That’s the real question for some of Canada’s best chefs and restaurants. How do you top yourself when you’ve reached the pinnacle of culinary recognition time and time again? With PAI, Kiin, and Sukhothai now wildly successful establishments in the Toronto food scene, Chef Nuit Regular is about to show us that after all the buzz there is still so much to achieve and create with the upcoming opening of Makilala. Without having even opened its doors to the public yet, there is already so much buzz around this latest project, and for good reason.
The word Makilala means “to get to know.” That feels quite poetic considering the concept for this latest restaurant into what has without question become a family of establishments that many would call an empire of flavour and experiences in Toronto.
Makilala is a brand new Filipino restaurant from renowned duo Chef Nuit and Jeff Regular, along with Jeff’s brother Joel Regular, is set to open late July at 105 Church Street. Deeply rooted in family tradition and history, Makilala will blend traditional flavours, vibrant energy, and warm hospitality into an experience that feels like coming home. The decor is eye catching, which is nothing new to this powerhouse in the food world, but it’s the menu that really has so many people excited for what’s to come near the corner of Church and Adelaide.
“Chef Nuit has been cooking and learning from my entire family for the past 20 years, and we’re so excited to share her love for learning and cooking our traditional recipes with the community,” said Joel Regular, co-owner of Makilala. “She has also taken regional cooking classes and spent time exploring local markets and traditions to learn more about the cuisine and culture.”
Makilala will serve traditional Filipino family recipes like chicken adobo, sinigang, taho, and breakfast silog plates, along with a special order kamayan-style menu—a communal feast served on banana leaves and eaten by hand. The beverage menu will feature Filipino staples like Red Horse, San Miguel, Tanduay, and ube cocktails will be served alongside signature creations like the Taal Volcano, a smoky nod to the Philippines.
There is thought and careful consideration that has been put into the layout and vibe of Makilala.
“Guests will enter through a curated front market filled with rotating Filipino artists and vendors offering handmade and locally sourced products. The main dining room will feature a design that is emblematic of a traditional barangay, featuring a large stage at the back. The bar has been designed to resemble a sari-sari store, named after Jeff and Joel’s parents, Nonoy and Myrna, which adds a nostalgic and personal touch to the space. At the back, a private dining room will offer family-style service for up to 14 guests, featuring off-menu feasts like whole roasted pig and chef-driven surprises.”
Makilala will be open seven days a week, with lunch served Tuesday through Sunday, and a late-night menu that will carry the energy into the evening with DJs, stand-up comedy, and a dedicated karaoke stage.
Set to open at the end of July, and you can stay up to date with them via their website and by following them on Instagram.
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Photos: Makilala, The Toronto Star
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