The Roundup: This Week in Toronto (March 20-26)

Written By

TasteToronto

2 years ago

Check out what's happening in Toronto this week, from highly anticipated openings, closures, events, pop-ups and more -- the round-up is your number one source for staying up to date with Toronto's fast-paced food scene!

1. The owners of Sugo just opened an outpost in Bloordale

After years of success with his classic red sauce joint, Sugo, chef and co-owner, Conor Joerin has opened an outpost, Bar Sugo. Located in Bloordale, the new pizzeria and pasta spot boasts a familiar family-style menu that’s a nod to Italian-American classics, like pastas, pizzas, salads and desserts. Sugo’s famous meatball can now be enjoyed atop any of the perfectly burnt wood-fired pizzas loaded with buffalo mozzarella. Other shareables include burrata, crispy calamari, and buttery garlic bread. A full service restaurant and bar, Bar Sugo also does fantastic cocktails, including a brand new tiramisu martini. Bar Sugo is located at 1279 Bloor St. W. and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m.

2. Waska Peruvian Chicken pop-up is finding a permanent home

Chef Elias Salazar, founder of one of Toronto’s best authentic Peruvian restaurants, Waska Toronto, has announced a permanent home for Waska Peruvian Chicken. With humble origins as a pop-up back in 2020, the outpost is a rotisserie chicken concept that highlights Peruvian-style chicken, better known as “pollo a la brasa.” While he’s still pondering over the perfect neighbourhood to open in this summer, Chef Salazar has finalized much of the menu. Along with mouthwatering chicken, diners can expect to find exceptional sides, including crispy yuca fries with housemade sauce, refreshing ceviches, empanadas and an array of tapas-style Peruvian dishes. Waska Peruvian Chicken will also feature a very diverse drink program, with refreshing options including purple corn “chicha.” Keep an eye out on Waska Toronto’s Instagram page for upcoming announcements!

3. Corner Crepe Co. is Toronto's newest (and tiniest) Chinese crêperie

Recently opened at the corner of College and Spadina (267 College Street, #5), compact Corner Crepe Co. may not have any seating space – it's quite literally a hole-in-the-wall – but the literal Mom-&-Pop takeout shop is getting outsized accolades for its delicious, and nicely priced, traditional jian bing (delicately thin, crisp-edged and eggy Chinese crepes that in-the-know patrons swear are the real deal). A generously proportioned classic jian bing will set you back all of $6.99, but extra toppings – shredded chicken, beef or potato, sausage, congee – add lots of extra flavour while still allowing you to enjoy a robust meal for around $10. Open daily (except Tuesday) from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

4. Spicy 6ix Wings opens on St. Clair West

Sure, there’s no shortage of chicken wings in Toronto, but at how many places in the GTA (or on planet Earth) can you find 125 different flavours of wings under one roof? Recently opened at 813 St. Clair Avenue West, Spicy 6ix Wings is a modest joint that offers a wildly immodest variety of wings that run the gamut from sweet and mild (Honey Plum) to near fatally piquant (Homicide Blonde), available in portions ranging from one to 10 pounds.

To prevent you from being quickly overwhelmed by so much choice, the menu is mercifully divided into categories such as “juicy and creamy,” “the honey digger,” “barbecue party” and “rubs and sprinkles.” If it’s still all too much, take comfort in the fact that rounding out the menu are quesadillas, wraps, salads, fries, poutines and crispy bites – each with only a dozen (or fewer!) options.

Spicy 6ix Wings is open Tues-Thurs from 3-10 p.m., Fri-Sat from 12 p.m.-midnight, and Sun from 12-10 p.m.

5. Starbucks x DoorDash delivery from March 20 - April 2

Caffeine lovers can now get their Starbucks fix easier than ever, thanks to the company’s newest partnership with DoorDash Canada. “As we continue to innovate the Starbucks Experience with new and impactful ways to connect digitally, we are excited to expand how our customers can enjoy their Starbucks favourites wherever they may be,” said Lori Digulla, General Manager, Starbucks Canada.

And, to celebrate, Torontonians can get $5 off their next 3 Starbucks orders of $20 or more from March 20 to April 2.

The partnership is available at select locations across the city.

6. Fizz by Aloette launches new flavour

After invigorating the canned beverage market with its Espresso Martini Fizz, The Alo Food Group has released the Southside Fizz, a second flavour in its Fizz by Aloette line.

A variation on a classic mojito, the Southside Fizz is a vibrant, gently effervescent mix of London Dry Gin, lime juice, muddled mint and a hint of fresh cucumber. A drink you can imagine casually sipping as you enjoy a return to clement temps, this is one you'll be reaching for all spring and summer long. Now available at the LCBO and Aloette Go, for pick-up and delivery, you'll want to stock up today.

7. The St. Regis Toronto's Astor Lounge introduces Toronto afternoon tea

Afternoon tea at the St. Regis Toronto's Astor Lounge is a brand Signature Ritual that's swayed by seasons, celebrations, and the team's unbridled creativity. Recently launched, the ritual's newest iteration, the Toronto Afternoon Tea, invites guests to embark on a culinary tour through Toronto's vibrant, multicultural neighbourhoods.

Available from Thursday to Sunday, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., the Toronto Afternoon Tea comprises numerous savoury and sweet bites designed to inspire guests to explore everything the city has to offer. With each morsel tied to a specific local neighbourhood, guests will enjoy the flavours of the Distillery District and St. Lawrence Market, Kensington Market, Chinatown, and more.

The Toronto Afternoon Tea is available at Astor Lounge until April 30th. To reserve your spot, visit Opentable.com.

8. This Toronto cafe was named one of the most Instagrammable cafes in the world

Big 7 Travel just named FIKA, a Swedish inspired cafe in Kensington Market, one of the most Instagrammable cafes in the world. The list ranked FIKA 11th out of 50 cafes around the world. FIKA is known for its blue exterior, quaint interiors and its lush back patio garden.

9. Auntie’s Supply moving out of Stackt Market

"When I opened my location at @stacktmarket in June 2021, I thought I was launching a 6-month pop-up to test an idea," reads an Auntie's Supply Instagram post authored by its owner, Christina Pack. “In less than a year, we opened a second location and hired 3 people and the rest was history."

But, now marks the end of an era, as Auntie’s Supply is saying goodbye to Stackt Market. Never fear, though, as Pack’s post notes that the Asian goods shop is moving to a new location this spring, partnering with Ready Go Convenience at 1153 Queen St. West for an "express" version of the shop, offering curated Asian goods and a market series in the parking lot.

The Stackt Market location closes March 26, and all goods will be on sale until then. The Superfresh location remains open.

10. Patois' famed brunch is finally back this spring

Starting March 25th, Patois is finally bringing back its beloved brunch program. Brunch will be served Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on the menu you'll find Jamaican Patty Eggs Benny, Fried Chicken & HK French Toast, Breakfast Fried Rice, Doubles, Marley Mimosas, Jerk Caesars and lots more!

11. 416 Snack Bar opens new 'Short Turn' expansion

The beloved snack bar at Queen Street West and Bathurst Street is opening the doors to a swanky new space just around the corner from their OG location. They'll be serving up their usual array of small plates and inventive cocktails, while offering additional seating for their cozy sister space the city has come to know and love over 11 years. Doors open at 5 p.m. on March 22 at 576 Queen Street West––don't miss out.

Tags:

Recommended For You