2010 closings

[millygirl]

Actually this may have happened in 2009 but we might as well begin a new thread....

I see that Sequel on Yonge Street has closed down the restaurant part of the operation. Apparently they will still provide catering to those that don't know any better. Ouch!

[epsilontau]

Steak Queen on Victoria Park Avenue & Lawrence Avenue has now been replaced with a "Damas Mediterranean Grill" restaurant which opened recently. I've yet to try, but they seem to be busy in the evenings.

-----
Steak Queen
1795 Victoria Pk, Toronto, ON M5G, CA

[millygirl]

For what it's worth, we can add Sweet Tooth to the list.

I doubt anyone would have noticed, or cared for that matter but my friend who bought one of those deals way back. She finally was getting around to using it but the doors been shut and voice message full. Leaves me to believe only one thing.

I hate to say it, but I told her so......

[jlunar]

Just FYI, she should try to get a refund via the site she bought her coupon at.

[Full tummy]

I know someone who did the same on the basis of their cute website. I would have "told her so", had I had an opportunity... I think she'll be better off with the cash in her pocket than with anything they produced/sold in the last couple of years--if she can get a refund.

[magic]

Le Pain Quotidien on Eglinton closed this week.

[millygirl]

Not surprised in the least. That place was horrible!!!!

We stepped in for the first time 2 weeks ago and had what had to be the worst latte ever. There was nothing to it. I ended up throwing it away half way down the street.
Everything in the display cases looked dry and stale.

[Gary]

It seems that all the Toronto locations have closed. http://bit.ly/h7v9FV

I never went, mostly because I rarely heard anything good about the Toronto locations.

[Snarf]

They were beautiful retail marvels that should have appealed to the locations they chose. Yes, the breads and food were not particularly good, and the prices were downright silly, but they were the sort of pretty foolishness that should have appealed to the Williams-Sonoma crowd, or the louts that buy from Holts cate or MBco. Funny they would crap out when non MBA types with no market savvy would open second locations (Jules on Mt. Pleasant) or separate from established restaurants (Thobors from Celestin).

(those with subtitles would get notation that this was sarcastic)

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Celestin
623 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON M4S 2M9, CA

[ylsf]

When LPQ first opened in Toronto I was excited because I enjoyed a meal I had there in NYC. I tried the Y/E location in Toronto when it first opened and although I enjoyed my meal (a honey/ricotta open faced sandwich) it was way over priced for what I got and in the end that was my first and last meal there or at any LPQ location.

[TexSquared]

That's exactly the problem. Foreign (usually American) restaurant chains open here and charge much higher prices, likely a combination of greed plus the food cartels. So, you enjoyed the same meal here that you had in NY but probably paid 150% of the NY price, so you're disgusted and won't return.

This is consistent in all price ranges -- McDonald's and Ruth's Chris both charge much higher prices in Canada than they do for the same food items in the U.S.

LPQ probably failed for another reason: Tim Horton's addicts. Way too many of them in this country.

-----
Ruth's Chris
77 City Centre Dr., Mississauga, ON L5B 1M5, CA

[hal2010]

I went to their store on Capitol Hill in Washington DC over the holidays. It was nothing special.

[EPIcureanTO]

^^i dunno. There were no "timmie's" in the Eg west loc. However there are 2 starbucks,. a timothys, a Second cup and 2 or 3 independents so far have survived much longer than they did..?

[Gary]

Harapeko, the Japanese sandwich shop in Kensington Market opened by the owners of Manpuku, seems to be closed. I walked by today and there were big "for lease" signs in the window and no mention of a new location. Shame, I kept meaning to try them but always fell back on one my other habitual eats in the area.

[gregclow]

I saw big "For Lease" signs in the windows of Chic Chinoise (King & Simcoe) as I went by on the streetcar this morning.

[magic]

Xaphire on Eglinton, west of Avenue Road, will be closing on December 25, according to a notice on their door. The notice says they hope to reopen in another location.

It's too bad, I really like Xaphire at that location. It's been there for a while now and has had pretty tasty Thai/Pan-Asian in a lovely space.

So if you're a fan, go before the 25th of this month. Hopefully it will reopen someplace else soon.

-----
Xaphire
530 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M5N1B4, CA

[torontofoodiegirl]

Oh, that is sad... If anyone hears any news about when/where they're re-opening, please post.

[magic]

Will do : (

[magic]

I went tonight for last final hurrah. The food was fabulous of course. This location will really be missed.

They said they will be reopening around April on Sheppard, west of Bathurst. Not sure if it will reopen under the name Xaphire, but I hope so. I'm on their email list so maybe I will learn more as the months go on.

But there you go...

[magic]

Update: notice on window said reopening in new location was expected for Summer 2011.

[EPIcureanTO]

ugh. so far away now..

[magic]

Yeah.... what can you do, right?

[magic]

Anyone have new info on Xaphire reopening? They were pondering reopening, possibly under a different name around Bathurst/Sheppard this summer. Anyone know anything?

Bueller? Bueller?

[Queen Bee Events]

CLOSED - AGGIE MARTIN Brampton. July 2010.

[caviartothegeneral]

The windows of Smokin' Bones at Church and Dundas are all papered over ...

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Smokin' Bones
117 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5B, CA

[TexSquared]

They lasted about 6 months longer than I thought they would. Amateurs that didn't have a clue. Buster Rhino and Camp 31 took them to school....

-----
Buster Rhino's
2001 Thickson Rd S, Whitby, ON L1N, CA

[ylsf]

Yeah, I went there about half a dozen times because of discount vouchers (I think from Wagjag) and the food was usually all "okay" but nothing amazing. It hit the spot enough for BBQ in that area though. I was hoping they would improve vs. go out of business... They definitely did seem a bit amateurish...

[Herb]

The skeezy location didn't help.

[foodyDudey]

I have been wondering for over a month if Trapezzi on Danforth has closed. It had a note on the door saying "closed for renovations" about 2 months ago, and directing you to visit The Local Co. But I started to wonder, who would close for over a month and not start a reno when you would want to be open again for the Christmas season? So I called the number on the website, but it has been disconnected. No message saying opening in x weeks etc. Now I wasn't waiting to go there, but had thought all along it was the old "under renovation oh sorry actually we closed" deal. Anyone else have any ideas?

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Trapezzi
505 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P5, CA

[Frids]

I noticed that too and suspect it's gone for good. I wasn't all that surprised because it was always pretty empty. Too bad.

[Snarf]

Honey's Beestro on Eglinton has a Landlord's distress notice up. The signage is Honey's, but the named tenant is another company, so maybe they were a sub.

-----
Honey's Beestro
5555 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M9C5M1, CA

[torontofoodiegirl]

The only surprising thing about this is that it didn't happen sooner.

[toveggiegirl]

Dynasty Chinese Cuisine (in The Colonnade on Bloor) has closed due to leasing issues but the owners are looking for a new location.

-----
Dynasty Chinese Cuisine
69 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1B8, CA

[syoung]

Thread here:
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/7440...

[toveggiegirl]

Oops, missed that. Didn't realized Dynasty earned it's own thread. ;-)

[Googs]

Samovar, where have you gone?

[5andman]

I'm terribly sad about Samovar too. :(

[abigllama]

Very sad to hear about Samovar.

[cookiebaker]

El Barrio in Kensignton is closed. The end was nigh when the Spanish tapas restaurant was advertising fish and chips, breafast and hamburgers on hand-markered signs.

[Toronto Fastfoodie]

LMAO! My hubby and I always say that when a restaurant starts making handmade signs, paper on the windows is not far behind...and now yet another place proves our point.

[haggisdragon]

Thats an interesting theory. The brand new Indian Restaurant on the Danforth, Aravind, is about two weeks old and already has hand written signs.

[rationallawyer]

Lobby on Bloor Street across from the ROM has finally closed. Repeated attempts to sell overly cute, pretentious food and drinks with obscene markups to the hotel crowd. Not sorry to see it go. Unfortunately, it's turning into a Gabby's pub, which means that the Gabby's pub two doors down will also be closing.

