Proper, a New York-style Italian American restaurant, is set to open in Toronto at 392 Roncesvalles Avenue.
The new restaurant will take over the former La Cubana space in January 2026, according to Toronto Life. Owner Michael Edwards, who is new to the restaurant industry, is behind the concept, along with Chef/Partner Julien Cawagas, known for his work at Eataly and Giulietta. He will bring his expertise to Proper’s menu, which blends traditional Italian American dishes with refined execution. Customers can expect a late-night, buzzy vibe, offering family-style dishes with a modern twist, designed to bring new energy to the neighborhood.
Proper’s menu will feature showy mains, a variety of pasta dishes, and antipasti, such as clams on toast with sourdough,’ nduja, white wine, and fennel. Cawagas’s menu is deeply influenced by his Italian and Filipino family background, particularly Sunday family meals with his nonna and nonno. The concept aims to celebrate these culinary traditions with an elevated, approachable menu.
Cocktails at Proper will be crafted by Jen Neabel, formerly of Est and Alchemy. The drink menu will include both classic and seasonal cocktails, alongside a wine list focusing exclusively on regional Italian wines. Accessible pricing and by-the-glass options will make the selection suitable for all customers.
The interior of Proper will incorporate elements of La Cubana, such as turquoise subway tile and mosaic flooring, while introducing new features like reupholstered burnt-umber velvet banquettes, vintage chairs from the ’60s and ’70s, and light fixtures sourced from Italy. The restaurant’s design is aimed at creating a vibrant, inviting atmosphere that complements the lively neighborhood.
Initially, Proper will be open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, with plans to expand to weekend lunch and coffee service. A spring/summer menu will introduce soft-serve ice cream with rotating daily flavors. Edwards envisions Proper as a place to bring more evening energy to Roncesvalles, inspired by nearby areas like Dundas West, Queen West, and Ossington, but without trying to replicate them.
