Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 28

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.

At The Pass with Janrikk Millan

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

Chef Janrikk Millan

Currently

Head Chef, Grazie Ristorante Vaughan, and owner of pop-up burger shop JABS (Just Another Burger Spot), open bi-weekly on Sundays.

Formerly

In Toronto: The Marlowe Restaurant & Bar, The Bedford Academy, St. George's Golf and Country Club. In California: Brix Napa Valley.

Favourite dish to make right now

Anything that has something to do with dough - doughnuts, sourdough bread, starters, pizza. I just love experimenting.

Last cookbook purchase

Hamburger America by George Motz and The Flavour Bible by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg.  

Have you read it/tried any recipes

I've read most of it (Hamburger America), but I still have some pages left. It’s one of the books that really got me started to start JABS. This book doesn't really have any recipes, but it was a source of inspiration. We came up with our own recipes, such as  pickling our own house pickles and Atchara (papaya relish/|slaw).

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

Sliced black olives. Not a fan.

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

I am very excited to see a lot more of Filipino-inspired dishes. There have been a few places doing great things like this in Toronto. When I first started my culinary journey,  there was only a handful of Filipino restaurants. They're usually hidden in the back of Filipino mom-and-pop grocery stores.

Biggest influences

My wife, my dad, my family and friends. They've always kept me on track and have always been supportive. They've taught me to stay humble and focus on my goals.

The epic Triple Single JABS Original.

If you could eat at any restaurant in the world

Toyo Eatery in The Philippines, Noma by René Redzepi, and most importantly, any mom-and-pop restaurants around the world.

Last thing you ate

Ramen from Kinton Ramen at Yonge & Sheppard. We also had Gyoza and Spicy Karaage Chicken.

Three must-have ingredients always in your fridge 

Eggs, Atchara, Tocino/Longanisa -sweet and spiced.

Guilty pleasure

Any Filipino dessert - halo halo, turon, sapin sapin, etc. 

Top 3 favourite Toronto restaurants

Chu Son Ok, Inspire Restaurant, PAI 

Top 3 favourite Toronto bars

Nomé Izakaya, Seoul Shakers, Bangarang, Mum's The Word (RIP)

Go-to drink

Vodka Soda, Jameson, CC and ginger ale.

Crisp Skin Chicken Supreme at Grazie Ristorante - Potato gratin, purple & romanesco broccoli , fried brussel sprouts, carrot puree, demi glace.

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

Being on my phone and always checking social media. Pretty sure anyone and everyone can relate. 

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

My determination to work, willing to learn from everyone from Netflix cooking shows to my past chefs and colleagues, and get better every single day. To have the right attitude and always be a team player. 

Hidden talent

I thought I was going to make it to the NBA. I mean I was good at basketball.

Chef Millan in action at JABS.

Best career advice you ever received

“Always give it 100 per cent. Keep your head up. Life shouldn't be stressful and always have fun.” My Dad. He's always had my back whether I was up or down.

Worst career advice you ever received

Nothing really. I've been fortunate to be surrounded by people who've given me useful career advice.

Your advice for a young cook starting out in the business

Be a sponge and soak everything in. Always focus, learn and get better every day. Have the right mentality and attitude and be open minded.  Always give 110 per cent effort on whatever you're doing. Don't stop learning. Don't be afraid to try new things, and most importantly, taste and smell the food.

 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: Roncesvalles Village

Photo courtesy of Round The Horn.

 🕒 3 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.

Roncesvalles Village offers the warmth and conviviality of a small town while remaining a vibrant dining destination.

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

AM Bagel
Bakery
53 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-792-1110 

Bar Bacan
Latin American Restaurant
369 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-535-2222

Barque Smokehouse
BBQ Restaurant
299 Roncesvalles Ave.
416- 532-7700

Cafe Polonez
Polish Restaurant
185 Roncesvalles Ave.
416- 532-8432

The Chocolateria
Chocolate Store
361 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-588-0567

Chopin Restaurant
Polish Restaurant
165 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-536-6228

Cider House
Bar
391 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-533-7465

Cinco Mexican Restaurant
Mexican Restaurant
131 Roncesvalles Ave.
647-245-8380 

Coffee & All That Jazz
Cafe
72 Howard Park Ave.
416- 531-7622

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

The Dizzy Sports Pub
Sports Bar
305 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-538-8484

