During a time when it seems more commonplace to hear about restaurants closing down, there's some good news in the hospitality world: SweetChops, a new plant-based concept developed by a Top Chef Canada Allstars competitor, has opened up exclusively for takeout, alternating between lunch and dinner service.
Owner Adam Gilbert in the kitchen.
Whether you're fully plant-based or just enjoy going meatless once in a while, the meals are sure to satisfy all kinds of eaters. The concept is built around the idea of "classic staples" to be enjoyed anytime and aims to make a positive impact on plant-based eating by offering delicious, healthy and accessible food for everyone.
Owner Adam Gilbert shared his message behind the idea, saying, “Now more than ever we need to be more considerate of how we source our food, and the relationship we want to have with food systems. We believe you don’t have to compromise on taste, convenience and nutrition to have an incredible meal -- that’s why I created SweetChops.” He began by asking why plant-based food often revolves around mock meat or boring salads, and how that could be changed. Gilbert then set out to design the menu by interviewing well-known vegan chefs before moving on to a bigger and better idea: partnering with a Toronto-based chef who had never cooked plant-based before, and asking him to “pretend meat doesn’t exist”. From there, the menu of craveable plant-based food was born, and they're now pushing on to bring their concept to the world despite COVID-19.
Originally, the restaurant was planning to launch as a quick-service spot on Queen West, but with the current pandemic situation, they have decided to adapt and change their course. They've now opened a "Dark Kitchen" at 46 Noble Street, operating solely as a delivery service in order to test the concept and receive consumer feedback before seeking investment once full service restaurants are back up and running.
The menu includes rice- and greens-based bowls that are loaded with plant-based proteins, roasted and pickled veggies, flavourful dressings and crunchy toppers, plus vegan takes on classic sandwiches like pulled jackfruit, a smoked paprika-mushroom-lentil burger and a faux meatball sub topped with a layer of dairy-free mozzarella. All of these items are available to order on DoorDash, so you can enjoy the meatless treats at home.
Keep your eyes out for the full-service restaurant in the future, and in the meantime, support SweetChops by checking out their Instagram page and ordering a meal from one of your favourite food delivery apps here!
