CLOSURE: Pusateri’s is permanently closing two of their locations in Toronto

Boutique grocery store chain Pusateri’s just sent out a newsletter to customers informing them that two of their locations are permanently closing.

The chain is known for their gourmet offerings with departments for artisanal meats, cheeses, seafood, produce and prepared foods, with an emphasis on Italian products. The store’s founder originally came to Toronto from Sicily, and Pusateri’s has more than 50 years of history behind it.

Now, they’ve sent a letter letting people know they’ll be downsizing their operations.

“Regrettably we announce the difficult decision to permanently close our Bayview Village & Little Italy locations and to consolidate our business at our flagship Avenue Road store. We are deeply affected by these decisions, but we are confident restructuring is the necessary step to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of our brand. Pusateri’s Eaton Center will also remain open in a limited capacity as a food service-only operation,” reads the note signed by Ida Pusateri and family.

“It’s important to note, Pusateri’s Avenue Road will not be negatively impacted by this restructuring. On the contrary, these steps are being taken to ensure our long term success, allowing for a clearer focus on providing you with a winning customer experience of exceptional quality products and service. To that end, we understand this is disappointing news for you, our customers, community, and our team, and wherever possible we are accommodating our employees with new positions at Pusateri’s Avenue Road.”

The Little Italy location actually had yet to open, and Pusateri’s had been teasing the new spot with exciting updates telling customers about what they’d been working on for so long.

“It’s time to introduce you to Cosimo’s & Cosi, the secret project we’ve been working on for nearly two years! Cosi, the mascot of our new food experience, Cosimo’s, debuts at Pusateri’s Little Italy,” reads one post.

“More than a cafe or a hot table, Cosimo’s is a mix of hot prepared foods assembled fresh to order, grab-and-go prepared meals, snacks, pastries & coffee. From breakfast through lunch and dinner, you’ll find a fresh meal at Cosimo’s to dine-in or take-away.”

The Little Italy store has been listed as “Coming in 2024” on the Pusateri’s website and originally had signage up at the College Street location saying they were opening summer 2023.

“Little Italy will not open in response to ongoing financial pressures impacting business operations, and higher, unsustainable operational costs,” Paolo Pusateri tells YourCityWithIN.com.

“Pusateri’s has consolidated our operations, including catering, into our flagship Avenue Road location, in effort to preserve value and maintain our premium service.”

Pusateri’s also recently closed their Yorkville location after over 20 years.

The Bayview Village location has permanently closed effective immediately.