Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 8

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto/GTA Restaurant News June 13-19, 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

Shake Shack’s arrival in the 6ix marks the first entry into the Canadian market, so naturally it’s nabbing headlines left and right. (It’s been on my watchlist since the inaugural location launched in NYC in 2010 and I got a preview here in the city back in 2017. Stay tuned for my sneak peek of Yonge-Dundas.) Most media coverage stopped there. Too bad. Ever the intrepid reporter, I’ve uncovered numerous new ventures to explore, including the iconic burger joint, not to mention news and closures you need to catch up on.

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

Bereket Kebab House’s new digs in Scarborough (245 Morningside Ave.) can’t be missed. Grand opening for the massive halal restaurant in West Hill is happening Saturday.

Coconut Grove, the latest concept by restaurateur Hemant Bhagwani whose portfolio includes Amaya and recent arrival Bar Goa, brings Pan Asian cuisine “reimagined in a modern way” to CF Fairview Mall (1800 Sheppard Ave. E.).

Forest Hill Farmhouse has been expanding since 2022 and shows no signs of slowing down. Find the fourth salad-focused/design-forward casual eatery in the Financial District (Brookfield Place 181 Bay St. - PATH).

Asian fusion fare, cinema and cocktails are at the heart of High Town Izakaya in Baldwin Village (45 Baldwin St.), taking over where Dream Yunnan stood until recently and prior to that, Toronto Big Bowl. TR Insider: For what just arrived underneath, keep reading.

I’ve been documenting Le Lert’s compelling journey since earlier this year. For Thai dinner, drinks and brunch featuring Daan Go Cake Lab and Plearn Cafe from the team behind Som Tum Jinda and newly opened Crying Tiger, head to Yonge and Carlton (27 Carlton St.).

Lyla (60 Sudbury St.) debuted last night with a lineup of luxe eats including steak, seafood, and de rigueur caviar bump and tower. Do you remember? Back in the day the addy near Queen and Dufferin was home to Bacchanal and Recess Diner.

Midori Ramen, home of “Toronto's creamiest tori paitan ramen,” has kept me hopping these last few years, and the good times continue to roll - Grand opening at Yorkdale Mall (3401 Dufferin St., Food Court, 2nd Fl.) is Saturday.

Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe’s second location just touched down in Midtown (2375 Yonge St.), with grand opening festivities yesterday. Hot tip: Find it in the TR Ice Cream Guide.

Speaking of icy treats, Mr Loop arrives in Mississauga (4700 Ridgeway Dr., Unit 70) with sundaes, milkshakes, corn, churros, mochi puffs and other summertime essentials.

Okeya Kyujiro’s opening has flown under the radar of most due to the overwhelming activity in the city right now, but mark my words: The “theatrical” omakase destination boasting locations in Vancouver and Montreal and awards including a Michelin under its belt, is sure to grab the attention of the city’s fooderati and Michelin judges right about….now. TR Trivia: The space in Yorkville (26 Bellair St.), previously a hair salon, is next to to one of the oldest teppanyaki-style restaurants in Canada - Yamato Japanese Restaurant est. 1983. Construction took two years.

Indian restaurant group Riyasat’s latest venture is fine dining. See: Riyasat Indian Restaurant & Bar in Vaughan (4585 Highway 7).

There’s a new spot for Portuguese fare at Rogers Rd. and Dufferin: Sete Ventos Restaurant (2075 Dufferin St.). Pro tip: Don’t skip the francesinhas.