[c.cow]

SAY WHAT?! Any intel on the staff situation - will they be moving from the current Gabby's? Haven't been in over a year - we were trying to do as much "chow-worthy" TO as possible on a budget and a diet - but Liam, the friendliest and jolliest server in the world at Gabby's, was one of our happy memories from undergrad at U of T.

I'd say the service in general at that Gabby's is horrifying - it's not the kind of place you'd EVER want to go in a hurry - but we loved to go only when Liam was working.

My tastebuds may be totally discredited for this, but I love Gabby's burgers more than any of the arguably good ones friends and hounds recommend throughout the city. I sincerely hope they keep their better staff during the move so there's an excuse to get another burger!

[Tabinet]

Calico on Bloor by Lansdowne has also recently closed. The owner/chef said he was offered a different job that would allow for more travel + such, so he closed the restaurant. A big disappointment to me - I am a vegetarian living @ Blansdowne with very few other entertaining prospects...

[petpod]

add My Place in Bloor west Village to the list. my buddy works there and just called and told me that they locked the doors. new it had been in trouble for a bit, so it isn't entirely unexpected. a place of that size was practically doomed from the get go with the recession

[ylsf]

CRAP.... Had a gift card for this place that I got through a charity auction. Been meaning to go for the last while but didn't get around to it. In the back of my mind I was thinking I should get to the place sooner than later as it seemed like the kind of place that could close up shop at any time... Blah, guess I don't have many options at this point, at least the money went to the charity...

[ultimobailey]

Are you sure? On the 26th they wrote on their Facebook wall the details of a Grey Cup event at the place.

[petpod]

UPDATE: the landlord has taken over the operations and will keep the restaurant open. the issues were around non payment of rent as far as i know, which won't be an issue now that the landlord owns the operation.

[magic]

Cambalache on Mt. Pleasant closed. Some new restaurant opened up in its place.

[torontofoodiegirl]

The new place is called Ozzero. Has anyone been? Checked out their website and it doesn't exactly inspire me to rush out (the owner's claims to fame are having worked at the Fish House and Joe Maggiano's):

http://www.ozzero.ca/about.html

Like I said, the website doesn't inspire me to try it, but it's in my 'hood, so I'd be happy if it turns out my instincts are wrong.

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The Fish House
7501 Woodbine Ave, Markham, ON L3R2W1, CA

[torontofoodiegirl]

Update: Looks like Ozzero has now closed -- there's a For Lease sign in the window. That didn't last long...

-----
Ozzero
505 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON , CA

[bluefirefly]

After 3 years, La Palette in Kensington will be closing this weekend so if you want to drop by, now's the time! The Queen West location will remain.

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La Palette
492 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V, CA

[Wandering Foodie]

Wonjo aka Traditional Korean Restaurant is closed. It was dark a few weeks ago on a regular day and yesterday, the signage was completely changed to some Korean fried chicken restaurant which is still under construction.

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Traditional Korean Restaurant
6016 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M2M3V9, CA

[chocabot]

nooooooooooo!

[shiro miso]

Bright Pearl on Spadina. Very sad. Their fried soft shell crab dim sum was divine.... what happened?? (Yes I read the posting and replies on this board and it's still not clear ;-) )

Will miss our bi-monthly visits there. Now Rol San is PACKED.

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Rol San
323 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T2E9, CA

Bright Pearl
346 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T2G2, CA

[gregclow]

I'm not sure how recently it happened as today was the first time I'd been in the area for a few weeks, but Original Motorcycle Gourmet Burgers on Temperance near Yonge is closed.

A sign in the window says The Downtown Deli is opening there on December 1st.

[ingloriouseater]

that was thankfully short

[foodyDudey]

Today I noticed that Mon-Kut-Thai on Danforth is closed and a New Indian restaurant is opening there. They still have the newer location near Carlaw.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Today I noticed that Atlas One on St. Clair West is papered up. They just redid the sign etc. as well. Also, Filippo's is boarded up but I am going to assume it's renovations?? Hopefully??

-----
Atlas One
820 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C1B6, CA

[sloweater]

Don't hold your breath on Filippo's, they have been for sale for quite some time now. My guess is they finally sold the restaurant.

[MeMeMe]

I was across the road from Fillipos last night and watched them board it up - but it looked more like a prep for renos. I could be wrong.

[Arcadiaseeker]

MeMeMe - I agree that it's renos. Also, Dave's is obviously renovating and rebranding - they've been papered up with teaser signs like "Where's Dave" for a few months. Can't wait - the old place apparently had great pizza but I was always scared away but the all-day beer swillers sitting around looking menacing!

[gogomiser]

I hear that the ruston bought it

[toveggiegirl]

Dave's is open again and has received on major facelift. The interior has been transformed - chandeliers, artwork, wooden tables. The menu still has pizza and wings but also veggies with hummus.

[boxcarira]

Went to Daves last week to check out the new renos. Spoke with the onwer, a new guy who bought it from Illario in June but waited till the end of the World Cup to do the renos. He said he wanted to open up a more up scale bar/pub int he nighborhood since it was lacking one. They have an extensive beer list and are no longer chanrging the $3 bucks a beer (needless to say the old dave's crowd isnt coming around anymore). But he said he is expanding the menu and still having live bands. I think the cool thing is that he is also going to have a market day on saturdays and serve fresh stuff form the Wychwood Barns market - nice touch for the neighborhood!

[Arcadiaseeker]

Update - Atlas One has a sign saying "re-opening" so I think they were just renovating.

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Atlas One
820 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C1B6, CA

[boxcarira]

From what I have heard Filipos was bought by the owners of the Rushton and will become a second restaurant by them. The Rushton was so popular that they needed an overflow. Hopefully it will have the same cool vibe!

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Rushton
740 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C1B3, CA

[Arcadiaseeker]

Great! I hope they shakeup the menu a bit - we could use some decent pasta east of Dufferin.

[ylsf]

I don't think it has been posted here yet but I read that the Monforte location on College has closed.... Not to be missed. I went there back in May and it was a pretty bad meal. They were missing a bunch of basic ingredients to make a lot of stuff on the menu and drinks... Service was mediocre... Comparing it to the Oakville Monforte by Oakville place and it was night and day. The one by Oakville Place is my favourite although there seem to be a ton of different Monforte out there now (although, I think they are two competing companies now.. one is Monforte and one is Monforte grill or something)

[tinybites]

Looks like La Brehandaise Creperie on Queen W (at Shaw) has closed. Website says they closed their doors on Oct 1. From the new awning it looks like another restaurant is ready to take its place (name escapes me right now).

[team_eater]

I tried to make reservations and was informed that the new place is called Lafayette Bistro. They will still have some crepes, although it's not going to be their focus. So sad that I never got to try the Creperie :(

[chocabot]

Does anyone know if this is different ownership?

[team_eater]

Yup, the guy I spoke with said the old owners were successful but wanted to do something different (he did not elaborate on what that meant exactly).

[jamesm]

This isn't too surprising. Considering it was a brunch place which usually sees people eating in larger groups. When was the last time six people all said "I could really go for a crepe?"

[bluefirefly]

It appears that Thuet is closing Conviction for good at the end of the month. Website states that the restaurant is temporarily closed while they were filming in Vancouver, but it looks like they will not be re-opening. (He has other projects up his sleeve though.)

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Thuet
609 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V1M5, CA

[syoung]

My understanding is Thuet has recently opened a restaurant in Vancouver and has been devoting his energies there. Wouldn't be surprised at all if he quits his King St. location with so many failures. That place has been reincarnated so many times, I've lost count.

[rationallawyer]

There is a truly cursed spot on Yonge north of Wellesley. The building was carelessly painted a gaudy yellow; paint is spattered all over the upper windows.

At street level, the only activity was a sign promising the arrival of a middle-eastern/pizza buffet (???) but apart from some jumbled equipment visible through yellowing newsprint that apapered over the space, it never came to pass.

More recently, the ground floor was repainted adobo red, and a new sign and equipment announced "Chiltepe Mexican Chili and Burritos". I must have walked by a million times without noticing that it was open. More recently, Chiltepe was joined by "Mom's Jerk" a Carribbean place that apparently winked in and out of existence out-of-town. i walked into mom's jerk to find the place mostly empty and smelling of disinfectant. There was nobody working at the mexican counter, and no food for sale at Mom's jerk, other than a few sad patties.

