Detroit-style pizza has been easier to find in Toronto lately as places have expanded, but it’s getting a little harder again now that a restaurant serving them is closing.
Gianna posted on social media on May 19, saying, “It’s not goodbye, it’s a reunion on the other side,” and that soon they “won’t be the Gianna you know and love anymore.”
In addition to Detroit-style rectangular pies, the restaurant was also known for burgers, wings, and mozza sticks, all served with drinks.
Gianna’s was actually a rebranding of the room that used to house the Tennessee Tavern by the same team, led by Grant van Gameren, that oversees El Rey and Harry’s.
Unfortunately, the timing of the 2020 rebrand was unfortunate, although the restaurant also featured a lavish rear terrace for al fresco dining.
However, fans of the Tennessee Tavern will be pleased to see the space return to some of its former glory.
The restaurant will be transformed into a new pub and music venue concept called Tenny’s. Gianna’s, and now Tenny’s, Executive Chef Ryan Phillips says they will be serving “a fresh take on old Tennessee Tavern classics” with South American influences, alongside a cocktail menu. That means sausage baskets and pierogi will be back.
But for now, Gianna’s is officially closing on May 22nd.
“We are very excited to see how the public will see what will be done with the space as we are sure this will be a great addition to the Parkdale community,” Phillips tells blogTO.
Tenny’s opens to the public on June 10th.