Dönerland
Turkish Restaurant
217 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-546-8066

Fantail
Bakery & Cafe
333 Roncesvalles Ave.
647-352-8245

The Friendly Thai
Thai Restaurant
223 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-535-0111

Gabby's
Pub
157 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-533-9000

the Goods
Healthy Restaurant
279 Roncesvalles Ave.
647-340-GOOD 

Inter Steer Tavern
Family Restaurant
357 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-588-8054 

Kami Sushi
Japanese Restaurant
153 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-516-1956

La Cubana
Cuban Restaurant
392 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-538-7500

Lambretta Pizzeria
Italian Restaurant 
89 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-551-9925 

Lebanon Express
Middle Eastern Restaurant
327 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-447-4417

The Local
Pub
396 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-535-6225

Loons Pub
Pub
416 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-535-8561

Musoshin Ramen
Japanese Restaurant
7A Boustead Ave.
416-537-3588

Pizzeria Defina
Italian Restaurant
321 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-534-4414

Round The Horn
Bar
331 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-785-2123 

Sangria Lounge
Bar & Restaurant
145 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-533-9939

Shadi Shawarma
Middle Eastern Restaurant
167 Roncesvalles Ave.
647-812-4151

Stamp’s Lane Restaurant
Seafood Restaurant
371 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-537-7750

Sunnyside Provisions
287 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-546-6736

Sunrise Grill & Crepe
Breakfast/Brunch Restaurant
417 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-516-5766

Sushi On Roncy
Japanese Restaurant
293 Roncesvalles Ave.
647-347-7735

Thai Home
Thai Restaurant
133 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-534-8424

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 July 29-August 4, 2021

Photo courtesy of 1 Hotel Toronto.

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

🕒 15 min read

30 arrivals and more closures than we can both handle in a single week? It’s INSANITY. See for yourself.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Brasa Peruvian Kitchen (297 Campbell Ave.) debuted at Dupont and Landsdowne yesterday, with a starting lineup of warm bowls and filling salads.

Chef Alex Baracat launched his first restaurant Brazil Box (390 Queens Quay W., Unit 106) Tuesday. In the industry for seven years: Lobby, Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection, and others in Toronto, in addition to establishments across Brazil, his goal is to showcase the diversity of Brazilian cuisine while helping popularize it. The current menu consists of quick grab-and-go snacks and popular street food in Brazil: Pastel ($6), Tapioca ($6), Pão De Queijo ($4), Empanada ($4), Açai ($7-$12), Mini Churros ($6), and Brigadeiro ($1.50).

Vietnamese café Cactus Tea and Coffee (682 Bloor St. W.) touched down in The Annex June 12, complete with Vietnamese Bubble Tea.

Café de Hong Kong (11 Fairburn Dr., Unit 12-15) in Markham has an extensive menu from Hainanese Chicken Rice to Shrimp Toast with Molten Salted Egg York. Choose from all day breakfast sets, pineapple buns, noodles, rice dishes, snacks, afternoon tea specials, and signature drinks.

It’s been a minute since I told you about the last arrival of Dagu Rice Noodle. Despite the website indicating the eatery at Woodside Square (1571 Sandhurst Cir., Unit 203) at Finch and McCowan is “coming soon,” it’s very much open and the staff look forward to welcoming you.

Dak2Go Burger is the new food truck on the Entertainment District block. Find them daily at 11 Widmer St. ‘til late: 12am-3am depending on the day.

Pro tip: The Dusty Star Drive-In Diner Pop-Up in the Galleria Mall back parking lot (1245 Dupont St.) isn’t happening quite yet, but if I wait to tell you about it until August, tickets will be sold out, so get in on it while you can. You don’t want to miss roller skatin’ carhops (google it), bar by Hop City Brewery, great vendors, music and participating restaurants Super Empanada, Sapori, Tanto, and Uncle Mikey's.

Friggitello (181 Baldwin St.) just moved into Torteria San Cosme’s old digs in Kensington. Named after the sweet Italian chili pepper - aka pepperoncini in North America – the menu features shish kebab, beef doner and veggie soy plates  and rolls, sides and drinks. Currently open, grand opening celebrations take place Sunday, with a free chicken plate available from 2pm-6pm.