Two weeks ago, a new sign appeared in the window. "FOR LEASE". Rest in Peace, Jerk-Mom, and you phantom prince of chili, wherever you are...

[abigllama]

That is a cursed spot just north of Isabella and I walk by it on the way home almost daily. I was always fascinated that there seemed to be a bustle of work in there but it never seemed open. With the arrival of Mom's Jerk I just assumed that the "Mexican Chili (!?) and Burrito" place never made it open, had no idea that it was two operations. Mom's Jerk just didn't look good with scattered warming trays full of food sitting up front which is why it only lasted about a month. Very strange things happening in that place. I'll give any burrito place a shot but had no idea it was ever open.

[focioncroci]

I can't believe that place opened and closed so quickly! I wonder what is going to replace that spot...it is definitely cursed

[YYZjeff]

Rasoee at Richmond and Spadina will be closing on October 15th. There's a sign in the window noting that they are not renewing their lease. I can't say I'm very surprised. I've worked in the area for years and there's almost never anyone in there. They have also had their windows smashed a number of times due to vandalism, which I imagine gets expensive with insurance claims.

I tried it once and wasn't terribly impressed so I won't miss it. There's another location in Burlington in case anyone loved this place. Hopefully something else will take it place but I'm sure the place will sit empty for a year or two before that happens.

[Sherm_TO]

I was driving down Bay Street and it looks to me like Blini Czar has been emptied out.

[ekim256]

It closed awhile back - those who got the TeamBuy coupon were e-mailed. I was surprised, it wasn't open for too long! I wish I had a chance to try it before it went out, I was curious

[chowspotting]

Signs in the window that it will now be a Hero Burger..

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Hero Burgers
100 Wellington W, Toronto, ON M5H3X7, CA

[ekim256]

...but one just opened down the street on Church! Too many...!

[phoenikia]

Trezzano Bakery has closed. A new Italian bakery/cafe/restaurant has opened up in the same space.

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Trezzano Bakery
3610 Dufferin Street North York ON

[rationallawyer]

Not sure if this has been mentioned, but the Ciccio Sanwiccio on Yonge South of Bloor closed up this fall. It's now a thai place. i've been to both...NEXT!

[abigllama]

Have you notcied that location is a black hole for whatever goes in there? It's been so many things in the past couple of years. Food Court, Yonge St. Diner, Ciccio..there were a couple of others but can't remember now. It always looked like the same business but would just have a new name on the sign.

[Frids]

River Seafood House on Gerrard St. East. There is a sign saying they are closed and they appear to be subdividing it. It was one of the few dim sum alternatives in Chinatown East.

Also noticed a bailiff's notice on The Willow on the Danforth this morning.

[foodyDudey]

Well I can't say I'll miss the Willow!

[bytepusher]

I do feel sorry for the most recent owners thought, they seemed like nice folks in way over their heads who thought they had bought a viable business not a sinking ship.

[millygirl]

I agree, this is very unfortunate but geez, you gotta wonder. Did they do their homework?

[jenjen82]

Can anyone confirm if Nataraj (The Annex) is officially gone? I walked by yesterday and the place is For Lease. Hopefully they are just moving to a different location.

[Arcadiaseeker]

I think something happened with them - it used to be our go-to Indian place. Great food for years. And then we went last year and it was AWFUL - I mean, really bad. For example, the onion baji was basically a large quartered onion fried for a few minutes - huge raw chunks in batter. Meaning I think an experienced chef had been replaced by a major amateur. The curries were also really different - not great at all.

[Herb]

The old chef and manager opened Trimurti on Queen West.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Mmmm....I'll be headed there then - thanks for the tip!

[estufarian]

I was at Nataraj a couple of weeks ago (doesn't help if they have closed since) and it was excellent.
As with Arcadiaseeker, I found that Nataraj went SEVERELY downhill, but a couple of months back re-discovered it when I was in the area, had already paid for parking, and my original destination was full.

Certainly the style was slightly different - portions were smaller, but quality was way back up. Spicing was layered and, for my money, it is/was now better than Trimurti, where I have had 3 disappointing meals in the past 6 months (Trimurti was previously my go-to Indian).

The 'split' between Nataraj//Trimurti happened about 4-5 years back - the menus were almost identical. Haven't heard anything about recent changes.

But, this seems to follow a trend with Indian places that the price-point is (almost) the only thing that matters. Some places have dropped quality to meet the price. Some have bulked up the rice serving, while making the spiced portion smaller, and some (like Nataraj) just reduced portion size while maintaining quality. This latter strategy doesn't seem to have worked - a real shame, in my opinion.

Yes, we do have some 'innovations' that are western food with some Indian spices that seem to be thriving, but it's sad that Toronto can't seem to support a 'premium quality' restaurant.

[UpChuck66]

What about Dhaba and Debu?

[estufarian]

The chef (and food) at Dhaba is excellent. The service is catastrophic.
Asked for specific recommendations there to avoid an allergy - dishes that came INCLUDED the allergen.
On talking to chef afterwards he knew what the dishes contained and recommended the original dishes we had attempted to order - but changed because the server said they contained the allergen.

So, DON'T risk with anyone with allergies. Other than that, quite good but a little on the expensive side compared to other places (although may be worth a re-visit now, as the alternatives have diminished).

Debu: - may be worth a re-visit to reassess. This falls into the category of 'Indian Spicing with western food'. Last time I tried the protein was frozen and thawed to cook. Prices very high for the quality received.
Also discovered Segar - a couple of blocks away that was cheaper and better - but probably 12 months now since I last tried Debu - and was so disappointed that time that I haven't returned (the latest place is a totally different style from his earlier, definitely missed, endeavours).

-----
Segar
1568 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4G, CA

[MeMeMe]

I am very sad about Nataraj closing...I have always found the quality and taste of their food to be excellent. The location was amazing. Between this news and Bright Pearl closing, so many of our stand-bys are falling away.

[fickle]

Family Dumplings (in the old Mother's Dumpling space on Huron Street) is now closed with a big "For Rent" sign in the window.

-----
Mother's Dumplings
421 Spadina Avenue, Toronto, ON , CA

[estufarian]

Rangoli (Indian) on Yonge south of St Clair has closed.

-----
Rangoli Restaurant
1392 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4T1Y5, CA

[Doopsylalolic]

J38 on Avenue Road closed. The Copper Chimney is moving in.

[Sherm_TO]

Steve's Place Steakhouse and Seafood on Merton has closed down after 25-30 years. I lived across the street for 3 years and we only went once.

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Steve's Place
234 Merton St, Toronto, ON M4S1A1, CA

[Sherm_TO]

And the restaurant replacing Steve's is called MALBEC - which means Bad Mouth. Not sure that bodes well.

[Full tummy]

It's also a type of grape:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malbec

[ylsf]

I read on Blogto that |T-Cafe on Bloor (around Bathurst) has closed down. I went there for tea/food a few times with vouchers from webpiggy and thought it was pretty decent (but, again I was using a 50% off voucher). There is already a sign saying a frozen yogurt place (Menchie's) will be opening in its place.

http://www.blogto.com/deadpool/2010/0...

[rationallawyer]

Ken Fong at Bathurst and Eglinton is finished; an all-you-can-eat sushi place is opening in its place.

-----
Ken Fong Restaurant
1010 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C2C5, CA

[Tatai]

Not surprised about Ken Fong. Does this stretch of Eglinton need yet another sushi joint?

-----
Ken Fong Restaurant
1010 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C2C5, CA

[chowspotting]

True Restaurant (69 Yorkville Avenue) has closed.

[Googs]

That took much longer than I expected.

[Lazar]

That location just can't win. Others can correct me, but I think that True held out the longest of any of the places there, but then again, most of its predecessors were night clubs, or of similar ilk

[Snarf]

In the Kitchen with Dinah, on Mt. Pleasant, has closed. It started out as Wanda's in the kitchen with Dinah. Two local legends putting up some of the best prepared food in the north part of the city. High ended, priced appropriately, that was a nice alternative to the Sherwood Market, which doesn't do much in the way of prepared. Wanda left around a year ago to concentrate on her Kensington operation, which appears to be strong, and I'm presuming that Dinah stuck it out until the lease ended. The Cocktail Chef was definitely one of the more useful cookbooks by a local author to come out in recent years. Miss ya!

