Beaujolais brawl: Will granting a liquor licence to J.P. Challet’s Harbord Street bistro bring down the neighbourhood?
It’s unusual to see a Toronto councillor acting against the wishes of his constituents, especially with an election looming, but it seems as if Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone has chosen that lonely path. As we first reported in July, the issue concerns the liquor licence for Ici, the 22-seat bistro that renowned chef and educator J.P. Challet and his partners hope to open at the corner of Harbord Street and Manning Avenue, where their catering business is already operational.
It’s a fairly sketchy strip with several schools close by, and when Challet first applied for his licence, he encountered a few objections from locals. Ten years ago, an 18-year-old was stabbed to death in the video arcade that stood on the property, and the neighbourhood has opposed several liquor licence applications since then. But Challet won them over. An upscale bistro, he argued, would not pose a danger to residents or a temptation to schoolchildren. Indeed, drug dealers who hang around that “dead stretch” of Harbord after dark would be discouraged by a busy, well-lit bistro on the corner. Ici could even become a seed bringing other respectable businesses into the area.
Convinced by these arguments, more than 250 neighbours signed a petition supporting Challet’s application. The Palmerston Area Residents’ Association also got on board. At the moment, only Joe Pantalone, councillor for Ward 19, and a handful of others object. He has ignored repeated invitations to meet with Challet or to visit the bistro. Instead, he has tabled a Motion Without Notice, bringing in the city’s lawyers to fight the application when it comes before the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Challet and his partners can’t afford lawyers, so they will be arguing on their own behalf. Their case seems promising. Objections that granting them a licence would open the doors to other, less respectable businesses would seem to be a criticism of the policies and effectiveness of the AGCO. Suggestions that Ici will one day move on and the licence might be inherited by an undesirable tenant do not hold water: Challet has already built concessions into his application that would make that impossible.
So what are Pantalone’s objections? He claims the majority of locals do not want licensed premises and that issuing one licence will mean the AGCO will have to issue others in the neighbourhood when other people apply. He has nothing against Challet personally; he just feels this is the wrong place for a restaurant. Both sides of the argument will be aired at the AGCO’s public hearing on September 30. Challet is hoping for some moral support from fans of gastronomy—or anyone else who thinks such decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis.
Concerned parties should show up by 5:30 p.m. at the AGCO offices at 90 Sheppard Avenue East, 3rd floor.
As a resident of the area, I protest the license being banned on my behalf. Deputy Mayor Pantalone has never asked the resident’s wishes.
During daylight hours, Harbord and Manning is a great corner but the empty expanse of Harbord Collegiate come evening turns it into an area that is prime for muggings. A lively bistro would end this.
If the Deputy Mayor is basing his argument on previous opinion, he would do well to ask again.
Joe Pantalone does represent the majority who oppose licensing of the bistro and even this type of establishment at this particular location. ICI is no threat to kids; to suggest so is truly missing the point. The threat, is what would may come after. This is not a simple issue, and I far as I know, there are no hidden agendas. Joe P’s position stems from popular opinion, an understanding of rural development, and common sense.
Clearly, Challet (ICI’s proprietor) should have done his homework. Area residence have opposed all applications for a liquor license for as long as I’ve lived in the area (15 years), and obviously longer. Had Challet simply inquired with the AGCO or talked to neighbours before setting the tables, he would have probably looked elsewhere.
There are always vacancies along both Bloor and College streets in this area, offering much greater exposure to people actually looking for a place to eat, not to mention public parking which is non-existent at their current location. Perhaps Challet expects his patrons to take advantage of street parking, that is, permit parking paid for by local residence. I’m certain the bistro could not survive catering to area residence alone, it’s been proven by recent and past failures at the same location. Supporters contend that alcohol was always the missing ingredient preventing success; pathetic.
Finally, there have been little if any capital improvements to the site, save perhaps a can of black paint and some vinyl window decals. These do little to distract attention from the rest of the building’s gratify strewn facade. Many area residence have been pouring money into improving their homes, and bettering the appeal of the area. No one wishes to see these ‘real’ investments jeopardized by a fly-by-night establishment or ill conceived business that may leave the door open to something even worse.
