks including fruit teas, slushes, and salt clouds. 

I’ve been chronicling Tru Tea since September 2019. The rapid growth of the local chain largely took place within weeks of one another. But the train keeps on rollin’. Say hello to the newest addition in Etobicoke (2348A Lake Shore Blvd.).

Vera’s Burger Shack of B.C. started out as a pop-up here at the beginning of August. By the following week, they’d made it permanent. This week, they’ve set up shop at Dufferin and Lawrence (700 Lawrence Ave. W.).

East Danforth gem The Wren (1382 Danforth Ave.) added to the fam earlier this week with The Wood Owl (1380 Danforth Ave.) right next door. Recco: You should probably order an extra Za’atar Eggplant Frites with green tahini and onion jam because everyone’s going to want in on this action too.

Peel Public Health closed &Company Resto Bar (295 Enfield Pl,) a few weeks ago due to possible Covid-19 exposure. The venue reopened this past weekend with “strict social distancing guidelines.”

CLOSED  

The space formerly home to Chinese Food Gallery (557 Eglinton Ave. W.) has already transformed into a new wing joint.

After 15 years in Markham, the pandemic is to blame for the closure of Lemon Bistro (76 Main St. N.). For what opened in their stead, see above.

Meating on Queen (1160 Queen St. E.) at Queen and Jones has been a part of the east end for what seems like forever. Alas, the family owned and operated butcher has closed, soon to be replaced by Leslieville Meat Market.

Sushi Nishinokaze (2950 Kennedy Rd.) in Scarborough had to temporarily close due to “a medical emergency with the chef.”  Luckily, Chef Vincent Gee is “doing fine” and “recovering from surgery.”  The restaurant will be “closed indefinitely until further notice.” Here’s to a speedy recovery.

Viajero Cantina (1661 Bloor St. W.) may be leaving their High Park digs, but it’s not the end. Saturday is the last night for now.

EVENTS

Le Burger Week has arrived in Toronto. Check out this year’s participating restaurants.

Aunt Lucy’s is giving away free “Labadi” Burgers at Trailhead Place this weekend.

Kanto Night Food Fest kicks of tomorrow, complete with inihaw and Asukal’s ice cream and cookiewiches. 

It’s Hot Grill Summer at Night Market Toronto this weekend.

Get tix now for next week’s one day event Toronto Veg Food Fest Popup 2021 at Locomotive Hall at Steam Whistle Brewery.

NEWS

The province’s vaccination certificates are the big story of the week.

ICYMI

Whether it’s casual coffee, brunch ’n bubbles, or dinner under the stars, Liberty Village patios have got it all. Get the complete guide now. 

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 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 ASAP? 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.

TR Guide to Patio Season: Liberty Village

Photo courtesy of Liberty Village BIA.

🕒 3.5 min read

Patio season has finally returned to the 6ix and you want to know what’s open and where. 

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.

Liberty Village’s "campus-style" nabe is equal parts cool and cozy. Take it all in from one of the +30 spacious patios.

Please contact establishments directly for hours of operation and other information. 

Aroma Espresso Bar
Cafe
120 Lynn Williams St., Unit 101
647-352-7700

Arvo Coffee & Wine Bar
Coffee Shop & Wine Bar
80 Atlantic Ave.
416-531-6864 

Balzac's Liberty Village
Coffee Shop
43 Hanna Ave.
416- 534-7372

Big Rock Brewery
Brewery
42 Liberty St.
416-304-9403

Brazen Head
Irish Pub
165 East Liberty St.
416-535-8787

Brodflour
Bakery
8 Pardee Ave.
416-536-4848

Caffino Ristorante
Italian Restaurant
1185 King St. W.
416-588-9010

Chiang Mai
Thai Restaurant
171 East Liberty St.
647-342-8424 

The Craft Brasserie
Bar & Grill
107 Atlantic Ave.
416- 535-2337

Fat Bastard Burrito
Mexican Restaurant
126 Atlantic Ave.
647-748-5550 

Freshii
Fast Food Restaurant
85 Hanna Ave., Unit 104A
416-516-0100

In Japan
Japanese Restaurant
124 Atlantic Ave.
416-516-4648

Liberty Coffee Bar
Cafe
80 Western Battery Rd.
416-901-2109

Liberty Commons at Big Rock Brewery
Pub & Brewery
42 Liberty St.
416-304-9403

Liberty Village Market Café
Café & Market
65 Jefferson Ave.
416- 530-0477

Liberty Village Rotisserie
Greek Restaurant
141 Jefferson Ave.
416-516-4233

Little House of Deli
Brunch & Sandwich Restaurant
161 Liberty St. 

Local Public Eatery
Pub
171 East Liberty St.
416-901-8351 

Louie Craft Coffee
Coffee Shop
1187 King St. W.
416-583-1627 

Merci Mon Ami
Bistro
171 E Liberty St., Unit 107
647-436-3831 

Mike's Liberty Grill
American Restaurant
153 Liberty St.
416-536-4444

Mildred's Temple Kitchen
Brunch Restaurant
85 Hanna Ave.
416-588-5695 

Naomi Restaurant
Asian Restaurant
112 Atlantic Ave.
416-534-6385

Ono Poké Bar
Hawaiian Asian Restaurant
100 Western Battery Rd.
416-792-8992

Pita Land
Middle Eastern Restaurant
165 East Liberty St.
647-660-7488

Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen
Fast Food Restaurant
165 East Liberty St.
647-660-7466

School
Brunch Restaurant
70 Fraser Ave.
416-588-0005 

Skcookks
West African Restaurant
133 Jefferson Ave.
416-531-1065

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
85 Hanna Ave.
416-538-6818

Tim Hortons
Coffee Shop
171 East Liberty St.
416-530-5959

Wendy's
Fast Food Restaurant
19 Western Battery Rd.
416-533-3456

8Mile Detroit Style Pizza
Pizzeria
122 Atlantic Ave.
416-551-5300

Names, addresses, phone numbers and websites subject to change.

Want to add your business? Submit your information. 

Discover other Neighbourhood Patio Guides. 

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

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News August 26-September 1, 2021

Photo courtesy of Drake Commissary.

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

🕒 14 min read

I really thought this week would be slow. It’s too hot to do anything, let alone open a restaurant. But thanks my deep dives, relentless research, and pounding the pavement, I’ve uncovered so many establishments I couldn’t include them all below in the time allowed. So I’ll leave these 30 arrivals and helluva lot of closures here for you to go through. 

This brings my findings for incoming businesses to 110 in August alone. If you don’t know what the numbers should be per month, know this: This is not normal. It’s insanity. Though it’s been this way for months and with all the ‘coming soon’s,’ not likely to change for some time.

And if you can believe it, I’ve got more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR newsletter. 

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

African Food And Products (430 Dundas St. E.) at Dundas and Parliament carries a range of meat and poultry, frozen fish, vegetables and spices

Opening weekend for the much anticipated Bar St. Lo (26 Market St.) by Collectif Nude has arrived. Replacing Barsa Taberna that shuttered last month, the new spot is open for patio resos this weekend and next, with expanded hours to follow.

The third branch of Bobacha Bubble Tea & Snack Bar (106 Reynolds St.) is celebrating big time this weekend. Enjoy 50 per cent off all drink at their grand opening on Saturday. Bonus: Be one of the first customers in line and receive a free treat.

I discovered Boréal Gâteau’s intergalactic ice cream cakes back in April. IRL storefront Boreal Gateau & Creamery (205 Main St., Unit 2) softly launched in Unionville yesterday. It’s just ice cream scoops for now, with cakes available next week.

