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A few years ago Alan Bekerman was working in finance and realized it was more than difficult to pick up a good, healthy meal for lunch. So he did what any rational person would do: he quit his job and opened up a successful take-out restaurant that would offer the financial district wholesome options that didn’t sacrifice on quality or taste. (Sure, it’s only rational because it was successful but we’re very fond of the power of hindsight). Fast forward a few years and we’re here to tell you about the opening of IQ’s third location at 18 York St. aka PwC Tower.
First off, if you don’t already know, IQ’s about smoothies, snacks, and boxes. They offer an overwhelming selection of both vegan and gluten-free options that will help power you through your day. The Raging Bowl (avocado, spinach, kale, celery, green apple, spirulina, lemon, agave, banana, goji, unsweetened coconut, bee pollen + seed crunch cluster) is a perfect way to start your morning while taking on The Stinger (ginger, lemon, pineapple, buckwheat, turmeric, flax, honey, bee pollen, coconut mylk) in the afternoon will leave you feeling refreshed and energetic.
The boxes, including Cobb off Guard (oven roasted chicken, goat cheese, red radish, pickled onions, cranberries, toasted pecans + pomegranate vinaigrette on mesclun) and Evolve (oven roasted salmon, edamame, roasted sweet potato, apple, lightly pickled cucumbers, watermelon radish, hemp heart gomashio, mizuna + organic tamari ginger vinaigrette on brown rice) will fill you up with all the healthy eats you can handle and are a hell of a better option for your body than most of the other choices you’ll find in the area.
But while the same quality food can be found in their newest location, it’s the layout that offers something different. Although primarily a take-out spot, this IQ can seat nearly 30, offers black ash wood finishes, and plenty of natural light. You’ll find no red here, which is strange considering that IQ’s logo is red, but as Bekerman says, “the experience matches the neighbourhood.” It was his idea to make the space reflective of its position in the city, and as separate in concept from its sister restaurants as possible. Perhaps this is why this location is putting a heavy emphasis on coffee (using exclusively 49th Parallel Roasters) and why it will have a patio as soon as spring officially decides to arrive.
With the latest IQ slated for a full opening next Monday, Toronto finally has a restaurant within easy walking distance of both the ACC and the Rogers Centre that offers you a healthy alternative to a $5 hotdog. ‘Cause if you’re going to sit and drink beer for a few hours, it might be a smart decision to start your body off with something real first. It’s not called IQ for nothing.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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