Shake Shack Toronto, the first Canadian outpost of the iconic American burger joint, debuts today at 11am at Yonge and Dundas (10 Dundas St. E.). In addition to its core menu - ShackBurger, Chicken Shack, Crinkle Cut Fries, Shakes, and Frozen Custard - the flagship’s permanent menu items showcases exclusive Canadian desserts: Maple Salted Pretzel Shake (vanilla frozen custard blended with pretzels and maple syrup, topped with whipped cream and crushed pretzels) and Concretes - think elevated blizzard/sundae with Shake Shack’s famous frozen custard as the base: I Heart Butter Tart (vanilla frozen custard, brodflour butter tart, flaky salt), More S'mores (chocolate and vanilla frozen custard, toasted marshmallow sauce, fudge sauce, graham crumb, chopped chocolate pieces, topped with graham cracker dipper), and Shack Attack (chocolate frozen custard, brownies, fudge sauce, chocolate chunks, Chocosol cocoa nibs). Other Canuck offerings include Bellwoods Brewery brewed ShackMeister Ale, Rosewood Winery collab for Shack Red and Shack White. The co. also partnered with local dog treat specialists, Wufers on Bag O' Bones, Shack dog biscuits, and Pooch-ini (vanilla frozen custard topped with Shack dog biscuits). p.s. Stay tuned for an inside look.

From Fire Services Credit Union to a Turkish grillhouse and bar? Introducing Norton’s new Sibel Restaurant (1997 Avenue Rd.).

The uptick in hookah haunts continues. Soft launch of Sheba Lounge kicks off tomorrow at 6pm at Dufferin and Lawrence (2915 Dufferin St.).

Psst. Grand opening for Baldwin Village’s new Korean snack bar Tiger Den Tavern (45 Baldwin St., Lower Level) is on until Saturday including free snack with order and discounts on soju and suds.

Little Italy’s Wolfie (614 College St.) takes over The Commoner’s former digs with small plates, cocktails, and vinyl on weekends.

CLOSED

That’s it for Hana Korea (45 Baldwin St., Lower Level). For who’s moved in, see openings above.

After more than four decades, John Anderson Charcoal Broil Hamburgers in Mississauga (1069 Dundas St. W.), the burger joint named after co-founder and former hockey player John Anderson, has closed. To get in on the classics including burgers, fries, and souvlaki, head to JA’s in Markham (3780 14th Ave.) and the original in North York (Victoria Van Horne Plaza 2832 Victoria Park Ave.).

Bad news: Leaside stalwart Maurya East Indian Roti (1549 Bayview Ave.) has wrapped things up.* Good news: Other locations remain throughout the city and GTA. *Moving in: Bayview Shawarma Turkish Cuisine.

HK Sweets had shops in Midtown (2375 Yonge St.) and North York (3257 Dufferin St.).

Final day to get in your goodbyes at Main and Gerrard’s Prologue Cafe (2249 Gerrard St. E.) is Saturday.

Taberna da Minhota was a Portuguese staple at Rogers Road and Dufferin (2075 Dufferin St.).To discover the new occupant, head up top.

NEWS

Sotto Sotto’s Laura Venditti Vacca - aka Mamma Laura - died.

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

View more on Stephanie Dickison's website »

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Published on June 13, 2024 20:59

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto/GTA Restaurant News June 6-12, 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

🕘 7.5 min read

This week’s edition delivers a ‘choose-your-own adventure’ vibe thanks to the myriad of concepts and cuisines on offer. And still reeling from last week’s insanity? Brace yourself. The sudden closures of heavy hitters below are just the tip of the iceberg.

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

Ami-No just touched down at Bathurst and Dundas (755B Dundas St. W.) with Japanese takeout by way of snacks, sashimi, maki, and kaisen donburi. TR Trivia: I’ve covered every eatery that’s landed in this boîte over the years including Bao Box earlier this year and predecessors Cool Cats, Hot Dogs and Oniguy. Prior to the various takeout joints of late, the former house converted into a commercial unit was once a convenience store and Guardian Pharmacy.

Blondies Pizza brings its New York style ‘za near the water’s edge in Etobicoke (160 Marine Parade Dr., Unit 8).

Grand opening for Kingsway’s new aesthetic cafe and patisserie Cafe De Flore (2989 Bloor St. W.) is today, complete with 15 per cent off all items.

Grande Cheese adds to its ever-expanding family with a new grocery store in Vaughan (9222 Keele St., Unit 11).