Maria Strazzanti’s Morso Me (850 King St. W.) premiered four years ago, almost to the day. Sister company Cannoli Crunch debuted last month.

Beat the heat this weekend with a Golden Ice Shake, Milk Shake with Jelly Ball, or Fruit Frosty with Cheese Foam from Chinatown’s newest occupant, bubble tea shop Chicha (341 Spadina Ave.).

Chung Chun Rice Hot Dog just opened five locations a few weeks ago, so the debut of yet another – this time in Stockyards Village (1980 St, Clair Ave. W., Unit J104)  - is staggering. And the Korean hot dog chain’s far from done. Stay tuned.

CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice has kept me hopping lately. And apparently yhere’s no rest for the wicked, with a soft opening in Etobicoke (4868 Dundas St. W.) earlier this week.

Satiate your wing cravings at Forest Hill’s new Crave Wings (557 Eglinton Ave. W.) with 150 flavours to choose from. French fry choices are no slouch either – it’s the biggest fry menu in recent memory. In the mood for something else? Choose from an array of appetizers, quesadillas, wraps, burgers and salads.

The Ritz-Carlton’s all out with the old (DEQ Terrace & Lounge); in with the new. EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace (181 Wellington St. W.) debuts Wednesday. The new concept in the chic hotel downtown “re-defines pub culture and pays homage to traditional British dining,” with a new team in place, including Chef Jeff Crump (ex-Earth to Table Bread Bar) and award-winning bartender Jason Griffin (Toronto: Bacchanal, Byblos; Montreal: Maison William Gray Hotel, Maison Boulud, Ritz-Carlton Hotel) as Bar Manager. Cocktails are divided into retrospective, contemporary, and prospective options ($17-$25). For grub, there are “Snacketizers” ($16-$29) includes Devil’s on Horseback ($15), Duck Fat Potatoes ($16), Mushrooms on Toast ($19) and Fish & Chips ($29); three salads, three focaccia “deluxe”, mains ($19-$53), and five desserts.

Hands up if you could use some mini donuts and ice cream in your life rn! Psst. Find Fugo Desserts tucked away inside Asian bao and bowl eatery Makan (265 Queen St. W.) at Queen and Duncan. 

The fellas behind Good Behaviour Ice Cream have not slowed down one ioata since launching in February. Grand opening festivities for Good Behaviour Submarine at their new shop (342 Westmoreland Ave.) took place yesterday.

After the closure of neighbourhood stalwart Pan on the Danforth, 516 Danforth Avenue has been home to District 34 and  Zayka Grill Indian Bistro in the last year. Gorkha Durbar softly opened in that very spot on Monday. On the menu: Authentic Nepali and Hakka fare.

Last week I informed you that Toronto Public Health temporarily shut down luxe steakhouse Harbour 60 (60 Harbour St.) due to staff testing positive for COVID-19. Update: Doors reopened ten day later on Monday August 23.

BBQ joint Hogtown Smoke (249 Augusta Ave.) moved into Bacon Nation’s old digs in Kensington Market.

Lobster Port has a new home (8432 Leslie St., Unit 110), not far from its former building (9021 Leslie St., Unit 9-13) in Markham.

Moss Park just got a new butcher and grocer. Introducing: Lucy Grocery and Meat Store (213 Queen St. E.). 

Readers of last week’s OPEN/CLOSED got the head’s up about Maker Pizza’s plans in the east end. Official word came late last week. Since then, pick up became available at 388 Carlaw Ave.

Cookie lovers in the east end are also in luck. The Night Baker’s second outpost just landed in Greektown (405 Danforth Ave.), complete with monthly cookie menu, currently featuring Mistachio, Campfire S’Mores, Thai Milk Tea, and Cinnamon Bun. 

Newsletter subscribers were the first to get in on the excitement this week about epic bakery Noctua Bread’s move into The Junction. In beloved Vesuvio's former digs, to be exact. Online pre-orders softly launched yesterday.

Weslodge in the Fashion District is now Pink Sky (480 King St. W.) by hospitality dynamic duo Hanif Harji and Charles Khabouth, with a seafood-focused menu is courtesy of Corporate Head Chef Zach Albertsen (Weslodge, Drake Hotel, Wheat Sheaf Tavern, Shook Kitchen) and Restaurant Head Chef Michali Eleftheroglou (Bar Raval, Tennessee Tavern, Boehmer). Doors open Tuesday.

The closure of Qi Sushi (358 Gerrard St. E.) at the end of May garnered a lot of media attention. Funnily enough, no one noticed not only had another restaurant taken over the space, it shares the same name with the previous business. And while sushi is still on offer, the new owners have added a selection of Korean fare as well.

Jamaican restaurant R&T Eat Nice (477 Oakwood Ave.) at Oakwood and Vaughan has a stellar focused menu: Chicken (fried, jerk, curried) , Curried Goat, Jerk Pork, Oxtail, Steamed Fish, Soup, and Stew Peas. 

It’s Taco Tuesday every day in Kensington, thanks to the recent arrival TacoTaco (319 Augusta Ave.). Specialities include Canadian game, California style, vegan selections, and pizzadillas, which are exactly what they sound like.

T. Kettle opened at Royal Bank Plaza (200 Bay St., Unit 134) in Toronto’s PATH.

Authentic Neapolitan pizza can be yours starting tomorrow at Oakville’s Verace Pizza (312 Lakeshore Rd. E.) from the folks behind Toronto Neapolitan pizzeria Pizza e Pazzi (1182 St. Clair Ave. W.).

Bubble tea shop YO!Tea softly opens at Centerpoint Mall (6212 Yonge St.) Saturday.

Last month I reported on the opening of 1 Hotel Toronto (550 Wellington St. W.) and 1Kitchen Toronto. In addition to the zero-waste, local, and  sustainably sourced farm-to-table restaurant, Flora Lounge and 1 Hotel Garden Pavilion have opened, with more on the way. Read about the new executive chef below.

I was the first to tell you about 8Mile Pizza at Yonge and Bloor back in October. Check out the Detroit style pizzeria’s second location in Liberty Village (122 Atlantic Ave.).

CLOSED  

Bean There Café (106 Reynolds St.) in Oakville celebrated 25 years in 2020 before being replaced by another café concept. See above.

The Yonge & College branch (27 Carlton St.) of breakfast chain Cora is no more, but another eggcentric spot – Eggspectation – is just steps away (45 Carlton St.)

Bakery, bar and larder Drake Commissary (128 Sterling Rd.), part of the Drake Hotel portfolio, used a ‘multi-concepts in one space’ model over four years ago, adopted by many since.

Flora’s Deli at Mahjong Bar (1276 Dundas St. W.) has come to a close.

Fugo Desserts (205 Dundas St W.) left Dundas and University to move a bit further west. See above.

Bubble tea lovers, don’t despair. A new boba destination has moved into Tru Tea’s old digs (341 Spadina Ave.) in Chinatown. See above for details.

Weslodge (480 King St. W.) may have turned into something new, but is that it for the brand in Toronto? Stay tuned.

EVENTS

Small batch tamales pop-up Mamey out of Hamilton is stopping by Henderson Brewing (128A Sterling Rd.) tomorrow.

Don’t sleep on Saturday’s Bawang x Islas Pop-Up.

The CNE goes virtual this year with free and paid events.

Get tix for this weekend’s Tamil Fest before they sell out.

