A number of legacy businesses closed this week, including the iconic Randy’s Take-Out, home of one of the most popular patties in Toronto. South China also closed in midtown after 65 years in business.
But we’re also seeing a few establishments hinting at reopening and new spots coming to the city, too.
Here are the restaurants that opened and closed in Toronto for the week of February 23-March 1.
Toronto restaurants that closed
Randy’s Take-Out
One day after Jamaican Patty Day, Randy’s Take-Out, best known as Randy’s Patties, had its final day of service on February 26, attracting huge lines. The owners cite the ongoing Metrolinx construction, the COVID-19 pandemic and labour shortages as some of the reasons why they decided to close their 40-year-old business. Drake fuelled some rumours that he would buy the business.
South China
The midtown restaurant of 65 years announced on February 21 that they were closing. “Thank you to all our loyal customers for supporting us through the years,” said the South China team in a written letter posted on their door.
Aroma Food Hall
The food hall that opened at Yonge and Isabella in 2020 officially closed on February 28. While you can no longer get their soups, tea and crepes at this location, the team says they’re available at other Spice and Aroma restaurants across the GTA, like in Chinatown.
Orwell’s Pub
After nearly 40 years in business, the Bloor and Islington pub closed its doors on February 27. The pub was known for their 21 draught taps, all-you-can-eat spaghetti and fish and chips.
Calii Love
It looks like the Yonge and Hillsdale outpost of the poké and smoothie bowl chain closed down for good. A note posted on the door says that there were positive cases of COVID-19 in December, resulting in a temporary closure of the restaurant. Another note posted on February 10 indicates that the building’s landlord terminated the lease. While the windows are papered over, the home page still features the “new” location, which opened on October 1.
New Toronto restaurant openings
Crimson Teas
The cozy tea shop in Chinatown might be reopening soon after all, according to a note that’s been posted on their doors. The restaurant was known for prioritizing affordable beverages and meals for students, including milk teas and green tea noodles.
415 Spadina, Crimson Teas
Bhojan Alley
A new Indian restaurant took over Gayley’s Cafe location in Little Portugal. It specializes in “Alley Eats” like the Railway Samosa Chaat, channa bhatura, as well as mains like murgh makhani.
1424 Dundas West, @bhojanto
LA LA Bakeshop
The Vietnamese bakery opened up a second location in Scarborough last week. Expect treats like mini durian cakes, salted egg cakes, roasted seaweed roll cakes and huê sausage bun with crispy shallots.
3272 Midland, @lalabakeshop.ca
Marquin
A new place for homemade Venezuelan patties? The restaurant keeps hinting at opening soon on their Instagram page. You can try their variety of patties, like the pizza pizza patty, mushrooms and artisanal cheese patty or the guava-cheese patty.
2523 Yonge @marquin.ca
More Toronto food news
Today, March 1, marks the first day of Ontario lifting proof of COVID-19 vaccination requirements. Businesses will still have the option to enforce proof of vaccination if they wish. Indoor dining capacity limits will also be lifted.
While it seems like most food establishments are lifting the vaccine passport, some restaurants like the Rosedale Diner and Bampot are continuing to enforce it, after listening to staff and regular customers. They join movie theatres like the Revue and Fox cinemas.
