Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 5

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News November 28-December 4, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 11.5 min read

Long-time TR readers already know: Just because we’re heading into the holidays doesn’t mean things are slowing down any. Not even a little. Which is why the 20 new destinations and whack of big closures below is just the beginning of what I’ve uncovered… Watch this space.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

This addition to Kensington Market is a big one: Augusta Coffee Bar (229 Augusta Ave.) takes over the corner at Baldwin and Augusta with an array of coffee - natch - and plenty of baked goods, in what Sunwah Fruit Market and El Buen Precio (aka Good Price Grocery) next door (227 Augusta Ave.) called home for what felt like forever.

North York’s Bao House (5336 Yonge St.) just expanded its reach downtown. Head to Dundas east of University (171 Dundas St. W.) for dumplings, dim sum, and noodles.

Chef Matty Matheson’s new restaurant Bar Clams (802 Dundas St. W.) opens tomorrow in Fonda Balam’s former digs at Dundas and Bathurst.* Stay tuned for a closer look. *I gave you the inside track in last week’s OPEN/CLOSED and before that, in an action-packed Instagram post with alllll sorts of intel.

Finer dining in Kensington Market? Head to Casa Morales (152 Augusta Ave.) for elevated Mexican fare in a sleek, spacious setting (Parallel’s brief offshoot Parallel Basta until earlier this year). This marks the most recent venture by the folks behind local chain Gus Tacos and… Wait, there’s one more… Details below…

If you thought the steakhouse trend was over, think again. In fact, the surge downtown is increasing by the day - and in the Financial District in particular. Chop Steakhouse & Bar’s first Toronto location and flagship for the Ontario chain just dropped at the corner of University and Adelaide (181 University Ave.). Promising an “upscale dining experience” and “100 per cent Canadian beef,” the newest steakhouse in FiDi comes complete with two levels, rooftop patio, seating for 430 and much more. Stay tuned for a sneak peek of the 11, 000 sq. ft. space. Doors open to the public Tuesday.

El Gourmet Express (820 Church St.) is serving up a “real taste of Lebanon” until 4am in the heart of downtown. Did you know? The Toronto operation is by way of Pickering’s El Gourmet Lebanese Market (1550 Kingston Rd.).

Greek Street Fusion is happening inside Kitchen Hub’s York site (1121 Castlefield Ave.).

Kensei Bar (1173 Dundas St. W.) has been on my watchlist for a while now. Psst: Grand opening is tonight. What to expect: Japanese tipples and tastes accompanied by soundscapes on vinyl in a retro setting.

A unique fine dining experience inspired by nature awaits you at Yonge and Richmond. See: The Lost Land (146 Yonge St., Unit 101). Keep an eye out for further details. TR Trivia: Do you remember when the addy was home to the Urban Sense store? And waay back in the day - in the early 1900s, in fact - the building held a candy store/ice cream parlour at street level, tea room on the second floor, and dance hall on the third.

La Mooriyya Markette (210 Augusta Ave.) - part grocery store, part pop-up market concept in Kensington Market - welcomed Marry Me Mochi into the fold last month.

Molly Tea’s first store in the 6ix (604 Yonge St.) celebrates grand opening this Saturday and Sunday. The brand specializing in “Oriental jasmine tea” boasts specialty drink series including “snowy whipped” and fresh oat milk.

Mutabak Karak (69 Lebovic Ave.) touched down at a large plaza in Scarborough on Friday with sweet and savoury mutabak, assortment of chapati, karak tea, and desserts - Date Bread Pudding, Yemeni Puffs. This follows MK’s launch in Mississauga (3480 Platinum Dr., Unit 98) last December.

I gave you the inside scoop on Odd Burger’s new joint downtown last month. Update: Doors open today at the corner of Dundas and Church (229 Church St.) with grand opening celebrations happening 12pm-6pm: Ribbon cutting at noon, the first 30 customers receive a swag bag, and soft serve is a buck - with a portion of sales going to Kids Against Hunger, foster-based dog rescue Paws Across the Water, and Plant Based Treaty.

Rumi Turkish Restaurant (1 Old Mill Dr.) does everything from grilled meat and kebabs to pide and kunefe. And surprise: Italian dishes abound including Fettuccine Alfredo and Spaghetti and Meatballs and pizza - Vegetarian, Pepperoni, Margherita, and “White Life” - thanks to Goodfellas’ previous setup.

San Wich (616 Gladstone Ave.), the second concept of late by the people behind Gus Tacos is lot more casual than Casa Morales (Details above.) - This one’s all about comforting Mexican handhelds. Think tortas, tacquitos and… croissandwiches?? For real.

Shake Shack’s first Canadian branch debuted at Yonge and Dundas this past summer, swiftly followed by Union Station (65 Front St. W., Lower Bay St. Corridor), this time with a full bar. Doors open Wednesday at 11am. Stick around for an inside look. Fun fact: There’s an American counterpart to Shake Shack Union Station in Washington, D.C.

Marhkam’s Sushi Umi Omakase Japanese Fine Dining (3621 Highway 7 East, Unit 104-105) launched in 2020. TR Bulletin: The restaurant known for its wagyu and foie gras sushi selections just added a destination downtown (41 Charles St. W.). Doors open tomorrow with Hokkaido Uni Sushi for “only $98!” this weekend.

I brought you news of ”Toronto’s first tanghulu shop” back in April and it appears the candy-coated fruit skewer co. was just getting started: Grand opening for Tanghulu Tanghulu’s second shop at The Well’s food court (486 Front St. W. Lower Level) is happening this weekend - The first 20 ppl in line Friday to Sunday receive a free tanghulu. (Conditions apply). Aaand Mississauga, you’re in luck: Find TT’s sweet stuff at Square One (100 City Centre Dr., Level 2) starting tomorrow. Bonus: Free gift with purchase for the first 20 customers.

Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant St.) has been non-stop since day one. Newsflash: Argentinean Tantxo Steak Bar kicks off Sunday.

CLOSED

That’s a wrap for Beaches stalwart Beach Fish House (1963A Queen St. E.).

Over the years “Canada's first official waffle house” The Dirty Bird Chicken + Waffles included outposts in The Annex (527 Bloor St. W.), North York (York University Student Centre 94 York Blvd., Unit 107A), and Mississauga (6415 Erin Mills Pkwy, Unit B5) until recently. The OG in Kensington Market (79 Kensington Ave.) since 2015 has come to an end. One remains - an Express model at Pearson Airport since 2022.

Ernie’s Ice Box is closing up shop - the brick-and-mortar version at 403 Jane St. - at the end of the month, but luckily it’s not goodbye forever.

Blink and you might have missed it: Turkish eatery Gold Bingol opened in Kensington Market (198 Augusta Ave.) little over three months ago.

Larry’s Folly last day at Queen and Landsdowne (1462 Queen St. W.) is Saturday, but don’t panic - it’s not moving far or for long.

Reliable Fish & Chips has been off and on a few times at Queen and Carlaw (954 Queen St. E.) since 1930, but as most of the furniture has been cleared out, could this be the final FINAL end?

Sushi Club (41 Charles St. W.) was a fixture at the edge of Yonge & Bloor/Yorkville since forever ago. To discover who’s moved in, pop up top.

Vera Vera (1166 Queen St. W.) was always meant to temporary. As I reported back in July, Bar Antonii is slated to take its place.

NEWS

Putting GST break into effect for two months is “proving to be a ‘nightmare’ for businesses.”

Speaking of the “GST holiday,” is the province eliminating other taxes as well?

The latest food recalls: O'Ya hoho Enoki Mushroom recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes, SunFed Produce, LLC recalls whole fresh American cucumbers due to Salmonella. [UPDATE 29.11.24: Island City Baking bread products recalled due to pieces of metal, President's Choice Tellicherry Black Peppercorns recalled due to pieces of plastic. 02.12.24: Choco Max Granola brand Coated Chewy Bars - Chocolate Chip recalled due to undeclared peanut.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News November 21-27, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

The themes of this week’s edition - international comfort foods and sweet treats galore - couldn’t come at a better time as holiday events and deadlines approach. Options for fine dining, dancing, and even bowling, round things out.

And don’t let the few closures below lead you to believe they’re slowing down. In fact, just the opposite - You’ll see. Closures are convoluted these days and fact-checking takes time - especially when the end of businesses aren’t publicly announced. The more closures, the more stories to tell, the more people to honour.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

For European-style pastries - think St. Honore, mille feuille, macarons, lemon yuzu tarts - head to Yorkville’s latest dessert destination, Amadeus Patisserie opening today at the corner of Bay and Cumberland (1235 Bay St.), where Calii Love previously called home. p.s. You’re not going to believe where CL’’s setting up shop next.

Craig's Cookies keeps the serious momentum going with grand opening at Vaughan Mills (1 Bass Pro Mills Dr.) happening Saturday. Bonus: The first 100 customers receive a free classic cookie.

