Honey Soul Food, a Mississauga-based Southern American soul food restaurant, is opening its first Toronto location this summer at 907 Dundas Street West.
The new restaurant, called The Hive by Honey Soul Food, will take over the former home of Saving Grace, a brunch spot that operated for 25 years and closed permanently in February 2025, according to BlogTO. Owners Chanée and Jason expect to open the new restaurant in mid-to-late August 2025, though an exact date has not yet been announced. Customers can expect the same delicious comfort food that is found at the company’s original location.
Honey Soul Food has been operating in Mississauga at 5977 Dixie Road since 2021. It is known for its cornbread and classic comfort food staples, including fried chicken, wings, fried shrimp, Cajun-battered Jack’D Up Chicken Sandwiches, and jumbo shrimp po’ boys. The Toronto location will offer these signature items, along with a reimagined menu that includes new variations of their cornbread. The owners have expressed enthusiasm about joining the Trinity Bellwoods community as they expand their brand into downtown Toronto.
Honey Soul Food is co-owned by Chanée Dowdie and Jason Martelly-McLean, both of whom bring a strong focus on community empowerment to the business. Chanée, the founder, is originally from Rexdale and leads the restaurant’s vision with a mission to break generational poverty through mentorship, entrepreneurship, and innovative food experiences. The business is halal-certified and offers catering, featuring a menu that combines elements of Southern and Caribbean cuisines. Jason, originally from Montreal and raised in Rexdale, leverages his background in HR and marketing to support the brand’s growth. He is committed to building sustainable programs that uplift underserved communities through entrepreneurship.
