Scaramouche stays put for another year

Scaramouche’s long-standing lease fiasco has finally been resolved—at least for now. Rumours of the restaurant’s relocation have been circulating for months, ever since its landlord, Malen Capital Corporation, announced plans to redevelop the space into luxury condominiums. With the restaurant’s lease ending in December 2009, the story went that the quarter-decade-old Forest Hill eatery was soon to be homeless, losing its signature ravine-framed view of downtown. Partner Carl Korte, however, put an end to all that, explaining that the proprietors have negotiated an extension to keep Scaramouche on site for an additional year—until December 31, 2010. “It’s interesting right now with so much change in our economic landscape. I think that, collectively, on both sides, everyone is glad to have a little time to breathe,” says Korte.

While Korte couldn’t comment directly on the situation, it seems likely that plans for condo construction were shelved due to the bum market. The lease could be re-extended down the road, but building plans are still ultimately in place, which means Scaramouche will be getting a new home sooner or later. Chef Keith Froggett and Korte have been actively looking and will keep up the search for a new spot, though they’re tight-lipped about potential locations. Says Korte of scoped areas, “Our first choice will be to stay in the market that knows us. Close to home is the best model.”