A new Greek restaurant is opening where something just closed in Toronto

A new Greek restaurant is rushing in to take the place of a spot that just recently shuttered its doors in Toronto.

Melani will be swinging its doors wide open this month in Toronto, and they’re taking over a space that served relatively similar cuisine and was run by the same hospitality group. Byblos once took up residence at the same address where Melani will soon be opening.

Byblos closed their uptown location where Melani will be opening in October 2025. Another location of Byblos is still operating under INK in the downtown Toronto area.

“Uptown, it’s been a beautiful chapter – thank you for being part of our story. Stay tuned for what’s next at 2537 Yonge St.,” reads a social media post from Byblos.

“To our wonderful Byblos guests, we look forward to many more memorable dining experiences together at Byblos Downtown.”

Byblos was operated by INK Entertainment, which will also be operating new Greek restaurant Melani. They’re also responsible for many other venues in Toronto and beyond, including Cabana Pool Bar and Rebel. Melani actually translates to “ink” in Greek.

Expect a relatively traditional Greek restaurant menu that leans heavily on keeping things simple and in their most natural form. The menu should feature dishes such as wood-fired grilled chicken, slow-roasted lamb shank, premium seafood, and an array of mezze. The backbone of the food program is designed based around the basic building blocks of Greek cooking, like high quality olive oil, thoughtfully sourced seafood, and the very freshest herbs and vegetables.

A wine list should highlight the wines of the Greek Mediterranean region, with other curated options that reach past those borders but still pair impeccably with the food at Melani.

The space should be as stunning as the presentation of the food, designed to evoke an energetic yet laid back feel, transporting diners to the Aegean coast with lots of greens, blues, greenery, and lots of elements that add rustic, handmade, artisanal and organic touches.

The restaurant will also incorporate aspects of nightlife and entertainment, with DJs spinning in the background on weekends for a more clubby vibe.

“We want Melani to capture the soul of Greek dining — rich in culture, full of connection, and alive with energy,” says Charles Khabouth, CEO of Ink Entertainment, and co-owner alongside Danny Soberano.

“From the dishes and wines to the space itself, every element is designed to be simple, elegant, and fun, creating a dining experience that is effortless, vibrant, and memorable.”

Melani should be opening its doors on Nov. 20 at 2537 Yonge St.

1. Melani