As I put together this week’s edition, we’re seeing yet another round of snow here in Toronto—let’s hope March brings some warmer days! It’s a quieter week for events, but there are still a few things to keep on your radar.

Unfortunately, we’re also saying goodbye to another beloved vegan restaurant 😦 

I also want to take a moment to thank everyone who has been referring friends and family to this community. We’re growing quickly, and I truly appreciate your support— the bigger we are, the stronger we become!

Week of Feb 27 - Mar 5 :

News:

• La Bartola, a beloved vegan Mexican restaurant in Toronto, has announced its closure. Known for its plant-based take on traditional Mexican cuisine, La Bartola has been a favourite among the city's vegan community. The decision to close comes as a disappointment to many patrons who have enjoyed its innovative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
  To commemorate its closing, La Bartola's chef Ivan has introduced a special seven-course tasting menu, One Night in Oaxaca, available until the closing on March 15 so let’s show them some support until then. The menu honours Oaxaca with dishes like Hoja Santa Tamal with Mole Negro and Oaxacan chocolate ice cream.

• A recent article in The Bridge News highlights the Toronto Vegetarian Food Bank (TVFB) as a leader in bringing plant-based nutrition to Toronto’s charitable food sector. It details TVFB’s efforts in providing fresh, plant-based groceries and hot meals every Saturday, ensuring food-insecure individuals have access to nutritious options without compromising their dietary beliefs.

  The article emphasizes TVFB’s role in advocating for systemic change, including working with the city to expand plant-based meals in shelters, launching culinary training for chefs, and supporting culturally appropriate plant-based food initiatives. It also showcases TVFB’s involvement in broader city-wide sustainability goals, such as the Cool Food Pledge, and its national campaign, Put Food Banks Out of Business, which calls for long-term solutions to food insecurity.

• Bellona Kitchen is a plant inspired (vegetarian) restaurant known for its comforting, Italian-inspired plant-based dishes and strong sense of community. They have something called the Bellona Club loyalty program that rewards diners with points for every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts on future visits.

  But it’s more than just a rewards program because membership also grants access to weekly vegan cooking classes and exclusive Chef’s Table experiences, where guests can learn directly from the chef in an intimate setting. Passionate about sharing his love for food, the chef often reflects on childhood memories of learning to cook from his nonna, inspiring the hands-on approach of these special events. More info here.

Events:

• Buy One, Get One Free – Famous Burger Combo!

  For the next three weeks, get a free Famous Burger combo (fries + drink) when you buy one, exclusively on Uber Eats. This deal runs from February 25 to March 17, 2025, at participating locations. Terms apply. 🍔🍟🥤

• Great British Vegan Popup at Left Field Brewery

  📅 Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025, 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  📍 Location: Left Field Brewery, 36 Wagstaff Dr. (near Greenwood & Gerrard)

  Enjoy a special British-inspired vegan menu featuring a Full English Breakfast Focaccia ($8), Chick’n Pot Pie with Mash ($15), Sausage Roll ($3), and Sticky Toffee Pudding ($6). Don’t miss this limited-time popup! 🍽️ 🇬🇧

Activism:

• Nobis Protest
  📅 Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  📍 Location: Vaughn Mills Mall
  🎟️ Free event: Animal Rights Toronto

  Stand up against the use of animal fur in fashion by joining this peaceful protest organized by local activists. Your presence can make a difference in promoting cruelty-free clothing choices.

The Toronto Vegan Restaurants Guide 2025

World Vegan News:

• A recent press release projects that the global vegan cheese market will reach USD 11.7 billion by 2032, growing at a 13.2% CAGR. The report attributes this growth to increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness, along with rising demand for plant-based food alternatives. North America currently leads the market due to a strong industry presence and a growing vegan population, while the Asia-Pacific region is expected to see significant expansion. (Note: This is a third-party press release published by The Globe and Mail, not an independently verified news report.)

In the Near Future:

*(more info will come closer to the dates)

• Planted Expo Toronto 2025: Canada's Largest Plant-Based Event
  📅 Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025, 10:00 AM
  📍 Location: Enercare Centre, Toronto 

  🎟️ : Planted Expo Tickets

  Planted Expo Toronto is confirmed for May 10, 2025. Note: There will be no BC edition this year. Discover over 200 plant-based, vegan, and sustainable exhibitors, brands, and services at this family-friendly event. Hear from insightful speakers and explore a variety of products and services.

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