One of Toronto's most iconic restaurants is allegedly becoming an Earls Kitchen and Bar late next year, as a part of the restaurant groups downtown expansion.
While strolling down the bustling King West, you've likely encountered the beaming neon signage atop Lee, the flagship restaurant by celebrity chef and namesake Susur Lee. Opened in 2000, Lee has served their iconic menu to guests at its location at King and Portland over the years. The space is now expected to become an Earls by Fall 2023, according to a press release from the restaurant group.
"We've had such a great response to our brand in the Toronto market and we are incredibly proud to be able to open two more locations in the downtown core and ultimately reach more customers," says Kristin Vekteris, Chief Brand Officer at Earls Restaurant Group.
The expansion of the popular restaurant chain will bring two new locations to downtown Toronto, including the takeover of Lee at King and Portland, as well as at the Manulife Centre on Bloor Street, which is expected to open in the Spring of 2024. Both new restaurants will feature new menu items and a unique patio dining experience.
Accompanying the new locations will be a revamp of the existing King West Earls, located at King Street West and York Street. The space will "will undergo a lounge renovation and name change, becoming Earls Financial District."
"Each downtown location will have a completely distinct design and cater to guests needs in those communities. We're confident our love for the city will shine through our new locations," says Vekteris.
While Toronto is sad to see the departure of one of the city's most famous restaurants, they will still have over a year to enjoy a 20-ingredient Singaporean Slaw or one of Lee's many other iconic dishes.
It's unclear if Lee will be relocating, moving onto other projects or closing for good when the Earls takeover begins, but be sure to take a lasting look at the iconic restaurant and sign during your next stroll down King West.