Doors opened last week for India Twist (2901 Markham Rd., Unit 17) in Scarborough. South Indian specialities include onion pakora, sambar vada, and masala dosa.

Indraprastha Indian Cuisine (3300 Lawrence Ave. E.) arrived in Scarborough a few months ago. Dive into an array of enticing fare such as Karivepaku Corn ($10.99), Lemon Pepper Chicken ($12.99), Guntur Chilli Fish ($13.99), Hariyali Paneer Tikka ($11.99), Bhindi Masala ($11.49), and Mutton Ghee Roast ($14.99), not to mention 20 vegetarian and 33 meat and seafood biryanis.

Kung Fu Tea just dropped not one, but two locations since last week’s edition: World on Yonge (7163 Yonge St., Unit 101) in Markham, and grand opening celebrations for Scarborough’s outpost at Chartwell Shopping Centre (2361 Brimley Rd., Unit D105A) begins tomorrow with a buy one get one free offer.

ISO Mexican street food? Head to Cabbagetown’s weekend pop-up El Paisa located outside The Tilted Dog Pub + Kitchen (424 Parliament St.) for Elote ($6), Tacos ($4-$6), Shrimp Ceviche ($10), Mango Enchialdo ($5), and drinks to go ($6-$18).

Psst. Sicilian-Levantine pizzeria Levant Pizza (899 Bloor St. W.) softly opens in Bloorcourt this weekend – Thursday to Saturday 4:30pm-10pm.

Did you know?! If you haven’t figured it out by the logo, the food at new Pan-Asian resto Lofi Wok (604 Queen St. W.) is prepared by robot chefs. While digital cooks and automatic AI-powered equipment may “improve accuracy and decrease wait times,” can they pull off Finger-Lickin’ Wings and Cantonese Chow Mein? You be the judge.

Gourmet soup maven Ma’s Best kicks off two new venues in the Financial District on Monday: First Canadian Place (100 King St. W. Concourse Level), and Brookfield Place (181 Bay St., Galleria Concourse C150) - just in time for all those heading back to the office in the coming weeks.

Siblings Mark and Ryan Lim are not trained chefs, but “have always gravitated towards regional American cuisine.” After a year of not being able to travel to the U.S. for their “favourite sandwiches,” they launched Marq’s Chicago Beef at Market 707 (707 Dundas St. W.) in May. Menu items are inspired by Italian Beef giants like Johnnie's, Portillo's, or Al's in Chicago, and comprised of Chicago Italian Beef shop classics. Their signature item, Italian Beef Sandwich boasts thinly sliced beef roasted in Italian seasonings, finished in beef jus set on a freshly-baked French roll, topped with hot giardiniera and/or sweet peppers, and a final dip in jus for added texture and flavour.  

Is there a taller soft serve in the GTA than The Milkman Creamery’s? Theirs is pretty hard to beat. The new ice cream shop’s grand opening takes place tomorrow at Markham’s Langham Square (8339 Kennedy Rd., Unit 2157) from 12pm-10pm. Enjoy 15 per cent off all orders until August 6.

Calling all crêpe lovers! O’Frenchy (212 King St. W.) is serving up a boatload of sweet and savoury concoctions. The ghost kitchen at King and Simcoe commenced July 1. Stay tuned, a brick-and-mortar location is opening soon.

Original Shawarma (750 Spadina Ave.) has set up shop in The Annex at Bloor and Spadina (where Pita Q was), about a year-and-a-half after their launch in Mississauga.

Ossington Stop left their long-time home at 1164 Dundas St. W. for greener pastures – just down the street. Doors at their new abode - 1543 Dundas St. W. – open Sunday. Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying owner/chef Denis Ganshonkov’s Khinkali, Pork Tongue… just get one of everything.

Patchmon's Homemade Thai Desserts has a sweet new home at Dundas and McCaul (283 Dundas St. W.) tucked in between two other stellar destinations: Sumac Kebab Kitchen and The Library Speciality Coffee.

Riverside Kitchen (862 Danforth Ave.) opened Tuesday in the old Motorama spot at the top of Jones. The new retail and bottle shop also boasts a sandwich bar, including breakfast sandos, some BBQ items and refrigerated and frozen prepared items including vegan and keto offerings.

