The Lunch Lady, a celebrated Saigon-born Vietnamese restaurant with connections to Anthony Bourdain, will open its doors in Toronto at 93 Ossington Avenue.
The company’s second location, following its flagship Vancouver location, is set to move into the former home of Boehmer, according to a press release sent to What Now Toronto from the company. The restaurant marks its second Canadian location, following its success in Vancouver, earning three consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmand awards. The grand opening event will occur at 5:00 PM on June 3, 2025.
The grand opening will feature the restaurant’s visionary team, including owner Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh, the original Lunch Lady, who Anthony Bourdain famously immortalized on his show No Reservations. This opening brings her beloved street food legacy to a new audience in Toronto, offering a modern yet nostalgic take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
The Lunch Lady Toronto blends tradition with creativity, guided by Chef Benedict Lim, who brings over 20 years of experience in hospitality. Chef Lim, alongside Chef de Cuisine Allan Lu, ensures that the restaurant’s menu respects the roots of Vietnamese cuisine while incorporating a contemporary flair. Chef Lu, known for his work at Chotto Matte and Cactus Club Toronto, draws from his Vietnamese heritage to bring unique dishes to the Toronto location.
The menu follows the “80/20 philosophy”—80% traditional and 20% creative expression. Signature dishes include the famous noodle soups, the Steak Lúc Lắc (caramelized ribeye with charred scallion butter), and interactive plates reflecting Vietnam’s rich culinary identity. One standout dish exclusive to Toronto is the Nui Xào Bò, a short rib rigatoni that embodies the balance between tradition and innovation.
The Lunch Lady Toronto will offer a unique dining experience with its dual-concept approach. During the day, the space will honor Ms. Thanh’s original lunch-only noodle stall, featuring daily soup specials. At night, the restaurant transforms into a vibrant hub of Saigonese street food, inspired by the bustling night markets of Vietnam.
In addition to its food, The Lunch Lady Toronto features a cocktail program that highlights bold, unexpected flavors inspired by Vietnam’s street culture. Cocktails incorporate tamarind, pandan, lychee, and tropical fruits infused with phở spices. Exclusive to the Toronto location, the wine list features a curated selection of Ontario-sourced wines. At the same time, the restaurant has also partnered with local craft breweries, Rainhard and Steadfast, to create exclusive beers on tap. Guests can enjoy creations like the Rainhard x Lunch Lady Jasmine Rice Lager and the Steadfast x Lunch Lady Dragon Fruit Pale Ale.
The restaurant also boasts an exclusive Vietnamese coffee program, with drinks like the Spiced Saigon Latte and peanut butter-infused cà phê sữa đá, offering a modern twist on beloved classics.
The design of The Lunch Lady Toronto takes inspiration from Saigon’s vibrant, dynamic streets. The space, created in collaboration with award-winning design agency SOLID Design Creative, reflects the energy of Vietnam’s backstreets, complete with hand-painted signage, lush greenery, and tactile materials. The design includes custom iron gates, vintage-inspired awnings, and a suspended canopy that pays homage to Vietnam’s iconic cyclo bicycle taxis.
The restaurant seats 140 guests across various areas, each capturing a unique aspect of Vietnamese culture. Every space tells a story through its design and ambiance, from the lively Main Dining Room to the intimate Rickshaw Lounge. A private dining room, the Saigon Supper Room, accommodates up to 20 guests and features a mirrored artwork that evokes the vibrant spirit of Saigon.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh, the heart and soul of The Lunch Lady, will visit Toronto for the grand opening, marking a special moment in the restaurant’s history. Her enduring influence, combined with the legacy she shares with the late Chef Anthony Bourdain, continues to shape the restaurant’s approach to hospitality and cooking. The philosophy of “một nhà, một gia đình” (one house, one family) remains at the core of The Lunch Lady’s ethos, fostering a welcoming environment for both guests and staff.
The Lunch Lady Toronto promises an unforgettable culinary journey that honors the rich history of Vietnamese street food while embracing modern interpretations and local flavors. Be sure to mark your calendars for the grand opening on June 3, 2025, and experience The Lunch Lady’s legacy in the heart of Ossington.
