Cafe ZUZU, an all-day cafe known for its Italian-inspired menu, is transforming into a pizzeria in Toronto at 555 Dundas Street East, in the Regent Park and East End neighborhood.
The new rebranded concept will replace the existing Cafe ZUZU space, with the relaunch scheduled for November 14, according to the Streets of Toronto. Owned and operated by Gusto 54 Restaurant Group, led by CEO Janet Zuccarini, the revamped concept will continue to offer approachable dining for the local community while introducing a new focus on 16-inch pizzas featuring both traditional and inventive flavors. Customers can expect a combination of familiar cafe offerings and new pizza-centric dishes.
Cafe ZUZU Pizzeria will maintain the lively, welcoming atmosphere of the original cafe, with indoor and outdoor seating, a private dining space, and an expanded retail and bottle shop. The change reflects Gusto 54 Restaurant Group’s broader focus on creating approachable, community-oriented dining experiences across Toronto. The restaurant aims to serve families, residents, and visitors with a menu that balances Italian classics with creative new options.
Chef Elio Zannoni, who serves as both executive chef and pizzaiolo, will lead the kitchen. Zannoni’s expertise will ensure that the pizzas, including Margherita, Truffle & Mushroom, and Ragù varieties, meet the standards of traditional Italian preparation while incorporating inventive twists. Other menu offerings will include Italian favorites such as Fettuccine Alfredo, Spicy Vodka Rigatoni, garlic shrimp, and fried calamari.
Desserts at the new pizzeria will feature items like New York–style cheesecake with Lambrusco cherries and panettone bread pudding. Beverages will include all-day espresso, spritzes, and tableside martinis, continuing the cafe’s tradition of versatile daytime and evening service.
“ZUZU has always been about connection, warmth, and food that feeds the soul,” Zuccarini tells the Streets of Toronto. “Evolving into Café ZUZU Pizzeria just feels right – it’s our way of giving people more of that they already love, with that same Italian Nonna spirit and a little more fun at every table.”