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Sherwood Market
1054 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON M4P, CA

[millygirl]

Snarf, I have that book but have never tried anything from it. Any recipes you recommend?

[farmgirl1836]

The fairly new funnel cake place on the north side of Steeles just west of Yonge has closed. I think it may have been related to the funnel cake place on Avenue Road that also recently closed. I understand the prices were ridiculously outrageous. It didn't last very long at all!

[magic]

It was called Fun L Fun. The Avenue Rd. location was bloody awful. I believe it also closed recently but cannot confirm that with 100% certainty.

[TorontoJo]

The Avenue Rd. store is most definitely closed.

[magic]

Then there you go. : )

[sloweater]

Agostino on Yonge is closed.

[millygirl]

Are you serious? Wow, that didn't last long, did it.

[sloweater]

That location is cursed. I can't count how many restaurants have failed in that space. It's too big a spot to sustain unless it's full every night. I never went myself, but heard that it wasn't Agostino's best work.

[ElizabethS]

Was that in the old CIBO location?

[Snarf]

Definitely not, though that location as well was cursed. Agostino's was on Yonge north of Eg, which was previously a very good upscale Indian.

The old Cibo location is Earth, which, knock on wood, is doing well and is worth a visit if you haven't been.

[Googs]

I have to agree. It wasn't Agostino's best work by a long shot. Giving him the benefit of the doubt based on past experience never paid off for me. My friends and I would have gladly made the trek to midtown if he had. Still, better luck next time. I wish him well and hope he returns.

[JamieK]

There is a great big For Lease sign in the window of the Dahso Belgium waffle and truffle place at St Clair and Yonge. That's a shame as the people there were really nice and the waffles very tasty.
http://www.dahsochocolat.com/

[JamieK]

Looks like there is a Kiva's going into this spot at 15 St Clair West.
http://www.kivasbagels.ca/index.php

[toveggiegirl]

Now that is exciting!

[sloweater]

Lily Sushi on Broadview has closed as well.

[tinybites]

Noticed when walking by last week that Pantry on College W has closed. Their website cites the need for more family time. A sign in the window says that a new Italian restaurant "Black Skirt" is coming soon.

[Googs]

Black Skirt? The same Black Skirt that was on Charles E replacing Wish until Wish replaced Black Skirt? Weird.

-----
Black Skirt
974 College Street, Toronto, ON M4Y, CA

[gregclow]

Yup, most likely the same Black Skirt - when it changed back to Wish, the website had a note about a planned future reopening in a new location.

[waydowntown]

Looks as if Midi (on McCaul), Matignon (on St Nicholas), and Superior (on Yonge south of Dundas) are all gone--in Midi's case, maybe temporarily.

Apologies if this is old news, but I just happened to notice these three closures within a day or two of one another.

Of the three, I will miss Midi the most (if it doesn't reopen under new ownership). I haven't been to the other two for several years, which I guess makes me part of the problem.

-----
Matignon
51 St Nicholas St, Toronto, ON M4Y1W6, CA

[Googs]

Please do update on the Midi situation if you have the chance. Thanks waydowntown.

[LTL]

I spoke with staff a few months ago because I saw they had listed the space online for sale. However, the waitress informed me that they would be closed for summer holidays in August and not to worry as this was only temporary. I hope this still holds true because I love this little bistro!

[zzzoe]

I called Midi yesterday and spoke to someone and was able to make a reservation for later this week. Sooooo happy that they are open again!!!!

[gregclow]

Looks like Superior is closed for a reno/revamp - their website has a pop-up that says "Thank you for 15 great years! Look for a new concept from the Superior family in Winter 2011."

[Googs]

Oh that's great news. Superior has the ability to be a go-to place in the area. Perhaps a breather is just what they need to get their rhythm back. I certainly hope they only recover those comfy booths, though, and don't get rid of them.

[chowspotting]

I have heard that Superior will be converted to a swarma shop.

[chowspotting]

The first downtown location of local Lebanese restaurant chain Paramount is coming soon to the address near Yonge & Dundas recently vacated by Superior (253 Yonge Street).

[Googs]

Really? I'm not accustomed to getting my wish answered so quickly. So I won't have to travel to Yonge & Davisville for decent Lebanese anymore? Is this place good?
http://www.paramountfinefoods.com/mai...

[sman]

I've been going to the Mississauga location since it opened. Overall I think this place is good. The falafel sandwich is the best I've had, the moutabbal has a good smokey flavour, the fattoush was a miss for me but, although it’s been a while since I ate it, I remember the tabbouleh as good. While I don’t think the moganat (like the zaatar) is the best I’ve ever tasted, it’s the best I’ve had in Toronto and I like the freshness of it (made to order). The spinach fatyre which I usually get packaged by the dozen are also good.

[Brain of J]

I noticed another middle Eastern place that is opening soon just off Burnhamthorpe, just west of Confederation, called "Naders". Looks promising. Just north of the T & T.

[Lazar]

Matignon is gone?.....FINALLY!! I have always hated that place. One of the worst dinind experiences of my life....surprized they lasted so long....

-----
Matignon
51 St Nicholas St, Toronto, ON M4Y1W6, CA

[MeMeMe]

Too bad about all three! Matignon was one of those hidden treasures. I always wanted to try Midi!!

-----
Matignon
51 St Nicholas St, Toronto, ON M4Y1W6, CA

[stet]

Musa has closed because it burned down:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/n...

-----
Musa
847 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J1V6, CA

[bluefirefly]

Walked by today and Acqua down at Front St. (BCE / Brookfield Place) is closed though they are still offering catering.. All boarded up, as is the Marche (renos). Not sure when this happened, but I think fairly recently.

-----
Acqua
10 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J, CA

[Shimso]

The space where Acqua was is going to be part of something for the Hockey Hall of Fame; the Richtree's lease expired a few months back, and Marche (the original Richtree owners if I'm not mistaken) bought it and are renovating it for the opening that is supposed to be this fall.

-----
Acqua
10 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5J, CA

[Googs]

Passed by a papered over Chick'N'Deli last night. Does anyone know the story? Closed or being renovated?

[millygirl]

Are we talking about the place at Mt. Pleasant and Eglinton?? If so, The Chick n' Deli was alive and doors open for business when I drove by this afternoon. In fact they're advertising Canada Day festivities. However I did notice there is a storefront at the opposite end of the plaza that is papered up. Could it be you are confusing the two Googs?

[Googs]

I could be. We were whizzing by en route to house party. Thank goodness. The city doesn't need one less live music venue. We need more!

[MeMeMe]

Vanni's at Christie and St. Clair. Just noticed it this past weekend.

[Lazar]

Whoops, forgot to post about that...I saw the windows papered up a few weeks ago.

[Arcadiaseeker]

They are renovating -- it's not closed. Same with Leopold next store. We went over and checked it out - they are definitely doing some work in Vannis.

[MeMeMe]

Oops - can I remove my post? I just assumed paper and no sign meant closing.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Yeah - they were renovating. I walked by today and there is no paper on either. They both look open for business.

[rationallawyer]

Well, they're both gone now, with a large "business for sale" sign in the front window.

[Arcadiaseeker]

I know - so sad. Although Vannis says it is reopening and there is a number to call to check. Not sure what this means.

[fickle]

There's a "Chuck & Co." sign up where Leopold used to be. I'm guessing it's the folks from Liberty Village opening a second location. The reviews for the Liberty one hasn't been favourable so it'll be interesting to see if this one will be better or not.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Saw that yesterday - sure hope we get something decent in there.

[toveggiegirl]

It is a 2nd location of the Liberty Village Chuck & Co burger joint. It's supposed to open next month.

-----
Chuck & Co.
126 Atlantic Ave, Toronto, ON M6K, CA

[Arcadiaseeker]

Has anyone tried the original? I browsed some online reviews and I'm not overly hopeful - why couldn't we get a second location of Burger's Priest???? St. Clair West has got to be one of the most underserved neighbourhoods in Toronto when it comes to good restaurants and shops.