Area residence had come accept commercial development along Harbord street. If someone is looking to cut my hair, fix my bike, launder my clothes, fight for me in in court, polish my teeth, or even bake me some bread, I’m all for it. I’d be happy to drop in or make an appointment between 9 and 5. But if you can’t make that work, I suggest you move on.
I am deeply disappointed by the attitudes of politicians involved in this matter and can only applaud M Challet for investing in this neighborhood. This stretch of Harbord holds a lot of promise for the city by offering an alternative to the already overcrowded College and Bloor areas to the immediate South and North.
I fail to see how a liquor license in an upscale bisto can have such dire consequences. If we were to fear what “comes after”, we’re not dealing with NIMBYS but NIMBYJICOWCA – Not in my back yard just in case of what comes after…
“investing”?, “upscale”?… I know of no such place at the corner of Harbord and Manning. Had ICI actually made a serious investment to create an upscale bistro, we may ALL be applauding JP Challet.
When what comes after has already come before, we see things differently.
Don’t worry Marc, not everybody understands what upscale is. Let’s watch in future who is behind rezoning the area for a real estate development.
Eric, with respect, if you had poked your head into the restaurant, you would be aware of several tens of thousands of dollars worth of renovations made to the interior. Finishing details, including facade improvements and graffiti removal, were understandably postponed due to the inability to earn further income while the license issue was being resolved.
Also, as a resident living footsteps north of Ici, I understand your concerns about what may come to this vulnerable neighbourhood. I have done considerable research here, and my conclusion is that Joe Pantalone has profoundly let our neighbourhood down. Time and time again, he has had opportunities to take action using new regulatory tools, but chose instead to repeat whatever worked over the previous two decades. His opposition to the Ici license is based on a misunderstanding of the law, an ignorance of new regulations and a mistrust of AGCO due to its failure to conform to his misunderstandings. Had he bothered to return the calls of those Ici neighbours who have actually examined this issue in some detail, he might have learned that he is not protecting our neighbourhood at all here, but is in fact leaving us as vulnerable as ever.
In this particular case, should Ici be forced to close, one likely result is another teen hangout will open similar to the place where a student got stabbed ten years ago. But a more likely result is that within five years we will be dealing with yet another license application made by an operator who will almost certainly be less desirable, less cooperative and more prepared for battle than the Ici folks.
AGCO does not, and legally cannot, recognize this “vow of chastity” that Councillor Pantalone has offered as this neighbourhood’s sole means of protection.
The vast majority of people who have ventured into the restaurant for a look-see and a conversation have come away impressed and in favor. To many this changing their minds in the face of previously firm opposition. Why? Because Ici is proposing something different, because the proprietors are good at what they do, because their business model does not entirely depend on the restaurant as a revenue driver (they cater too) and because they are in many ways a natural fit for the neighborhood.
While councillor Joe claims to speak for the majority, there has been no evidence of such. He made up his mind based on the slightest information (a green AGCO application form in the window) and mounted his best offense. Now the neighborhood is actively campaigning in the restaurant’s favor and he is actively working against the interests of his constituents.
Harbord Street is going through a French Revolution. Bravo Jean-Pierre Challet!
I have a great deal of difficulty understanding how Joe P. can hastily make up his mind to oppose a liquor license for ICI. Hasty because there has been no visit paid to the said location or discussions with any of the three partners.
Eric, do you recall the area of Queen and Jarvis back in the 1980’s? There was nothing upscale about this area with all kinds of colourful night life strolling the streets. This was once my neighbourhood.
It wasn’t until Paul DeGuzman owner/operator of Emilio’s Restaurant set up a fine dining restaurant with a day time take out deli, did the neighbourhood have any class whatsoever. Not a great deal of money was spent on this building … in fact the west side had no wall … it leaned up against the brick wall of the building next door. This place was busy, great food, great ambiance and well … it did not look so great on the outside. Soon this area developed. This Ain’t The Rosedale Library, City TV, Alias, OhLaLa, it was an amazing transformation to witness. Mainly because someone had courage and took a brave step to where many would have thought would be a disaster.