What does “authentic Vietnamese with a twist” look like? See for yourself at Scarborough’s new (2361 Brimley Rd., Unit 5), softly opening tomorrow.

Enchanted Poutinerie - home of Unicorn Poutine topped with “multi-coloured gravy” - is back after wrapping up the previous North York location on August 14. Check out the new addy at Sheppard and Weston Road (45 Abraham Welsh Rd., Unit 7B).

Hawa Beirut Restaurant & Lounge (466 Adelaide St. E.) just landed in the east end near King and Sherbourne (466 Adelaide St. E.), a surprising location for a spot outfitted with DJs, dancing, live entertainment including belly dancing, and definite nightlife vibes. For an “unforgettable experience with shish, cocktails, and the true spirit of Beirut vibes,” head east of Yonge to where Motorino Citta stood until recently.

Honestly Good Chicken Fingers is making its way across the GTA. Following a debut this past summer at The Well’s food court (Wellington Market 486 Front St. W., Lower Ground Level), the chicken co. joins Etobicoke’s biggest mall, CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall) with a sizeable location outside Entrance 7.

ISO soft, pillowy doughnuts in the downtown core? Look no further than Krispy Kreme’s new crib at Church and Dundas (105 Dundas St. E.). Doors open Tuesday.

Little Pebbles Cafe moves into Nu Bügel’s former stomping grounds (240 Augusta Ave.), continuing the tradition of wood-fired bagels alongside their popular - and often viral - Japanese-inspired French baked goods. This marks their third bakery downtown, second in Kensington Market.

Louf (501 Davenport Rd.) launches today. The new venture by chef Fadi Kattan - chef/co-founder of Akub Restaurant in London England and Kassa Hotel in Bethlehem, and author of new cookbook Bethlehem: A Celebration of Palestinian Food - and Nicole Mankinen, celebrates “Palestinian cooking, community, and wine.” TR Brief History: The detached house converted to commercial property long ago made way for Flor De Sal Restaurant in 2014 and prior to that, The Corner House.

National kicks off today at The Well (486 Front St W.), complete with food, bowling, arcade and other activities the whole family can enjoy. The new venue is brought to you by Concorde Entertainment Group, the west coast Canadian group behind some other new restos at the outdoor complex also popular in Calgary.

Leslieville’s new Nola Eatery and Bar (1163 Queen St. E.) specializes in North American fusion fare. Find it in CrowdedHouse’s previous set up.

Asian fusion Petit Potato boasts two outposts in North York. And now, one in a colossal space right downtown at Bay and Wellesley (1033 Bay St., Unit 1). TR Trivia: 1) Petit Potato debuted in 2016 and 2020 - Days prior to Premier Doug Ford declaring a state of emergency due to COVID-19. 2) The Bay St. footprint was Crown Princess Fine Dining for eons before it relocated to North York as Crown Prince Fine Dining and Banquet a few years ago.

I told you it was on the way. Renowned wood-fired ‘za from Etobicoke and Woodbridge lands on St. Clair: Revolver Pizza Co. (968 St. Clair Ave. W.) opens tomorrow.

Rick’s Good Eats (6660 Kennedy Rd., Unit 1) by chef Rick Matharu and his mom Manjeet Matharu (aka ‘Momma Manjeet’) brings their signature “Punjabi-Canadian comfort food” to Scarborough (3155 Markham Rd., Unit 2).

The name of Mississauga’s new RK Sweets (755 Dundas St. W.) doesn’t do it justice - a bevy of à la carte items and entire buffet are also on offer.

After a long build up, The Secret Kitchen, a modern Indian fine dining experience by chef Aanal Korak, will be unveiled Saturday in Vaughan (16 Famous Ave., Unit 142). Fun facts: 1) The restaurant boasts locations in India and Australia. 2) Chef Korak’s resume also includes another restaurant in India - Akshada - The Gujarati Kitchen - and line of Indian “ready-to-make” mixes and Indian spices.

CLOSED

Flor De Sal Restaurant (501 Davenport Rd.) had a long run. Details above.

Kensington Market staple Nu Bügel (240 Augusta Ave.) may be gone, but wood-fired bagels are very much a part of the new business that’s moved in. Pop up top for details.

NEWS

Today, Restaurants Canada praised the federal government for the GST holiday for restaurant meals. Also receiving a tax break: Other food and drink items.

Speaking of costs affecting hospitality, Ontario’s Living Wage rates have increased.

Canada Post goes on strike right before the holidays.

On Friday Wanda Beaver of her eponymous dessert shop in Kensington Market, Wanda’s Pie in the Sky (287 Augusta Ave.), launched an online petition to help save the addition.

Chef, restaurateur, cookbook author, cooking series host, actor and producer of award-winning series The Bear, and internet sensation Matty Matheson announced his newest restaurant, Bar Clams earlier this week. Psst: Of course if you followed TR on IG, you’d already been in the know.

Latest food recalls: Winkler's Breakfast Sausage and Smoked Turkey Thighs recalled due to pieces of metal. [UPDATE 22.11.24: Stuyver's bread products recalled due to pieces of metal, 365 Whole Foods Market organic carrots recalled due to E. coli O121. 25.11.24: McCain potato products recalled due to pieces of metal.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News November 14-20, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 12.5 min read

I warned you it was ramping up. The activity in and around the city is off the charts. This week it’s everything from casual mall eats to haute cuisine - Hope you like steak! And in keeping with last week’s edition (truly most these days), heaps more closures. The majority? Neighbourhood fixtures.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

TR Readers already know: aKin (51 Colborne St.) debuts Tuesday. The city’s newest fine dining restaurant by chefs Eric Chong and Alvin Leung, the duo behind O&B-backed R&D in Chinatown, offers a blind tasting menu of modern Asian fare. TR Memory Lane: Over the decades the addy’s been home to a number of concepts including Chadani Indian Cuisine, Real Mo-Mo’s and Thai restaurants An Nam, Ganlangal, and Thai Dish.

I told you it was on the way: Animl Steakhouse & Cocktail Den (420A Wellington St. W.) opens to public tomorrow with, you got it - dry-aged steaks and lavish libations. I got a sneak peek, so stay tuned for a closer look.

I’ve had my eye on 1334 Dundas St. W. since construction began. Psst. Say hello to your new aperitivo HQ, Bar Niro.

Bubble tea chain Charlie’s Tea has touched down in the T-dot, setting up shop near Yonge and Finch (5 Northtown Way, Unit 2).

Craig Pike is on a mission to bring his chewy, chunky confections near you. In the Bloor West Village ‘hood? Craig’s Cookies commences Saturday at Runnymede and Bloor (2237 Bloor St. W.).

Vietnamese and Southern barbecue under one roof? Get in on the action at Markham’s Electric Piggy Vỉa Hè (8384 Woodbine Ave.).

Hyderabadi cuisine is the focus of Scarborough’s latest kitchen, bar and cafe, Fursat (4365 Sheppard Ave. E.). Doors open tomorrow.

Grape Witches kicks off their second wine shop and bar specializing in organic, biodynamic and natural wines in Toronto tomorrow at Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant St.). This marks the latest addition for the food emporium that debuted four months ago and continues to welcome new ventures.

Jimmy John’s expands north of the border with its first Canadian branch premiering Tuesday in Etobicoke (197 North Queen St., Unit 3). Known as the "The Sandwich of Sandwiches,” the American chain founded in 1983 is doling out 15 varieties including cold cut classics and hot selections such as top-seller The Turkey Tom and wildly popular Chicken Bacon Ranch. Bonus: Be one of the first 200 in-store guests and receive one complimentary six-inch classic sandwich and a 16oz drink during the grand opening event. Did you know? The company is the “largest owned delivery sandwich brand” in the U.S. with more than 2,600 restaurants in 44 states and is the part of the Inspire Brands portfolio which includes over 32K Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings , Dunkin’, and Sonic locations around the globe.

Doors open today for Joey’s new flagship at King and Yonge (20 King St.). Their largest in North America clocks in at 19,000 sq ft, and lands only a few blocks away from their other digs downtown (CF Eaton Centre 1 Dundas St. W.). The Canuck chain offering “international and regional dishes,” currently boasts 32 eateries in Canada and the U.S. - six in Toronto/GTA, with all but this one stationed at malls.

Introducing Spadina Village’s new patisserie and boulangerie, Le Petit Pain (431 Spadina Rd.). Find it where neighbourhood mainstay Sofra stood.

Lokma, the spot for Turkish pastry bites, ice cream, coffee and other sweet treats across Ontario and Quebec, arrived in Scarborough in 2022, and now considers Oakville (261 Oak Walk Dr.) home as well.

Mayil Coffee House (870 College St.) moves into the space where another South Indian filter coffee shop previously set up shop.

Mogouyan Hand-Pulled Noodles continues its adventures around town with a new site at Square One (The Food District 100 City Centre Dr.). Doors opened Tuesday.

Momochee’s Desserts in Mississauga (263 Lakeshore Rd. E.) is here to help get you through the day with coffee, cookies, Basque cheesecake, and nigiri. Grand opening celebrations are happening Saturday.

