🕒 6 min read  

The lead up to Christmas continues to boast a host of cuisines and options, with more on the way. That’s good news, because now that lockdown’s extended, again, we’re going to need all the help (read: spectacular food and drinks) we can get.

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN 

In the market for affordable lunch and dinner options? Look no further than ADDA Bengali Kitchen and Catering (3342 Danforth Ave., Unit 1) at Warden and Danforth with menu selections from $1.49 to $21.99. Take note: The Scarborough spot offers Continental Breakfast ($10.99) and other brunch selections.

Blondies Pizza can’t be stopped. I just reported on their new Oakville outpost. A Port Credit satellite (13 Stavebank Rd.) welcomed customers on Wednesday.

After a two-year stint on Ossington, Burger n’ Fries Forever has relocated to the Entertainment District (106 John St.), replacing former home to sushi burrito chain Su & Bu.

Desi Boyzz Grill (5980 Churchill Meadows Blvd.) in Mississauga crafts Halal fare by way of wraps, kabobs, and rich curries.  

Jatujak moved into the former digs of The Victorian Monkey (2386 Kingston Rd.) in Scarborough. This marks the third location for the halal chain specializing in Thai “street style” fare. Doors opened Wednesday. 

Prefer your eggs in cake form? La Rocca Creative Kitchen (2638 Yonge St.) in Midtown across from Sporting Life (where Dufflet Pastries was) is for you.

Pre-order sumptuous baked goods for Christmas from Yoni Kamil’s luscious Lev Bakery starting Wednesday.

Renowned Tibetan eatery The Momo House has moved into the slim space - and hallowed ground - of prior tenant, Brothers (1240 Bay St.). Soft opening for Yorkville’s newest occupant took place Thursday, with official launch to follow on Monday.

At the end of August, I told you about the arrival of Starchiva Restaurant (550 Hwy7 E, Unit 35-36) in Richmond Hill. It turns out Starchiva Cuisine (160 East Beaver Creek Rd. Unit 4-6)  also launched in Richmond Hill.

Brown sugar milk bubble tea maker Xing Fu Tang touches down at College & Spadina where Greedy Duck & Noodles (316 College St.) previously stood.  Soft opening celebrations kick off today at noon. Until Thursday, Dec 24th enjoy 20 per cent off every in-store purchase.

CLOSED 

Greg Boggs has left The Ace (231A Roncesvalles Ave.) after nine successful years. Stay tuned - a new owner is taking over.

Fran’s on Front is closing for good December 31 due to an “uncooperative landlord.”

Relish Bar & Grill - established 2005 - moved to the Danforth July 2019. Owner Joanne Clayton posted on social earlier this week that due to the pandemic, she had to shut down. 

Today’s the last day to visit Mississauga vegan café, The Cold Pressery (4310 Sherwoodtowne Blvd., Unit 5). 

EVENTS 

Pierogi spring roll mashup Pegrolls is popping up at The District Kitchen in The Food District at Square One until Sunday.

If your sweet dreams are made are cheese, head to Street Eats Market‘s Mac & Cheese Fest this weekend.

Today’s the last fay to get in on the Night Market happening at Lot P3 at Square One.

NEWS 

It all started with a sign on the door at Richmond Hill restaurant Pepper Wok.

The Old Sod Pub in Etobicoke had a devastating break-in earlier this week.

Bar Karma touched down at Queen & Portland this summer. This weekend however, their liquor licence was suspended as Toronto Police Service “observed more than 10 people inside, not wearing masks or other PPE, and not social distancing. They also observed evidence of alcohol consumption.” Charges were laid against the “officers/directors of the corporate licensee” who were “both present at the establishment.”

According to a recent article, a number of Jack Astor’s employees have experienced sexual harassment. 

By Chloe, a vegan chain out of the U.S., has filed for bankruptcy. The single Canadian outpost, located at Yorkdale, continues to be temporarily closed due to the lockdown.   

The City of Toronto published a release stating the restraining order against Adamson Barbecue “remains in place” and reaffirmed that a business licence is required.

The new cap on third-party delivery fees by the province doesn’t apply to all restaurants.

ICYMI

Talented pastry chef Melissa Valdez of just launched Westside Maria’s will have you rethinking your stance on caesars and sweetbreads in no time. Find out more in this week’s At The Pass.

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