JOEY Eaton Centre is opening on July 4th, and for those young professionals who find themselves awash in less-than-stellar options for afterwork and after-shopping meals in the Yonge Dundas area of Toronto, the early summer opening date couldn’t be more welcome.
The scene is set from the entrance to this 10,000 sq. ft. space. Story-high windows opened to the sidewalk bustle allow a peek into the modern industrial space, a mix of exposed high beams and rustic-looking tables with chocolate brown leather accenting the swanky resto.
A mezzanine overlooks the expansive ground floor. High-top tables with gorgeous chairs provide a perfect view of the bar, complete with enomatic wine dispensing machine.
On Wednesday night, JOEY Eaton Centre – the 21st JOEY Restaurant and the second in Toronto – hosted an exclusive media launch of the new location, with samples of what’s in store come opening day. And if last night’s preview was any indication, JOEY Eaton Centre will be the newest hot scene for Toronto’s trendiest tastemakers.
The cocktail list has a couple notable drinks, like the St. Germain – a crisp and sweet number with elderflower. The blueberry mojitos will surely be a hit with the lounge crowd, and Aperol makes a pleasant appearance in a light, grapefruit-y cocktail.
Charcuterie stations showcased some amazing meats and cheeses, a preview of the charcuterie plate that will be featured on the menu once JOEY Eaton Centre opens on July 4th. Thinly-sliced speck melts on your tongue, and the Belgian beemster is sharp yet creamy. The Bombay butter chicken and Panang prawn curry bowls are well-seasoned and balanced, while the lobster grilled cheese is perfectly crisp and buttery.
JOEY Eaton Centre will feature some amazing sushi with beautiful Ahi tuna and perfectly executed deep-fried prawn handrolls. Also to come are the Ahi Tuna Tacos, an interesting take on two different cuisine styles.
Chef Chris Mills has done an excellent job prepping his kitchen staff, and thanks to the revolutionary computer system in the kitchen – seriously, it makes timing dishes foolproof and allows the cooks to fully focus on the plates – we don’t expect there to be the good-one-night-off-the-next issues. JOEY Eaton Centre opens to the public on July 4th.
Images by Jacqueline Nicosia.