It’s officially the end of an era for the Kensington Market fixture, Amadeu’s Restaurant, which has permanently closed its doors following 36 years in Toronto.
The restaurant, formerly located at 184 Augusta Ave., has been serving up comforting Portuguese food since 1989, and is well known for its lively patio that overlooks the market.
On Tuesday, the restaurant announced the heartbreaking closure in a note to their “valued patrons and cherished staff” on Facebook.
“As we prepare to close the doors of Amadeus Restaurant after 36 years, we find ourselves filled with a mix of gratitude and nostalgia. It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to an era that has been marked not only by exceptional culinary experiences but also by the relationships we have built along the way,” the announcement reads.
“To our loyal patrons, many of whom have become more like family than customers. Thank you for your unwavering support throughout the years. Your presence at our tables has brought warmth and joy to our establishment. We have shared countless celebrations, milestones, and even moments of comfort during challenging times. Each visit has contributed to the tapestry of memories that we will cherish forever.”
The owners expressed appreciation for their staff, both past and present, noting that their dedication to working late nights and creating comforting meals created a “welcoming home” for all those who walked through the restaurant’s doors.
“As we close this chapter, we are reminded of the laughter shared, the tears shed, and the joy that filled our dining room. While it saddens us to say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that the memories we’ve created together will live on in our hearts,” the announcement continued.
“We will miss each and every one of you. Thank you for being part of our journey and for supporting us through the years. We are forever grateful for the love and loyalty you have shown.”
Loyal customers immediately took to the comment section of the post to express their gratitude for the restaurant’s staff.
“Noooo, I’ve been going here for decades, often. My neighbours. I remember when the tree was planted. Family indeed. I’ll miss this little refuge very much,” one person wrote.
In a separate note, the owners highlighted the ability of the restaurant to make people like they were at their “home away from home” and connect diverse customers through food.
“This wasn’t just about being a restaurant in the City of Toronto, but rather a family within the community of Kensington Market, the post reads.
“The old times keep rolling, but we never forget because our stories are told through our history! One door has closed, but the good times and memories will last forever. Thank you!”