[toveggiegirl]

I haven't been to the 1st location but I agree that, from what I've read, it doesn't seem very promising. Have you tried Portucale yet? I just noticed it the other day. It's where Da Gianni E Maria used to be.
http://www.portucalerestaurant.com/in...

[Arcadiaseeker]

No I haven't - I did look at the menu and it didn't blow me away.....would be interested to see what others think when they try it though.

[fickle]

I haven't tried it either. I'm confused as to what it is, it says it's a portuguese restaurant but the menu is very italian. I wasn't impressed with my meal at Cataplana a few years ago so I'm in no rush to try it unless someone says it's worth it.

[ylsf]

Miga at Bloor/Bathurst area... Saw the sign yesterday. One sign says "Opening under new management" but there is a landlord notice on the door for unpaid rent as well.... Closed for now...

-----
Miga
584 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G, CA

[ingloriouseater]

nosh on dundas west and roncesvalles has closed and replaced by a noodle house

[Davedigger]

Hmmm. What kind of noodle house?

[ingloriouseater]

not my thing, so i haven't been...noodleholic is the name....

also the very uninspirationaly named 'sushi on roncy' has replaced freshwood grill

[farmgirl1836]

The Place for Steak and Seafood in the plaza at Sheppard & Bathurst served its last meal last night. Apparently they have been in existence for 35 years, with most of the waiters being there for at least 20 years. We went last night for the final dinner. It was never the finest restaurant, but it was a neighbourhood landmark and we enjoyed it. We are sorry to see it go.

[Brain of J]

Was it a case of the owners retiring or was it economic reasons?

[fatguy16]

I've been going there for many years, actually I was just there about two weeks ago, I wish they would of told me. Very sad to hear about this closing.

[Beef Pattie]

Buddha Dog on Roncy - sign up saying they're closing June 30th to refocus on their other location.

-----
Buddha Dog
163 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R2L3, CA

[Tatai]

Locations. Looks like their third -- in Collingwood -- is still open. http://buddhafoodha.com/

[estufarian]

Circle Thai on Yonge north of St Clair.

-----
Circle Thai
1521 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4T1Z2, CA

[Arcadiaseeker]

I thought the sign said it was renovating.

[estufarian]

And reopening with a new name.

[estufarian]

Half the old area has reopened as "Mr Thai" which is mainly take-out with some tables for eat-in.
The other half is still empty.

[abigllama]

Le Gourmand in the Hudson Bay food court is closed with a failure to pay rent notice. This is a huge loss to the hood, I'm currently in mourning of the loss of those amazing chocolate chip cookies.

[EB_TO]

DiManno Ristorante at Centre and Disera Dr. (across from the Promenade) is apparently closed. Just passed by there and the signs are gone.

I ate there only once, for my birthday in October. It was pretty good but very expensive.

[abigllama]

Johny Banana is no longer with us. Stopped by today and paper up in windows and sign saying "Thank You for 4 years!".

I was just there last week when in the area and could kind of tell the end was near. Was 4 in the afternoon and they were out of several things, fixtures in washroom were in bad shape. What a shame, was a good product but never really saw anyone in there in the last year.

-----
Johny Banana
181 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5T2R7, CA

[bluefirefly]

Just walked by 5th Elementt on Bay St. and it is papered over. Their website confirms that they have closed their business. I ate there once a couple of years back and it was alright, but I think it is a tough spot to do business... the previous restaurant didn't last long there either, though I think 5th Elementt hung on for a good 3-4 years.

-----
5th Elementt
1033 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3A5, CA

[Lazar]

Wow. I am surprized they last that long. I remember talking to them about using their restaurant as a venue for a rehearsal dinner a few years ago, and they were pretty rude about the whole thing. Completely turned me off, and never gave them my patronage. Really surprized they were around as long as they were, I guess maybe they cleaned up their act since I spoke with them...at least for a little while. But I also agree that for the size it is a difficult space.

[martini12]

I dont know if it is closed, I just went by today, and there was a sign in the window basically saying they were closed for renovations.

[Manybears]

I just noticed a new 5th Elementt on Queen St W (between Bathurst and Spadina on the north side), just rode by it early this morning so I'm not sure if it's officially open or not.

[chococrazy]

Little Tibet on Queen West has closed.

[childofthestorm]

Amuse-Bouche will be closing its doors on May 31st. Too bad, I enjoyed my meals there, nice romantic spot.

-----
Amuse-Bouche
194 Locke St S, Hamilton, ON L8P4B4, CA

[FoodMaestro]

Gianni and Maria went off to Barbados, so Gianni e Maria Trattoria on St Clair is still open, but has lost its inspiration in my viewpoint, might as well be closed.

[tstst]

Gianni and Maria lost ownership of the restaurant at the end of Feb. They were fortunate enough to have found a job working in the Barbados at an Italian restaurant

[TeRReT]

Prego Della Piazza closed on the 24th of March, after being open 20+ years the lease wasn't able to be negotiated. Was on the corner of bloor and avenue.

-----
Prego
150 Bloor St. West, Toronto, ON M5S 2X9, CA

[eller]

I noticed this morning that Avenue Seafood at Avenue and Eglinton has been papered over.

-----
Avenue Seafood
302 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M4R, CA

[Tatai]

They were running two locations for the past couple of years. The other one, at Avenue and Lawrence, is still in operation.

[pinstripeprincess]

a vietnamese restaurant north of dundas on the west side that never piqued my interest and so therefore i don't recall the name of... i want to say dao vien... shut down (i recall a very green interior). but quickly popping up in its place is an ajisen ramen spot which looks pretty much ready to go.

[LTL]

It was Com Tam Dao Vien or Peach Garden Restaurant. There are a number of locations around Toronto. I tried it once and didn't like it. Wasn't surprised to see it close because it was never half full, if that.

-----
Peach Garden
45 Carlton St, Toronto, ON M5B2H9, CA

Com Tam Dao Vien
1018 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4M1Z3, CA

[nuts4food]

It looks like Sette Mezzo on Eglinton W is papered over, with no sign in the window

-----
Sette Mezzo
936 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C2C2, CA

[Brain of J]

Their voicemail states they are re-opening in April under a new name---Piazzetta.

[magic]

Hmm, there is a Piazzetta on Yonge, south of York Mills. I wonder if the two are related?

[Brain of J]

Looks that way. They give a contact # in their voice message that is the same as the phone # for the location on Yonge.

[magic]

Hmm, interesting. Which might make this a second location then? Thanks for the info.

[Brain of J]

You're welcome.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Cafe Nero on St. Clair West has a business for sale sign in the window and looks pretty closed up. I never went in but it's been there since I moved to the area in 2006.

[bytepusher]

Hot and Roll the oddly named schwarma joint in Pape Village is gone, there's already a new sign up for another schwarma joint. windows are still papered over and there's a "Under New Management" sign in the window.

[tuttebene]

Is this the one just across the road from McDonald's? I thought there were some positive reviews of this place? Too bad I never did get a chance to try it.

[bytepusher]

Yup, that's the one

There's another similar joint a few blocks south of there at Pape and Westwood that has never seemed to have a single customer in it. Wonder how long it will last.

[Pizza Lover]

The Twisted Bagel on Bathurst south of Lawrence has closed and is for sale - definitely no loss and mercifully happened quite quickly.

[toveggiegirl]

I think you mean north of Lawrence (or south of Wilson). I never visited but it was pretty much panned here.

[sarnya]

Montana at Richmond and John closed recently.

I can't say I'm surprised... I tried it once and it was pretty average. I'm surprised it lasted as long next to Jack Astors as it did considering the food wasn't very different. Not that Jack Astors is a go-to place but it's familiar and a lot of people like it.

Let it be known that Montana's closure was not Restaurant Makeover related... it's makeover happened years ago so the two are unrelated.

[Lazar]

I say good riddance. I went there before and after the makeover, and both times the food was subpar. Good enough to fill you up, but that was it.

[Poorboy]

I liked the staff and the management there. They were very, very active in the community and looking to make things better. I hope some of them land on their feet. That is one BIG place and there is an opportunity for the entrepreneur. Competition is heating up in that area with the Lightbox soon coming on board.

