Crosley's, an acclaimed young restaurant that opened on the Ossington strip nearly a year ago, announced their permanent closure on Jan. 11.
According to the Instagram post, investors in the business have decided to not continue to finance the operation, due to the impact that Covid-19 has had, and continues to have, on the business. Known for serving the highest of quality food made with sustainably-sourced ingredients, along with an exciting selection of wines, this neighbourhood restaurant has grown a devout following since first popping up inside Bar Piquette in 2020.
"Still not exactly sure what lead to the closure communicated to Joe and I by e-mail on the 28th," says Myles Harrison, sommelier and one of the minds behind Crosley's. "We were in a better place to handle the potential of a lockdown than the other ones we’ve operated through. All I know is there are 21 people out of a job and a 9-inch plywood wall keeping me from getting my records back."
According to Harrison, the team's last day of service was on Dec. 23, before taking a short break. They were expected to return in the New Year, but plans to do so came to unexpected halt.
Though their goodbye is heartbreaking for many, the restaurant has received immense support from their community.
"You guys will be missed. This is very sad news for our industry our city but most importantly all the staff that brought @crosleystoronto to life," wrote Chef Michael Bonacini, co-founder of Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality and MasterChef Canada judge.
"Jo and Myles, I'm coming wherever you guys setup next!!!!!!" wrote Braden Chong, executive sous chef at MIMI Chinese. "Feel lucky to have experienced the amazing food and hospitality from the early days of takeout to sitting at a table and enjoying the wonderful energy in the room," wrote another user. "Can’t wait to see what’s next for you guys."
"I’m so sorry. You guys put so much heart and effort into everything," wrote Christina, Veira, co-owner of Bar Mordecai. "In such a difficult year, I would often walk by your soulful and bustling patio and just get so much inspiration. Often disappointments open the way for even greater successes."
"[Myles] and I envisioned it as a place where people could come to shed the weight of the world during an incredibly volatile moment in history for just a hot second... to focus on nothing other [than] good food, good service, nice wine, and great company," said Joachim Hayward, chef and the other half behind Crosley's, in an Instagram post.
"Time to reflect, learn, rest, laugh, cry, and most importantly give back to those who matter the most... my family," Hayward continued. "Thanks for giving this dreamer a shot Toronto. I had a blast. RIP Crosley's."
