New restaurant locations are steadily opening across Ontario, showing signs of recovery and growth as establishments look to expand their reach and service. Major players include Yasmine's Authentic Lebanese Cuisine and Jersey Mike's Subs, both of which aim to delight local residents and build community ties.
Yasmine’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine, which launched its first location in 2019, is set to open Yasmine’s Express at White Oaks Mall. The fast-casual eatery, slated to welcome diners as early as the first week of January, has generated significant buzz as its owners, Bill and Farah Chehade, have long dreamed of expansion. "We’ve always wanted another location," said Bill Chehade. "The aim has always been healthy fast food, good quality fast food. Not all fast food has to be grabbed from the freezer and thrown in the fryer."
Located within the busy food court at White Oaks Mall, the new Yasmine's Express will serve fresh dishes consistent with its flagship restaurant but will introduce new items such as baguette sandwiches, Lebanese burgers, and various Mediterranean options. The Chehades' commitment to offering fresh meals reflects their dedication to quality, which has garnered them a loyal following since they first opened their doors.
The transition to Yasmine’s Express is not without its challenges. Like many businesses, the restaurant faced hurdles during the pandemic, which forced them to adapt rapidly. "Express locations are easier to manage. The plan is to hopefully scale up and make three express locations in London," Chehade noted when discussing their future plans. They are eyeing additional locales near quickly developing neighborhoods, which points to their growth ambitions within the London area and even aspirations to reach the Greater Toronto Area.
Meanwhile, Jersey Mike's Subs is also marking its spot, celebrating the upcoming opening of its Brantford location on December 11, 2024. Part of the American franchise's expansion, Jersey Mike's has already established itself with locations across Ontario, including previous openings in Markham and North York.
Redberry CEO Ken Otto stated, "We decided to open up our fifth location here in Brantford because it’s a great community. We’re in a really great location with the theatre, the Walmart, and the other great retailers here in the plaza so I think we’re going to do well." Such confidence speaks to their strategic choice of location.
Jersey Mike’s distinguishes itself with its commitment to freshness. Otto remarked, "We slice every sub right in front of you... We’re really known for preparing our subs ‘Mike’s Way’ with lettuce, tomato and onion, as well as a splash of olive oil and red wine vinaigrette, and it’s just super awesome and super fresh." Such attention to preparation sets them apart from competitors and appeals to consumers seeking quality fare.
Another community-oriented initiative is the three-day fundraiser for Child Hunger Brantford, which starts on opening day—an effort aimed at tackling food insecurity among children. Dawn Hall, the founder of Child Hunger Brantford, expressed enthusiasm about this partnership, saying, "Our primary mission is to provide nutritious meals to children facing food insecurity and improve their quality of life." This collaboration reflects Jersey Mike’s commitment not only to business success but also to community welfare and engagement.
While food establishments launch their plans for expansion, important health services are also on the move. St. Joseph’s Care Group will relocate its withdrawal management program from the Balmoral Centre to 500 Oliver Road this Tuesday. This move is not just logistical but also aims to improve the safety and accessibility of services.
“This is a great move because it will help us deliver safer care for clients and staff alike...,” said Andrea Docherty, vice-president of clinical and community health at St. Joseph’s Care Group. The organization has worked tirelessly to make this transition seamless for those seeking addiction recovery services, ensuring there will be no interruptions to this necessary program.
Janine Black, president and CEO of St. Joseph’s Care Group, emphasized the compassionate approach the organization is taking. "We want people who are living with addictions to know they are welcome and will receive care free from judgment or stigma," she stated. This phase of relocation signals the beginning of enhanced services for those struggling with addiction, outlining their commitment to addressing the community's needs.
With new restaurants opening and healthcare services adapting to present-day demands, Ontario's community spirit is alive and well. Whether it’s about fresh subs or supportive addiction management, these developments offer significant growth and improvement for the residents they serve. The excitement surrounding the openings showcases how businesses and organizations are poised to invest back in their communities.
