hose in the food and beverage industry will tell you that the most important thing about opening a new spot is the proverbial location, location, location. So, after a long run of its original location, Fat Cat turns the conceit on its ear by adding a new Fat Cat too, of all places, the Roncesvalles Village.

In September, Chef Matthew Sutherland and partner Sous-Chef Amanda Ford became the newest members to the Roncesvalles strip. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Sutherland’s premier resto on Eglinton Avenue, Fat Cat Bar & Bistro, has been a cult favourite for years. Four and a half years, to be exact, and Sutherland - not hesitating to pause or rewind when things get tired - felt it was time to shake things up and start another project.

Sutherland used to frequent the wine bar (Idoru) that previously occupied the space. When he found out that they were closing up shop, Sutherland stepped in. Along with Ford, they felt that this was a perfect opportunity to do something perfect for the area.

“I love this neighbourhood and what it needed was a good restaurant,” says the confidently laid-back chef of 20 years. “I felt it was time to start something new and it was time for a challenge. I wanted to create something intimate and friendly.” It might sound cliché, but FCWB has actually done that.