No Vacancy (74 Ossington Ave.), courtesy of the folks behind Mississauga’s The Wilcox Gastropub (30 Eglinton Ave. W., Unit 14), officially gets underway tomorrow with stellar cocktails (s/o GM/mixologist Troy Gilchrist) and array of Asian-Fusion eats. p.s. Stay tuned for a sneak peek. p.p.s. Ghost Chicken, previously open at this location, is still open for online orders.

Newsflash: Atlanta-based Experiential Brands just dropped the first The Original Hot Chicken in Toronto at Yonge and College (20 Carlton St.), right next to movie theatre, Carlton Cinema.

Woah, that was fast. I was the first to tell you about Shenanigan’s wrapping things up at Yonge and St. Clair last month, and woosh, St. Louis Bar & Grill (11 St Clair Ave. W.) has already settled in - this time with Detroit-style pizza in tow. Fun facts: 1. a) The co. has had a location close by at Yonge and Davisville since 1992. 2. It’s also their first. 3. Their Wing City concept is about to drop at King and Bathurst.

Little Italy’s new UK India Bistro specializes in fare from the Uttarakhand region (695 College St.).

The Yonge and College nabe continues to transition with the arrival of Thai resto 555 Boat Noodles (2 Grosvenor St.).

CLOSED

No more Bagel Time? The family-owned local chain serving up fresh wood-fired Montreal-style bagels that debuted on the Danforth (582 Danforth Ave.) in April 2017 grew to three locations over the years: Bloor West Village (2457 Bloor St. W.) launched a month before the pandemic and The Annex (551 Bloor St. W.) kicked off the following year - two days before Christmas. The OG BT moved one door east (584 Danforth Ave.) in 2022, BWV was papered up as of last year, and not long ago the Annex outpost was replaced by a shawarma joint. The Greektown one went dark recently. Finger’s crossed it’s only temporary. TR History: There was a cafe called Bagel Time at Yonge and Gerrard (415 Yonge St., Unit 102) from at least 2007 until 2016/17.

Ernie’s Ice Box is closing up shop - the brick-and-mortar version at 403 Jane St. - at the end of the month, but thankfully it’s not goodbye forever.

Folly Brew Pub (928 College St.), a fixture at College and Dovercourt for years, has been “temporarily closed for renovations” as per the website some time now - A trend I’ve been tracking closely. Psst: While no formal announcement has been made, the space is about to welcome another alehouse, Taberna Nacional.

End of an era. The Grapefruit Moon (968 Bathurst St.) on the edge of The Annex and Seaton Village was a Toronto institution known for its homemade fare, brunch, local brews, and popular host for pop-ups including The Abibiman Project as recently as last year. Quick Backstory: It launched at the end of the 90s, sharing a space with separate biz/owner, The Coffee Annex. The television series Restaurant Makeover featured the local eatery on an episode that aired April 19, 2005 and in 2013, the restaurant underwent changes in personnel. TR Intel: The space is about to become Daisy Mays.

SIR Corp.’s Jack Astor's Bar & Grill at Yonge and Sheppard (5051 Yonge St., Unit 2) permanently closed on September 4.

On Monday Stephen Schweighardt announced his Larry’s Folly (1462 Queen St. W.) is moving down the street (1390 Queen St. W.).

The Monk Cafe (1390 Queen St. W.) was in the works for years before finally welcoming guests in 2023. Here’s hoping it finds another home.

On Tuesday Nile River Restaurant announced its time in Little Italy (598 College St.) has come to an end. The ‘Egyptian fusion’ restaurant and cafe launched on the strip during the pandemic.

Sara Schwartz Geller’s long-running soup and popsicle venture Soul Provisions / Toronto Soup Co. in York (571 Vaughan Rd.) is upping sticks. Last day at the current location is Sunday.

Squirly's (807 Queen St. W.) wraps things up for a final time on Saturday.

There’s something else where Little Italy’s Sushi Bon (695 College St.) stood.

NEWS

Yesterday, Mississauga City Council passed a motion to declare food insecurity an emergency in the City of Mississauga. Food Banks Mississauga now serves 1 in 13 Mississauga residents, up from 1 in 37 in 2019.

A Canada Post strike could be underway as soon as tomorrow.

A local union representing 8,000 hospitality workers in the GTA is asking for higher wages from downtown Toronto’s Fairmont Royal Hotel, just at Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour takes over the city.

Ontario craft brewers pay higher taxes than any craft brewery in Canada. Ontario Craft Brewers created a campaign to help “save local craft beer.”

The latest food recalls: Various brands of frozen breaded chicken products recalled due to pieces of metal, M&M Food Market Buffalo Chicken Dip recalled due to pieces of metal. [UPDATE: 17.11.24 - Nut Works Raw Whole Pistachios recalled due to Salmonella. 18.11.24 Various brands of organic carrots recalled due to E. coli O121. Great Value Pacific White Shrimp Cooked Peeled Deveined Tail On 16/20 recalled due to 3-amino-2-oxazolidinone. 19.11.24 Omni Potstickers recalled due to undeclared shrimp.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News November 7-13, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 10.5 min read

If a continuation of last week’s cookie frenzy doesn’t make you giddy, you’ve got your pick of experiences and eats in all corners of the city and beyond, and patios are in full effect. In the second week of November? Bring. It. On.

And everyone is trying to get on the Taylor Swift bandwagon including the City (my inbox is bursting with hasty emails, promotions and press releases) and the push for Christmas and New Year’s events are in full force, so if you thought it was busy before, you ain’t see nothin’ yet.

The comings and goings are also out of control: This week alone, I uncovered 31 establishments, nearly half in closures - the majority of which I bet you didn’t see coming.

NO ONE COVERS THE CITY LIKE THIS.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Scarborough grocery store Anush Market (880 Ellesmere Rd., Unit 9) kicks off on-site Anush Kitchen tomorrow, your new go-to for authentic Armenian barbecue, kebabs, and more.

Find butcher shop and deli A Tavola in the back of 7 Numbers’ Danforth outpost (307 Danforth Ave.), where a similar venture stood until recently.

Bake Sale had a whirlwind week: Saying a final goodbye to not one, but two shops (see CLOSED below), and launching a new one in a strip mall in Etobicoke (Six Points Plaza 5230 Dundas St. W.).

The Base Kitchen + Bar just touched down at Markham Road and Lawrence (3482 Lawrence Ave. E.) however already claims to be the “best kitchen and bar in Scarborough,” boasting an extensive menu showcasing everything from cream soups and kottu to burgers and biriyani.

Soft opening celebrations for Taiwanese resto Bento 886 in Markham (430 Hwy 7 E, Unit 5) are happening November 11 -16 with 10 per cent off all items.

Doors open Saturday for Rolando and Kimberley Oreiro’s BKookie’s Cafe in Little Italy (579 College St.) complete with brunch and baked goods. Find it where Il Padrino used to be.

Psst. Authentic Lebanese cuisine by Hola-born Chef Ali is happening in Beirut Bodega, a secret kitchen tucked inside Charlotte's Room at King and University (212 King St. W.).

Café Belém (546 College St.), Little Italy’s new destination for scratch made Portuguese-style sourdough, custard tarts, pastries and other goodies, is courtesy of father and son Carlos and Wiliam Oliveira of Portuguese resto Mercado.

Indian restaurant and cocktail bar Carnival promises a “celebratory” and “upscale dining experience” in The Junction (369 Keele St.). TR Tracker: Previously, the space at Dundas and Keele was home to Tâm Vietnamese Street Food and Café from until January 31, 2024.

Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant St.) has kept me hopping since doors opened this summer. The adventure continues with the arrival of East Annex Lounge, now open to the public. Attn Swifties: EAL is turning into The Tortured Poet’s Lounge November 13-24, a first come, first serve pop-up and listening lounge, complete with her tracks on repeat and libations inspired by T-Swizzle herself including Red Scarf Spritz and Lavender Haze.

1543 Bayview Ave. in Leaside has been seafood-centric this last while: Rimini De La Mer for a moment, and for a long time, De La Mer. Now Fair Catch Fishmongers has set up shop. Did you know? The fish merchant specializing in premium responsibly-sourced seafood also has a store at Yonge and Lawrence (3303 Yonge St.).

Wellness cafes are all the rage these days. Say hello to the city’s latest, Gleam & Sip on Dupont (215 Madison Ave.).

TR Hot tip: If you do only one thing this week/month, make reservations at Maven (112 Harbord St.). Owner/chef Shauna Godfrey (Godfrey’s Supper Club) is unveiling her striking new resto featuring modern, comforting Eastern European fare in Harbord Village on Wednesday, but you can book now. Stay tuned for a sneak peek.

The Night Baker’s soft and chewy cookies have landed in North York (5361 Yonge St.), marking the third location for the popular bakery by couple - and former chemists! - Leanne Enecio Cabrera and Mitchell Cabrera.

