Toronto is getting a new Southern BBQ inspired eatery and brunch hub this weekend at the heart of trendy Queen Street West. Aptly named Smoke Bar & Kitchen, this new smoke-inspired hot spot is the latest from the group behind the successful Hogtown Smoke chain. The grand opening is on Saturday, August 3, 2019, and to celebrate, dinner patrons can expect a complimentary dish with their orders. They will also be open for brunch on Sunday, August 4, and the extensive brunch menu will be available every weekend going forward.

Smoke Bar & Kitchen will be taking over 638 Queen Street West – once the home of iconic brunch spot, Lisa Marie. The partners of this highly anticipated new restaurant are excited to be joining the neighborhood.

“We chose this concept to be on Queen West because I can’t think of a better place in the city where you can find such a concentrated hub of artisans, cultural vibrancy and diverse food options. We feel so lucky to be part of this special scene,” says Glen Tymchuk, Co-owner of the Smoke/Hogtown group.

Although Smoke Bar & Kitchen is the brainchild of the same team behind Hogtown, patrons can expect a whole new concept. The team recognized the demand for more options that were less meat-centric but still tasty and with the smoky flavour profiles they have become known for.

“Smoke is very different from Hogtown as we tried to focus more on the smaller shareable menu selections. The most notable shift can be seen in the number of menu items dedicated to delicious vegetarian dining, while still keeping with the contemporary BBQ theme. Now both meat-eaters and vegetarians can dine happily together in a cool casual setting, with both enjoying meatless options if they choose,” says Scott Fraser, Creator, Co-owner and Executive Pit Master of Hogtown and Smoke.

With the kitchen helmed by Chef Sean Simons (the executive chef behind the drool-worthy menus at the Hogtown Beach and Colborne locations), diners can expect mouthwatering culinary gems on the Smoke Bar & Kitchen menu.

“I love using the element of smoke, not only in traditional BBQ dishes but also in unexpected ways, like in fruits and cheeses as well as sauces, juices and cocktails,” says Chef Sean Simons.

Foodies and fans of delectable eats can look forward to free food giveaways at the restaurant for the grand opening, on Saturday, August 3, between 4pm – 5pm – no purchase necessary. Smoke Bar & Grill will be doling out free Smoke’d Watermelon “Ham” & Cheese (smoked watermelon, grilled halloumi cheese with avocado mayo and peppery greens on flatbread). The restaurant will officially be open for dinner at 7pm and patrons can make reservations now on OpenTable

Previous owner of Lisa Marie, Matt Basile (of Fidel Gastro’s) is thrilled to pass the baton over. “After 6 amazing years on Queen West, I felt like it was time to move on. I’m so happy that not only a friend from the old food truck days is moving in to my old spot, but it’s a team who really understand fun BBQ and cocktails. I have no doubt that Smoke Bar & Kitchen by Hogtown will absolutely make themselves right at home in the neighborhood and crush it,” says Basile.

  

Business Hours 

Monday: Open for brunch only on holidays

Tuesday: 4pm-midnight

Wednesday: 4pm – midnight

Thursday: 4pm – midnight

Friday: 4pm – 2am

Saturday: 10am -2am

Sunday: 10am – 3pm

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: @smokebarandkitchen

Instagram: @smokebarandkitchen

The Smoke Bar & Kitchen Team

Scott Fraser, Creator, Co-owner, head Firestarter, Executive Pit Master

 Glen Tymchuk, Co-owner

 Sean Simons, Corporate Executive Chef

 Steve Ireson, Corporate Director of Operations

 Amy Swanson, Manager

 Andrew Hernandez, Chef de cuisine

 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.