maximes toronto

Toronto restaurant that opened with huge hype has closed and been replaced

A Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant in Toronto known for its vegetarian menu and airy open kitchen has permanently closed, and it's already been replaced by a new business. 

Shook, previously located at 77 Portland St., drew inspiration from the open-air markets in Israel, also known as a "shuk," and cooked its dishes over an open fire using a hand-laid wood-burning hearth and charcoal grill. 

On the menu, you'd find a variety of dips including whipped feta, muhammara, labneh, and large mains like red or green shakshouka, mujadara, and eggplant and mushroom kebab.

The plant-based restaurant has now been replaced by Maxime's, a swanky new restaurant that specializes in steak, seafood, and signature cocktails. 

Starters at this Parisian nightlife-inspired restaurant include market-priced oysters, salmon crudo, ahi tuna carpaccio, lobster ceviche, and jumbo shrimp cocktail for $45. 

On the menu, you'll also find a variety of made-to-share mains, including spicy vodka rigatoni, grilled lobster, and lamb rack. 

Prime steaks at the restaurant are made using a house-made steak spice and are aged for 28 days. The cheapest steak on the menu is a two-ounce Japanese A5 wagyu, that will still run you $55. 

There's also no shortage of boozy drinks on the menu to keep your meal company. The house martini is poured tableside and includes some theatrical dry ice for a dramatic sipping experience. 

Maxime's is located at 77 Portland St. and is open seven days a week from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. 

Lead photo by

Hector Vasquez


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Eat & Drink

40 essential ice cream in Toronto you need to try at least once

New drink festival coming to Toronto is proof that people are drinking less booze these days

Drama around Toronto corner store that may close over mystery complaint continues

U.S. Costco shoppers jealous of food court items only available in Canada

Toronto dessert shop is permanently closing and owner pens heartfelt goodbye

Here's how grocery prices measure up in France vs. Canada

10 farms to pick your own fruit and vegetables near Toronto

Fruta Libre is giving away free food in Toronto this week