The pandemic has brought upon many unexpected turns especially for local businesses. Some of the many Toronto classics have had to say goodbye to their customers including The Office Pub and Golden Thai. On the bright side, there are many new openings to lighten the mood. Ranging from grocery stores to bakeries, here are some of the newest additions to the city and also a few businesses that have sadly shuttered.
*Due to lockdown, some of these retailers are closed for in-person shopping but contact them for more info on if curbside pick-up is available*
Openings:
FARE By Food Dudes
Restaurants have sadly had to close down again but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a gorgeous meal. Food Dudes have just blessed us with FARE which delivers premium groceries and extravagant in-home Experience Boxes. These boxes aren’t your basic run-of-the-mill meal kits. Think juicy bone marrow, crispy fried chicken, tender beef tenderloin, and so much more. There are specialty boxes for date night or family night and there’s even an option for a Breakfast in Bed box that’s the perfect cozy gift this holiday season.
Pai Uptown
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If you live in the north end of the city and have a craving for Thai food, then look no further than Pai Uptown. This is the restaurant’s second location and even though it’s open for just takeout and delivery, you know that the flavours are still going to be top-notch because, well, we wouldn’t expect anything less from Chef Nuit Regular.
Vela
Vela is going to be the perfect place for those who love architecture and dining in an aesthetically amazing environment. The creators have reestablished bygone hospitality and classic theatrics with current technology and design in a beautiful historic downtown Toronto building. Every detail has been put into constructing a layout and architecture that is sure to attract top tier guests.
Juniors Pizzeria
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Opening their doors in early September, Juniors Pizzeria has been a popular order for those wanting handcrafted pizza with high-quality ingredients. Some of their most popular dishes seem to be their Jimbo’s pizza, named after their very own chef, and their Zio’s pizza.
Thom Browne
Yorkdale Shopping Centre has just welcomed one of the finest menswear based in New York. Thome Browne is well known for their classic men’s suits and their “provocative” style of tight suit jackets and trousers hemmed above the ankles. It is the first location to open in Canada and but is said to have plans for another location to open in Vancouver in the future.
Farm Boy – Yonge and Soudan
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The very popular grocery chain Farm Boy is open now on Yonge Street near Eglinton. This grocery store is filled with an amazing assortment of fresh produce and premade options. The staff is extremely welcoming and friendly and you are sure to leave with a handful of food!
Hazukido
Hazukido brings an abundance of an endless flavour of croissants with their exclusive folding technique. Each one is made with the finest ingredients and preserves. You can certainly taste the French influence with a Japanese twist. Their fascinating menu includes Truffle Crab, Raspberry Panna Cotta, and more different flavoured croissants.
Minami Toronto
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Minami Toronto is now open on the vibrant King Street dining scene. The restaurant showcases memorable and unique culinary and cocktail offerings combining Japanese and global inspirations. This is Aburi Restaurant’s fourth restaurant on the East Coast and we couldn’t be more excited!
L.L. Bean
This iconic outdoor wear store has been opening its doors for adventurous customers for over 100 years. Toronto has welcomed the store in the CF Shops in Don Mills after their very successful initial opening in Oakville. Despite the pandemic, the brand hopes to be opening more stores across Canada.
Closings:
Golden Thai
Unfortunately, the GTA has had to officially say goodbye to one of the most well known Thai restaurants in the city. This restaurant was known for its refined atmosphere and variety of menus, including their famous Mango Salad and Butterfly Shrimp. This is certainly an establishment that will be missed.
White Brick Kitchen
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White Brick Kitchen was famous for its kind staff and welcoming comfort food. Their fried chicken and waffles had certainly been a big statement and had customers always coming back for more. This is not an easy goodbye.
The Office Pub
What once was Toronto’s iconic bar for almost every occasion has suffered the effects of the pandemic. Events in the past have included Drag Race Game Night, UFC viewings and the all-time famous St. Patty’s Day parties.
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Montecito was known as a large environment that brought together many guests in a magnificent space. It had hosted corporate events and even beautiful weddings. Unfortunately, due to the effects of the pandemic and financial impacts, the restaurant has had to close its indoor dining experience. Fret not because Montecito’s bottle shop is coming soon!
*Due to lockdown, some of these retailers are closed for in-person shopping but contact them for more info on if curbside pick-up is available*
