With most of Ontario entering phase three this week (and Toronto expected to soon follow), many businesses are beginning to bounce back from the financial struggles caused by the pandemic.

Sadly, however, the wave of COVID-related closures hasn’t come to an end, with several Toronto restaurants announcing over the past week that they’re shutting down permanently.

In a blow for both the dining and music communities in Toronto, N’Awlins Jazz Bar & Grill announced its closure this week after 25 years in business. The King West restaurant was known for its Cajun-Creole food and live jazz performances. “The current situation surrounding the pandemic, including the regulations for restaurants and live music make it impossible to maintain our quality, standards and spirit,” wrote the owners in a Facebook post. 

“While our door on King Street may be closed for now, our passion to serve and entertain you lives on. So we are looking to brighter days where we can be together again, listen to music and eat to our heart’s content.”