The Riverside area is noticeably becoming more and more upscale. But despite the higher level clientele, there are still very few good quick dining options in the neighbourhood. If you're looking for a quick lunch, there aren't many options beyond the standard fast foods like Subway and Pizza Pizza, and burger joints (albeit good ones) like Dangerous Dans and the Burger Shoppe. I think Jilly's might also have a kitchen.

In order to serve the Riverside community, Chef David Kokai and his wife Kathleen Finlay have opened an innovative new business. With its opening, Loïc Gourmet – more of a takeout store than eatery - far and away destroys all competition in the area. Kokai, who formerly worked at Mercer Street Grill and Sauvignon Bistro, has looked to France for inspiration. Who better to emulate than the French? Even their street food is gourmet!

The idea at Loïc (Pronounced LO-ick), like many places peppering the streets of Paris, is to serve restaurant quality meals specifically made for takeout. The menu includes hot fare like full Rotisserie Chickens (which are fully prepared in the store), classic French onion soup, stuffed tomatoes, and a variety of paninis. You can also get some amazing desserts (think any dessert you've ever had at a French restaurant), marinated olives, pasta sauces, and a variety of dried goods. The fare is offered both fresh and frozen in case you're the type that hates to cook but doesn't want to be stuck with Swanson's TV dinners (i.e. me). If you're close enough to the store, Loïc also delivers.

A surprising amount of care goes into every dish. The store uses only naturally raised meats and chooses local whenever possible. Packaged meals are prepared fresh in the store and are available directly. It's good for you, but bad for the middle man (which is too unfortunate, because I was hoping to go into business as a middle man). Everything is as environmentally friendly as possible. The store will rent mason jars on deposit, and even the paints and Tupperware are biodegradable. It's a refreshing update to the Riverside take away food market. We should know; we work in the area. - R.T.

Opening Friday, October 28

Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM from Monday to Saturday

722 Queen Street East.
Toronto, ON
416-850-8835