Le Pain Quotidien
Photo: BizBash
Belgian chef Alain Coumont, founder of Le Pain Quotidien—the successful bakery-café network that began in Belgium 17 years ago—opened his first Canadian location at 508 Eglinton Avenue West with a cocktail reception on Wednesday. The restaurant, which features hardwood floors, exposed-brick walls, and a large stone fireplace, officially opens to the public on April 9. The casual eatery, which has more than 80 locations in 14 countries, is known for its fresh-baked breads. "Everything evolves around the bread. Le Pain Quotidien is a bakery where you can eat. It's not a restaurant where you can buy bread," said Coumont, who was in town to conduct media interviews and to attend the opening party.
The dining room, which has space for 82 people, includes a long communal table that seats 24 as well as several smaller tables. "When we opened the first restaurant in Brussels, we had only one table. This is the masterpiece in our restaurants," Coumont said. "It's a standard for us." Additional locations set to open this year include 18 Yorkville Avenue, two sites in the Royal Bank Plaza, and a location in Thornhill. Catering is available. The bakery, open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., is also available for private bookings.
The dining room, which has space for 82 people, includes a long communal table that seats 24 as well as several smaller tables. "When we opened the first restaurant in Brussels, we had only one table. This is the masterpiece in our restaurants," Coumont said. "It's a standard for us." Additional locations set to open this year include 18 Yorkville Avenue, two sites in the Royal Bank Plaza, and a location in Thornhill. Catering is available. The bakery, open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., is also available for private bookings.