NEWS

Canada’s vaccination passports for international travel are underway, Quebec’s introducing vaccine passports on September 1, and British Columbia has seen a big jump in vaccine appointments after their vaccine card program was announced, but it’s still unclear what Ontario will do. On Monday, the Canadian Federation Of Independent Business (CFIB) urged caution on mandatory vaccine policies or passports, while Ontario’s Chamber of Commerce released a proof-of-vaccination framework Tuesday to help businesses, and co-chairs of Canada’s Innovation Corridor Business Council are advocating for a COVID safe pass for the entire province. Meanwhile, restaurateurs are left to police their businesses themselves, including Jen Agg, whose businesses have been targeted by anti-vaxxers for weeks.

Restaurants continue to experience break-ins, including ONO Poké Bar on Bay and Playa Cabana Taqueria at Yonge & St. Clair this week.

ICYMI

From secret beer garden to Greek street food pop-up, Ossington patios offer an exciting array of diverse food drink experiences. Get the complete guide now! 

There’s an exciting new hotel in town. Helming the kitchen, a talented chef who’s cooked in places as far and wide as the Bahamas and Saudi Arabia, and dining destinations in Miami, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Chef Derek Powers Jr. leads 1 Hotel Toronto’s zero-waste, local sustainably sourced farm-to-table restaurant 1 Kitchen Toronto, Flora Lounge, 1 Hotel Garden Pavilion (complete with bee hotel!), and Harriet's Rooftop (opening soon). Having just moved north of the border, he shares his favourite Toronto restaurants so far, the Canadian dessert he can’t get enough of, advice for cooks just starting out much more in this week’s At The Pass.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast - look at what’s happened this month 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 Derek Powers Jr.

Chef Derek Powers Jr. Photo by Brandon Barre.

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.

🕒 3.5 min read

Chef Derek Powers Jr. 

Currently

Executive Chef at 1 Hotel Toronto, 1 Kitchen Toronto, and Flora Lounge 

Formerly

I’ve been very fortunate and have had the chance to work around the world. Before coming to Toronto, I’ve cooked in Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas, Nassau Bahamas, and Saudi Arabia.

Favourite dish to make right now

Tacos.

Last cookbook purchase

NOPI: The Cookbook by Yotam Ottolenghi and Ramael Scully

Have you read it/tried any recipes

I use a lot of cookbooks to get inspired and then do my own thing.

1 Kitchen Free-Range Chicken Lettuce Wrap. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

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

Mayo. 

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

It’s not a single ingredient or dish. I’d love to see chefs pushing seasonal dishes – the season is the ingredient. 

Biggest influences 

All of the past chefs I have worked with.  

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

N/A.

Last thing you ate

I just tried a few bites of steak prepared by Chef Olivier Le Calvez, who leads the kitchen of Casa Madera, another 1 Hotel Toronto dining destination that’s coming soon.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Hot sauce, fresh local produce and Maldon salt.

Guilty pleasure

Now that I’ve moved to Canada, I’d have to say butter tarts.

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

416 Snack Bar, Harry’s Charbroiled, 8Mile Pizza

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

N/A

Your go-to drink

Double espresso.

Chef Powers Jr. in the Garden Pavilion. Photo by Brandon Barre.

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

Being on my phone.

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

Leading by example.

Hidden talent

N/A

Best career advice you ever received

Establishing and maintaining that professional boundary with your team. This was something I learned from Alex Becker.

Worst career advice you ever received

N/A

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

Be self-driven and motivated and enjoy the grind of learning your craft.

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.   

TR Guide to Patio Season: Ossington

Photo courtesy of I I Deal Coffee & Wine.

🕒 2 min read

Patio season has finally returned to the 6ix and you want to know what’s open and where. 

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. 

Ossington between Dundas and Queen is home to some of the city’s top bars and restaurants. As it turns out, patios too.

Please contact establishments directly for hours of operation and other information. 

Azhar Kitchen + Bar
Middle Eastern Restaurant
96 Ossington Ave.
647-503-1098

Bar Koukla
Snack Bar
88 Ossington Ave.
416-901-7899 

Bar Shozan
Japanese Bar
164 Ossington Ave.
647-478-6164

Bar Sybanne
Cocktail Bar
229 Ossington Ave.
647-350-9229

Bellwoods Brewery
Brewery, Retail Store & Market
124 Ossington Ave.
416-535-4586

Boehmer
Canadian Restaurant
93 Ossington Ave.
416-531-3800

Côte de Boeuf
French Bistro & Bar/Butcher
130 Ossington Ave.
416-532-2333 

Crosley's
Canadian Restaurant
214 Ossington Ave.
416-531-0123

Downtown Winery
Wine Shop & Bar
30 Ossington Ave.
416-537-0416

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

Foxley Bistro
Pan-Asian Restaurant
207 Ossington Ave.
416-534-8520 

I Deal Coffee & Wine
Coffee Shop & Wine Bar
162 Ossington Ave.
416-364-7700

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

La Cubana
Cuban Restaurant
92 Ossington Ave.
416-537-0134

Mamakas Taverna
Greek Restaurant
80 Ossington Ave.
416-519-5996 

Manita
Cafe, Grocery & Bar
210 Ossington Ave.
416-551-2230

MOK - Man of Kent
Bar
202 Ossington Ave.
416-516-2912

The Painted Lady
Bar
218 Ossington Ave.

Papi Chulos
Mexican Restaurant
121 Ossington Ave.
416-792-5500

Paris Paris
Wine Shop
146 Ossington Ave.
416-535-5656

Pho Rùa Vàng Golden Turtle Restaurant
Vietnamese Restaurant
125 Ossington Ave.
416-531-1601 

Pizzeria Libretto
Pizzeria
221 Ossington Ave.
416-532-8000 

Reposado Bar & Lounge
Cocktail Bar
136 Ossington Ave.
416-532-6474

Salt Wine Bar
Wine Bar
225 Ossington Ave.
416-533-7258 

Season Six
Seasonal Restaurant
188 Ossington Ave.
437-242-5991

Soos
Malaysian Restaurant
94 Ossington Ave.
416-901-7667 

Superpoint
Pizzeria
184 Ossington Ave.
416-519-6996

Sweaty Betty's
Bar
13 Ossington Ave.
416-535-6861

Té
Korean Restaurant
70 Ossington Ave.
647-348-8009 

Union
French Restaurant
72 Ossington Ave.
416-850-0093

Venezia Bakery
Bakery
114 Ossington Ave.
416-537-2914

Names, addresses, phone numbers and websites subject to change.

Want to add your business? Submit your information. 

Discover other Neighbourhood Patio Guides. 

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

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News August 19-25, 2021

Photo courtesy of Vintage Hotpot.

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

🕒 14 min read

Lately friends and colleagues who have moved out of the city (or are in the process) have told me how unequivocally horrible Toronto is. I couldn’t disagree more, especially considering my vocation. This last year-and-a-half has introduced hundreds of stellar options for takeout, delivery, patio and indoor dining, not to mention all the phenomenal food from neighbourhood stalwarts that have kept us going prior to and throughout this crisis. Find lots more in my 18 findings below. And please take a moment to remember all those that came before and visit older establishment as often as possible. As you can see, the closures are coming fast and furious.

Pro tip: Make sure you read all the way to the end. You’ll be glad you did.

Here’s the very latest: 

OPEN

Esteemed chef/restaurateur Stuart Cameron (Patria, Byblos, Mira, Azhar Kitchen + Bar) took Bocado* (252 Main St.), a seasonal, Spanish-inspired destination, north of the city to Prince Edward County. Doors open Wednesday, but you can book a table now.
*I let TR Newsletter subscribers in on the top chef’s newest venture last week.

