Former Buca Chef Justin Friedlich Brings Handmade Pasta to Shay Ristorante
Toronto’s Rosedale neighbourhood has a new Italian dining destination. Shay Ristorante opened on October 1, 2026, at 1055 Yonge Street, bringing freshly made pasta, seasonal dishes and a carefully selected wine collection to the area.
The restaurant is led by executive chef Justin Friedlich, who previously spent nearly a decade at Buca Yorkville. After working as a private chef, Friedlich has returned to Toronto’s restaurant scene with a concept that reflects his approach to Italian cooking.
A Restaurant Inspired by Family
Shay Ristorante is named after Friedlich’s daughter, Shay. The restaurant was created with the idea of making guests feel welcome, combining the comfort of family dining with a modern Italian menu.
The project is a collaboration with Lunaro Hospitality, which worked with designer Michael London to bring the space to life.
Inside, the 89-seat restaurant features warm wood finishes, stone details and views of the kitchen. There is also a private dining room called La Sala, which accommodates up to 16 guests.
What’s on the Menu at Shay Ristorante?
Handmade pasta is a major focus at Shay, with fresh pasta prepared in-house daily.
The menu includes Tajarin al Pomodoro with burrata, tomato and basil, as well as Ravioli di Mare filled with shrimp, scallop and ricotta in a seafood broth.
Other options include Fusilloni alla Vodka with fermented chili and parmesan, and Tagliatelle ai Funghi featuring seasonal mushrooms.
For appetizers, guests can try Supplì al Tonno, made with crispy risotto, tuna crudo and Calabrian chili aioli.
The restaurant also serves seafood, meat dishes and Italian desserts, including Tiramisù Nero made with housemade chocolate savoiardi.
Another feature is Baglio Rocca olive oil from Sicily, which is served with freshly baked focaccia and used in selected dishes.
A New Italian Dining Spot in Rosedale
Beyond the food, Shay offers a wine program curated by Adam Halpern, featuring selections from Italy and other wine-producing regions.
The opening gives Toronto diners another option for handmade pasta and contemporary Italian cuisine in Rosedale.
The restaurant serves dinner Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and is closed on Sundays.
- Location: 1055 Yonge St, Toronto
- Website: https://www.shayristorante.com/
- Instagram: @shayristorante
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Looking for more Italian dining spots in Toronto? Explore Hungry416’s guide to New Italian Restaurants in Toronto, read Streets of Toronto’s feature on Shay Ristorante, or discover Mailo’s The Pasta Project Bringing Street Pasta to Toronto.