Peckish Fish & Chicken (638 Queen St. W.) specializes in - you guessed it - crispy chicken and fresh fish. It takes over where The Indian Thing came and went on the Queen West strip.

Quick service restaurant WingsUp! boasts over 35 sites across Canada to satiate your wing fix. The latest to drop? West side in Liberty Village (167 E Liberty St.).

In the works at College and Bathurst for some time, Zafoon Middle Eastern Restaurant (384 College St.) softly opened earlier this week, where DeePizz Pizzeria previously held court.

While 612 Harlowe (612 Richmond St. W.) is all about “authentic Italian” eats such as Mushroom Arancini and Chicken Piccata, the menu boasts global fare by way of dishes such as Moroccan Octopus, Ceviche of the Day, Miso Tofu Steak, and Crème Brûlée.

CLOSED

Aleppo Kebab put out an announcement Saturday that the Scarborough location (1960 Lawrence Ave. E.) of seven years has temporarily closed, claiming issues with the landlord as the cause. In the meantime, the one in Ajax (605 Church St. N.) remains open.

Goodbye but not for long. Cookie, cake and cupcake destination Bake Sale closed both stores Sunday: Bloor West Village (2300 Bloor St. W.) and The Kingsway in Etobicoke (3076 Bloor St. W.), however a new one has already launched. Pop up top for details.

Crowded House - the restaurant not the band - made Leslieville home (1161 Queen St. E.) for seven years before closing doors for good.

Arrivederci Ditta Artigianale (612 Richmond St. W.). But wait, another Italian venture has moved in. See openings above.

Cafe and bookshop F Mondays Coffee arrived in Corktown (368 King St. E.) last year.

Goodfellas Wood Oven Pizza at Jane and Bloor (1 Old Mill Dr.) was the second for the local chain and sole in Toronto. The branch in Woodbridge (4411 Highway 7) has also closed.* Various Goodfellas remain throughout the GTA. *TR Intel: Stay tuned for upscale Turkish/Lebanese fusion GulGul moving in.

The last night of service at Lime Asian Kitchen, aka Lime on Yonge (3243 Yonge St.), the restaurant “redefining Asian dining one dish at a time,” was Saturday. It isn’t the only Lawrence Park biz to shutter as of late. In fact, it’s extremely close in proximity to Stack BBQ that just wrapped things up.

New Town Family Restaurant (266 Coxwell Ave.), known for comfort food classics and all-day breakfast at the corner of Coxwell and Gerrard, has closed. A Notice of Termination of Tenancy dated September 16, 2024 is posted on the front door.

Rush - the bar not the band - put down roots in Little Italy (546 College St.), for a stint. The space is home to something quite different now. Details up top.

I was first to break the news yesterday - Sing Sing Adelaide Restaurant & Beer Bar at First Canadian Place (77 Adelaide St. W.) has shuttered after debuting in the Financial District only a few months ago.

Stock-in-Trade’s butcher counter and kitchen at the back of 7 Numbers in Greektown (307 Danforth Ave.) has been replaced. Details up top.

CHANGES

Empire Supper Club (220 King St. W., Unit 100) goes by Oria on King now. Apparently everything else remains the same, including its nightlife component, After Dark.

NEWS

The latest food recall: Hestars Temple Street Crispy Rice (Corn flavour) recalled due to undeclared milk.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News October 31-November 6, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 11 min read

Good news: For anyone with a sweet tooth, this one’s for you. This might be the most cookie-centric edition ever. Lean more savoury? Loads of options await you too. Bad news: The closures, including temporary ones, are coming at a quick clip, and this week, nearly as many as new additions.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

I introduced you to Bad Egg last summer. Newsflash: The Korean egg drop sando biz just added a spot in The Beaches (2214 Queen St. E.), with grand opening celebrations taking place November 1-6.

Boutique Bar had to leave 506 Church St. behind in 2022 due to condos moving in. Tonight marks the first day in their supreme new home down the block (553 Church St.) featuring three distinct floors - visit 1 and 2 for cocktails, head up to the top on weekends for ‘Disco Paradise.’

Stellar skate/coffee shop Brockton Haunt (1158 College St.). is so close to the OG and has a bar now. Win-win-win(e). See you there.

The Burrito Bros. brings its namesake dish along with tacos, quesadillas, nachos, supreme cheesy fries, milkshakes, and more to Bloor and Landsdowne (1316 Bloor St. W.).

Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant St.) just arrived on the scene with a large roster, but there’s much more to come, starting with a Courage Cookies pop-up in full effect.

The menu at Cosmic Pizza & Donair (233 College St.) features globally-inspired ‘za (Greek, Mexican, and Butter Chicken, to name just a few), accompanied by an assortment of donairs, wings, salads, poutine, and sides.

I’ve been covering the expansion of Craig’s Cookies since the get-go and founder Craig Pike hasn’t slowed down one bit - Doors open at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St., Level 1 near Queen Street Entrance) on Saturday at 10am, with Bloor West Village up next. Watch this space.

Speaking of cookies, popular American co. Crumbl entered the Ontario market last year and added a second one, also in Mississauga, less than a year later. Their first dessert destination in the 6ix kicks off tomorrow at The Well (422 Front St. W.).

Global chains are making their way to the Great White North in droves. Introducing the latest: British kebab and bowl biz I Am Doner. Founded by chef Paul Baron in 2016, the eateries have grown to seven branches in the UK and ghost kitchen in Dubai. The first shop in Canada debuts Monday at Queen and Spadina (433 Queen St. W.), with more on the way. Note: Think you’re getting an exact replica of the UK menu? Think again. As per the website regarding the Toronto outpost: “We’ve adapted our recipes to cater to local tastes.”

Ontario vegan fast food chain Odd Burger - formerly known as Globally Local - arrived here in 2021 with plans to slowly expand. That’s all about to change: Scarborough (4549 Kingston Rd.) drops Saturday, with a site at Church and Dundas (229 Church St.) slated for the end of next month. As for Broadview and Danforth? Still loading….

Looking to add a fun activity to dinner/drinks? Head to the city’s newest ping pong bar, Par-Tee Pong in the Entertainment District (26 Duncan St., 2nd Fl.) above sibling Par-Tee Putt.

The influx of lounges and nightclubs downtown continues with Penthouse 17 premiering tonight on the third floor above Chambers Steakhouse & Supper Club that debuted near Yonge and King (17 Toronto St.) earlier this year.

Doesn’t it seem like just yesterday I was just telling you about a new Pizza Karachi? Yes it was. Another one - store seven - just touched down at Queen and Spadina. (465 Queen St. W.) Did you know? It takes over one of the three neighbouring spaces I broke the story about last summer.

Daniel Stubbe’s renowned German chocolate shop Stubbe Chocolates left its longtime digs on Dupont for St. Clair and Wychwood (653 St.Clair Ave. W.). Doors are now open, just in time for the holidays.

Terima Coffee + Pantry Bar is serving up coffee and pastries in the heart of downtown at Queens Park (78 Queens Park) and near U of T (233B College St.), next-door to Cosmic Pizza (details above) and The Self Ramen Bar that arrived earlier this year.

TR Newsletter subscribers got The Wych (1150 Davenport Rd.) intel first last summer. Newsflash: The Wychwood bar, bistro and apothecary softly opened yesterday, taking over from previous occupant, Alberta Avenue Provisions. Coming soon: Food and the cafe side of things.

CLOSED

The Burrito Bros. made a brief stopover in the Beaches (2214 Queen St. E.) however has already set up shop in the west end. Details up top.

Casa Mezcal moved into Smith’s former digs (553 Church St.) for a brief period. The Mexican eatery’s original location on King remains. For what’s in Church/Wellesley Village now, see above.

Head’s up: The last day to get in on live music/event/pinball venue 3030 Dundas West (3030 Dundas St. W.) that’s been a part of The Junction since 2012, is Saturday December 14.

After changing hands in 2020, and again in Fall ‘23, Farmhouse Tavern (1627 Dupont St.) in the Junction Triangle has wrapped up service. Stay tuned: A new concept in the works.

Peruvian resto Mira (420A Wellington St. W.) has been temporarily closed for a while now. Update: The space will be ANIML Steakhouse & Cocktail Den as of Friday November 15.

I was the first to report Noce (875 Queen St. W.) has closed for now. The restaurant across from Trinity Bellwoods Park has been in operation since 1994 and has gone through a few iterations including Noce 2.0, followed by Bar Noce in 2019.

It’s official: Shenanigan’s Pub + Patio (11 St Clair Ave. W.), the O&B joint that launched in 2021, has permanently shuttered after being temporarily closed for eons. Psst, Pro tip: If you followed TR on IG, you’d already know. TR History: Predecessor Scallywags was a fixture there for 23 years before shutting down Summer 2020.

Shuck It and Sea’s iykyk shipping container behind the hair salon in the east end (638 Queen St. E.) that was briefly home sweet home has ended. Pop-ups and other events continue.