Bottega Volo by Bar Volo welcomed guests to their shop stocked with beer, wine and Italian grocery items earlier this week. Find them inside Little Italy’s historic Royal Cinema (608 College St.), just steps away from their bar and bottle shop Birreria Volo (612 College St.).

Chick-fil-A premieres at Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Dr.) today. The first GTA location of the controversial chain touched down at Yonge & Bloor two years ago.

Canada's newest MasterChef Christopher Siu kicked off his third Daan Go Cake Lab in the province Saturday at Times Square Richmond Hill (550 Hwy 7 E, Building C - Unit 70), with notable guests Richmond Hill’s Acting Mayor and City Councillors in attendance.

Psst. David Rocco Bar Aperitivo (95 Cumberland St.) is already abuzz in Yorkville.* The titular Italian aperitivo bar by celebrity chef, cookbook author, television host, and winemaker David Rocco in a slip of a space (formerly occupied by Eastern European restaurant HÖM Café) is “not a restaurant” as stated across the website and social profiles, so come for the vine e spritz, stay for the cicchetti and stuzzichini. Note: No reservations. Walk-ins only.
* Naturally, newsletter subscribers got the head’s up months ago.

In Streetsville/Mississauga? Have a hankering for a bubble tea, fruit smoothie or milkshake? You’re in luck. Fruity Fruitea (241 Queen St. S.) is in soft launch mode, with the grand opening to follow tomorrow.

The Beaches continues to step up its restaurant game (recent newcomers include Mira Mira Diner, Tilfilsi, and Toronto Beach Club). From the folks of legendary Pho Phuong Fine Vietnamese Cuisine (1603 Dundas St. W.) at Dundas and Brock comes J'adore Fine Vietnamese Cuisine (2014 Queen St. E.) across from Kew Gardens in The Beaches. Choose from a wide selection of dishes including con tam (steamed broken rice) stir fries, soup, banh mi, congee, steamed rice flour rolls, sides, and drinks.

Looking to beat the heat this weekend? From-scratch ice cream by Juicy J’s Creamy Scoops is currently available at Ration: Beverley (335 Queen St. W.) on the patio, rooftop, and for takeaway. 

Prediction: The lunch boxes at Mississauga’s Keeping Koi Café (1145 Dundas St. E.) are the next menu item to blow up on TikTok. The bubble tea shop’s Vietnamese fare - banh xeo (savoury sizzling waffle), banh mi, skewers, fried spring rolls, fresh rolls, waffle fries - packed in a park/beach/picnic-ready bundle, were made for days/feeds like these.

Doors open tomorrow for the Leaside branch (1559 Bayview Ave.) of La Diperie, the ice cream chain famous for +30 dips made with real chocolate.

Lamhan Banh Mi (733 Bloor St. W.) isn’t your average banh mi shop. First, it’s in Koreatown (Christie & Bloor). Second, the menu includes Vietnamese street food in addition to the ubiquitous baguette sandos. Third, they’re making their own ingredients including hue beef sausage and jerky.

Alongside usual suspects of maki, udon, and aburi sushi, you’ll find sushi burritos and poké bowls at North York’s Misato Sushi (5460 Yonge St., Unit 102) near Finch Station.

Last week I informed you of the closure of one of the city’s top wine bars. Luckily, Paris Paris just moved ‘round the corner (146 Ossington Ave.).

The first  Pi Co. debuted at Bay and Bloor mid-May 2016*, and I’ve been tracking their new locations ever since. The latest outpost opens today at Church and Carlton (432 Church St.).
*What a week that was - Big arrivals and yet a short roundup. Seven openings a week used to be bonkers. Now my discoveries average 20-30.

The internet sure loves a hidden concept, be it bar or café. I’ll do it one better with secret gelato pop-up shop RJ Gelato, located inside Romeo & Juliet Dolce con Caffè (2721 Yonge St.) in Lawrence Park.

Terminal 3 (3337 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) softly opens Saturday in South Etobicoke’s Long Branch ‘hood. Pro tip: Get there early. To celebrate their debut, the first seven customers get a free drink every day for a month.

I told you all about Vera’s Burger Shack pop-up shop at King and Strachan (950 King St. W.) a few weeks back. Update: They’ve made it permanent and are looking to expand across the city. Fun fact #1: The burger shop started in 1977 on the beach at Dunderave Pier in West Vancouver. Fun fact # 2: There really was a Vera! Stay tuned.

Exciting news: Xian He Zhuang’s first overseas location has arrived in North York. The flagship Vintage Hotpot (3355 Steeles Ave. E., Unit 1) endorsed by Chinese celebs Chen He, Li Chen, and Zhu Zhen, is currently in soft open. Dishes have a “vintage taste with a trendy twist,” as per the website. The restaurant is currently accepting walk-ins only and a post on social media confirms all staff have received “first and second dose vaccines.”

CLOSED 

It wasn’t long ago that Birria Balam came on the scene. But a pop-up is not supposed to be forever (for exceptions, see above), so it came to a close after service on Sunday. However, you don’t have to wait long for their new restaurant Fonda Balam with chef Matty Matheson, as it arrives next month. In the meantime, get to know chefs Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo in my weekly chef series At The Pass.*
* Know someone in Toronto or GTA who should be featured? Submit their name for consideration. And yes, you can nominate yourself.    

Buena Copa (460 College St.) has been replaced by another Mexican restaurant. See last week’s OPEN/CLOSED for details. 

Ecuadorian eatery Cocina de Doña Julia (1545 Dupont St.) was a neighbourhood mainstay for 15 years before having to say a heartfelt adiós last week.

Again, a Mexican resto has taken the place of another, following the closure of Fiesta Garibaldi (1742 Jane St.) at Jane and Lawrence.

Known for their meat buns, peanut noodles, and fruit shakes, Fu Jia Le Bakery (360 Broadview Ave.) in Chinatown East has closed.

Toronto Public Health temporarily shut down Harbour 60 (60 Harbour St.) last Thursday due to staff testing positive for COVID-19. The luxe steakhouse posted a statement on social media they will reopen ten days later.

Hunger Point (2075 Danforth Ave.) at Woodbine and Danforth opened Fall 2019.

Greektown has lost another mainstay. Peter Hadjis debuted Palace Restaurant (722 Pape Ave.) in the early 80s.

The windows of Sushi Xtra (423 Queen St. W.) near Spadina have been papered over.

Peel Public Health closed &Company Resto Bar (295 Enfield Pl,) Tuesday due to possible COVID-19 exposure.

EVENTS 

Saturday’s BACKYARD @ stackt celebrates BIPOC.

Mixto Festival is happening this weekend.

The drive-thru edition of 2021 Oakville Family Ribfest kicks off tomorrow.

You’ve got two Food Truck N’ Curbside Markets to check out this weekend.

NEWS 

Proof of COVID-19 vaccines will be mandatory for staff and customers at many businesses and events including Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) and Fall BeerFest T.O. 

New York City issued a mandate for vaccines for restaurants, gyms and entertainment venues to begin September 13, but not all restaurateurs are on board.

Head’s up: The largest increase in grocery prices in Canadian history is expected to hit in just a few months.

Any restaurants or food shop on Queen between Yonge and Bay and Yonge and Victoria Street will likely be on the move as the roads will be closed for up to five years starting 2023 due to construction for a new subway station.

Is U.S. pancake chain IHOP finally coming to Toronto?