Hazukido continues its evolution across the 6ix with Hazukido Lite Cafe at Atrium on Bay (595 Bay St., Unit E-01). Grand opening celebrations for their new bakery cafe is Saturday. p.s. The Japanese croissanterie is offering guests the new Butterfly Dream Drink for $1 in exchange for a post on social.

Persian ice cream parlour and pastry shop Ice In Paradise has new digs in Thornhill (8147 Yonge St.). Find it in TR’s Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream + Frozen Treats.

Kibo Cafe joins U of T: Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus at College and University (108 College St.). The coffee shop and market marks the latest venture from Kibo Sushi House.

“Cheesetrons” are the specialty at North York’s Lipar Box (15 Northtown Way, Unit 20). What to expect: Cheesy handhelds stuffed with beef, chicken, pepperoni, and veg.

Swiftly following the closure of an express location, Mediterranean chain Me Va Me emerges downtown in a new build just north of College (2 Alexander St.).

The Hilton Garden Inn (92 Peter St.) got a glow up this week, courtesy of Hilton, Easton's Group of Hotels and The Gupta Group. The longstanding hotel in the Entertainment District goes by Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton now, accompanied by Muse Lobby Bar and “French-inspired” Deauville Club Restaurant, the latter offering a melange of selections from Watermelon Salad ($20) and Summer Roll ($19) to Bamboo Curry ($32), Brome Lake Quebec Duck ($48), and Paella ($48).

After being in the works for years, Sing Sing Beer Bar Toronto - sibling to the west-coast concept centred around pizza, pho and craft brew - just landed in the Financial District (First Canadian Place 77 Adelaide St. W.) Did you know? Vancouver-based Freehouse Collective (formerly The Donnelly Group) hasn’t added to the Big Smoke since Isabelle’s in 2022, but their other outfits - Belfast Love, Death & Taxes, GIft Shop, Walrus Pub & Beer Hall - have been fixtures here, starting back in 2016.

CHANGES

Thornhill’s Sojubang has a new look and feel. Introducing: Seoul House BBQ Sojubang (180 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 24) equipped with karaoke and party room.

CLOSED

Ever since Extra Burger (1265 Dundas St. W.) came on the scene in 2017, it drew a crowd. Yesterday it came to a sudden halt.

On Saturday, Fonda Balam (802 Dundas St. W.) posted on social that doors will be imminently closing. Today they shared June 8 will be the final day. The eatery that began as pop-up Birria Balam in 2021 followed by the dine-in iteration months later. The buzzy resto helmed by chefs Matty Matheson, Kate Chomyshyn and Julio Guajardo went on to earn Michelin Bib Gourmand awards in 2022 and 2023.

The Phoenix Concert Theatre (410 Sherbourne St.) announced yesterday it will be on the move as of January 2025.

Since last fall, Little Italy’s Quadro Ristorante (577 College St.) has been temporarily closed due to fire. It appears it’s permanent now that J's Steak Frites is moving in.

Ristorante Sociale (545 King St. W.) came in hot last summer, promising to deliver a dinner party vibe late evening. Touted as Enoteca Sociale’s more formal sibling, it launched with a bang* and marked the first expansion for the Michelin Bib Gourmand awarded eatery. *Literally. At the grand opening event, women in thong bodysuits, aprons and chef hats danced around banging mixing bowls.

NEWS

Local Japanese chain Ramen Isshin launched a GoFundMe Campaign for Masumi Okabayashi, a mother of three battling Stage 4 Cancer.

Earlier this week, the owners of Ossington restaurant, cafe and bar Manita called out actor Zachary Quinto for being a “terrible customer” during a recent visit. The Instagram post, claiming in part that he “yelled at our staff like an entitled child,” went viral, nabbing headlines everywhere from Vulture to TMZ.

The latest recalls: Casablanca Classics Pure Coconut Water with Pulp recalled due to undeclared sulphites.

ICYMI

Check out TR’s comprehensive guide to farmers’ markets in Toronto and GTA.

