When you are driving downtown today, keep a lookout for Longo’s — the iconic grocery chain’s latest venture opens its doors to the public this morning.
The flagship store, the 23th in the company’s roster, is located at Maple Leaf Square, located right in the heart of the Toronto Lakeshore district, literally a stone’s throw from the ACC. This is Longo’s first full format store and they’ve pulled out all the bells and whistles, starting with 48,000 square feet of pure grocery glee to nosh through, not to mention a place to park yourself to enjoy a glass of local beer or wine, coffee and free WiFi. It has the makings of the hottest meeting spot, in close proximity to the city’s top entertainment arenas.
But, true to its roots, this new Longo’s will still be offering all the great goods that has made it such a beloved food institute in its own right.
“We’re really excited to become a part of the Maple Leaf Square community and bring our concept of a fresh tradition to the downtown core, “ says Anthony Longo, CEO of the company, during a pre-opening tour yesterday.
“We signed the deal for this location five years ago, and we’ve invested a lot of time and research into the development of this store to ensure that our urban customers needs are not only going to be made but exceeded.”
Times ten. We spotted tons of unusual and exciting food finds, including excellent meals to go — or eat right there. The Corks Beer and Wine Bar features locally craft-made beers and wines all from Ontario. Plus the Loft Lounge is one of the coziest environments around. Cooking classes will also be offered, along with cooking demonstrations.
Shoppers can take advantage of a myriad of delicious goodies, including gourmet pizza, made on site, hardwood smoked meats and fish, a chocolatier, in-store tortilleria and chapatti maker and over 300 types of cheeses.
One item which caught my eye was the famous Kopi Luwak coffee — made from the beans of coffee berries which have been eaten by the Asian Palm Civet (looks like a big cat).
It’s an interesting cycle on how the berries get from the animal’s stomach to a steaming cup of joe, but it does involve passing through the animal’s digestive tract and, then, after careful gathering of the beans (very careful gathering) and thorough washing, sun drying, light roasting and brewing, yields an incredibly tasty coffee.
And expensive — the most expensive coffee in the world: At $44 for 80 grams (or roughly $11 per cup), it’s now available at this Longo’s!
Regardless of its new haute address, prices are good and comparable — plus parking while you’re shopping is free if you spend a minimum of $30, which is a major bonus in this town.
“This is our flagship store and we want to make everyone feel welcome,” notes Dave Mastroieni, v-p of operations. “It’s what we’re all about.”
For more info, check out Longos.com. And definitely pop in for a visit — you’re in for a real treat.
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