Queen and Niagara stalwart since 1988, Squirly's (807 Queen St. W.) is coming to a close. The local haunt known for its fresh, reasonably priced fare, local craft brews and other librations winds things up Saturday November 16.

Vit Beo’s time at Waterworks Food Hall may have come to an end, but their OG spot in Bloorcourt (858 Bloor St. W.) remains open to serve you. TR Pro Tip: Don’t feel like leaving the house? Whip up a batch of their addictive coleslaw.

I can’t remember a time before 151 Convenience, aka My 151 Convenience (151 Barton Ave.), nestled in Seaton Village across from Christie Pits Park.

Michelin Recommended 156 Cumberland (156 Cumberland Ave.) is moving. Last day at the Yorkville addy is Christmas Eve.

NEWS

Attention hospitality: As of January 1, 2025, the City of Toronto is implementing changes to licensing and zoning bylaws for restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.

As of today, the Province permits all “eligible” grocery and big-box grocery stores to sell alcoholic beverages including beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, and large pack sizes, to boot.

However you feel about bike lanes, one thing’s for certain with their upcoming removal: Food delivery is going to be impacted.

The name ‘Pearsonlicious’ says it all.

The latest food recall: Country Traditions Frozen Food Outlet Homestyle Waffles recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes. [UPDATE 11.01.24: Various brands of bread and buns recalled due to pieces of metal.] Speaking of recalls, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. an Ontario facility processing plant-based milk was not adhering to Health Canada’s policies on listeria prevention.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

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OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News October 24-30, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 10.5 min read

I love an OPEN/CLOSED that takes you all over the map - both geographically and gastronomically - and this week’s arrivals allow you to fully indulge in every craving, in all corners of the city and beyond. Unfortunately, that means more closures.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

I gave you the scoop on Agave Restaurante (636 Queen St. W.) last month. p.s. The wait for tacos and other Mexican grub at Queen and Bathurst is over.

Aisle 3 Bar (2535 Dundas St. W.) brings Vietnamese tapas (Fish Sauce Wings, Shrimp Toast, Smashed Cucumber Salad, Crab Fried Rice) and cocktails to the Junction Triangle. TR Trivia: The addy was RaviSoups’ headquarters for what felt like forever back in the day.

Aromatic Balkan and Mediterranean fare are at the focus of Mississauga’s Ballkan Grill (Fieldgate Plaza 3443 Fieldgate Dr.). Think Qofte, Lamb Chops, Sea Bream, Shopska Salad, and Sheqerpare.

Dear Saigon adds to the roster again, this time in North York. Grand opening for the fourth outpost made with “phoholics” in mind takes place Monday at Yonge and Finch (5588 Yonge St.), in the space previously home to Pyung Won House.

TR Hot tip: Burlington’s El Inka Peruvian Cuisine has set down roots in the Big Smoke. EIPC’s second destination lands at Yonge and St. Clair (21 St. Clair Ave. E.) with an extensive menu boasting an array authentic entradas, ensaladas, sopas, ceviche, platos de fondo, Pisco-based libations, and much more. Did you know? It’s where Playa Cabana’s Taqueria Norte stood until recently.

The Food Alley means never having to choose between your favourite fast foods including burgers, pizza, tacos, and desserts, as vendors gather together outside in a lot at Queen and Portland (615 Queen St. W.).

Gluten-free ingredients don’t always result in great sandwiches, never mind hotcakes and/or desserts including sundaes. Etobicoke’s new Gud Daae Sandwich Shop (2461 Lakeshore Blvd. W.) is here to change that. TR Flashback: The location was once Sidenote Cafe.

B.C.’s Hello Nori makes its Toronto debut at King and Bathurst (648 King St W.), in Brioche Dorée’s previous digs. On the menu: Hand roll sushi, aburi oshi, and sake. Watch this space: Two more are slated to touch down in the 6ix by the end of next year.

ISO healthy eats in Midtown? Doors open Tuesday for Impact Kitchen’s new stomping grounds at Yonge and Sherwood (2555 Yonge St.), swiftly following a launch in FiDi a few weeks ago.

Chinatown’s landscape continues to shift with the addition of Korean Grill House (431 Spadina Ave.). This marks the fifth location for the local K-bbq chain.

Beaches mainstay La Sala (1975A Queen St. E.) is back. The Italian restaurant has reopened after shutting down due to fire earlier this year.

Japanese parfaits have arrived at Queen and Augusta, courtesy of Lost in Tokyo Parfait Shop (511 Queen St. W.). TR Insider Tip: If the desserts and setting weren’t Instagrammable enough, a fish tank table is available exclusively by reservation.

Marry Me Mochi is on a roll. After setting up shop in Kensington Market last week, the local mochi doughnut outfit’s first franchisee luxe cafe is coming to Port Credit (129 Lakeshore Rd. E.). Grand opening is Saturday with 50 per cent off items all day. Fun fact: The company is owned and run by five siblings: Elisa, Salena, Sofia, Tommy, and Tuyen.

Mississauga’s An Ngon Vietnamese Cuisine (780 Burnhamthorpe Rd. W.) extends its reach to Richmond Hill with Ngon Corner Vietnamese Cuisine (9021 Leslie St. Unit 1-3).

Region Food Wine Bar premieres in the Canary District (475 Front St. E.) and is about to become a small chain with two more on the way: Downtown at the water’s edge (80 Merchants’ Wharf) and Etobicoke (4216 Dundas St. W.).

The Royal King Pub at Dupont and Christie (641 Dupont St.) is your new go-to for cozy pub classics, local craft brews, and live entertainment.

Ruchy (1370 St Clair Ave. W.) moves into Corso Italia with chefs Sudhan Natarajan and Devindra Radyal at the helm, and Michelin Bib Gourmands under their belts. What to expect? “Authentic Indian cuisine meets innovative culinary artistry.”

TR Pro tip for East enders: Authentic Okinawan noodle shop Tondou Ramen’s lineup is on offer in East Chinatown (637 Gerrard St. E.) Note: Available solely for takeout/pickup at the moment.

CLOSED

Asian restaurant and bar Bitter Melon made a splash when it touched down in Chinatown (431 Spadina Ave.) at the end of 2022. For what’s there now, see above.

Blue Banana Market (250 Augusta Ave.), a staple in Kensington Market since 2007, has come to a sudden end. The gift, souvenir, and foodie destination was filled with countless concepts and vendors - according to their Facebook profile, they were “supporting over 70 local producers and artists under one roof.” And the outpost at The Well (486 Front St. W.) from earlier this year? The pop-up ended last summer.

Last day to get in your goodbyes at Creamery X is Monday. For what it’s about to become, see last week’s edition.

The first Toronto location on Hong Kong chain The Dessert Kitchen opened in Harbord Village (73 Harbord St.) in 2018. Psst. It’s about to become KOKORO Japanese Sushi House.

The windows of Gardel Wine Bar (1020 Gerrard St. E.) are papered over. The east end haunt kicked off Fall 2020 and was a part of one of the best outdoor concepts of the pandemic (and should be brought back citywide), Gerrard East Market (GEM) in 2021.

Madras Kaapi came on the scene strong in 2021. Earlier today, Shilpa Kotamarthi and Aditya Srivathsan’s announced the brick-and-mortar (870 College St.) portion of their beloved business has come to an end, however their products will still be available online and through events, etc. The couple also mentioned they have no affiliation with incoming Mayil Coffee House.

Queer-friendly Peaches Sports Bar (1554 Queen St. W.) debuted in Parkdale two years ago. Earlier this week, a GoFundMe campaign was launched. UPDATE 25.10.24: Owner Veronica Saye posted a message on IG addressing the closure.

That’s a wrap for Thai Mango on Dupont (641 Dupont St.), known for its Chicken Devil, Thai Crispy Beef, and other house specialities. Pop up top for details on the new venture in its place.

NEWS

Attention business owners: Ontario Small Business Community shared a CRA refund scam currently making the rounds.

Michelin Recommended Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse (12 Brant St.) announced it’s on the move - to CIBC Square (81 Bay St.) as of “early 2025.” Stay tuned for more details.

Remember when I told you fine dining aKin was on the way? Resos starting on November 19 are now open.

The first Canadian Shake Shack kicked off in Toronto this past summer. This week the U.S. company shared plans for joining Union Station (which has been adding a ton of new spots to its extended footprint lately) and Yorkdale.

Food recalls: Various brands of frozen waffles recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes, Haribo Tangfastics (Gummy Candies) recalled due to pieces of wood. [UPDATE 25.10.24: 365 Whole Foods Market Organic Waffles (frozen) recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News October 17-23, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 9.5 min read

While my OPEN/CLOSED usually offers a smorgasbord of selections and cuisines, other times a strong theme emerges. This week, it’s dominantly street food and sweets - a combo I think most people can get behind. For those who crave something more, plenty of other tantalizing options await.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

Fusion bistro Baili Eatery & Lounge Chinese touches down in North York just south of Steeles (6114 Yonge St.) with everything from casual comfort fare to lobster and ceviche.