Spasta Greek Cuisine (1650 Dundas St. E.) in Mississauga does Hellenic and Middle Eastern fare, often paired with shisha, live music, and belly dancer. 

Chef Brook Kavanagh and sommelier Lara Roberts, owners of Season Six (188 Ossington Ave., have created a unique gem with Sprezzatura Spaghetti Disco (216 Ossington Ave.). Housed in Season Six’s previous location, the slip of an Italian restaurant is part stand-up/pull up a stool to the counter eatery, part disco dance spot. You’ll see. Stay tuned.

Trailhead Place’s lakeside lounge and marketplace, complete with live entertainment, is located off Lakeshore Blvd. at Ontario Place (next to Inukshuk Park) and open until September 6.

After lengthy delays, Richmond Hill’s Yu Seafood finally kicks off their second location at Yorkdale (3401 Dufferin St.) tomorrow. Find them near RH Courtyard Restaurant.

Did you catch the sneak peek of 1 Hotel (550 Wellington St. W.) in Stories yesterday? The first new hotel of summer debuts Wednesday with indoor and outdoor casual all-day restaurant 1 Kitchen Toronto. More details coming soon.

Shop and support +60 local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs in one convenient spot in Kensington. In addition to the wonderful home décor, clothing and clothing vendors at 6x8 Market (184 Baldwin St.), you’ll find fab food items and new cafe Madras Kaapi serving up South Indian coffee.  

CLOSED  

Amnesia Bar & Grill (526 Bloor St. W.) was a mainstay at the corner of Bloor and Bathurst. Psst. The signs have already been switched out for incoming chain, Hey Noodles.

Barrio Coreano (642 Bloor St. W.) may have shuttered in Little Korea, but it’s not the end for the Mexican/Korean joint. Stay tuned.

The space formerly belonging to Brockton Bar & Sports (1543 Dundas St. W.) has already been snapped up. See above.

by CHLOE.’s first Canadian location debuted at Yorkdale October 16 2019, but the vegan chain shuttered before the brand could enjoy its new name Beatnic, announced earlier this week

Cup O House (682 Bloor St. W.)  - aka “Home of the big cups!” - closed up shop.

East Thirty-Six (36 Wellington St. E.) stuck it out in the St. Lawrence ‘hood for almost eight years.

There’s no more Mexican food and karaoke nights at La Burrita (735 Bloor St. W.).

Ossington Stop (1164 Dundas St. W.) has found a new home. Read all about it up top. 

Patchmon's Homemade Thai Desserts left Dupont and Spadina (258 Dupont St.) for Dundas and McCaul. See above.

Pho Tiên Restaurant (358 Bathurst St.) near Dundas held its grand opening December 12,2012. In its stead: fast food chain Popeyes.

Matcha and hojicha destination Matcha Cafe Maiko matcha, began its journey in Hawaii. The location in Pacific Mall, however, was set to close in a few weeks, but with the recent fire, has already come to an end.

EVENTS

Take part in Food Day Canada, founded by the late Anita Stewart, on July 31.

Carnival Flavours takes place this weekend.

There’s a Cookie Scavenger Hunt on Sunday.

Get tix now for next week’s sweet market Sugar Rush before they sell out.

NEWS

An 18-year-old died after a fire at a Toronto restaurant.

Owners of a Oakville restaurant decided not to require proof of vaccination after all.

Oakwood Hardware is asking unvaccinated people to dine outside.

The City launched a new dining program this week - DineTOgether - to take place this fall. Celebrity chef Mark McEwan is not a fan.

Restaurants wishing to register online, can do so starting Wednesday. 

Chef Nuit Regular has taken over the food program at The Fifth available exclusively at RendezViews starting this week.

ICYMI

Chef Jose Balasico of Est Restaruant has a predilection for finer fare, savoury fridge necessities, and hidden talent that comes in handy at parties or karaoke. Discover more in this week’s At The Pass.

The Junction is one helluva great neighbourhood. You can shop for everything from home decor and organic groceries to books and vintage vinyl - even buy a motorcycle! - in a few short blocks. It also happens to be a fantastic destination for all things food + drink. Discover +30 outdoor dining options in The Junction Patio Guide. 

Meatball Thoughts invited me back on the pod this week. Topics include: Indoor dining, how to support businesses, the future of the industry, and much more. Listen now on Spotify and Apple.

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 +120 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.