[magic]

I am fairly certain that the Yiu Wah Restaurant on Dundas closed. Went there for dim sum and was disappointed to learn from a neighbouring merchant that it closed a month ago. The doors leading to the stairs (which lead to the Yiu Wah on the upstairs level) were locked with a note written in a Chinese language (I assume). What the note said I have no clue.

Their phone keeps on ringing when called. No answering machine.

In any case, I was pretty bummed. If it is indeed closed, and it certainly appeared that way, it was one of my go-to dim sum spots in Chinatown. Drag. Nice people.

[bk_worm]

Landlord locked them out for not paying their rent. Food was decent there and wasn't too expensive.

[Beef Pattie]

Freshwood on Roncesvalles.

[Lazar]

Can't say that I am surprized. When they first opened they were fantastic, and were so for about a year or so.

Since then it has just been a steady decline ever since. Curious if the other location are done as well.

This really does not bode well for Roncesvalles, what is left there?

[ingloriouseater]

opening in the just closed Silver Spoon is Lardon.

Let's see what is left-I may have missed some

Loons
The Local
Sunrise
River
Aris Grill
Aris Place
Alternative Grounds
Liit
Bistro 299
Butler's Pantry
Subway
Brad's
Buddha Dog
The Dizzy
Gabby's
Cafe Polonez
Chopin
Cherry Bomb
Domani
Fat Cat Wine Bar
Gate 403
Intersteer
Krak
Lala
McDonalds
Pappazees
Shalamar
Sue's Thai Food
Friendly Thai
Thai Chef Cuisine
Tinto
The new Abstract Tree Cafe
Wedgies
Zagloba
Moon Side Bar

[goofibulator]

A little late in coming (2009, natch), but The Stem on Queen West (close to Spadina) closed a while back. If ever there was a greasy spoon, this was it. Back in the day (mid-'80's) I lived in one of the erstwhile semi-legal lofts in the area. As the area quickly gentrified, The Stem could be counted upon to deliver cheap, quality breakfasts/ lunches/ whatever on demand. I always wondered how such a place could exist on such a rich strip 'o land, and my discussions with the surly-but-wise waitress suggested that the building was owned (as opposed to being leased) since way back. So they could simply 'keep on goin' without fear of the big rent increase. But, I imagine there was some movement (dying) on the part of owners, and it became worth the while to move on.

Oh, I loved their french toast.

[madhatt]

Sushi & Tea closed, I believe early 2010 or late 2009. It was a small Korean run place on Mt. Pleasant north of Davisville. The quality there was very good, I used to frequent often and get the Roll Dinner Bento for about $16. I'll miss that place :( I ate it's replacement (Sakae) once .. and was not impressed.

[childofthestorm]

This one is a bit of a surprise but going by Mercury Espresso in Leslieville yesterday I saw papered-up windows and guys hauling equipment out of there. I guess Te Aro killed them...my wife was a Mercury devotee but made the switch to Te Aro because she got tired of the bored and surly Mercury hipsters giving her sullen service.

[JamieK]

Mercury is planning to re-open on the 28th
http://mercuryorganic.blogspot.com/

[childofthestorm]

Oh good, happy to be wrong!

[seeldee]

Fans of the place will be happy to know that Mercury has re-opened this morning. Just got back from having a coffee there and it was as tasty as ever.

[Toronto Fastfoodie]

Just as long as its not another pizza joint. How many more can we have in a 1km stretch?

[saltyanchovy]

Trillium on Avenue Road just north of Lawrence has closed. Sign in the window says something like "Cuscina Ristorante" is coming soon.

[Toronto Fastfoodie]

That's two in one year. This location is quickly turning into a bad-luck spot. Good luck Cuscina Ristorante. BTW, I saw that there is some action at the old Second Cup/Great Canadian Bagel location. Any info?

[saltyanchovy]

Saw the brown paper in the windows while driving by - but no idea what is in store - will have to wait and see for now.

[toveggiegirl]

There are reports of it being a new Cold Stone location. It's taking a long time to open though.

[Full tummy]

Do you mean Cold Stone Creamery? If so, it will probably open closer to summer, to get the biggest bang at the Grand Opening... (and for the short term, thereafter).

[toveggiegirl]

Yup. And that's a good point about opening up in warmer weather.

[stet]

Is it another Cold Stone / Tim Hortons dual-branded location? I went to the one at Bay and Bloor and was very disappointed. I thought maybe the Tim Hortons staff were making concessions with quality.

[toveggiegirl]

I think all the Cold Stones are co-branded with Tim's but I'm not sure. I am not a big fan of Cold Stones. I've only ever tried it in the US, but it was too much sugar and not enough flavour for me.

[stet]

Yeah, I can see that assessment. The mix-ins are various, sure, but I don't know if they're very good quality. I had banana in mine, and not only was the banana under-ripe, but they just mashed it up whole into the ice cream and it ended up like banana mush in big pockets throughout. Not to mention the portion size is ludicrously large and pretty obviously not designed for a realistic diet.

[foodie4fun]

I think Trillium was on Restaurant Makeover if I recall...guess that didn't help. Pass this location often, and parking maybe a bit of an issue...waiting for reviews on Cuscina Ristorante before trying that one. To: Toronto Fastfoodie...think the old Second Cup location on Avenue is going to be a bank.

[munchieHK]

Dosa Dosa near Main. Novel idea which failed in practice.

[Allen2001]

Just noticed that Magic Oven Pizza on Broadview is closed...as well as the Indian place next door that I believe they ran? Over the last few years hated their pizza anyway, used to go there in the early 2000's when it was good...something changed though.

[toveggiegirl]

Two more to add to the list. Semolina (on Ossington) and Taro Grill.

[MeMeMe]

Taro on Queen? They were really the best about 15 years ago. Their Chicken Dijonnaise was fantastic. I guess that area became the dead zone between the more commercial stretch of Queen and the new Queen West West. That's too bad, but I too hadn't visited in years.

[toveggiegirl]

That's the one.
The Tap (a bit of a grungy pub in the Annex, on Bloor) closed yesterday.

[MeMeMe]

I loved the Tap! (at least I did when they had good food from Las Iguanas). It was a no-nonsense grungy bar with very friendly if not skittish servers...and good music nights as well.

[absurdistan]

Well, I suppose that means a new sushi joint will open around here.

Please tell me I'm wrong.

[toveggiegirl]

Correction, apparently Semolina is not actually closed.
http://ossingtonvillage.com/2010/02/s...

[bluefirefly]

The place next door to Magic Oven on Broadview is called Prerna, and they closed as of Jan. 11, 2010.

[jnine]

I found out last week that Eastern Twist at St. Clair and Bathurst will be closing soon. I love their butter chicken roti.

[magic]

Really?! Dammmn. Too bad. That place was a great kept secret. I guess it was too well kept. Crappy.

[jnine]

I know, I'm going to go once a week to help them out, but it might be too late.

[magic]

Do you know when they are slated to close??

[jnine]

March

[toveggiegirl]

Oh no! That's too bad. I could never figure out why the Subway got way more traffic.

[Arcadiaseeker]

oh no!!! i love that place.

[jnine]

I spoke to them about it and here's our analysis

1- poor location, a storefront with frequent turn around combined with a demographic that doesn't really get the menu
2- too expensive, with very large portions compared to Subway next door
3- the curse of the st. clair streetcar construction
4-no parking

the server mentioned that people would get upset if the food was not honouring their national cuisine. people would get pissed off that an indian raita was used on a mid-eastern shwarma etc. and storm out the door. interesting huh.

[Full tummy]

Do they still have their second location? And, if so, will they be closing that one, also?

[jnine]

They already closed the second(original) location in Scarborough

[TeaGran]

I read this post yesterday, and went for what I was afraid would be my last butter chicken wrap ever. (I LOVE those things!) I asked the server if they were indeed planning to close, and she said absolutely not - they are down to 2 staff people, but are not closing. I noticed that they have spruced up the signage inside, installed a television set, and upped the prices. This is good news - if they stick it out until the condo across the street is ready, they will be laughing.

