One of Toronto's favourite spots for Chilean cuisine has finally reopened in Kensington Market today after being closed for six months due to a severe fire next door at Emporium Latino.
Despite being lucky not to face the brunt of the incident's damage, Jumbo Empanadas was still forced closed by health and safety inspectors in October.
This long-standing family-owned business began in 1991 by Irene Morales. She served empanadas and humitas from a hot dog cart in Kensington Market on weekends and later expanded by moving into her own space at 245 Augusta Avenue in 1999.
Those in the community created a GoFundMe fundraiser to support the restaurant during the closure, helping them reopen their doors again. The campaign has since amassed over $12,000 in financial support for Morales and her business.
According to the GoFundMe posted by Leyla Razeghi and Venetia Butler, "Irene and her family are great people and embody the independent spirit that makes Kensington Market special."
The good news of Jumbo Empanadas reopening is sure to bring joy to the neighbourhood and loyal customers of the business who have been eagerly awaiting their return.
Find Jumbo Empanadas back in their home at 245 Augusta Avenue in Kensington Market, serving up crispy empanadas, melt in your mouth humitas and sweet, crunchy alfajores beginning today. They'll be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
If you can't drop by their shop, you can also find their empanadas at Coffee Tree in Bloor West Village, Haute Coffee in The Annex and Carousel Bakery in St. Lawrence Market.