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

View more on Stephanie Dickison's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on June 06, 2024 20:53

TR GUIDE: Toronto/GTA Farmers' Markets 2024

🕘 7 min read

Discover locally-grown produce and freshly-made goods, artisanal fare, pantry essentials, prepared food, flowers, gifts and more at 35+ farmers' markets nestled in local parks, historic sites, and city attractions across neighbourhoods throughout Toronto and the GTA.

Check out the current lineup of daily, weekly, bi-weekly and monthly markets and check back for updates throughout the season.

MONDAY

SORAUREN FARMERS’ MARKET
Sorauren Avenue Park
289 Sorauren Ave.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
May 20 to October 28

TUESDAY

CABBAGETOWN FARMERS’ MARKET
Riverdale Park West
375 Sumach St.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
May 14 to October 29

DAVISVILLE MARKET
June Rowlands Park
220 Davisville Ave.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
May 14 to October 8

EAST YORK FARMERS’ MARKET
East York Civic Centre
850 Coxwell Ave.
East York
8am-2pm
May 14 to October 29

SCARBOROUGH FARMERS’ MARKET
Rosebank Park
1051 Progress Ave.
Scarborough
3:30pm-7:30pm
June 11 to October 8

TRINITY BELLWOODS FARMERS’ MARKET
Trinity Bellwoods Park
790 Queen St. W.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
May 7 to October 29

WEDNESDAY

ANNETTE VILLAGE FARMERS' MARKET
Runnymede Presbyterian Church
680 Annette St.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
May 29 to October 9

BLOOR•BORDEN FARMERS’ MARKET
Green P Lot
300 Borden St.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
June to Oct

COURTYARD FARMERS’ MARKET
Robertson Parkette
1549 Danforth Ave.
Toronto
3:30pm-7:30pm
June 26 to September 25

PARKDALE GOOD FOOD MARKET
Masaryk Park
212 Cowan Ave.
Toronto
4pm-7pm
June 26 to August 28

MCLC LIONS FARMERS’ MARKET
Celebration Square
300 City Centre Dr.
Mississauga
9am-3pm
June 5 to October 9

MONTGOMERY’S INN FARMERS’ MARKET
Montgomery's Inn
4709 Dundas St. W.
Toronto
2pm-6pm
May 22 to TBD

NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE FARMERS’ MARKET
Toronto City Hall
100 Queen St. W.
Toronto
8am-2pm
June 5 to September 25

Thursday

BLACK CREEK COMMUNITY FARM STAND
4929 Jane St.
North York
2pm-7pm
June to November

DUFFERIN GROVE ORGANIC FARMERS’ MARKET
Dufferin Grove Park
875 Dufferin St.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
May 16 to October 31

EAST LYNN PARK FARMERS’ MARKET
East Lynn Park
1949 Danforth Ave.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
June 6 to October 17

FLEMO FARMERS’ MARKET
Flemingdon Park
150 Grenoble Dr.
Toronto
3pm-6pm
June 20 to October 10

NORTH YORK FARMERS’ MARKET
North York Civic Centre - Mel Lastman Square
5100 Yonge St.
North York
8am-2:30pm
May 23 to October 10

SUMMER MARKET AT THE GARDEN
Toronto Botanical Garden
777 Lawrence Ave. E.
Toronto
3pm-7pm
July 11 through August 29

THORNCLIFFE PARK COMMUNITY MARKET
R.V. Burgess Park
46 Thorncliffe Park Dr.
Toronto
2:30pm-9pm
May 17 to October 11

UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO SCARBOROUGH COMMUNITY MARKET
University of Toronto Scarborough - Scarborough Circle
1265 Military Trail
Scarborough
12pm-5pm
June 13, July 18, August 8, September 12

THE UNDERPASS PARK FARMERS’ MARKET
Underpass Park
33 St Lawrence St.
Toronto
4pm-7:30pm
May 23 to October 24

FRIDAY

N/A

SATURDAY

DORVAL CROSSING CIVITAN FARMERS’ MARKET
200 North Service Rd. W.
Oakville
8am-1:30pm
May 4 to Nov 30