[jnine]

I was just as happy as you were. I thought yesterday would be my last butter chicken wrap too!!

I was still the only person in for lunch. We can still help them out.......everyone reading this needs to go and order a butter chicken parantha!!

[foodyDudey]

Maybe jnine was talking about some other place - Is Eastern Twist closing or not?
I used to eat at the one in Scarborough when I had a client in that area, and never really got into it, but the people I worked with would like to go there once a week.

[magic]

Originally the Eastern Twist on St. Clair was slated to close. But I guess ownership had a recent change of mind and that location will remain open in hopes of business picking up when nearby condos open.

Scarborough one.... I have no idea. According to jnine's above post it has closed.

[ggom1]

I just read in Toronto Life that Spice Room and Manyata look like they're closed. It's not official but from the article, it sounds pretty definite.

[Lazar]

According to the website it is "closed for renovations"

Actually, didn't they greg couillard retire?

[millygirl]

I believe Greg Couillard moved out of country someplace, sorry I can't recall exactly where.

[toveggiegirl]

I think he went to Mexico.

[foodyDudey]

He's already on his second restaurant here.

[syoung]

Lazar said: According to the website it is "closed for renovations"

Well... according to Toronto Life:

“We terminated them in December. They’re gone,” says Hazelton Lanes’ senior property manager, Miriam Blumenfeld, who would not say why mall management ended the lease. “They don’t exist anymore.” She also says that there are no tenants for the Marc Laurent space, and that both it and the Spice Room are currently “blank slates.”

So, if the restaurant website is indeed truthful, it looks like it'll be "renovating" a very long time and not in Hazelton Lanes.

[Lazar]

Hey, I never claimed to have read the article, I just stated what I knew

[LTL]

Nothing wrong with that. Don't think syoung was accusing you of otherwise. No need to take offhand comments so personally around here! (Not aimed specifically at you; just a general pattern I've noticed.)

[illy]

The Dizzy on Yonge closed over the weekend.

[syoung]

What LTL said. I was just clarifying and setting expectations that if you plan on going back there after they reopen as their website wants you to believe, don't expect them to reopen at Hazelton Lanes.

[Googs]

Cheating off of someone else's post, I'll add Pico to the list. All I can think is hopefully something good will move into that space. Nothing wrong with the room.

[Gary]

I also noticed the windows are papered over. I agree, this is a great restaurant space just waiting for something good to move in. With the East Lofts condo building coming to completion nearby, there are a few hundred more potential customers moving into the area shortly. I know this neighbourhood can support some more good restaurants, who will capitalize first?!

[yoyodyne]

Not sure if this was mentioned in 2009's post (and if so i apologize) but i think Deep Blue Fish & Chips is gone.

[eller]

I walked past Deep Blue last night and the space was gutted inside. If they're not closed for good, they're certainly renovating.

[millygirl]

Deep Blue is definitely gone, closed sometime in the fall 2009.

[saltyanchovy]

Autogrill on Eglinton and Fat Cat on Eglinton are closed.

[magic]

Autogrill closed?! Wow. Too bad. I liked them. They were open for yeeeeears.

[Tatai]

And lousy Ferraro across the street is still packing them in. Go figure.

[Lazar]

Been to Ferraro and whole heartily agree, food was gross and the service was apathetic. As far as Autogrill, I am sorry to say that for me, it was just like Ferraro but with fancier decor.

Hey didn't Autogrill have a downtown location? Or am I thinking of another place?

[magic]

They did have a second location downtown, but that closed a while ago. Ironically Ferraro is actually opening a second location, on Dupont near Spadina. Shortly.

I've caught a lot of flack on these boards for this before but I still stand by Ferraro. I like it very much. Still sad about Autogrill though, I liked it too. I feel bad for it though, never had the same crowds as Ferraro even though the food was good.

[MeMeMe]

I agree that Ferraro is good. It's not high cuisine, but well done pasta and antipasto. Great for families and excellent take out.

[pearlD]

Any idea of 'what space' on Dupont?
There used to be a pretty fair Japanese restaurant on the north side just slightly east of Spadina...there was a fire in that restaurant and it pretty well has been an abandoned wreck for many years (but real estate sign was up before I left on December 31st). I always thought it would be a good place to rebuild, the site is a reasonably good size & it has its own parking space in the back . I hope this is the 'new' place location for 'any new restaurant'...long overdue and the area could easily support a 'good' new place to eat....Does anyone know if this is the spot where Ferraro (or clone) will open?

[l_izzie]

Its not the space you are thinking of, pearlD. It is actually west of Spadina on the north side, There was a pizza place there before, I just can't remember the name right now. It is a semi-basement area, right beside a small parking lot for an alternative medicine building. Sorry this is so inexact. I do agree with you about the spot east of Spadina. That is an eyesore, and has been so for a very long time.

[toveggiegirl]

Is it where Cibo is/was? (I'm not sure id Cibo is still open.)

[magic]

Not sure of the exact location, no. Sorry pearlD...

[pearlD]

thanks to all...Now I know what /where it is....it's the space where several restaurants have failed..one was called The News Cafe" (??)....it's besides the Sutherland-Chan Massage etc. School....Well, lets hope that Ferraro can make a go of it....I've gone to all of the previous restaurants (at least once for each) in that space and not a one has 'made it'......

[magic]

I thought it might be there, on the first floor of that white/grey office building where the Sutherland Chan is. Yes.

Totally off topic but many years ago there was a pizza place in that spot called Cortello's (I think). They made killer pizza. It, like every subsequent Italian restaurant that has taken over that location has eventually died. Maybe Ferraro will break that location's curse. Personally, I think opening up a second location in that spot is questionable. But maybe they'll be able to make a go of it. They've sure done insanely well at the original location...

[MeMeMe]

Oh my gosh - that place has been a dead zone for years. I lamented its lameness when I lived in the area and passed by it every single day wishing for good take-out. I hope Ferraro can improve the location's curse. I mean - look what's happened with Globe Earth in the old Cibo location! It can be done!

[pearlD]

Haven't been to "Globe Earth" yet but if what you say is true, perhaps Ferraro can break the curse.....Will look forward to trying both when we get back to civilisation as I remember it! Here in Ocho Rios it's less than 'same old, same old'.....less tourists and more and more closed 'restaurants'...there weren't many good ones to start with!!!

[toveggiegirl]

The place will be called Diverso By Ferraro. It's 328 Dupont St and, according Taste TO, is scheduled to open "any day now".

[abigllama]

Veda on Church St. is no longer with us. Not many fans on here but I enjoyed it as a quick, healthy, take-out alternative to cooking dinner. The other two locations appear to still be open.

[ivxu]

ACME Candy on the north west corner of Dundas West and Pacific (in the Junction) has closed.

[LTL]

Really? I remember their huge sale around Halloween, but didn't notice any signs about their imminent closure.

[toveggiegirl]

I accidentally posted this in the 2009 Closings thread, but it belongs here so I'll repost it.

Le Gourmand (Yonge & Eglinton location only) closed last week. :-(
Michelle's Brasserie (in Yorkville, right nest to the Four Seasons) has also closed.

[MeMeMe]

That's sad about Michelle's Brasserie. The food was interesting and it was a nice quiet little spot in sometimes obnoxious and hectic Yukville.

[ingloriouseater]

quiet is the key word and probably why they had to shut their doors

[sasgirl]

The Yonge and Bloor location of Le Gourmand closed today due to rent not being paid. I walk by it everyday on my way to work and saw the notices.

I will miss their delicious sandwiches and cookies! It was nice to have one close by.

[bytepusher]

Spadina location closed Friday with a non-payment of rent notice in the window.

And then there were none.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Noooo! That was the only decent non-chain coffee shop nearby. So sad.

[foodyDudey]

Apparently the people who bought $500K condos didn't want to spend $3 for a coffee. (or so he said in regards to the Y&E location.)

[Shimso]

Here's a bit more info on the closing in case anyone is interested:
http://www.blogto.com/deadpool/2010/0...

I have no idea how the Yonge/Bloor one couldn't survive....they were always so ridiculously busy. I remember having to wait ~15 minutes+ for co-workers to get their lunch.

