#FOOD: BEAR STEAK SANDWICHES OPENS SECOND LOCATION AT TORONTO’S WELLINGTON MARKET (THE WELL)

Following the success of its Little Italy flagship and growing demand across the city, BEAR Steak Sandwiches is proud to announce the opening of its second location at The Well’s Wellington Market, one of Toronto’s premier lifestyle and dining destinations.

Founded by longtime friends Ricardo Barrientos and Aki Erenberg, BEAR began in 2021 as a backyard pop-up where Ricardo’s now-signature steak sandwich first made its debut. What started as a few friends sharing a meal quickly became one of Toronto’s most buzzed-about new food concepts, thanks to its simple, crave-worthy menu of just three items and commitment to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

Known for its indulgent steak sandwiches, bold house sauces, and flavour-first philosophy, BEAR Steak Sandwiches has cemented itself as a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. With a devoted social media following, steady five-star reviews, and a loyal customer base, BEAR has grown from grassroots pop-up to citywide favourite.

“Our first location showed us just how hungry Toronto is for food that’s bold, creative, and made with intention,” said Aki Erenberg, co-founder of BEAR Steak Sandwiches. “We’ve always kept the menu simple on purpose. When you focus on doing one thing really well, people notice. This second location isn’t just about growth; it’s about pushing our creativity, collaborating with local talent, and becoming part of more people’s everyday routines. We want BEAR to be more than a meal – it’s a way to connect with the city and the people in it.”

The expansion reflects not only BEAR’s culinary success, but its growing role in Toronto’s cultural scene. From collaborations with local favourites like Great Fountain, Favorites Thai BBQ and Renaissance Pizza to brand partnerships with Grolsch, BEAR’s culture of collaboration has become a defining part of its DNA. Their minimalist menu, anchored by a perfectly grilled steak sandwich topped with house-made chimichurri on a toasted Portuguese bun, keeps fans coming back again and again.

“With food in Toronto, it’s never just about the meal – it’s about who you’re with, the story behind it, and how it brings people together,” said co-founder Ricardo Barrientos. “We’ve been lucky to collaborate with incredible chefs, artists, and influencers who elevate the experience. This next chapter gives us even more space to push our creativity and make what we do more accessible to everyone.”.

Opening Date: Monday, July 14th

Location: Wellington Market, 486 Front Street West, Toronto, ON

Hours: 11am-10pm

Social: @bearsteaksandwiches