ETOBICOKE CIVIC CENTRE FARMERS’ MARKET
Etobicoke Civic Centre
399 The West Mall
Etobicoke
8am-2pm
June 1 to November 2

EVERGREEN FARMERS’ MARKET
Evergreen Brick Works
550 Bayview Ave.
Toronto
8am – 1pm
Open year-round - Summer: Pavilions, Winter: TD Future Cities Centre

HUMBER BAY SHORES FARMERS’ MARKET
Humber Bay Park West
2225 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Etobicoke
7am-3pm
June 1 to October 12

THE JUNCTION FARMERS’ MARKET
Baird Park
275 Keele St.
Toronto
9am-1pm
May 18 to October 26

MCLC LIONS FARMERS’ MARKET
3 Robert Speck Pkwy
Mississauga
8am-3pm
June 2 to October 27

PORT CREDIT FARMERS’ MARKET
Port Credit Library Parking Lot
20 Lakeshore Rd. E.
Mississauga
8am-2pm
June 1 to October 5

THE STOP’S FARMERS’ MARKET
Wychwood Barns Park
76 Wychwod Ave.
Toronto
8am-1pm
Open year-round: May 4 to October 26 outdoors. Rest of the year: Inside the main barn.

VILLAGE MARKET
Toronto Waldorf School
9100 Bathurst St.
Thornhill/Vaughan
8am-1pm
May 4 to December 21

WESTON FARMERS' MARKET
Artscape Weston Commons
34 John St.
York
8:30am-1pm
June 1 to October 26

WITHROW PARK FARMERS’ MARKET
Withrow Park
725 Logan Ave.
Toronto
9am-1pm
June 1 to October 19

SUNDAY

AFRO-CARIBBEAN FARMERS’ MARKET
Reggae Lane
1531 Eglinton Ave, (Green P)
Toronto
11am-3pm
July 7, 11, 21, 28; August 11,25; September 8, 22, 29

BRONTE FARMERS’ MARKET
Bronte Market Square
2445 Lakeshore Rd. W.
Oakville
11am-3pm
July 7 to August 25

DEEPLY ROOTED FARMERS’ MARKET
Dieppe Park
455 Cosburn Ave.
East York
9am-2pm
May 28-Oct 15

LAKEVIEW FARMERS’ AND ARTISAN MARKET
Small Arms Inspection Building
1352 Lakeshore Rd. E.
Mississauga
9am to 2pm
May 26 to October 27

THE LESLIEVILLE FARMERS' MARKET
Greenwood Park
150 Greenwood Ave.
Toronto
9am-2pm
May 12 to November 3

DAILY

ST. LAWRENCE MARKET FARMERS’ MARKET
St. Lawrence Market
92-95 Front St. E., South Market
Toronto
5am-3 pm
Open year-round

Markets, dates, locations, and other information subject to change. For farmers’ markets located throughout the province, visit Farmers’ Markets Ontario.

Want to add a local farmers’ market? Get in touch.

Life moves fast. Catch up on new arrivals and closures in 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.

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

View more on Stephanie Dickison's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on June 01, 2024 02:39

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto/GTA Restaurant News May 30-June 5, 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

🕘 14 min read

One of the most dense editions of late delivers options G-A-L-O-R-E. If it feels like chains dominate the arrivals this week, rest assured unique offerings and independent joints abound. And the dispatch doesn’t stop there - big news and closures 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:

OPEN

Grand opening for Vaughan’s new halal restaurant, Ala Antioch Turkish Cuisine (3255 Rutherford Rd., Unit 2) kicks off Saturday.

Canela Crepes & Coffee (792 Carlaw Ave.) is the spot for French-style pancakes, pastries, and coffee just off the Danforth.

Earls Restaurant Group announced today that while their new King West stomping grounds (601 King St. W., Unit 595) won’t be ready for guests until June 28, resos are now open. The restaurant takes over what was forever home to celebrity chef Susur Lee’s eponymous eatery, Lee Restaurant, relocated as of last summer to the new Waterworks (497 Richmond St. W.). (I broke the news back in ‘22.) Talk about close: In addition to its many locations, there’s an Earls right down the block (150 King St. W., Unit 100), and another west coast-based group is about to land across the street - King Taps - which coincidentally also has a branch down the street (100 King St. W.).

