Peanut Gallery Hospitality, the team behind Aleria, Papi Chulo’s, and other local brands, is preparing to introduce two new concepts to Toronto in the coming months.
While the majority-female-operated family-run restaurant group has made lasting impressions with its concepts, owner Nathan Godin is hard at work creating two new eateries, both expected to open by late Spring or early Summer 2025. Little Ese will debut at 875 Queen West, moving into the former home of Noce Restaurant. Papi & Rosita, on the other hand, is set to replace the cannabis dispensary called Bodega at 198 Ossington. While both concepts will feature their identity, they will take reservations when they open. To learn more about these restaurants that will soon land in the area, What Now Toronto spoke with Elena Arsenov, one of the managing members of Peanut Gallery Hospitality.
For Little Ese, customers can expect a lively atmosphere perfect for watching sports or enjoying time on the patio, making it an excellent spot for socializing. The menu is still being finalized, but guests can look forward to fan favorites, hoping that Little Ese becomes the go-to neighborhood hangout.
“The Queen West neighborhood has always been a favorite, and this particular corner, located across from Trinity Bellwoods Park, is always bustling with people during the spring and summer,” Arsenov tells What Now Toronto regarding Little Ese. “When the opportunity to take over this space arose, we were eager to make Little Ese a reality.”
Papi and Rosita will feature a larger venue that maintains the lively atmosphere of Papi Chulos. This new space showcases a unique restaurant design spread across two levels, complete with two bars, making it perfect for larger groups and private events. While the menu is still being finalized, guests can look forward to enjoying tacos, pizza, pasta, and many other favorite dishes. The location was chosen for its proximity to the original Papi Chulos and the vibrant ambiance of the Ossington strip, known for its bustling energy.
While many of these details are still being finalized, it’s an exciting step for Peanut Gallery Hospitality. Godin designs and builds all the concept’s locations, which is impressive, considering he has a great vision for design and always picks great locations. By Summer 2025, the restaurant group will have two more concepts under its portfolio, which already includes a few catering brands, such as Nonna’s Italian and Greek and Co.
