Toronto Gets Second Brasserie Côté
A second location of ultra-popular Toronto French restaurant Brasserie Côté is officially open, cementing Toronto's status as a hub for international cuisine and Instagram-worthy dining. The expansion reflects growing demand for chic French dining experiences in the city. The original location built a strong following for its authentic atmosphere and photogenic dishes.
The new Brasserie Côté is a venture from restaurateur Teo Paul and Eamon O'Dea, the long-time manager of the original Côte de Bœuf on Ossington. Paul is a well-known figure in Toronto's food scene, also being the force behind the popular restaurants Union and Le Tambour in Hamilton. The second location takes over a historic spot at 400 Bloor Street West, formerly home to the By the Way Café, a neighborhood staple for over 40 years. This new space in the Annex is a significant expansion, offering more room than the famously intimate, "elbow-to-elbow" atmosphere of the original butcher-shop-turned-bistro. Diners can expect a 1920s Paris-inspired interior, featuring a zinc-topped bar, a vintage chandelier, arched mirrors, and rich burgundy banquettes. A key feature of the new location is a large outdoor terrace, aiming to bring a vibrant "patio culture" to the corner of Bloor and Brunswick. While the menu retains beloved classics from Côte de Bœuf like steak frites and beef tartare, it is set to expand. The vision for Brasserie Côté is to eventually offer all-day service, including breakfast and lunch, a departure from the original's dinner-focused menu. The restaurant officially began its soft opening on Friday, March 6, 2026. For the remainder of March, it is open with limited hours from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, operating on a walk-in-only basis.
