Toronto is a big city, that we know and in a city this size, businesses are constantly opening and sadly closing down every single day. If you’re someone that loves to be the first of your friends to try a new restaurant or need to stay in the know about store closings, then you’ll want to keep on reading. From medispas and pet stores to luggage and bakeries and everything in between, here are a handful of new businesses opening and a few that have sadly shut down.
New businesses and restaurant openings are always something to celebrate but right now, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to support them even more.
Opening–Welcome to the Neighbourhood:
Marvelous By Fred
If you can’t resist French patisserie, then Marvelous By Fred needs to be on your hit list. Located at Queen and McCaul, this new bakery is the spot to grab yourself some soft brioche, flaky croissants, and an exquisite cafe au lait.
Union Boardwalk
Looking for a fun and free activity? Head down to Union Station to enjoy the Union Boardwalk that’s on from August 10 until September 22. The free art installation is presented by TD and it’s all about connecting your senses to art and nature and it’s all happening at Sir John A. Macdonald Plaza on Front Street.
PetSmart
Attention all pet parents! There’s a new PetSmart location in town and it’s located conveniently in Liberty Village. The new space is over 6,000 square feet and it’s not only filled with great products for pets, but your fur baby can also get groomed here as well.
Bar Mignonette
Sitting above local fave Patois, Bar Mignonette is one of TO’s newest hidden gems on Dundas West. This is the latest from Chef Craig Wong and upon walking in, it’s like you’ve ventured into a chic oasis with it’s focus on tasty seafood dishes and seasonal produce.
Clinton’s Bar
It’s a miracle! After the iconic Toronto bar closed after 83 years in business, it’s back under new management. The local fave has revamped its menu as well and is serving up Korean-inspired fusion with dishes like Kimchi Fries and Bibimbap everyday!
Naru
If it’s authentic yet modern Japanese food that you’re searching for, you’ll want to check out Naru that’s located at Church and Carleton in the heart of TO. With bento and ramen, as well as cold and warm dishes on the menu, it’s safe to say that is a food experience unlike any other.
Away Yorkdale
Even though we’re not heading off on vacay this summer, you can still get yourself ready for your next one. Away is known for its luggage that’s highly functional as well as uber chic and the brand has just opened its first stand-alone store in Canada located at Yorkdale Shopping Cente.
Youth MediSpa
If your skin needs some TLC after a stressful quarantine season, you’re not alone! Head on over to Youth Medispa for a bespoke medical facial, laser, injectables, and much more. What’s amazing about this spa is that it doesn’t resemble a doctor’s office at all — think bright Andy Warhol-inspired prints and super stylish decor.
Stock T.C
Say hello to the city’s newest foodie destination — Stock T.C which is the lovechild of Terroni and Cumbrae’s. Located in midtown near Yonge and Eglinton, this restaurant/market combo has everything from baked goods, prepared foods, a butcher as well as a cafe and full restaurant. Safe to say, Stock is more than worth the trip north of Bloor!
Kiin Pop-Up
Got Thai food on the brain? Who doesn’t! Stop by the Kiin pop-up that’s on right now outside the restaurant on Adelaide Street West for tasty bites straight from the kitchen of celebrated Chef Nuit Regular. Expect to dive into dishes like Tom Yum Fries, Pad Gra Prow Burger, and Massaman Beef Sandwich. Plus, don’t forget to get your hands on Chef Regular’s first cookbook Kiin that’s out October 20!
Amal
If it’s Middle Eastern food you’re craving, Yorkville’s newest restaurant Amal is where to go. This modern Lebanese spot is situated right where La Societe used to be on Bloor Street with a menu that consists of elevated Lebanese dips, cold and hot meze, skewers, sharing platters, and much more.
Don Alfonso Pop-up
Patio dining is great but if you’re looking to step it up a notch, head to the newly relaunched Don Alfonso 1980 pop-up for a Michelin-starred dining experience unlike any other. Located inside the stunning conservatory in Casa Loma, this 60-seat limited-run opens September 16 and will host dinner service daily starting at 5 p.m. Tuck into a Mediterranean-style eight-course tasting menu that includes tasty canapes, caviar, Muscovy duck breast, and luxe Italian desserts.
Closing–Time to Say Goodbye:
Exclucity
Say it isn’t so! Famed sneaker store Exclusity has officially closed the doors to its store on Queen West. According to its founder, the store’s lease was up and operating online was proving to be more profitable.
DeKefir
After 10 years on the scene, beloved soft-serve spot DeKefir has closed down. Specializing in kefir, the sweets shop used the middle-eastern ingredient in delicious parfaits, soft serve, and smoothies. The news was announced via social media where the business owners revealed it closed its PATH location already and will shutter the Liberty Village location by the end of the month.
Cafe Crepe
Another beloved TO restaurant has closed down for good and this time it’s iconic Cafe Crepe that was located at Queen and John. The creperie had been a fixture on Queen West for 18 years so to say it will be missed is an understatement.
Wanna stay in the know? Check back monthly for our Openings + Closings column each month.
