Gone are the days where you’re to expect hot dogs, french fries, and pizzas to satisfy your appetite as you take in a Leafs game, or enjoy the music of your favourite artist. In fact, I remember on multiple occasions when I specifically pre-planned my dinners at a restaurant before heading over to Scotiabank Arena (previously known as the Air Canada Centre), because I knew the food offerings there would not be anything I would be interested in eating. Well that’s about to change!
With full capacity now being allowed back at Scotiabank Arena after going two years of empty seats due to Covid-19 restrictions, Scotiabank Arena has announced the addition of new concession stands for the 2021-2022 season as it continues to innovate its culinary experiences for fans. This addition is the most exciting culinary advancement Scotiabank Arena has ever done, because not only are they not relying solely on the past concession stand offerings that were arguably bland and boring, they have now partnered with celebrated and popular Toronto chefs and restaurants to curate a concession lineup that will be reminiscent of a Toronto dining experience.
“With many businesses continuing to face challenges during this time, especially the restaurant industry, we wanted to help provide an opportunity for local Toronto restaurateurs to share their mouth-watering offerings with our fans,” says Chris Zielinski, Culinary Director, MLSE. “Together with our familiar go-to spots and new additions, Scotiabank Arena’s concession selection continues to defy the traditional idea of arena food and create exceptional culinary experiences for our fans.”
From authentic Mexican cuisine, to true Central Texas flavours, and even Michelin star worthy dishes and Chefs, Scotiabank Arena’s new concession lineup offers distinct global flavours with local appeal for everyone.
Check out below what you’ll expect to eat the next time you’re there!
Aloette (Event Level, Section 105)
A concept restaurant of the famed Alo Restaurant, Aloette brings Chef Patrick Kriss’ Michelin Star cuisine to the arena that he’s been serving since Alo’s inception in 2017. The parent restaurant was named one of the world’s top 100 restaurants. A top item includes poached shrimp rolls with buttery brioche as well as their famous lemon pie wedge.
Colibri (100 Level, Section 119)
Helmed by Top Chef Canada and Top Chef Mexico competitor Chef Elia Herrera, Colibri’s menu is inspired by generations of true Mexican flavours from the city of Cordoba. Chef Herrera is also known for her restaurant Los Colibris within Toronto’s bustling King West area at Chef’s Hall. Menu highlights include a variety of tacos such as Shrimp a la Diabla, Pork Carnitas, and Mushroom al Pastor as well as Nachos Los Colibri.
Cheese Boutique (100 Level, Section 104)
Canada’s only Maitre Fromager, Afrim Pristine, brings new offerings this year to the stand bearing the same name of his venerable cheese store with roots in Toronto for nearly half a century. Pristine is also known for his television show, Cheese: A Love Story, currently airing on the Food Network and Amazon Prime. Menu highlights include the Classic Mac with a new twist of freshly grated Beemster Gouda and Bianco Mac featuring a creamy blend of Mozzarella, aged Canadian white cheddar, and Emmenthal.
Cherry Street BBQ (300 Level Draught Deck, Section 313)
Toronto’s original pit master Lawrence La Pianta brings the award-winning flavours of Cherry Street BBQ to the arena. In addition to running this popular destination for Central Texas-style smoke, La Pianta has won several BBQ competitions both north and south of the border. Menu highlights include a smoked brisket sandwich, BBQ pulled pork sandwich, and burnt ends chili cheese fries.
Leela’s (100 Level, Section 110)
A staple in Missisauga and Scarborough, Annie and Asif Khan are bringing the 12 year-old roti and doubles destination to the arena. The establishment has been proudly passed down in the Leela and Nandkisson Mahase family and serves traditional spicy Trinidadian cuisine at several locations in the GTA. Menu highlights include Leela’s Special Curry Beef Roti, Jerk Chicken Roti, and Trinidadian Doubles.
Noodle Bao (100 Level, Section 107)
As a response to fans’ requests for baos and noodle dishes, MLSE’s culinary team developed Noodle Bao to bring exciting flavours to fans, with gluten free and vegan options also available. Menu highlights include Pork Belly Bao, Shaved Beef Bao, Beef and Broccoli Noodles, and Chicken Peanut Noodles.