Lake Inez (1471 Gerrard St. E.) didn’t travel far for their latest venture - Belle Isle is in fact, steps away (1455 Gerrard St. E.). TR Pro tip: No doubt the new bar will be just as in demand as LI, so go early if possible. Fun fact : Belle Isle takes over Toto Sushi’s former location, however they remain neighbours - the Japanese resto moved into a larger space around the corner (270 Coxwell Ave.) last year.

There’s been quite the lead up to South Korea’s wildly popular fried chicken chain BHC Chicken finally opening in Canada. Go see what all the fuss is about at The Well’s food court (Wellington Market 486 Front St. W., Lower Level). Did you know? The chain boasts 2000+ stores worldwide and the BHC stands for “Better Happier Choice.”

South Indian eatery Chennai Masala Cafe found a home in the heart of Cabbagetown (432 Parliament St.).

Empanadas and ice cream is a powerful pair. See for yourself at El Palomar (1357 St. Clair Ave. W.).

Foodrama Taqueria Bar brings Mexican grub to the corner of Queen and Bathurst (592 Queen St. W.).

I told you about Forno Cultura at East Room’s striking new King Street digs (507 King St. E.) back in April. Psst. The bakery/café is now open to the public.

The Greenwood Cafe arrives in Leslieville (1374 Queen St. E.) with an array of coffee, pastries, and other goodies.

TR Hot tip: Jaffna Street Food just joined The Village By The Grange Food Court (275 Dundas St. W.). On the menu: Tamil Eelam eats including kothu roti, wraps, and rice bowls.

Following last summer’s debut in the GTA, Jersey Mike's Subs continues to increase its presence north of the border starting Wednesday in North York (808 York Mills Rd.), and slated for December, the first downtown at Union Station.

Turkish cuisine lands at the corner of Queen and Bathurst courtesy of Koz Bingel Express (655 Queen St. W.), an area that’s seeing a ton of changeover - I’ve been clocking places here left and right lately, and even right now. See: Foodrama above.

Famed French patisserie Ladurée Cafe made Yorkville home (162 Cumberland St.) as of last Saturday. TR Archives: The macaron boutique and tea salon popped up at neighbouring Yorkville Village back in 2021.

Speaking of desserts, Turkish delight specialists Liu Loqum Atelier kick off at Waterworks Food Hall (50 Brant St.) tomorrow. p.s. This isn’t their first rodeo - a stunning HQ premiered in Little Italy last year.

And the sweet talk continues with Marry Me Mochi’s Japanese mochi doughnuts available at Kensington Market’s La Mooriyya Markette (210 Augusta Ave.). Grand opening is Saturday with the chance to win an iPhone.

Dig into an array of tacos, quesadillas, chilaquiles, and antojitos at Market 707’s new addition, Mi Gusto Es (707 Dundas St. W., Unit 9A).

Neo Coffee Bar’s recent expansion continues with an outpost at the base of a new apartment building at Yonge & Wellesley (The Ivy 12 Gloucester St.).

The Food Dudes’ fifth location of Pantry settles in at King and Portland* (613 King St. W.) in iQ Food Co.’s previous stomping grounds. *TR Tracker:This area also has seen a lot of movement lately.

Parkdale’s new Quickcart Convenience & Vape Store (1726 Queen St. W.) is open 24/7. TR Flashback: It was once longtime home to James Dy’s Antiques and Collectibles.

Discover Stefano’s, Gia’s “little brother restaurant,” across the street (1265 Dundas St. W.), where Extra Burger stood until recently. What to expect: Plant-based sandwiches, burgers, and other comfort foods.

Since its arrival in 2021, Wingstop has been on a mission to take over the GTA. Oakville, it’s your turn (223 North Service Rd. W.).

CLOSED

Julie and Kris Kell’s dope skateboard and coffeeshop Brockton Haunt (1150 College St.) is closing, but it’s not for long and not far, just a few doors down (1158 College St.). Watch this space for opening details.

If it feels like Café BluBlu just arrived at Bathurst and Dundas (374 Bathurst St.) it did. It followed Campechano’s try at a cafe setting here for a few months in ‘22.

Melissa Baird and Bonnie Gallant’s Creamery X (114 Queen St. E.) ends October 28. Luckily, their vegan ice creams and frozen custards will live on in some form or another when it becomes Pink Elephant Creamery at a later date. Stay tuned. TR Trivia: The shop was originally located around the corner.

I gave you the inside scoop on La Bella Sangweech’s entry into Little Italy (584 College St.) last winter. Ten months later, it’s coming to a close. Final day is Sunday.

Establishments are turning over quickly across the city, including Cabbagetown of all places (See: Dova). I just wrote about Mars Village Eatery (432 Parliament St,.) a few weeks ago, and like that, it was replaced. See the change of signage here and what’s replaced it up top.

I was the first to report Mekan’s sudden closure (817 Queen St. W.). The palatial restaurant and music venue arrived Summer ‘23.

After nearly a decade, Leslieville’s Sidekick Comics (1374 Queen St. E.) closed up shop a few weeks ago and already has a new occupant. Details above.

STACK BBQ Restaurant, a mainstay at Yonge and Lawrence (3265 Yonge St.) since 2012, announced earlier today Wednesday is the last day. The southern ‘cue concept expanded to Oakville in 2021 (Oakville Place 240 Leighland Ave., Unit 235 A), still in operation.

NEWS

News of Canadian actor Simu Liu calling out a boba tea company over cultural appropriation made headlines.

I discovered Instagram is harming Toronto businesses including the restaurant industry.

The latest food recall: Wagener's Ham in Jelly (Jelly Pork) recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News October 10-16, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 8.5 min read

Back in the day, Thanksgiving weekend would indicate a slower pace if not a screeching halt for launches and new ventures. These days of course, it’s full speed ahead. Introducing a whopping20 arrivals and copious closures.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Devotees of my OPEN/CLOSED already know - Ossington has been popping off lately (See: Cereal Box Cafe, Fallen Feather - details below, Linny’s). Andrea Mears adds to the excitement with addictive desserts via her eponymous bakery, Andrea’s Cookies, touching down on the strip. The striking second location debuts tomorrow just south of Dundas (166 Ossington Ave.).

Bhoj Indian Cuisine upped sticks from the edge of Yorkville (21 Davenport Rd.) to south of the Annex (673 Spadina Ave.), taking over where Jollof King and Daddy-O’s Pasta previously held court.

Specialty coffee shop Buno Coffee (136 Lauder Ave.) arrived on St. Clair West in 2021. p.s. A second outpost softly opened downtown earlier this week west of Ossington (1048 Queen St. W.).

Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Cherry Street Bar-B-Que has popped up at O&B’s Queen’s Cross Food Hall at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St.) for a limited time.

One of the city’s remaining diners, Chew Chew’s Diner, is now Chew Chew’s Grill (186 Carlton St.), offering everything from breakfast to burgers to fish n’ chips. Doors open Saturday at 8am.

Dessert-centric automats are big news this week, starting with Daan Go Cake Lab’s vending machine dispensing sweet treats at the country’s largest bookstore chain Indigo in Markham’s CF Markville Mall (5000 Hwy 7).

El Puerto Marisqueria lands in York (1727 Eglinton Ave. W.) with authentic Mexican seafood. I’m talking Augachile, Ceviche De Pescado, Shrimp and Octopus Campechana, and other fare inspired by Veracruz cuisine including Chilpachole De Camarón. See you there.

Psst. Fallen Feather (217 Ossington Ave.), the new cocktail bar by the folks behind The Haam and Saku, softly opened last night. TR Intel: I was the first to report Crafty Ramen suddenly shut down here a few weeks ago.

Leave it to NomNomNom Hospitality Group - known for Get Your Own Taters - to bring two phenomenal cuisines together under one roof. To get in on Filipino and Polish grub in on fell swoop, head to Gosia’s, currently happening at Collective Arts Toronto Taproom & Café (777 Dundas St. W.).

I’ve discovered over the years shabu shabu spots often appear in waves. See: Last week’s addition, followed by Haru Shabu Shabu in Mississauga (177 Central Pkwy. W., Unit 1 ), brought to you by by Toronto’s “first wagyu AYCE Japanese BBQ” Shinta Japanese BBQ. Grand opening celebrations continue through to the end of the month.

Craving mochi doughnuts but not personal interactions? Then the dystopian vault that is I’m Mochi at Queen and Bathurst (677 Queen St. W.) is for you. Order selections such as Dark Chocolate Passionfruit, Matcha Genmaicha, Churro, Melona, and Ube Jelly via the on-site digital tools.

Queen’s Cross Food Hall (CF Toronto Eaton Centre 220 Yonge St.) keeps ‘em coming: Local health food chain iQ Food Co. joins the roster.

Little Italy’s movement continues with the arrival of Mexican resto, La Chuperia (635 College St.), moving into Sashimi Island’s previous digs.

Tonight marks the grand opening for Port Credit’s new destination, Lago Pizza & Pasta Bar (167 Lakeshore Rd. W.).