Speaking of chains, Eataly opens today at 1pm, marking the third location in the 6ix for the global brand and food emporium. Eataly Don Mills (CF Shops at Don Mills 1090 Don Mills Rd.) features three on-site eateries - 180-seater Eataly Ristorante and casual spots Il Gran Caffè and La Salumeria , the latter unique to this location, across its nearly 10,000 sq. ft. expanse. In keeping with its many counterparts, the rest of the space is outfitted with products both local and from abroad, as well as prepared items. Stay tuned: Word dropped today a fourth is scheduled to to join CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St.) next year, with “more planned for the future.” Quick backstory: The Italian grocer announced its imminent arrival at Bay and Bloor October 2019, throwing open doors the following month. A more recent addition landed at CF Sherway Gardens late last year.

Hot tip: From the streets of Tokyo to Toronto, Flipper’s brings its signature Japanese soufflé pancakes, waffles, and other brunch fare to the downtown core (31 Elm St.).

Chef Vic is whipping up a myriad of Asian fare at Roncy’s new Hakka Wok Hei (371 Roncesvalles Ave.). Do you remember? The addy was previously Tacos Baby J and Stamp’s Lane.

Havana Sanguwich (251 Queen St. W., Entrance on John) has got the right idea. While the menu boasts classic Cuban sandwiches and Colombian street food, selections extend beyond Cubanos and empanadas with a lineup of salads, salchipapas (Colombian-style loaded fries), hot dogs, and other must-haves. Find it where NSFW Members Only waffles used to hang out.

Milkshake and dessert destination Holy Shakes lands in Etobicoke (21 Rexdale Blvd., Unit 4108) with forever partner T.O.’s Kathi Roll Eatery, home of Indian fusion fare including Punjabi tacos and Indian burritos. Grand opening is Saturday.

Grand opening for IHOP’s Mississauga digs (Erin Mills Town Centre 2575 Eglinton Rd.) took place Monday. TR Trivia: 1. The first International House of Pancakes (IHOP) opened in 1958 in Toluca Lake, California. 2. This ain’t IHOP’s first rodeo here. 3. In fact, that wasn’t the iconic American pancake house’s inaugural venture in the province either: The 13th Canadian location for the breakfast chain debuted in Niagara Falls on September 13, 2008. 4. Discover halal options at GTA locations.

Kasa Frida offers a variety of tacos, quesadillas, and Mexican brekkie in the heart of Yorkville (Yorkville Village 55 Avenue Rd.).

Are mac and cheese and chicken wings your everything? Then Mac N’ Wings is for you. Choose from over 20 varieties of cheesy pasta and 100 ways to enjoy your drums n’ flats. Doors opened yesterday for the local chain’s Scarborough outpost (3165 Markham Rd.)

Made Rite Coffee (68 Wales Ave.) is brimming with breakfast sandos, lunch options, and cups of joe, one block east of Bathurst off Dundas,

Pro tip: North York’s latest addition, Meat AA7 Authentic Charcoal BBQ (5285 Yonge St., 2nd Fl.), has already garnered a crowd for its Shenyang-style BBQ, so go early/often to try and snag a table.

Momo Heart (675 Lansdowne Ave.) arrives in Bloordale with a lineup of classic and fusion Tibetan momos. Find it where Saigon Sandwiches stood until recently.

Chefs Hall (111 Richmond St. W.) new noodle shop hails from the season pros behind Tempura Keisuke, the collaboration between Ramen Isshin and Ryus Noodle Bar. Introducing: Ramen Takao.

Bloordale’s newest tavern, Teddy Beer (928 Bloor St. W.) softly open June 1 in Black Horse’s stead.