Appearance is important but some get so hung up on appearances only. These three at ICI are real pros with integrity that will only improve this neighbourhood with a healthy vision.
Let’s have a bit of progress and let go of the fear! Take a chance … like the three at ICI have done.
The AGCO’s decision whether to issue a liquor license to a new restaurant establishment is grounded in a risk based licensing system which asesses the suitability of applicants based on five criteria: past conduct, liquor-related infractions, honesty and integrity, financial responsibility, experience and training. It appears that Mr. Pantalone may not have been aware of these criteria prior to raising his concern and objections to the licensing of ICI? Had Mr. Pantalone taken the time to look into the professional qualifications, business acumen and experience, and academic qualifications of the three proprioters of ICI, he might have been in a better and more informed position to take a stand in favour, or against the licensing of this establishment. It may be of interest to those who are concerned about the safety of youth who reside in the are and attend Harbord Collegiate Institute that two of the partners are, in fact, responsible fathers of sons in their teens and early twenties, who are responsible and contributing members of society. They are intent on running a reputable restaurant establisment. Much has already been said, and needs not be repeated; however, anyone who jumps to the conclusion that the proprioters of ICI have not invested considerable financial and personal resources in the restaurant, is speaking from ignorance. The restaurant opened its doors on a number of occasions to meet the residents of the area and establish open communication. It’s a shame that some people did not take advantage of these opportunities, and are “judging the book by its cover”.
Alcohol and restaurants do not destroy children or the moral fibre of a community. Fear and closed minds is far more dangerous to a community. A bistro on the corner serving delicious food by talented, hospitable and passionate neighbours can never be a bad thing. The city is missing so much conviviality and sociability these days and these important things are only found in places where people share food and drink together. Embrace the possibility of something very positive and you will empower the neighbourhood.
The closed mind of Mr Pantalone needs to be opened to the restaurants in our city that are located very near to high school. Madonna Catholic High School is across the street vrom a licensed restaurant. Don Bosco High Schooll is down the street from a hotel with a licensed restaurant. The students are not interested in these restaurants and would rather meet in coffee shops which they can afford. Does Mr. Pantalone think he will win votes with his tactics? What a wonderful opportunity to build a neighbor and bring quality food for the residents and others in the city. Chef Challet and his team are well known for their ourstanding menus. Chef Challet and his team saw an opportunity to give something to the neighborhood and that area of the city. I guess Mr. Pantalone wants to keep his riding stagnant? I would be more concerned with developing neighborhoods than trying to pull the plug. Doees Mr. Pantalone not listen to the residents and thier needs? The residents see this as a positive venue in their neighborhood. Beisdes, the high school students are not of age and are not going to hang around until 6:00 PM. I would be more concerned that the venue would be empty for a less desirable venture. Then what will Mr. Pantalone do? I say “wake up to smell the aromas of the wonderful and atmosphere wafting from ICI.
This is also a wonderful opportunity to work with high schools and increase the student and faculty awareness of great cuisine and the chefs that prepare it. What a great thing to have a nice spot to go to for a wonderful tasting meal. Resdidents can walk and bring their friends. Isn’t this what building community is all about? Chef Cahllet and his team obviously saw this and could think “outside the box”. They were willing to launch a restaurant that would bring life back to the community. I comomend them for their efforts and not backing down. Toronto is a diversity of neighborhoods and Chef Challet and his team wanted to add to the community. Let them go ahead and just watch what happens. Mr. Pantalone, you will be presently surprised. I thought you wanted a thriving community in your riding. What did you want in that space? Are you looking to win votes? That is not the way. Look and listen to what those around you are saying. They obviously know better than you what is best for their community.
GO FOR IT Chef Challet and your team.
There are several bars and restaurants that are around the surrounding area of Mannning and Harbord streets. I have personally spoken to the restaurant owners who are the sweetest people. It would be nice to have some class around the area which is much needed. They have had to paint over the graffiti so many times I have lost track, and Mr. Pantalone is concerned about their liquor license? What about the damage that is created from the school of garbage, walking through laneways, graffiti etc.,? Why is something not done about that?