[Arcadiaseeker]

Same with Spadina. Always packed. I just don't understand.

[abigllama]

Thanks for the blog post because the comments seem to be on the money. The Eg location tanked, the other locations were busy but their profits were put into keeping the Eg location above water. Notice the quality seemed to take a dive not so long after the Eg location opened. That's when they cut way back on what was offered and seemed to be out of everything. Very sad loss and I crave a cookie each time I walk past the Yonge/Bloor site.

[Googs]

Rule #1 when growing your business into multiple businesses:
NEVER cross-collateralize.

Gets 'em every time.

[Manybears]

Technically this happened in '09 but I just noticed this week that Vdara (Queen W) has closed.

[JamieK]

Masala Art on Yonge near St Clair is gone. I think it opened only about a year ago. Too many Indian places in the area, I guess.

[burningrome]

Not sure if it was 2010 but I noticed the Island Foods location in Village on the Grange (Dundas and St Patrick) is gone....replaced by an East Indian place.

[fickle]

The grange location closed in October. I was talking with the owner at the King & Dufferin location on Sunday and she said there's no plans to open another one downtown anytime soon, that idea has been shelved for now. Too bad since it's more convenient for me.

[sway]

This was very disappinting. Island Foods was the best place for roti in the area. I don't even think I've bothered to look anywhere else since they closed.

[fickle]

Jalapeno on King at Bathurst was papered up when I went by yesterday.

[dickiegreenleaf]

it's been like that for several months. i think it was in the 2009 closing thread.

[sloweater]

Across the Road on Mount Pleasant has closed down.

[toveggiegirl]

The Peter Street Deli and Da Nu La (on Richmond ) have closed.

[Suresh]

The Olson's are no longer at Olson Foods in St David's.
New project underway, part of which involves one of the Harber brothers form Ravine Vineyard next door (Paul) taking over the kitchen at the Olson shack. The pastry chef is still there, place will slowly evolve back to providing food/wine pairings.
Paul just game back from interning at Michelin star restaurants in Germany (Statdlander sent him to his mentor)
There are some crazy things planned at Ravine in 2010. Should be excellent.

[Full tummy]

So, what are the Olsons doing?

[Davedigger]

I'm not 100% sure, but I just drove by Caplansky's, and it looks like it's closed.

[sarnya]

If you went to their website, you'd see they're closed this week.

[Davedigger]

But I didn't go to their website. I drove by. That's why I didn't know they were closed this week. But thanks for the heads up. 8-0

[Googs]

Just the last day of Caplansky's holiday closing. If they could go out of business, none of our jobs are safe.

[Davedigger]

That's what I thought too! LOL!!

[ms. clicquot]

According to their website, they're only closed from January 4th to 8th, not permanently.

http://caplanskys.com/

[bytepusher]

Apparently Silver Spoon on Roncy is to close, last service on Jan 22, same owner/chef as Libretto on Ossington, I gather he wants to focus on the latter.

[millygirl]

Oh too bad. I'm sure all the construction in the area did not help.

[Marimba]

Isn't he opening a new Italian restaurant on Dundas...Marimba!

[pastabroccoli]

Yeah, chef Rocco Agostino is closing his restaurant, Silver Spoon, to focus on his collaborations with Max Rimaldi... Pizzeria Libretto is obviously hugely popular and they're opening Enoteca Sociale this spring, which will be a wine bar with fresh pastas, lots of cheese, etc.
http://www.blogto.com/eat_drink/2010/...

-----
Pizzeria Libretto
221 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J, CA

Silver Spoon
390 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R2M9, CA

[Lazar]

That is a real shame. I always like Silver Spoon. I will miss it. I kind of worry for Roncey. There really isn't too much in the way of fine(r) dining there, so Silver Spoon will leave a big hole. I haven't been in a while, because I don't have patience for the construction. Aside from SS & Queen of Tarts, anything else close recently?

I do hope that Freshwood leaves. They started out strong when they first showed up a few years ago, but now, it is just embarrassing.

[ingloriouseater]

freshwood has changed ownership (it had been for sale for some time), a sign says they are awaiting a liquor license.

[Lazar]

Personally, I don't think that it will help....what happened to the other 2 locations? If I am not mistaken the longbranch location is gone, but I think that happened last year>

[ingloriouseater]

both the roncesvalles and kensington market locations were up for sale, i only know that the roncesvalles one has changed hands due to the sign in the window as i stated above.

[camp1980]

Yes the long branch location closed in 2009. I could be wrong, but I don't think that Burrito Boyz going in the same plaza was much help for that freshwood location.

[Lazar]

Actually, I drove down Lakeshore recently, and I saw that the Longbranch Freshwood appeared to be open. I didn't get a good look, but I know that I saw lights on, and people inside.

[gregclow]

Boho/The Liverbird closed a couple of months ago as well.

I went to Freshwood a couple of times soon after it first opened and was never impressed. Mediocre food, lousy service, and I always left the place smelling of campfire. Meh.

[Lazar]

I thought that they were closed just during the construction, have they shuttered permanently?

[gregclow]

My understanding is that it's permanent - although I've not spoken to the owner to confirm this 100%, and I haven't been by to see if the place has been cleared out or put up for lease.

[ingloriouseater]

much has been cleared out of boho and there is a sherrif's notice on the door that the lessee has been locked out, and again the space is listed for sale

[oldthelmarattleshakes]

I had been in a pleasant bubble of obliviousness re: the businesses on Roncey, but noticed the other day when walking south that we're screwed as far as wicked food goes. SS, Boho, QofT gone within a couple of months of each other; head further south and there's really nothing until you get to Queen and head east for Local Kitchen & Wine Bar and Cowbell.
I have friends who don't mind too much the food at The Dizzy, but the service is sketchy and the TVs drive me nuts. Buddha Dog remains very cool, thank goodness, but I hope when the construction is done we'll have a resurgence.

[Paulustrious]

Enoteca? Strange name for a wine bar.

It is Acetone backwards.

[Gary]

According to wikipedia, Enoteca is also "an Italian word, derived from the Greek word Οινοθήκη, which literally means 'wine repository'." So perhaps not so strange after all.

[Googs]

There are enotecas all over Italy. That said, acetone. Now who woulda thoughta that?

[Snarf]

Maybe the same marketing firm who began selling bottled water many years ago. Evian backwards is Naive.

[haggisdragon]

They've also got one of those fancy shmancy enomatic wine service/cooler thingys.

[syoung]

Prairie Ink restaurant inside McNally Robinson bookstore at Shops on Don Mills closed (both the bookstore & restaurant) last week. Food & service at the restaurant were terrible so not a big loss.

[gregclow]

Marvellous Edibles on Laird is closing later this month.

EDIT: Just noticed that someone beat me to this yesterday with a dedicated discussion thread: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/678727

[graydyn]

I find it depressing that this thread was created 5 days into the year.

[millygirl]

Yes, true enough graydyn. My hope is that it will be short lived.

[ivxu]

Same for Queen of Tarts on Roncesvalles. They have closed their retail operation to focus on catering.

[jlunar]

Oh damn. It was never convenient to get to, so never go to check that one out...

---
http://www.foodpr0n.com/ -- food. is. love.

[Full tummy]

Catering... It's where the money is.

[TexSquared]

Not a restaurant, but a favorite of many east Scarborough/Durham Region 'hounds... Foody's gourmet bulk food store in Pickering is closing in a week. Everything is 50% off right now for those who want to stock up on sea salt :-) Just got back -- they still had their "Boxing Day 25%" sign but when you approach the place, there were photocopied "Everything 50% off" notes taped to the window. Not totally picked over yet but better go now.

[sloweater]

Let's hope this year is more about openings than closings. Too many decent restaurants shuttered their doors last year.

[juno]

Sequel was just about the best all-round resto on that strip of Yonge St., between Lawrence Ave. and York Mills Rd., a strip dominated by more than a dozen Italian restaurants, pizza joints and snack bars. A beautifully-run place for adults to dine out. It lasted five years, and I got the feeling that the host/owner was simply burnt out and needed a change. It closed Oct. 30, with all the regulars turning out the final week for one last good, satisfying feed. Not a bad way for a locally-admired spot to go out.