Mehfill Indian Cuisine’s offshoot Mehfill Shawarma & Kathi Roll adds Scarborough to the lineup (4286 Kingston Rd., Unit 1).

The subs and a few of the footlong hot dogs at Substreet Subs & Dogs in Richmond Hill (10457 Yonge St.) are named after local spots such as Mississauga Road Grilled Chicken, The Danforth Oven Roasted Pepperoni, Steeles Ave Smoked Turkey, and QEW Roast Beef.

Midtown’s new supermarket, Super Unique (2085 Yonge St.), specializes in Persian fare and pantry items.

Tahini’s has been on a tear lately, and the action doesn’t let up: The sixth branch currently in soft opening at Church and Bloor (175 Bloor St. E.).

Fun fact: The Village’s new Thong Lor Thai Grilled Bar (555 Church St.) is sister eatery to Si Lom Thai Bistro, conveniently located across the street (534 Church St.).

Korean BBQ in a cup is quickly becoming a thing in the 6ix. Say hello to Tiger’s Cup Bap, in FiDi of all places (Brookfield Place 181 Bay St., Concourse Level).

CLOSED

Bhoj Indian Cuisine left Midtown (21 Davenport Rd.) for downtown. Deets up top.

It appears all the brick-and-mortar outfits of Carlos Bake Shop (aka Carlo's Bakery Canada) around town - Port Credit (167 Lakeshore Rd. W.) and Yorkville (24 Bellair St., Unit 6) - have closed down. Fans of celebrity chef Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro’s confections need not worry: CB’s cake ATMs still linger around various malls in the GTA.

Boxcar Social’s Riverside rendezvous (4 Boulton Ave.) comes to an end on tomorrow, however four locations remain across the city: Summerhill, Laneway, Harbourfront, and just launched Waterworks Food Hall.

There’s a new iteration of Chew Chew Diner (186 Carlton St.). Details above.

Popular live music venue and watering hole The Dakota Tavern (249 Ossington Ave.) is taking a break.

The sign’s been removed and windows are papered over at Kung Fu Beef Chinese BBQ in Chinatown (460 Dundas St. W.).

R&D spinoff Lil Rebel at Queen’s Cross Food Hall (CF Toronto Eaton Centre 220 Yonge St.) was meant to be temporary, You don’t have to wait long for the next concept from chefs Eric Chong and Alvin Leung however - TR Tip Off Flashback: Spring ‘24 - They’re teaming up again for Asian fine dining restaurant aKin opening soon in the St. Lawrence ‘hood (51 Colborne St.).

NEWS

Is scurvy back?

The latest food recalls: Various brands of beef jelly tongue products recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes. According to the Ontario Ministry of Health, four people in the province have been “sickened with listeriosis” amid beef tongue recall.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News October 3-9, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 12 min read

Korean fried chicken, pizza ‘n pasta, tacos, momos and other casual eats are the focus of this week’s numerous enterprises, accompanied by a new nightclub and staggering number of closures.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Parkdale’s newest arrival Armonia Pasta Bar (1316 Queen St. W.) takes over Then & Now Restaurant’s recently shuttered digs with an assortment of spuntini, antipasti, handmade pasta, risotto, carne, pesce, frutti di mare, and dolce. Coming soon: “Il Chiosco,” the front section suitable for lounging and listening to music.

Azul’s quick serve Mexican fare lands at Union Station (65 Front St. W., Unit 61), mere blocks from the outpost that touched down earlier this year at First Canadian Place (100 King St. W.).

Halal certified Korean fried chicken and other comfort K-foods are the cornerstone of BanBan Korean Fried Chicken from outside the city limits - Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa. Hey Scarborough, it’s your turn. Come through their new location at Finch and Warden (2549 Warden Ave.). Bonus: Get 15 per cent off items until October 8.

I gave you the intel on ChaHalo’s impending opening at ever-changing Yonge and Wellesley (576 Yonge St.) last summer. Update: Doors are now open. That’s not all: The bubble tea shop boasting 1,000 stores worldwide also just added a shop in Scarborough (3262 Midland Ave., Unit E108).

Chamberlains Pony Bar launched at the corner of bustling King and Portland (585 King St. W.). On the agenda: Tex-Mex and drinks ‘til late.

Daimaru Shabu Shabu says it’s “Toronto’s Best Japanese hot pot AYCE.” See for yourself at their new hot pot spot in Markham (Langham Square 8333 Kennedy Rd.).

Membership has its privileges, however it’s no longer required to get in on Forno Cultura’s sweet stuff at shared workspace co. East Room’s Corktown HQ (507 King St. E.) starting Monday.

There’s a new nightclub downtown, at Queen and Bathurst of all places. See: Future (570 Queen St. W.).

Near Woodbine and Danforth? Stop by Headshots Cafe Studio (2186 Danforth Ave.). The cafe and shop are currently in effect, with a creative studio made with actors, musicians, photographers, group meetings, etc., in mind, slated to get underway soon.

Following the recent proliferation of cat cafes in town, dog destinations are the logical next step. “Toronto’s first canine social collective” Hound House (501 Queen St. W.) features a cafe and bar, co-working space, doggy daycare, and indoor dog park. Doors opened yesterday.

International Food Garden (657 Queen St. W.) moves into where Friends Butter Chicken stood for a stint at Queen and Bathurst with a wide-ranging menu - everything from Masala Dosa to Chicken a la King, Popcorn to Banana Milkshakes.

Long story short, I’ve been a fan of Knife Toronto since waaay back, so I’ve been not so patiently waiting for the new store to open near Queen and Shaw (1A Givins St.), down the street from their original place at Queen and Palmerston. Psst. Wait’s over.

Bakery café chain Paris Baguette arrived in the Great White North last year and it’s always been the plan to add on. Introducing Yorkville (110 Bloor St. W.), with grand opening happening tomorrow at 11am.

Public Gardens (577 King St. W.) is ready to welcome you at King and Portland. As the name doesn’t allude to the cuisine, here’s a hint: Think pizza, pasta and copious cocktails. The icing on the cake? A rooftop patio to keep the summertime vibes going. TR Throwback: Do you remember when it was Masseria, Pizza Nova’s attempt at an upscale eatery?

Following last week’s Momo of a different variety, local dumpling chain Momo Loco’s third arrives at Sugar Beach (15 Merchants Wharf) with serious deals for grand opening tomorrow including $4.99 for select momos and combos, ongoing offers for students, faculty, and construction workers, and always a pro move - if you place your order via the website.

I told you Sarang Kitchen was coming to the Danforth. After establishing the “sensory-friendly and inclusive” Korean fried chicken haunt on Bloor (1056 Bloor St. W.) last winter, the follow-up is now open east of Pape (774 Danforth Ave.).

Score on King’s (107 King St. E.) sister sports bar Score on Queen kicks off Monday (TR Intel: And chance of soft opening Sunday) on the west side (298 Queen St. W.) in the historic building that housed The Black Bull Tavern for over three decades continuing SOK’s tradition of popular brunch, Caesars, happy hour, and daily deals.

Restaurant Row’s famed Kit Kat Italian Bar & Grill (297 King St. W.) shut down after 31 years in 2020 and has been empty ever since. This just in: Local fast food chain Shelby's Shawarma moved in. Question: What happened to the tree in the middle of Kit Kat’s dining room?

Slice of Life at College and Bathurst (409 College St.) is slinging signature cocktails based around two key ingredients - Strawberry and Cacao Nib, Celery and Cucumber, for example. Did you know? The addy has seen a number of food-centric establishments in recent years including Taste Benders, Oniki Donburi, and 32 Chicken St.

Just in time for peak soup season. According to Soma Bone Broth Co. (676 Pape Ave.), they make “The highest quality bone broth in Canada.” Shop for Premium ‘Ultra Collagen’ Beef and Chicken varieties, and Roasted Turkey and Fresh Herbs, Chicken with Turmeric & Black Pepper, Beef with Lion’s Mane and Fresh Herbs, and Mixed Gourmet Mushroom selections.

During the pandemic, people ranted how it was the end of buffets forever, but I knew otherwise - People love variety, a deal, and the two together? Get out of here. See you at the hot table. Like this one: Yue Lai Buffet in Chinatown (492 Dundas St. W.), which I gave you the head’s up on this past summer, offers AYCE options for just $15.99.

CLOSED

I’ve been tracking Basil Box’s movements since Day 1 and the fast casual Southeast Asian chain’s setup at the corner of Queen and Spadina (441 Queen St. W.) has come to an end. Fun fact: It was nestled underneath Michelin-starred resto Alo (163 Spadina Ave., 3rd Fl.).

Homegrown Juice and Ripe Nutrition’s Danforth digs (676 Pape Ave.) have been swapped out for e-commerce ventures.

The Indian Thing (638 Queen St. W.) may have been fleeting, but you don’t have to wait long for another concept - something else is already in the works. Stay tuned.

