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Shake Shack Opens at Toronto’s Union Station with Licensed Bar

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Toronto welcomes its second Shake Shack location at Union Station, a milestone in the brand’s Canadian expansion plan. Following the highly successful launch of its first Canadian flagship location at Yonge and Dundas earlier this year, the Union Station Shake Shack introduces unique offerings, including a full-service bar and locally inspired artwork, setting it apart as a destination for both locals and visitors.

Shake Shack Union Station: A Distinct Offering

Shake Shack at Union Station is one of the few locations globally to feature a full-service bar, offering exclusive cocktails crafted for the Toronto market. This new addition elevates the brand’s fast-casual dining concept, creating an inviting space for commuters and downtown visitors seeking a premium experience. The bar complements Shake Shack’s signature menu items, including 100% Canadian Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries, and hand-spun frozen custard made with locally sourced ingredients.

Adding a local touch, the space features artwork by Toronto-based illustrator Pui Yan Fong. Known for her storytelling through illustration, Pui Yan’s vibrant work highlights Shake Shack’s commitment to celebrating the diversity and culture of the communities it serves.

Shake Shack at Union Station in Toronto. Photo: Shake Shack

Rapid Growth for Shake Shack Canada

Shake Shack Canada, a partnership formed in 2023 between Toronto-based Osmington Inc. and Harlo Entertainment Inc., is spearheading the brand’s expansion in Canada. With plans to open 35 locations nationwide by 2035, the company is poised to establish Shake Shack as a leader in the premium fast-casual dining sector.

The first Canadian Shake Shack at Yonge and Dundas, located in the newly branded “The Tenor” complex at 10 Dundas Street West, quickly gained traction earlier this year, becoming a local favourite. The Union Station location builds on this momentum, offering a more robust experience with unique features tailored to its downtown setting.

Shake Shack at Union Station in Toronto. Photo: Shake Shack

Yorkdale Shopping Centre Location Coming Soon

Shake Shack’s next Canadian location is set to open at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre. This space, blending a former Illy Cafe on a mezzanine with part of the second level of the mall’s former Eaton’s department store, will create a visually striking dining area situated between two escalators. 

The Yorkdale location will also feature artwork by Toronto illustrator Vivian Rosas, whose work celebrates community and diversity. The focus on integrating local artistry underscores Shake Shack’s dedication to making each restaurant distinct and community-focused.

Shake Shack construction hoarding at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Photo: Craig Patterson

A Global Powerhouse Makes Its Mark in Canada

Since its humble beginnings as a hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park in 2004, Shake Shack has grown to over 510 locations worldwide. With over 290 locations in the United States and more than 150 internationally, including cities like London, Tokyo, and Dubai, Shake Shack has become a global leader in fast-casual dining. Its entry into Canada marks another chapter in its international growth, leveraging the country’s appetite for premium, high-quality food options.

Shake Shack’s Canadian menu emphasizes local ingredients, such as Canadian dairy and 100% Angus beef, reflecting the company’s focus on delivering quality while connecting with local communities. 

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Craig Patterson
Craig Patterson
Located in Toronto, Craig is the Publisher & CEO of Retail Insider Media Ltd. He is also a retail analyst and consultant, Advisor at the University of Alberta School Centre for Cities and Communities in Edmonton, former lawyer and a public speaker. He has studied the Canadian retail landscape for over 25 years and he holds Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws Degrees.

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