The past year has been a rollercoaster ride for businesses everywhere, but perhaps none more so than the restaurant industry. With a number of stay-at-home orders and lockdowns, restaurant and bar owners all over have been hit with multiple waves of disruption. But despite all the challenges, some have not entirely given up hope.
Bryan Nunez, owner of Toronto's Hush Hush Bar, is among those few.
Formerly a speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden behind a convenience store, Hush Hush has finally reopened in a new location after being closed for the past six months.
This time, they’re making more noise than ever before. Instead of hiding behind the neon signs of a convenience store, they've decided to imitate the vibrant colours themselves. Hush Hush has chosen a location that is as lively as their personal brand, taking up residence in the building where The Hideout used to be, beneath Nest nightclub on Toronto's famous College Street strip.
"Our bar kind of resembles College Street. As a group, we’re very eclectic. As soon as you walk in, you'll see that we've got a bit of everything, from our music to our decor,” says Nunez. “College Street is no different. You get a great mix of people from different backgrounds and walks of life, which is not only something we value but also something that we find is reflective of what Hush Hush is all about."
And, in keeping with the theme of difference, they're shaking things up this year. Teaming up with Toronto-based eatery Classico Macha, they have created a brand-new menu that will provide Toronto diners with a taste of Mexico City.
"At Hush Hush, customers can expect anything from a vegan taco to a churro sandwich, with new additions joining the long list of fun treats every once in a while," says Nunez.
Hush Hush is currently serving customers on their CaféTO patio on a first-come, first-served basis, but they are eager to return indoors and show off their new space once Ontario enters the next phase of its reopening plan. Until then, keep an eye on their social media page, where they will be announcing some of their future plans, such as their famous drag brunch.
"We're excited to have you back! And as the province moves forward, we can't wait to show you what we have in store."
