The history of The Old Spaghetti Factory in Toronto

Well before The Esplanade became one of Toronto's liveliest dining strips, one single restaurant helped lay the foundation for the now-buzzing restaurant row — The Old Spaghetti Factory.

The nostalgic and whimsical institution has been twirling noodles in downtown Toronto at 54 The Esplanade for over 50 years, with a history shaped by visits from legendary Canadian icons, loyal regulars, and generations of family dinners.

The story of the Old Spaghetti Factory begins south of the border in Portland, Oregon, where the original location opened its doors in 1969 in the historic Carriage and Baggage Building.

Soon, the concept crossed the border, but in Canada, the brand took on a unique approach of its own.

The Old Spaghetti Factory in 1978. Photo: City of Toronto Archives.

In August 1971, the Old Spaghetti Factory opened its doors in Toronto in a former blacksmith shop dating back to 1898. While today it's just steps from landmarks like Scotiabank Arena, Union Station, and St. Lawrence Market, the Old Spaghetti Factory originally popped up in a rather quiet part of the city, but its glowing sign and charm slowly helped spark the growth of the restaurant district.

The Old Spaghetti Factory in the 1970s. Photo: Old Spaghetti Factory.

The space was transformed into a 600-seat restaurant complete with European stained glass, antique light fixtures, and even a 100-year-old carousel.

Over the years, not much has changed inside the restaurant, which still boasts a restored streetcar modelled after one that ran near Yonge and King in the early 1900s, as well as a collection of antique furniture and artifacts dating back to the early 1900s that give it a museum-like feel.

One thing that has changed? The prices. Back in the day, all-inclusive meals started at just $1.75, whereas now, an all-inclusive spaghetti with meatballs meal will run you $27 (minus tax and tip).

Photo: Tony Lidstone.

Throughout the 1980s and '90s, the area became known for its nightlife and was dubbed the party block by regulars. Blue Jays players were known to frequent nearby bars, and the Old Spaghetti Factory also became a familiar backdrop to countless dinners out.

One unforgettable guest at the restaurant was Canadian hero, Terry Fox, who dined at the restaurant during his Marathon of Hope in 1980. "He came in, motorcade and all. They took over the whole area," recalled manager Marty Galin.

The restaurant's streetcar being reassembled in 1971. Photo: Old Spaghetti Factory.

After speaking at Nathan Phillips Square, Fox arrived at the restaurant and ordered steak and spaghetti, with an extra plate of spaghetti on the side.

"It's like, buddy, you can get whatever you want," recalled server Bruce Tubbe, who added that he became fiercely protective of the national icon when people started asking him for his autograph.

Photo: Hector Vasquez.

"I was like, 'No! Leave him alone. Just leave him alone, he's eating, okay?"" he said.

Photo: Hector Vasquez.

Although the restaurant has undergone various exterior changes throughout the years, one thing that's stayed true to its character is the large neon sign on top of the building, which continues to lure in hungry tourists and regulars without fail.