Photo: hanabusacafe on Instagram 

Whether travelling to the 6ix this spring for a quick adventure or scouting out new local spots to indulge in this season, Toronto has no shortage of eateries that will add some zest into your life. As we say goodbye to the hearty meals of winter and hello to the fresh and colourful dishes of spring, Toronto is welcoming a host of new restaurants to add to its dynamic and diverse culinary scene. From soul food to foreign delicacies, the bustling city has gathered menu inspiration from around the coast. Kick start your spring cleaning and add a dash of spice into your diet with Toronto’s flavourful global mix of influences. Here’s a few new and up and coming restaurant openings to keep in mind in the (hopefully) sun-filled weeks ahead.        

Hanabusa Café

Paving the way for the next big food trend in Toronto, Hanabusa Café is a Japanese inspired restaurant serving authentic soufflé pancakes. Hanabusa has just opened in Kensington Market, and is  dedicated to delivering the finest floral art to its customers. Its open window kitchen is intended to provide a customized experienced, while their homemade sauces are said to customize the pancake experience. Their signature dishes include the Taro Pancake, Matcha Pancake and Jasmine Tea Pancake.

Blondies Pizza

Blondies Pizza is the latest innovation from the founders of The Food Dudes, which is a Toronto catering company, food truck guru and restaurant group responsible for the well-loved Rasa, Pantry and Omaw. Expected to open this May in Leslieville, with a second location to follow in the Financial District this fall, Blondies Pizza is said to offer the same level of distinctiveness as their other endeavors. While most of the menu is still kept under wraps, foodies can expect to get their daily dose of cheese from their three-day fermented dough served in pink boxes, with some gelato on the side to satisfy the inevitable sweet tooth craving.

Chica’s Nashville Hot Chicken

Toronto is welcoming some Nashville inspired flavours to the city this May with the grand opening of Chica’s Nashville Hot Chicken. Taking over the former home of Concourse Restaurant at Keele and Dundas, Chica’s has secured a prized location in Toronto’s west end. Offering the ultimate indulgence of fried chicken and other southern inspired noms, Torontonians are welcome to feast on Southern comfort foods without venturing out of the 6ix.