omaw toronto

Popular Toronto restaurant abruptly closes after four years

After four years on Ossington, while revellers around them celebrated the new year, Omaw quietly closed its doors. Their last service was on January 31, 2019.

It seems that the concept of elevated Southern sharing plates wasn't clicking with the neighbourhood, according to chef Adrian Niman.

Those who are fans of the Food Dudes concepts (which Omaw and Niman are a part of) need not worry about the space changing over into entirely different hands, however. 

Apparently a back area, which has most recently been used for DJ nights and similar events, is going to be converted into another Blondies space.

This will be their third location after a Commerce Court spot that's slated to open soon, the original location found in Leslieville. Food Dudes is also known for sibling restaurants Rasa and Sara.

With an aim to open Blondies on Ossington this summer, it's uncertain for now whether the street-facing part of the restaurant will also be part of a large, expanded Blondies, or if there will be a collaborator or other concept taking up the reins in that area.

Lead photo by

Hector Vasquez


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Latest in Eat & Drink

Famed Belgian chocolatier soon opening first Toronto location

Toronto smash burger pop-up is taking over restaurants and causing chaos

Here's what Tyra Banks just ordered from popular Toronto ice cream shop

Toronto grocery store to close permanently on Christmas Eve 2026

Toronto resident finds nail in Costco chicken sparking wave of complaints

Popular Toronto restaurant closing permanently as rising costs 'stopped mathing'

Here's where Toronto's first Dunkin' location in nearly a decade is opening

Viral Toronto cafe known for creative drinks opening second location