WHY YOU SHOULD ALWAYS READ RIGHT TO THE END -> BREAKING: You know what is coming to Toronto? More Maker Pizza locations! While a Leaside destination isn’t set to launch ‘til next year, according to owner Shlomo Buchler, chef Matty Matheson is going to break the internet (the east side of it anyway) with his teaser posts and stories about an east side location with references to ‘South Riverside’ and ‘Jimmie Simpson.’ Scroll through the comments sections and you’ll see what I mean. People are losing their minds. STAY TUNED.

ICYMI

Executive chef Eric Chong is cooking up a storm at Skyflower.

Did you know there are +60 outdoor dining options along Queen East this season? Get the Complete Guide to Riverside and Leslieville Patios now.

Chef Ryan Baddeley of new smash hit Pizzeria Badiali is up to his eyes in orders, but took time out to answer all my burning questions for this week’s At The Pass. To discover his latest cookbook purchase (*adds to cart*), hidden talent (wish you had it in high school), guilty pleasures (*stocks freezer*), and much more, read the stellar interview.  

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. 

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 new arrivals in July 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? Want to promote 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 Ryan Baddeley

Chef Ryan Baddeley. Photo by Daniel Neuhaus.

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.

🕒 4 min read

Chef Ryan Baddeley

Currently

Chef, Pizzeria Badiali

Formerly

Bar Raval, Bar Isabel, Osteria Rialto

Favourite dish to make right now

Burrata with anything summer right now: peaches, marinated zucchini, tomatoes, etc. 

Last cookbook purchase

It’s been so long, I think it was Pasta Grannies: The Secrets of Italy’s Best Home Cooks by Vicky Bennison. Really great book - highly recommend.

Have you read it/tried any recipes

Yeah I have cooked a bunch, but especially love making the Cappelletti in Brodo in the winter months. 

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

Sous vide steak. No bathtub meats please. 

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

Fresh figs. Definitely an underplayed and undervalued fruit.  I love them and would love to see them used more and have access to better figs in general. In Ontario, they aren’t the best a lot of the time. 

Biggest influences

Via Carota, Felix Trattoria, Dario Cecchin. These days Chris Bianco at Pizzeria Bianco, L’industrie Pizzeria.

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

La Cova Fumada, Barcelona.

Last thing you ate

Mistake pizza - Burrata Marinara Pizza. 

Pizzeria Badiali Pepperoni: Crushed tomato, whole milk mozz, pepperoni, pecorino, padano. Photo by Aaron Wynia.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge

Kimchi, good soy sauce, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese.

Guilty pleasure

Chinatown freezer dumplings with soy and chili crisp, beef jerky, Subway.

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

Pho Tien Thanh, Crosley’s, and Dreyfus.

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

The bar at Alo, El Rey, and Communist’s Daughter.

Go-to drink

Negroni.

Chef Ryan Baddeley at Pizzeria Badiali. Photo by Aaron Wynia.

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

Pocketing everyone’s Sharpies. 

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

Respect for peers and employees. Working hard but enjoying ourselves. Respect for the ingredients and the farmers.

Hidden talent

I play the drums.

Best career advice you ever received

Basically, don’t get caught up in modern food trends and really learn how to cook a proper pasta or roast a chicken because those classics are forever going to be what people want to eat. - Chef David Lee while at Nota Bene as a young cook.

Worst career advice you ever received

Probably the student councillor in high school for making me believe university was the right path at the time. 

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

Don’t get too comfortable, take risks, travel, and challenge yourself. 

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.   

TR Guide to Patio Season: Queen East Eats

Photo courtesy of Leslieville BIA.

🕒 6 min read

Patio season has finally returned to the 6ix and you want to know what’s open and where. 

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.

This year Riverside and Leslieville Business Improvements Areas (BIA) joined forces to launch Queen East Eats featuring +60 patios on Queen from Davies to Vancouver Avenue.

Please contact establishments directly for hours of operation and other information. 

RIVERSIDE

Bonjour Brioche 
Bakery
812 Queen St. E.
416-406-1250

Boxcar Social Café & Bottle Shop
Café & Bottle Shop  
4 Boulton Ave.
844-726-9227

The Broadview Hotel
Beer Garden & Grill 
106 Broadview Ave., 2nd Floor
416 362-8439

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

Brickworks Ciderhouse  
Brewery
709 Queen St. E.
647- 341-4500

Chez Nous Wine Bar  
Wine Bar
798 Queen St. E.
416-781-4743

The Comrade   
Bar
758 Queen St. E.
416-778-9449

Dark Horse Espresso Bar  
Cafe
630 Queen St. E.
647-436-3460

Eastbound Brewing Co.
Brewery, Gastropub & Beer Store
700 Queen St. E.
416-901-1299

ēst Restaurant  
Continental Restaurant
729 Queen St. E.
416-792-1000

Hi-Lo  
Bar
753 Queen St. E.
416-551-3459

Il Ponte  
Italian Restaurant 
625 Queen St. E.
416-778-0404

Indian Spice Room
Vegetarian/Vegan Indian Restaurant  
717 Queen St. E.
647-349-1009

Isaan Der Thai Kitchen  
Thai Restaurant
730 Queen St. E.
416-465-0100

La Carnita  
Mexican Restaurant
780 Queen St. E.
647-344-0780

The Opera House Grill
Greek Restaurant  
737 Queen St. E.
416-466-0313

PBN Bar & Grill  
Punjabi Restaurant
782 Queen St. E.
416-465-7777

Pizza Pizza 
Pizzeria
678 Queen St. E.
416-967-1111

Prohibition Social House  
Gastropub
696 Queen St. E.
416-792-4499

Riverside Burgers  
Fast Food Restaurant
688 Queen St. E.
416-850-7026 

Saulter Street Brewery
Brewery  
31 Saulter St., Unit 1
416-463-9379

Slayer Burger
Fast Food Restaurant 
739 Queen St. E.
416-846-3786

Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine  
Middle Eastern Restaurant
810 Queen St. E.
416-465-2500 

Urban House
Eclectic Restaurant  
718 Queen St. E.
416-901-9718

White Lily Diner
Diner  
678 Queen St. E.
416-901-7800

LESLIEVILLE

Ascari Enoteca 
Italian Restaurant
1111 Queen St. E.
416-792-4157

Ascari Mercatino E Vini  
Grocery Store & Bottle Shop
1091 Queen St. E.
416-792-4157 

Avling Kitchen and Brewery
Brewery, Restaurant  & Beer Store
1042 Queen St. E.
416-469-1010 

Baldini Restaurant  
Italian Restaurant
1012 Queen St. E.
416-849-1233 

Barrio  
Mexican Restaurant
884 Queen St. E.
647-352-0884

Commo/Betty's East
Comfort Food Restaurant  
1301 Queen St. E.
416-901-5575 

Completo  
Latin Restaurant
5 Coady Ave.
416-901-9233

Core Restaurant/Bubble Tea  
Korean Restaurant & Bubble Tea Shop
896 Queen St. E.
416-519-8101

Crowded House Restaurant 
Mediterranean Restaurant
1161 Queen St. E.
416-406-0400

The Duke Live  
Bar
1225 Queen St. E.
416-463-5302 

Eastside Social  
Seafood Restaurant
1008 Queen St. E.
416-461-5663

EAT BKK Thai Kitchen 
Thai Restaurant
898 Queen St. E.
416-466-4644 

Frankie's Italian  
Italian Restaurant
892 Queen St. E.
647-351-2545 

Gio Rana's Really Really Nice  
Italian Restaurant
1220 Queen St. E.
416-469-5225

