Big Names, New Borders: Nick Liu Takes His Talents to Eglinton West
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
As downtown rent peaks, the city's culinary heavyweights are looking north. The latest signal? A high-profile Jewish-Asian fusion concept landing in a neighborhood still recovering from construction.
**OPINION:** For years, the downtown core has been the only game in town for the city's big-name chefs, but the math is changing. When a name like Nick Liu decides to plant roots north of Bloor, it's more than just a new menu—it's a signal that the downtown rent bubble is finally pushing real growth into the neighborhoods. The 'glow-up' isn't happening in King West anymore; it's happening where the locals actually live.
As first reported by BlogTO, Nick Liu—the chef known for downtown staples like the Little Italy Asian-French spot DaiLo and the King West French brasserie Cafe Renee (along with its sibling, Charlemagne Cocktail Bar)—is breaking his usual pattern. Instead of another downtown venture, Liu is heading to Eglinton West to open a new concept called Woodlyns.
The new restaurant is situated at 947 Eglinton Ave. W. BlogTO notes that Eglinton West is an area still in the process of rebuilding following more than ten years of disruptive TTC construction. By choosing this location, Liu is betting on a neighborhood with a rich culinary history that is ready for a revival.
Liu isn't flying solo on this venture. He has partnered with Jeff Goldstein, an entrepreneur, lawyer, and lifelong resident of the Eglinton West area. Joining them in the kitchen is head chef Josh Ling, who brings a pedigree that includes time at Hong Kong's Michelin-starred Vea, as well as stints at Cafe Renee, Vela, and DaiLo.
The concept itself is a blend of Asian and Jewish cuisines, designed to reflect the historic demographics of the neighborhood. BlogTO reports that the menu will feature fusion items such as Reuben spring rolls, matzoh ball wonton soup, and sweet-and-sour chicken knish.
Beyond the food, the team is aiming for a "sleek-yet-romantic" atmosphere featuring rich wood accents inspired by the local forested areas. The goal, as stated by the Woodlyns team, is to create a gathering place for loved ones to share food and drink.
Woodlyns is expected to open its doors in October 2026.