The Well kicked off its much-anticipated food hall Wellington Market (486 Front St. W., Lower Ground Level) on Monday. While the downtown outdoor mall promotes being home to “50+ food and beverage merchants,” some have yet to open, and at least one didn’t pan out. Currently there are 35 vendors, many of which you’ll be familiar with from their locations throughout in the city: À La Table, Bagels on Fire, Big Fat Cookies, Blue Claw Lobster Shack, Chatime, Chun Yang Bubble Tea, Doraji, East Tea Can, Faray Cacao, Gus Tacos, Honestly Good Chicken Fingers, Hooky’s Fish and Chips, Isabella’s Mochi Donut Boutique, The Islands Caribbean Cookshop, Japadog, La Cubana, Lisa's Perfect Ice Cream, Little Harvest, MADO Café, Nord Lyon, Pancho's Bakery, Pokeworks, Postman Waffles, PURPEL, Ren Sushi, Rosie’s Burgers, RYUS Noodle Bar, Sam’s Juices and Eats, The Samosarie, Shake Therapy, Sweetie Pie, Szechuan Express, Tong Mein, Uncle Tetsu's Japanese Cheesecake. Also on the roster: The Pier Bar by Scale Hospitality (the group behind Toronto restos such as AP, Miss Likklemore’s, and Toronto Beach Club), making the food court with 900 seats fully liquor licensed, and The Well added florist Bunches Flowers under the F&B umbrella. The market also features two rotating pop-ups: condiments by Sauce Frens and board game cafe Snakes & Lattes. p.s. Want a hint of what might be on the approach? See my notes from January. Fun facts: This is famed Japadog’s first ever Toronto location. and Chatime’s 100th.

Zula Burger + Pizza launches in The Junction (3011 Dundas St. W.) today. Did you know? It was recently home to another pizza joint: Pizzeria Libretto.

CLOSED

While the Queen West Foodrama (232A Queen St. W.) came and went, Parliament (240 Parliament St.) remains. Moving in: Caribbean Slice following its departure from York (1764 Eglinton Ave W.) that opened in 2022.

Hey Sugar was a fixture at Dundas and Huron (449 Dundas St. W.) for years. The bubble tea chain with “over 1,000 locations in China” according to their FB page, had locations elsewhere here: Skycity Shopping Centre in Scarborough (3278 Midland Ave., Unit D116), Golden Court Plaza in Richmond Hill (328 York Regional Rd 7) and North York (5379 Yonge St.), though it appears they have since shuttered.

A Greektown staple since 2015, Marvel Coffee Company (792 Carlaw Ave.) has given way to another coffee concept - See above for details. Did you know? It also had a shop not far up the street at Donlands and Danforth (6 Donlands Ave.) that opened a year prior, but since shuttered. The building next to Donlands Station has been home to java joints over the years including BonBon Coffee Shop and currently Caramel Coffee Shop.

Me Va Me Express in North York (860 York Mills Rd.) has come to a close, however others remain open.

North York bakery New King of Kings (248 Eddystone Ave.) has been forced to close due to food safety violations.

Parallel Basta (152 Augusta Ave.), the Kensington Market offshoot of award-winning Parallel, has come to an abrupt halt. Doors opened last summer.

Bad news: Postman Waffles’ aesthetic cafe at Yonge and Eglinton (2409 Yonge St.) has come to a close around the year mark. Good news: Find them right downtown. Details above.

Swiftly following the recent closure of Bar 244 (244 Adelaide St. W.), Pravda Vodka Bar (44 Wellington St. E.), briefly renamed Brash & Sassy Vodka Bar, has come to an end. It was a part of Toronto’s nightlife scene for 21 years.

Tacos 477 (55 Kensington Ave.) came and went.

Then and Now Restaurant (1316 Queen St. W.) made headlines when it launched last year with a no-tipping policy. Owner Eric Wang shared a heartfelt message on Instagram yesterday the Asian fusion eatery in Parkdale is closing June 1.

Chef Genna Steckel is packing up her bakery XO Bisous (60 Adelaide St. E.) today, until the new location (572 St. Clair Ave. W.) is ready to go.