Goods and Provisions  
Wine Bar
1124 Queen St. E.
647-340-1738 

Hanoi 3 Seasons  
Vietnamese Restaurant
1135 Queen St. E.
416-469-3010

Hastings Snack Bar  
Polish Restaurant
5 Hastings Ave.
647-850-9260

Jules Bistro  
French Restaurant 
1290 Queen St. E.
416-463-5853 

La Paella  
Spanish Restaurant 
1146 Queen St. E.
416-546-1055 

Leslie Jones  
American Restaurant
1182 Queen St. E.
416-463-5663

Leslieville Pumps General Store & Kitchen
BBQ Restaurant
913 Queen St. E.
416-465-1313 

Mercury Espresso
Cafe
915 Queen St. E.
647-435-4779

Mexicados Tacos & Burrito Co.  
Mexican Restaurant
1022 Queen St. E.
416-466-2462

Nodo Leslieville  
Italian Restaurant
1192 Queen St. E.
416-792-4196

Nutbar  
Health Food Restaurant & Cafe
899 Queen St. E.
647-417-4546 

Okay Okay Diner  
Diner
1128 Queen St. E.
416-461-2988

Omnia Coffee Roasters/Flying Squirrel Motorcycle Co.
Coffee Roaster/Motorcycle Shop 
1347 Queen St. E.
416-406-6642

Pasaj 
Brunch Restaurant & Bakery
1100 Queen St. E.
416-551-1957

Pilot Coffee Roasters
Coffee Roaster & Cafe
983 Queen St. E.
416-465-2006

Plant Lyfe  
Plant-Based Cafe
998 Queen St. E.
416-462-0490

Purple Penguin Cafe
Sandwich Shop  
889 Queen St. E.
416-465-8448

Queen’s Head Pub
Pub
1214 Queen St. E.
416-469-4323

The Roy  
Pub 
894 Queen St. E.
416-465-3331 

Radical Road Brewing Co.  
Brewery &  & Taproom 
1177 Queen St. E.
647-794-7909

Remarkable Bean
Coffee Shop  
1103 Queen St. E.
416-461-9111

Samaira's Kitchen 
Pizzeria
1042 Queen St. E.
416- 466-0888

Tango Palace Coffee Company
Coffee Shop  
1156 Queen St. E.
416-465-8085  

Names, addresses, phone numbers and websites subject to change.

Want to add your business? Submit your information. 

Discover other Neighbourhood Patio Guides. 

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

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News August 12-18, 2021

Photo courtesy of Beertown Public House.

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

🕒 12 min read

After months of extraordinarily long weekly editions, my OPEN/CLOSED containing 20-30 arrivals per week are just par for the course, so you’d better get caught up because if you think it’s full-on now, just wait.  And not just in the downtown core either. See all the madness in the 26 arrivals below.

And stay tuned. I’ve got more news ahead in The Tip Off, exclusively available in the TR Newsletter. 

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

From chow mein to momos, Mississauga’s A1 Hakka House (660 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 5B) at Mavis and Eglinton has all your Hakka cravings covered. Bonus: Enjoy 20 per cent off on the entire menu. Offer ends soon.

Taipei boba brand Baroness brings its famed brown sugar brews to the 6ix for the first time on Wednesday. Psst. The first 88 people will receive one free Brown Sugar Pearl Milk Tea and all drinks will be 50 per cent off. The bubble tea shop at Yonge and College (421 Yonge St.) is the first in Toronto, second in Canada.

Beertown Public House debuts today in the Financial District (125 Wellington St. W.). The chain has seven other venues across the province and a more extensive menu than just burgers and brews. Tuck into Wonton Nachos ($16.99-$23.99) BT Brisket Platter ($21.49), and Beertown Pad Thai ($17.99 -$19.99) with a beer paddle – four 5 oz. tasters ($10.29), cocktail, glass of wine, or booze-free options including a what’s-more-fun-than-a Root Beer Paddle ($11.99).

Toronto is home to dozens of styles of ‘za, but crunchy topped with “Onetwony Pepparoni” is not one of them. Until now, thanks to Burattino Brick Oven Pizza out of LA. The Junction’s newest pizzeria (3109 Dundas St. W.) softly opened weeks ago with fab options: Bianca (homemade white garlic sauce, mozzarella, feta, chopped basil),  Croatian (marinara, mozzarella, beef prosciutto, feta, mushrooms, roasted red peppers, fresh bell peppers, black olives, red onion), two featuring wild boar, one boasting bison chipotle sausage, and a White Clam pie - a rare sighting in Toronto. There are also a number of half-and-half’s (two pizzas in one) available, in addition to crowd pleaser Mercedes, a stellar trio of thirds of Croatian, Quattro Gusti, and Romana.

Reservations open tomorrow for Campechano’s second location (460 College St.). Campechano Restaurante at College and Bathurst  includes “favourites from the Campechano Taqueria menu and fun new additions for food and cocktails.” Enjoy dinner and drinks on the front/back patio or in the dining room.

Doors opened Friday for Taiwanese tea chain Chatime at Scarborough Town Centre ( (300 Borough Dr., Lower level, TASTE MRKT). Did you know? They have +1000 locations in 26 countries worldwide.

There are a boatload of reasons to head to Scarborough’s newest Vietnamese restaurant Choi (633 Silverstar Blvd., Unit 121) starting with: 1. Cook-your-own BBQ tables. 2. Goat Noodle Soup. 3. Chicken Cartilage. 4. Salted Egg Corn. 5. Mugwort Mungbean Slushie. 6. Coconut Kumquat Iced Tea.

Chung Chun Rice Dog doesn’t believe in sitting around. Oh no, there are places to be, apparently for the Korean style hot dog destination. Five, to be exact: 3075 Bloor St. W. in Etobicoke opened June 10; 181 Augusta Ave. in Kensington last month; 1177 Central Pkwy. W. in Mississauga and 5 Spring Garden Ave. in North York celebrate their grand opening today; and 60 Wilson Ave. in North York kicks off Wednesday.

Chronicling the multi-location expansion of CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice continues to be an almost full-time-job. Introducing this week’s soft opening in Scarborough (41 Lebovic Ave., Unit A111) and recent Mississauga arrival (60 Bristol Rd. E.).

The second El Sazón Mexicano debuted this weekend at Jane and Lawrence (1742 Jane St.). Joining the original in Corso Italia (1284 St Clair Ave. W.), the extensive menu includes tacos, yes, but there’s much more to discover: flautas, enmoladas, tortas, tamales, and array of tantalizing baked goods, for starters. 

Fuwa Fuwa Pancakes launches Sunday at Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Dr.). The Japanese soufflé pancake chain will kick off the fifth location with $5 pancakes, drink specials and other festivities.

Gladiator Burger & Steak has arrived in Oakville (407 Iroquois Shore Rd.) with their signature extreme eats, including: General Maximus (3 beef patties, Canadian cheddar, caramelized onions, tomato, lettuce, pickles & Gladiator aioli  stuffed between two  grilled cheese buns), Chicken Mac (4 fried chicken tenders, macaroni n’ cheese, tomato, lettuce, pickles & chipotle aioli), and for those who dare a 40-inch Philly Cheesesteak.*  This marks the fourth outpost in the GTA for the chain.
*Beating out the footlong soft serve I told you about last month by a LOT.

Waffles shaped like penises (yes you read that correctly) are attention-getters for sure, but are they tasty? See for yourself at Members Only Waffle House (592 Queen St. W.) at Queen and Bathurst.

Nickle Brook Brewing Co. debuted their new tap room and bottle shop in Etobicoke (1589 The Queensway) earlier this week.