Chinatown’s Luwei Snack Bar (422 Dundas St. W., Lower Level) has packed it in.

End of an era. Jim and Roula’s palatial Greek restaurant Megas (402 Danforth Ave.) lined in murals and Grecian columns was a place to gather and celebrate, the backdrop for numerous weddings, anniversaries, christenings, and live music nights for decadesm embodying the true meaning of philoxenia, hospitality rooted in ancient Greece where guests are welcomed as friends. It marks another example of the increasing loss of Greek restaurants in what is still deemed ‘Greektown’ on maps, but is dwindling with each passing day: Case in point - Atlantis down the street is about to become the city’s second pizza, pho, beer outfit Sing Sing Restaurant & Beer Bar from the west coast that set down at First Canadian Place in June. p.s. Shoutout to the Greek stalwarts still holding it down in the ‘hood: Alexandros Take-Out, Astoria Shish Kebob House, Athens, Athens Pastries, Christina’s on the Danforth, The Friendly Greek, Kalyvia, Lukumum, Mezes, Messini Authentic Gyros, Pantheon, Soulas Modern Greek Cuisine, and Square Boy.

PizzaForno on King East (225 King St. E.) has closed. The 24/7 automated pizza machine chain’s flagship is relocating.

Speaking of ‘za, Nord Lyon’s (665 Queen St. W.) pizza shop next door Pizza North (669 Queen St. W.) has quietly closed. The French bakery is focusing on expanding this biz - A location recently dropped at The Well.

Signature Fine Dining Restaurant emerged in the Entertainment District (214 King St. W., Unit 101) opposite Roy Thomson Hall last summer.

Slice of Toronto at St. Clair and Oakwood (968 St. Clair Ave. W.) is gone for now, but pizza lovers, hang tight - Revolver Pizza Co. #3 is on the way. And good news: SOT is set to announce a new soon. Stay tuned.

The windows of Urban Thai (640 Queen St. W.) are papered over.

NEWS

Minimum wage in Ontario went up on Tuesday from $16.55/hr to $17.20/hr.

Restaurant company SIR Corp. is investigating a cybersecurity incident. The company is behind new operations including Riverside’s Duke’s Refresher Bar’s and Edna + Vita in FiDi, in addition to other local chains you’re likely familiar with.

The latest food recalls - UPDATE 04.10.24: Summerhill Market deli meat recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes. 05.10.24 Various brands of beef jelly tongue products recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: TORONTO/GTA Restaurant News September 26-October 2, 2024

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of the latest 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. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

This month has been a wild ride, and it doesn’t let up one iota this week. Introducing 21 new destinations of every kind - Seriously, it’s a real choose-your-own adventure kinda vibe right now - and a quarter of that in closures.

Psst. Want the inside track on what’s happening? In addition to subscribing to the TR Newsletter , keep your eyes peeled on the website (the #TRrending section is a good place to start) and follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook for breaking news and updates . 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Johnnie and Aggie Fusco, the husband-and-wife team behind Baby Point’s popular plant-inspired Italian eatery Bellona Kitchen (276 Jane St.), are extending their vegan and vegetarian dining experience to Little Italy (680 College St.). Grand opening is Tuesday night. Hot tip: Make sure to follow on Instagram for a first look.

Bep Viet (738 Gerrard St. E.) takes over East Chinatown stalwart Bach Yen’s former digs with an array of Vietnamese fare. Grand opening kicks off tomorrow with 15 per cent off.

Cafe Montaigne is right in the mix at Queen and Richmond (394 Richmond St. W.), decked out with fresh pastries, sandos, and other refreshments.

Subsequent to a swanky revamp at Yorkdale, Delysees keeps the mall vibes going by bringing its luxe lineup of sweets to Mississauga’s Square One (100 City Centre Dr.).

Dirty Birras is already receiving rave reviews for its Mexican grub at Queen and Coxwell (1610 Queen St. E.).

Levantine brunch is the name of the game at East Tea Can in Mississauga (3115 Winston Churchill Blvd.). For those in the T-dot, the “Middle Eastern canteen” is touching down at The Well’s subterranean food court Wellington Market (486 Front St. W., Lower Level, Unit 46-60) on Sunday.

Estiatorio Milos (330 Bay St.) debuts today, but you knew that already. And if you’re a TR Newsletter subscriber, you got the scoop first, back in 2021.

Healthy chain Impact Kitchen extends its reach to the Financial District (Brookfield Place 181 Bay St.) with food and drinks made with your gluten-free, no dairy, paleo, keto and/or vegan/vegetarian lifestyle in mind. Doors open Monday.

Thai gelato might be your new obsession thanks to Kati. The venture by Sweet Gotch and Michelin Recommended southern Thai restaurant Koh Lipe softly opened in Little Italy earlier this week (567 College St.). TR Fun Fact: It moved into Kiss My Pans old spot, now situated just down the street.

King Taps second location on King West - mere blocks from the original that arrived from B.C. back in 2017 - gets the party started at King and Portland (620 King St. W., Suite 101) on Tuesday, taking over the expansive footprint occupied recently by popular restos Ascari King West and vegan brunch outpost out of Montreal, LOV.

La Roma Piccola (1012 Queen St. E.) continues the tradition of serving Italian cuisine in Baldini’s former stomping grounds.

Letterbox Doughnuts will be doling out their alphabetical treats in Parkdale starting October 1 (1590 Queen St. W.). Did you know? The bakery lands where West End Comics was, which has since set up shop down the street (1716 Queen St. W.).

Manita set down roots on Ossington (210 Ossington Ave.) in 2020. A continuation of the triple threat - cafe/restaurant/bar - launches today at 8am on the other side of town in Rosedale (1164 Yonge St.), previously home to The Rosedale Diner.

Momo Coffee, a coffeeshop inspired by a ginger kitty named, you guessed it, Momo, is now open at Yonge and Sheppard (4714 Yonge St., 2nd Fl).

Marked Restaurant (132 John St.), known for its brunch, is shifting gears. As of tomorrow, it morphs into Runway 06 (132 John St.). What does that mean exactly? Apparently, expanded food and cocktail menus and a levelled up “entertainment experience.” Psst. I’m heading in before doors open to the public, so check TR’s Instagram Stories for a first look.

Sushi Hub’s new addy at College and Bathurst (74 Lippincott St.) may sound familiar - Aunties & Uncles called it home for over two decades, followed by a brief stint by Ma Maison recently. SH Backstory: It was previously running out of ghost kitchen food hall Junction Food Co. (545 Keele St.) - As illustrated on the JFC site, it’s had nearly 50 food and drink concepts come and go - before moving to a similar setup at Etobicoke Eats (20 Lockport Ave.) on September 1.

Home of French and Italian confections, The Sweet Crumble, traded in downtown for Parkdale (1556 Queen St. W.). Details below.

Halal Middleterranean fast food chain Tahini’s is now at the corner of Dundas and Church (215 Dundas St., Unit 4).

The West Cork Irish Pub (701 Queen St. E.) is the latest bar to settle in at Queen and Broadview. Doors open Saturday. TR History: Irish roots. Irish haunt An Sibin Pub held court steps away at the SW corner of Queen and Broadview from 2012-2016. [UPDATE: 27.09.24 - Opening has been delayed until Friday October 4 at 5pm.]

Yogo π (Pi)’s grand opening gets underway tomorrow. On the menu: Varieties at the yogurt bubble tea shop in North York (15 Northtown Way, Unit 22) include mochi yogurt, “teagurt” slush, and brown sugar bobo milk.

CLOSED

Butter Chicken Factory stuck it out at Queen and Coxwell (1610 Queen St. E.) for a while. For what’s there now, pop up top.

After 12 years, one of the city’s top cheesemongers is wrapping up service. Last day to visit Junction Fromagerie (3042 Dundas St. W.) is Saturday. Luckily, you can still get in on Jennifer Rashleigh and Jeff Brown’s artisanal chocolate and ice cream at their long-running store next door, Delight Chocolate (3040 Dundas St. W.).

Marked Restaurant (132 John St.) is something else now.

Kensington Market’s micro-bakery Nassau Street Cafe - aka 84 Nassau Street Cafe (84 Nassau St.) - has been marked as permanently closed on Google, the phone number is currently out of service, and items and equipment are being auctioned off next week.

The Sweet Crumble (122 St Patrick St., Unit 22) put in a ‘Change of Address’ notice. Details above.

“Based on faith in Jesus” tea shop TEAchoice Bubble Tea (394 Richmond St. W.) may have closed, however the catering arm of the biz continues.

NEWS

Toronto jazz musician Julia Cleveland died after being struck by car in The Junction.

As if restaurants aren’t struggling enough, new limits on temporary foreign worker program went into effect today.

Local food expert asks, “Is Bill C-293 Canada's ‘Vegan Act’?”

Food recall: Tetsujin Breaded Oyster recalled due to undeclared milk.

Please support local businesses whenever possible. 

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch. 

Need help promoting your business? Get started now. 

We should work together.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal