Open/Closed: week of August 30-September 5, 2018

As summer quickly comes to a close, It’s no surprise the last week of August is noticeably quieter for openings.

Don’t fret. A whole slew of fab food events more than makes up for it. And get ready – next week’s bound to be as insane as usual.

In the meantime, here’s the very latest:

OPEN

Cauldron Ice Cream (502 Queen St. W.) made its debut yesterday. This is the first Canadian venue for the American ice cream chain offering seasonal flavours, vegan selections, and “OG Puffles.”

Burgers, steak sandwiches and hand cut fries can all be yours, thanks to Mississauga’s Gladiator Burger & Steak (6039 Erin Mills Pkwy., Unit 2).

Former home of Ouzeri is now Soulas Modern Greek Cuisine (500A Danforth Ave.), located in the heart of Greektown.

Stamp’s Lane (371 Roncesvalles Ave.) is all about East Coast soul food such as Crab Croquettes with Mustard Pickle Remoulade, Pork Tongue Carpaccio with Gribiche, and Newfoundland Sweet Buns.

CLOSED

Back in May, I told you Green Earth Vegan Cuisine (385 Broadview Ave.)was closed until further notice due an electrical fire. Since hydro repairs have taken so long, the owners have decided “to look into moving somewhere else.” Stay tuned.

Branca’s (1727 Dundas St. W.) final service is Saturday.

EVENTS

It’s the last weekend for The Ex. Find out what's on the menu at the CNE this year, so you can plan wisely.

Defining Soviet Jewish Cuisine and a Bagel Battle are just two features of Ashkenaz Festival - a celebration of Jewish and Yiddish culture - happening this weekend.

Tonight’s the night for Feastbound: Low Country Boil by Eastbound Brewing Company (700 Queen St. E.).

Head to Muslim Fest Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for a wide array of enticing food and drinks.

SummerhillxRestoPopUp launches Saturday at Summerhill Market with Toronto’s own Patois, featuring an exclusive-to-Summerhill Juicy Jerk Chicken and Rice dish, along with Jamaican coleslaw. These are available only for the month of September, so get them while you can!

The Toronto edition of Le Burger Week launches Saturday.

You’ve got all weekend to enjoy Mac & Cheese Fest and Toronto Rib, Bacon & BBQ Fest (formerly Downsview Park Ribfest). Do you dare do both?

Don’t miss out on the inaugural Style Plate. This cool collab by Toronto Fashion Week and Bloor-Yorkville BIA takes over Yorkville Tuesday through Thursday. Select restaurants and bars in the area will feature a unique dish and cocktail inspired by a designer’s collection.

Want your holiday Monday filled with beer and good eats? Head to Evergreen Brick Works for Brewer’s Backyard, hosted by The Brewery Market.

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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.