Toronto’s most spirited holiday pop-up has grown up. Little Sister, the city’s acclaimed Dutch-Indo food bar, returns this season with its iconic festive takeover—Java Jingle—opening November 13th and running through December 31st across both of their Toronto locations at 102 Portland St. and 2031 Yonge St. This year, the takeover has been refreshed with a Winter Wonderland theme, bringing a new look and experience to the season. Reservations can be made HERE for Portland St. and HERE for Yonge St.
The pop-up became a cult favourite among Toronto’s nightlife crowd for its extravagant décor and nostalgic holiday energy. This year, Little Sister is introducing a new chapter: one that keeps the warmth and conviviality of the season but trades in over-the-top kitsch for a subtler, more refined experience.
“It’s still about joy and celebration,” says General Manager and Bar Manager Robin Wynne, “but we wanted to evolve the concept—something cozier, sleeker, and more atmospheric. More magic.”
Guests can expect the two-level Portland space to be transformed with layered lighting, frosted glass details, and a palette that blends wintry whites with Little Sister’s signature tropical touches. The space is designed to feel like a soft escape from the season—a festive hideaway without the clichés.
The cocktail program, long at the heart of Little Sister’s December celebrations, returns with a mix of returning favourites and new seasonal creations that blend winter spices, tropical fruit, and house-made syrups.
Bar & Cocktails at Java Jingle
This year’s Java Jingle takeover features 12 festive cocktails, alongside seasonal shots and non-alcoholic options. According to Bar Manager Robin Wynne, “There’s a cocktail for everyone this season—from margaritas and sprits to mulled wine riffs, smoky Manhattan riffs, eggnog riffs, and matcha riffs. We’ve even created a special drink for guests to share.”
Two highlights guests can expect on the menu include:
-Noggy Colada – (new)
Bumbu Rum, coconut liqueur, pineapple liqueur, eggnog, coconut cream, eggnog bitters
-Polar Express (Drink for 2) – (new)
Finlandia Vodka, gingerbread liqueur, condensed milk, ginger coffee syrup, milk washed
In keeping with tradition, the full Little Sister food menu will remain available throughout the pop-up’s run, ensuring guests can enjoy the restaurant’s signature Dutch-Indo dishes alongside the limited-edition cocktails.
“After years of big, boisterous holidays, we wanted to create something that feels warm and inviting,” Wynne adds. “A moment of escape in the middle of the city.”
Java Jingle runs from November 13 through December 31 at Little Sister Portland (102 Portland St.), with reservations strongly recommended. Guests can reserve HERE for Portland St. and HERE for Yonge St.
About Little Sister Dutch Indo Food Bar
Little Sister Dutch Indonesian Food Bar draws inspiration from one of its founders’ experiences in the Dutch Navy and the intricate historical connection between the Netherlands and Indonesia. We have meticulously crafted an inviting food bar atmosphere that pays homage to the rich tapestry of Indonesian flavors. Our culinary offerings showcase dishes infused with our own handcrafted spice blends, created from a medley of fresh herbs and spices, along with specially imported ingredients from Indonesia. Our menu is designed around a delightful array of small to medium-sized dishes, perfect for sharing and savoring together.
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