Open/Closed for the week of January 19-25

December saw an insane number of openings. It has finally slowed a little, though not for long - a handful of places are slated to open their doors in February. 

In the meantime, here's what happened this week:

Open:
 
Bareburger
111 Dundas St. W.

This U.S. chain, known for its organic burgers, also serves up a variety of sandwiches, salads and sides. 

Homemade Ramen
263 Spadina Ave.

Handmade, hand-pulled noodles is at the heart of this new ramen shop. 
 
Lyrics Music Bar & Grill
50 Cumberland St.

Two levels serve as restaurant/bar/lounge and offers live jazz in the piano bar as well as DJs. 

Sleepy Baker
7 Coxwell Ave.

Sleepy Baker opened on Monday. They specialize in homemade cookies. Good thing there is such a term as "winter weight."

Closing:

This is the last weekend blowout for iconic club The Guvernment. Sunday is the last night with a performance by Deadmau5 and it will close the doors for good on January 31st. Follow the events with hashtag #GuvFinale.

Events:

Destingo's Wine Tasting event happens tomorrow night, lead by Sommelier Lachlan Dennis: 

We're heading to Casa Loma on Saturday night for Johnnie Walker Celebrates Robbie Burns Day. This exclusive culinary event includes a four-course menu, inspired by traditional Scottish specialties (Cock A Leekie Soup! Neeps and Tatties!), with each course paired with a Johnnie Walker scotch. We'll be covering it live, so be sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Winterlicious is almost here. While the festivities don't actually start until next week, you should make reservations now. 
 
And lastly:

We know money's tight. That's why this week's Best Of is all about cheap eats. 

This week the Canadian semi-finalists were announced for the S. Pellegrino Young Chef Competition 2015. Check out who made the cut. 

You've gotta head to Chef Patrick McMurray's new spot Pearl Diver. We've got an inside look for you. 

And check out Alan Vernon's Top 10 Dishes  and Top 10 Restaurants for more choices.

Head out for brunch this weekend. We've got 20 suggestions for you. 

Is the cold getting to you? Eat these warming foods.

Want comfort food without heavy sauces? Head to Braised in Leslieville!