Pick up their freshly bottled coffees and treats at Patco Cafe’s pop-up at The District Kitchen in Mississauga’s Square One (100 City Centre Dr.) until September 2.

Rabba Kitchen by Paramount has launched at Rabba Fine Foods in Regent Park (683 Dundas St. E.). The menu blends Paramount Lebanese Kitchen items (wraps and boxes) and Paramount Fine Foods’ latest cloud kitchen concept, Krispo Chicken.

Grand opening celebrations for Petit Paris (1879 Gerrard St. E.) took place Monday. The boutique pastry shop in Beach Hill is home to authentic French pastries as well as prepared meals by chef Adam Foley, a George Brown Culinary Instructor whose résumé includes Osgoode Hall Restaurant at The Law Society, Rosewater, Splendido and Jump.

Geary Avenue has been a great dining/drinking destination for some time now. it’s lined with standouts including Blood Brothers, The Greater Good, North of Brooklyn, and Parallel. Fitting right into the mix: new arrival Prairie Boy Bread (201 Geary Ave.). After a fun sneak peek via pop-up this weekend, doors officially open tomorrow at 10am.

What began last year as a pop-up is now here to stay. Skyflower, with its stunning rooftop patio is back this season (and thanks to heating, long after), with indoor renos beginning this fall. Executive Chef Eric Chong (first MasterChef Canada, chef/partner of R&D ) has created an enticing menu. Stay tuned for a closer look.

 The Distillery District is home to two new food retailers in pop-up containers:
i) Tartistry (Trinity Square, Retail Container 2), home of all natural, organic, non-GMO gluten-free butter tarts. Also on offer: various vegan, zero sugar, and keto products.
ii) Greek-style market YK Marketta (Trinity Square, Retail Container 1) featuring Peter and Pauls pantry items, fresh and frozen fare, and fresh florals, arrangements and plant bbs.

CLOSED

Important update of you rely on your subway station patties to keep you going: Bakery On The Go in Bathurst Station (819 Bathurst St.) is temporarily closed for renovations. Good news: Gateway Newstands directly across the hall is selling their patties ‘til they return.

Big Trouble Pizza (235 Spadina Ave., Unit 1) has moved on from its beloved Chinatown spot. Thankfully, a spot on Geary (I told you it was great – see above) is coming soon.

The Ritz-Carlton Toronto (181 Wellington St. W.) is changing things up. DEQ Terrace & Lounge will soon be replaced with EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace. Keep your eyes locked here for updates.

Toronto's only Chicago-style deep dish pizzeria has shuttered. Double D’s Etobicoke location (2888 Lake Shore Blvd. W.) closed Sunday. It debuted November 2019. Their first location in Lesliveille shut down last May.

Greta Solomon’s Dining Room (1118 Queen St. E.) has closed temporarily due to needing kitchen staff.

I Deal Coffee made Kensington Market (84 Nassau St.) its home for two decades. Doors closed Tuesday, but two other locations remain – 162 Ossington Ave. and 221 Sorauren Ave. 

Paris Paris (1161 Dundas St. W.) has closed, but don’t panic - they’re moving around the corner and will reopen shortly. Watch this space.

Another Kensington mainstay is gone. Sun Wah Fruit Market (227 Augusta Ave.) has closed for good.

Tzatziki (425 Jane St.) may be gone, but another Greek concept has moved into the Baby Point ‘hood.

EVENTS

Night Market Toronto’s The Taste of the Caribbean event is happening this weekend at Square One.

The Dusty Star Drive-In Diner Pop-Up in the Galleria Mall back parking lot (1245 Dupont St.) takes place this weekend with roller skatin’ carhops (google it), bar by Hop City Brewery, great vendors, music and participating restaurants Super Empanada, Sapori, Tanto, and Uncle Mikey's.

Sugar Rush is on until September 6.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast - I wrote about +110 new arrivals in July 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 ASAP? 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.

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News August 5-11, 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

🕒 14.5 min read

Now that we’re firmly planted in August, you’ve got a lot of catching up to do: I wrote about +110 new arrivals last month alone. How many have you been to so far? You’d better get to work because I’ve found 24 more destinations to add to your list, and there’s all those older establishments to fit in as well. Buh-bye meal planning, hello “I’d like to place an order/make a reservation…”

p.s. Be sure to read all the way to the bottom – there’s ice cream!

p.p.s. If you don’t already know, I drop new arrivals in various articles throughout the week,  as well as in my At The Pass, The Tip Off (exclusively available in the TR newsletter), and in IG Stories, so make sure you’re reading and following.

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Run, don’t walk to Ase Juicery & Café (982 Bloor St. W.) in Bloorcourt for fresh cold-pressed juices in glass bottles, and gear from Nise - a dope Toronto-based premium streetwear brand for all your fresh fit needs. Win-win. 

Certain phrases get tossed around so frequently they lose all credibility. “Craft” is def one of them. But Bubbletease (111 Dundas St. W.), at Dundas and Bay lives up to its “craft tea bar” moniker  with deftly constructed creations. Golden Assam Milk Tea (organic golden Assam, fresh milk and cream, housemade brown sugar, fresh tapioca), Mellow Lime Iced Tea (Four Seasons Oolong, Osmanthus, green grape cold-pressed reduction, fresh lime), and I Swear It’s Not Chocolate Smoothie (blueberry, blackberry, fresh milk, coconut milk, espresso), for example.

I was the first to let you in on Biga last week. Psst:The Neapolitan pizzeria and bottle shop debuts today at 5pm at ēst Restaurant (729 Queen St. E.) by Chef Sean MacDonald, aka Hazelnut’s dad on TikTok. Call after 5pm to order, but don’t linger. They’re sure to sell out fast.

Cocktails, oysters, and a raw bar on a boat that you don’t have to pay marina fees for and can get to easily from downtown? The Brass Monkey, a summer pop-up aboard the Empire Sandy by chef Christine Mast (Sofia Yorkville, Two Sisters Vineyards, Canoe) is one of the best summer staycation ideas yet.

Former baristas Fadi Salib and partner Tony Taza combined their love of coffee with their architecture marketing backgrounds to create Būno Coffee Shop (136 Lauder Ave,) at Dufferin and St. Clair. Designed by Atelier Riot (started by Salib and two friends), the modern cheery space with pops of blue and yellow is home to responsibly grown coffee from locally sourced roasters such as Java, Hatch, and Omnia, baked goods from La Bastille and Desmond and Beatrice, and brewing equipment to ensure your cup of joe is ace at home too.

As the name suggests, Café Santorini (425 Jane St.) has Hellenic fare such as gyros and souvlaki, but the eatery celebrates the Aegean Sea island’s time ruled by Romans with plenty of pizza and pasta options. 

Burgers and Nashville hot chicken get all the attention these days, so it’s time hot dogs got a bit of the spotlight. Durty Dawgs aren’t here to play. The new ghost kitchen by a restaurant group does Nathan’s Famous 12” beef hot dog on a toasted pretzel bun stacked with toppings. Choose from 11 signature concoctions including The Deli Dawg aka Reuben - pastrami, Swiss, sauerkraut, gherkin, drizzled with thousand island dressing; Burger Dawg aka The Banquet - applewood smoked bacon, diced beef burger patty, three cheese blend, diced tomatoes, green onion, and drizzled with BBQ sauce; and Blazzin' Buffalo Cheekdawaga aka The Buffalo which features a breaded and deep-fried frank topped with buffalo hot sauce, crispy jalapeños, finished with ranch dressing.

