Toronto’s Ascari Enoteca closes after 14 years, Fangio Trattoria steps in
After 14 years at 1111 Queen St. E., Italian restaurant Ascari Enoteca has closed. The Leslieville spot, known for its pasta dishes and neighbourhood feel, quietly shut down in late spring 2025. The decision came down to financial strain, particularly debt repayment, according to Streets of Toronto. Ascari had built a loyal following over the years and was often highlighted by outlets like OpenTable and Now Magazine for its consistent menu and casual setting.
Fangio Trattoria will take over the location
Taking over the space is Fangio Trattoria, a new restaurant that plans to carry forward much of what Ascari built. Its name pays tribute to Argentine Formula 1 driver Juan Manuel Fangio, a contemporary and friendly rival of Italian driver Alberto Ascari, Ascari Enoteca’s namesake.
In a statement on its Facebook page, the Fangio team said the concept is meant to honour what came before. “We wanted to respect the foundation that was here before us,” the post said. The approach includes keeping many familiar elements that regulars will recognize.
Part of a bigger shift in Leslieville
The change comes during a busy period for the neighbourhood’s food scene. Over the past year, long-standing names like Leslieville Pumps and Samaira’s Kitchen have also closed, while new restaurants such as Ramona’s Kitchen and Soy Boys have opened in their place. Fangio Trattoria is taking a different path, keeping the style and layout of Ascari Enoteca largely intact instead of overhauling the space.
No opening date yet
The team behind Fangio Trattoria has not shared an official opening date. Locals can follow the restaurant’s Facebook page for updates as the space gets ready to welcome diners.
Leslieville has seen many changes over the past year, and news that Ascari Enoteca closed is another reminder of the shifting restaurant scene. Fangio Trattoria’s plan to build on the existing concept instead of starting fresh could be reassuring for residents who appreciate a sense of continuity.
More…
- https://www.streetsoftoronto.com/food/restaurants/one-of-torontos-favourite-italian-restaurants-just-closed-its-doors/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g155019-d2662509-Reviews-Ascari_Enoteca-Toronto_Ontario.html
- https://www.ascari.ca/
- https://www.hungry416.com/hungry-416-recognized-as-one-of-the-top-30-ontario-food-blogs-in-2025/
