Introducing: Buna’s Kitchen, a homey new lunch counter in the Entertainment District

Introducing: Buna’s Kitchen, a homey new lunch counter in the Entertainment District

(Image: Caroline Aksich)

Name: Buna’s Kitchen
Neighbourhood: Entertainment District
Contact Info: 388 Richmond St. W., Unit 5B, 647-342-5506, facebook.com
Previously: Sido Shwarma
Chefs/Owners: George Brown alums Grace An and Taylor Heon met in culinary school and opened a catering company together, Food Parade, before going the brick-and-mortar route with Buna’s.

The Food: Owners An and Heon are determined to bring old-fashioned home cooking to the downtown core. (Buna is Hungarian for “grandma”). The short menu includes sandwiches (pulled pork, duck confit), poutines and salads, plus a daily changing pasta special. On one visit, it’s bolognese; on the next, it’s fettuccine in a simple marinara sauce.

The Drinks: Boylan organic sodas, coffee from Balzacs, organic teas and hot chocolate.

The Place: The industrial space has a grab-and-go counter, booth-style seating and a handful of stools. There are some charming design details, like faux-leaded windows (the effect is achieved with stickers) and a “living wall” bursting with fresh basil and mint.