One of Toronto’s fine dining institutions is set to close after 28 years of operation. The acclaimed North 44 will be closing its doors at the end of July. As the first independent restaurant launched by famed Canadian chef Mark McEwan, North 44 enjoyed its longevity due to the unwavering support of its valued customers, the local community and its talented team.
After launching in 1990, North 44 became the go-to destination for international diners and Toronto foodies before being a foodie was even a thing. McEwan is known for his innovative cooking style and seasonally driven menus and North 44 was his launching pad, giving way to other highly regarded restaurants and grocery stores.
“I will look back on North 44 fondly,” says McEwan. “North 44 has seen some incredible talent over the years and I have made many life-long friends. I owe North 44’s success to our hard working team, our loyal customers and to the Toronto community. I learned a lot from North 44, but want to continue to look forward. Our team have built restaurants, an extensive catering & events division, several gourmet grocery stores and we don’t have any plans to slow down. We’re opening three new properties and that’s just the plan for 2018”.
With the lease ending, this closure is coinciding with the opening of Fabbrica Restaurant in the TD Centre(opened), Fabbrica Restaurant in Thornbury, Ont. (August 2018) and a McEwan Gourmet Grocery at the intersection of Yonge & Bloor (2018/19). While gone, the restaurant will hardly be forgotten as North 44 will always remain a cornerstone of The McEwan Group brand.