I am not sure why the concern would be to stop a liquor license when I cannot see school patrons walking into a fancy french restaurant for lunch and order a glass of wine? Can you give us residents some credit and not think we are a pile of drunks walking around the streets?
I am in full support of this new venture. Having an upscale restaurant serving fine French cuisine would definitely be a welcome addition to our neighborhood. Nothing wrong with trying to evoke some much need life into this feeble stretch of Harbord. I am a Manning Avenue resident and think he’s on the right track. Hey Mr. Pantalone, why don’t you invest some of your time into trying to instill some deterrents and repercussions for those social degenerates who continue to spray graffiti all over my neighborhood? Or is that because it infringes upon their right to willfully vandalize someone’s else’s property??
I’m a member of PARA and I know that this issue is a little more complex than Chatto is reporting. That location has been denied a liquor license in the past at the insistence of local residents.
No one thinks that a nice neighbourhood bistro is going to destroy the lives of high school students who will drink too much Pouilly Fuisse at lunch, but ya, the concern is the precedent and ICI’s possible successors.
I’m definitely not an apologist for Pantalone, with whom I have locked horns before, but there are at least two quite interesting sides to this story.
Yeah, look at Boulevard Cafe directly across the street from a school.
Look how horrible that stretch of Harbord is.
So full of hookers and drug dealers and drunk high school kids stabbing each other in the face.
Pantalone is a moron.
Residents opposed to the bistro are morons.
To be very clear, the issue of precedence is a non starter. It is contrary to the standards and processes set by the AGCO, the provincially mandated governing body regarding such matters.
In the real world (not the one the nay-sayers allude to so frequently) every liquor license application is considered individually and according to what business is being proposed, by what people, in what neighbourhood, and how those factors appear in the light of the greater good.
What happens with this application will have no bearing on any other license applications in the area. They will be judged on their own merit.
Yeah, well a few blocks west of Bathurst on Harbord is the same friggin’ neighbourhood as a few blocks east of Bathurst. I highly doubt there’s different zoning for the two stretches of road.
There is no reason to deny Ici’s application.
The problem is soley this: pissy NIMBYism by very few pissy individuals and Pantalone the ball-less wonder who’s afraid he’ll anger a bunch of old Portuguese guys who stand around the sidewalk smoking all day.
So, is everyone off to 90 Sheppard East this evening to support JP? Let’s DO it!!!
Will Toronto ever shed its puritanical roots? Please do! This and the whole Ossington disaster will prevent the city from ever having a vibrancy that I can be proud of. I dread having to move back from France.
I wrote two weeks ago to Pantalone asking him to clarify his opposition. No reply–yet if you write to the Prime Minister you will get an answer in a day or two. It’s time for Pantalone to go. He is out of touch with the city and its people.
I know J.P. Challet to be an outstanding chef and teacher of culinary students, as well as a devoted father—a good citizen all around. Rather than downgrading Harbord and Manning, Ici will lend panache and elan to the neighbourhood breathing life into it. Farther east along Harbord, several restaurants have sprung up, so Ici will help connect the street and transform it into a destination for aficionados of good food and warm atmosphere. Watch: J.P. will receive his licence, and Pantalone will eat his words, hopefully accompanied by a meal of Ici’s fine cuisine, which he can wash down with a glass or two from the wine list. I’ve awaited the restaurant’s opening with great anticipation, and I look forward to visiting there. I wish you all the success in the world, J.P.
It’s a tough question because it is really quiet around that area. Like crazy quiet. I live just up the street and there is a difference between that part of the street and closer to Brunswick, both walking and driving.
The noise outside also comes from the smattering of smokers around the space and the increase number of cabs in the area. The cabs turn around at Bathurst so that stretch is more peaceful.
I’m not sure all the name-calling really does much for the debate here.
I can see how this place would be great for the neighbourhood and can see how it would make it noisier, too.
Harbord is a busy street so I don’t buy DG’s claim that that stretch is “crazy quiet”. There’s traffic all day and all night.
Funny how the people living around there have no problem with that sh*thole Events cafe right across the street from Ici.
It’s just a bunch of obnoxious NIMBY garbage.
I live at Harbord and Clinton and it is “Crazy Quiet”
too quiet