The Eats on East food truck just came on the scene a few weeks ago. The four-wheeled Desi fusion kitchen parked in Moss Park (corner of Queen & Jarvis) is your stop for Beef Kebab Rolls, Chicken Desi Rolls, Vada Pav, Samosas, Spring Rolls, Fries, and Kawartha Ice Cream six days a week.

German Doner Kebab has been teasing “Coming Soon” to the 6ix since January 1, but the Canadian flagship didn’t arrive until this week, W.). It turns out the third Canadian outpost, where Café Crepe was a fixture (246 Queen St.), is just the beginning - the chain from Glasgow, Scotland plans on launching 100 locations across the country in the next ten years. Stay tuned.

After months of pop-ups across the city, Good Behaviour Ice Cream finally has a place to permanently call home. Soft opening at Artisan Factory (342 Westmoreland Ave. N.) is happening tomorrow.

Do you remember when cereal-infused gelato makers JAM Cereal popped up a few years ago?* They’re back, this time in Little Italy through Mrs. Robinson (574 College St.).
*And cereal was everywhere?

Kung Fu Tea’s expansion continues across the GTA. The latest shop debuted yesterday in Mississauga (223 Ceremonial Dr., Unit 10). Enjoy soft opening offers of 20 per cent off all drinks and 38 Milk King, lg size for $4.88 until August 25. Conditions apply.

HK bun and pastry destination Lucullus Bakery (5200 Yonge St.) just dropped their fourth location, two blocks north of the North York Civic Centre.

Mixed Senses debuted just two months ago in The Beaches. The café and shop boasting coffee, pastries, home décor, skincare and handmade soap by local artisans, landed east side again, this time on the Danforth near Pape (592 Danforth Ave).

Traditional Yemeni eatery Monasaba debuted in Mississauga Fall 2019. Find their signature fare such as Kibdda Qolaba (Lamb liver sautéed with onions, green onions and tomatoes), Foul Monasaba (Mashed fava beans with seasoned tomato sauce), Shakshouka, and Roast Chicken and Lamb Mandis at their second location in Vaughan (9222 Keele St., Unit 2).

Monkey Hut Cafe (336 Copper Creek Dr.) in Markham features a range of rotating products by small local businesses and makers, ensuring there’s always something new to look forward to. 

Heading to the Ontario Science Centre (770 Don Mills Rd.) with the kiddos this summer? Stop by the Palgong Tea Pop-Up for drinks and dessert (outdoors and inside at the restaurant) until September 6.

The Point Eatery at Doncrest Marketplace Plaza (420 Highway 7 E, Unit 32) in Richmond Hill specializes in “modern fusion style eats inspired by Hong Kong style cafes.” What does that mean exactly? Everything from Baked Chicken Fillet in Spinach Cream Sauce with Cheese ($14.99)  and Fried Vermicelli with Spicy Seafood Mix ($14.99) to Truffle & Shrimp Fried Rice ($14.99) and Instant Noodles with Egg and Ham or Luncheon Meat ($9.50). Bonus: Enjoy an opening discount of 10 per cent off with cash payment.

An exciting new butcher and deli has arrived on Roncy. Say hey to Russell’s Butcher & Deli (401 Roncesvalles Ave.) by Christopher Terpstra and Sarah (Russell) Terpstra. Take a peek inside the sibling shop to Alimentari (325 Roncesvalles Ave.).

Son of a Bean (508 Danforth Ave.) just landed in Greektown, complete with goodies from The Sovereign, Rahier, and Hatch Coffee.

Stack't Eatery (5150 Dixie Rd., Unit 1A) in Mississauga may be a burger joint, but you’ll also find sandos (chicken, Philly cheesesteak), rice and pasta bowls (Chicken Tikka, Lamb Shank), wraps, salads, shakes, and smoothies. 

Super Chicken arrived in Markham in January. Following up on their debuts comes an outpost in North York (4716 Yonge St.).

Mashud Siddique, owner of Vena’s Roti – est. 2003 (1263 Bloor St. W.) passed away earlier this year. Uncle Sid’s Deli may have taken over the space, but Siddique’s sprit lives on. The logo includes an illustration of the beloved restaurateur’s face and a post reads, “Mr. Sid is our foundation and guiding light; he had been in the restaurant business for most of his life! He was known as a hardworking and generous man in his community. We are here to continue his legacy.” The deli menu is vast: +150 items including classic deli sandwiches, omelettes, bagel platters, salads, and burgers.

Vera’s Burger Shack has ten locations across B.C. and one in Bells Corners, Ottawa. Made fresh daily with Canadian beef and proprietary spice mix, their patties come in at 6 ounces and are not smash burgers. See for yourself at their new takeout/delivery pop-up (950 King St. W.)
*Fun fact: It’s the same address used for the MrBeast Burger Pop-Up in February.

CLOSED

Newsletter subscribers were the first to know one of the city's top restaurants, Dandylion, just shuttered. Thankfully, the resto’s working on something new. Stay tuned.

The Detroit Eatery (389 Danforth Ave.) was ravaged by fire in January 2019 and the sign removed in 2020. Yet many continued to hold out hope it would return. Not in the same space apparently, as it’s currently for lease.

Don Chingon took the city by storm this spring - first with a brunch residency at The Depanneur in May, followed by a stop at Wasted Youth Bar in June. The project came to an end last week.

Mum’s The Word (567 College St.) has shuttered after three years. There’s a heartbreaking goodbye post.

Sisters are doin' it for themselves. Or at least trying to. The Neighbourhood Scoop (102 Hallam St.) opened in April and is run by two tween sisters (and help from Mom). They had to temporarily close last week due to “constant complaints to the City of Toronto by a local resident.”  

EVENTS

Chef Keanu Francisco of SARA Restaurant launched Kusinera in January. The pop-ups have been such a success, starting Monday, it’s now a bi-weekly event.

Plans on Saturday? Yep. Sherm’s Bagels x Flora’s Deli Pop-Up at Flora’s (1276 Dundas St. W.) 11am ‘til sold out.

NEWS

New York City will require proof of  vaccinations for indoor dining starting August 16 - the first city in the U.S. to do so, while Quebec will be the first Canadian province.

New Raptors Scottie Barnes and Dalano Banton and Toronto rapper Kardinal Offishall stopped by The Real Jerk this week.

Cooking with Paris debuted on Netflix yesterday. Some critics say she’s in on the joke, others think it’s lame. What do you think?

ICYMI

Did you know? In addition to the spectacular small, locally-owned shops and boutiques, Roncesvalles Village boasts +30 patios! Get the complete guide now.

The smash burger craze has exploded in recent years. During the pandemic, many jumped on the trend. Some however, take them very seriously. Janrikk Millan, a Red Seal chef who pulls double duty as head chef at Grazie Vaughan, launched his bi-weekly pop-up burger shop in April, but dreamed of having his own spot long before. His obsession with burgers helps. “We've done a lot of work to get our meat ratio, buns, produce, cheese, and JABS sauce just right. We use fresh ingredients and real cheddar cheese, no processed ingredients. We pickle our own sweet onions and we've created our own green papaya relish.” His initial home-based venture has quickly evolved into wildly popular pop-ups in Vaughan and Scarborough. See for yourself this weekend at EATS Night Market at Scarborough Town Centre by Street Eats Market, and check out the stellar interview (and peep some drool-inducing photos) in this week’s At The Pass.

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. 

Please support local businesses whenever possible. Remember: call first. Getting it delivered? Do this if available to help our beloved locals keep as much of their hard-earned money as possible.

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