Item - 2024.TE12.66

The Toronto and East York Community Council recommends that:

1. When Ambassador Pizza applies for a sidewalk café permit for the 2024 summer café season in relation to the establishment at 946 Bloor Street West, City Council exempt that application from the notice requirements in section 742-2.3 and the objection provisions in sections 742-3.2A(2) and 742-4.3B(2) in City of Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 742, Sidewalk Cafes, Parklets and Marketing Displays.

Ambassador Pizza, located at 946 Bloor Street West, opened shop as a small pizza pick-up location in our Bloorcourt Village area in early 2021. Ambassador Pizza’s success and strong local support resulted in their expansion to the connecting property with investments in beautifying an existing sidewalk café patio, which has been in place since 2014.

Since its opening and expansion, Ambassador Pizza has contributed significantly to the vibrancy and growth of the area. They have served as an important partner in providing free meals to agencies and groups servicing unhoused residents – speaking to their commitment to the wider community.

Ambassador Pizza received notice in late 2023 that the sidewalk patio they inherited that same year was not permitted. The owners have actively worked with City staff and my office to secure the proper permits to operate, including by removing structures not in compliance with patio rules. Given the circumstances of this unique challenge and Ambassador Pizza’s continued cooperation, it is vital we support this local business as patio season nears.