NEWS

The “voice of the hospitality industry,” Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA), is calling the LCBO becoming “the exclusive wholesaler for all retailers, bars and restaurants selling alcohol - this will include licensed bars and restaurants transitioning to order all alcohol, including beer, from LCBO’s online ordering process” in 2026, a “win.” The Beer Store will continue wholesaling to bars, restaurants, and southern LCBO Convenience Outlets until 2026.

Speaking of libations, they’re coming to a store near you.

Canada’s Competition Bureau is investigating Loblaws and Sobeys.

Nestlé’s Toronto workers ratify new deal after striking for over three weeks.

Opening date for Shake Shack’s first Toronto location Yonge and Dundas has been announced: Thursday June 13 at 11am.

A fundraiser has launched to help save Glad Day Bookshop, the world's oldest LGBTQ+ bookshop and home to “the longest running drag brunch in Canada,” from eviction.

The winners of 2024 Canadian Brewing Awards have been released, including Ontario breweries: Anderson Craft Ales, Bench Brewing Company, Brauwerk Hoffman, Brewers Blackbird Kitchen & Brewery, Burdock Brewery, Clifford Brewing Company, Cold Bear Brewing Company Ltd, Concession Road Brewing Co., Couchiching Craft Brewing Co., Cowbell Brewing Co., Dusk To Dawn Brewing Co, Flight Risk Brewing, Flora Hall Brewing, Gillingham Brewing Company, Henderson Brewing Co., Imperial City Brew House, Indie Alehouse, Lake Of Bays Brewing Co., Mascot Brewery, The Merchant Ale House, Merit Brewing Co Inc., Meuse Brewing Company, Muddy York Brewing Co., Muskoka Brewery, Old Dog Brewing Company Inc., Old Flame Brewing Company, Oranje Son Brewing, Paniza Brewing, Paris Brewing and Malting, Publican House Brewery, Quayle's Brewery, Slabtown Brewing Co., Sons Of Kent Brewing Co, Tooth and Nail Brewing Company, Turkey Shoot Brewing Co., Wishbone Brewing Company.

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Published on May 30, 2024 20:59

OPEN/CLOSED: Restaurant News May 30-June 5, 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

🕘 14 min read

One of the most dense editions of late delivers options G-A-L-O-R-E. If it feels like chains dominate the arrivals this week, rest assured unique offerings and independent joints abound. And the dispatch doesn’t stop there - big news and closures 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:

OPEN

Grand opening for Vaughan’s new halal restaurant, Ala Antioch Turkish Cuisine (3255 Rutherford Rd., Unit 2) kicks off Saturday.

Canela Crepes & Coffee (792 Carlaw Ave.) is the spot for French-style pancakes, pastries, and coffee just off the Danforth.

Earls Restaurant Group announced today that while their new King West stomping grounds (601 King St. W., Unit 595) won’t be ready for guests until June 28, resos are now open. The restaurant takes over what was forever home to celebrity chef Susur Lee’s eponymous eatery, Lee Restaurant, relocated as of last summer to the new Waterworks (497 Richmond St. W.). (I broke the news back in ‘22.) Talk about close: In addition to its many locations, there’s an Earls right down the block (150 King St. W., Unit 100), and another west coast-based group is about to land across the street - King Taps - which coincidentally also has a branch down the street (100 King St. W.).

Speaking of chains, Eataly opens today at 1pm, marking the third location in the 6ix for the global brand and food emporium. Eataly Don Mills (CF Shops at Don Mills 1090 Don Mills Rd.) features three on-site eateries - 180-seater Eataly Ristorante and casual spots Il Gran Caffè and La Salumeria , the latter unique to this location, across its nearly 10,000 sq. ft. expanse. In keeping with its many counterparts, the rest of the space is outfitted with thousands of products both local and from abroad, as well as prepared items. Stay tuned: Word dropped today a fourth is scheduled to to join CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St.) next year, with “more planned for the future.” Quick backstory: The Italian grocer announced its imminent arrival at Bay and Bloor October 2019, throwing open doors the following month. A more recent addition landed at CF Sherway Gardens late last year.