Shuttered Toronto Mexican spot reopens in new location with beer garden

A Toronto restaurant from one of the city’s most well-regarded chefs has just been replaced with a new Mexican restaurant and beer garden.

It was the closure heard around the city when renowned Toronto chef, Anthony Rose, decided to close the doors on Fet Zun, the quasi-sister location to Toronto's much-loved Fat Pasha.

Okay, maybe it wasn't quite that big of a deal, but it still came as a shock to the scores of Annex locals who frequented the restaurant.

Boasting a massive indoor footprint, as well as ample backyard space (which housed Madame Boeuf and Flea, its burger pop-up) and a spacious front patio, the restaurant, despite being open year-round, was particularly a summertime staple.

Lingering dormant since Fet Zun's closure in December of 2024, the question loomed large as to what would replace it for months. What could possibly be worthy of the prized piece of Dupont real estate?

Now, we finally have an answer.

As of June 27, Fet Zun's old location is officially the new home of Casa Mezcal, a buzzy Mexican bar and restaurant that previously operated locations on King West and Church before suddenly closing both down without explanation.

A hub for cheap drinks and good times, Casa Mezcal's revival signals a breath of fresh air for the stretch of Dupont which, let's face it, has felt a little flat ever since Fet Zun left — but there's more to get excited about than just the restaurant's standard offerings of Mexican fare and tropical cocktails.

The new location is also making good use of its outdoor space with Happy's Beer Garden, a brand-new concept centred around highlighting local breweries.

Steadfast, Mascot, Blood Brothers, and Fairweather Breweries are all among the beer offerings, while Reid's Distillery is serving up the spirits. Of course, you'll also be able to nibble on the Mexican bites Casa Mezcal is known for.

We may still be sad about Fet Zun's closure (even though it's been over seven months), but this certainly seems like a pleasing substitute, especially as we find ourselves knee-deep in margarita season.

Casa Mezcal and Happy's Beer Garden can be found at 252 Dupont St.