This week explodes with a dizzying array of restaurant openings, news, and a unique restaurant event I’ve wanted to tell you about for months.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Tuck into katsu don, ramen and sushi at Queen and John’s newest arrival, Backyard Japanese Cuisine (254 Queen St. W.)

From the folks that brought you Cabbagetown’s The Irv Gastro Pub (195 Carlton St.) comes seafood-centric Beer Batter (200 Carlton St.), located right across the street. On the menu – fish ‘n chips, oysters, lobster rolls, and more. Doors open tomorrow at 3pm.

Soos (94 Ossington) expands their roster with plant-based concept Fat Choi taking over the space Mondays and Tuesdays. The vegan Asian eatery debuts this Tuesday.

Dundas and Dovercourt just got itself one fine cocktail and snack bar in Founder Bar (1282 Dundas St. W.). One of the best things about it? Catch the amazing Sandy De Almeida there Wednesdays and Thursdays, starting with tonight’s official opening party.

Welcome back, Grey Tiger (1190 Bloor St. W.). They’ll be open this Sat and Sun 4pm ‘til late.

Impact Kitchen (39 Brant St.) offers healthy fare no matter what life you’re living - paleo, vegan, gluten-free, grain-free... you get the idea.

Mississauga dwellers, listen up - Kinton Ramen opens tomorrow (4026 Confederation Parkway) with all ramen 50 per cent off. You’re welcome.

Enjoy free tendou waffle cones from 1-3 at Markham’s Patisserie Kirin’s (3621 Hwy 7) grand opening event on Saturday.

Shopping in Yorkville and need a cool-down beverage RN? Step into Real Fruit Bubble Tea in swanky Yorkville Village (55 Avenue Rd.) for a smoothie, slush, and other non-alcoholic sippers.

Head to SoSo Food Club (1166 Dundas St. W.) for Squid And Fennel Salad ($13), Chinese Hamburger (Rou Jia Mo - $8), Dong Po Pork ($16), and Xo Lobster Mapo Tofu ($36) made with sustainably sourced live lobster.

CLOSED

Around since 1963, Kensington Market stalwart Casa Coffee (235 Augusta Ave.) is closing June 1st.

Founded in 1982, Dooney’s Cafe (866 Bloor St. W.) has ended its lengthy run.

NEWS

An explosion at Bombay Bhel in Mississauga injured 15 people.

The city spent +164K trying to promote King St. W. restaurants. Did it work? Find out now.

Maria Sandu’s shop at 202 Kensington Ave. is the oldest in Kensington Market. Due to a large increase on the lease, it may close. You can help by visiting her GoFundMe campaign.

Discover the big winners from Saturday’s 2018 Canadian Brewing Awards.

I mentioned this taking place a long time ago, but now that the signs are up, it’s official – Pizza Nova is taking over the former home of Dangerous Dan’s (714 Queen St. E.).

EVENTS

Brunch is about to get lit, thanks to the Bud Light Radler Brunch Fest starting tomorrow and going all weekend at 99 Sudbury. Be sure to check out IG for news and updates.

I'm thrilled to finally announce my Summerhill Market Restaurant Pop-Up series launching this Friday, June 1st.

The extraordinary lineup includes:

Flock Rotisserie + Greens - Chef Cory Vitiello

Smoke Signals Barbecue - Pitmaster and Co-Owner Nicholas Chen-Yin

Patois - Chef Craig Wong

The Anne Boleyn - Chef Brent Pierssens

Ruby Watchco - Chef Lynn Crawford & Chef Lora Kirk

Contra Cafe - Chef Zoe Atkinson

You don't want to miss it! #SummerhillxRestoPopUp SummerhillxPopUp

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Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Let me know – writerscramp@stephaniedickison.com.