The National Basketball Association is getting in to the restaurant business and is announcing Toronto as the location of its first bona fide NBA Courtside Restaurant.
Described as a “premium, sports-inspired dining experience celebrating the NBA,” the new space is set to open this spring at 15 Queens Quay East, near the base of Yonge Street just south of the Raptors home gym at Scotiabank Arena.
The 10,000 square foot space will feature a premium, sports-inspired dining experience that will celebrate the NBA through custom art and decor, a modern food and beverage program, an exclusive retail space, outdoor and private dining, and more.
“There’s no better location for the first NBA Courtside Restaurant than Canada, where basketball has a rich history and tradition,” said Leah MacNab, NBA Canada senior vice-president. “We can’t wait to welcome fans and guests from around the world to this incredible venue, where they can celebrate their shared love of the game in a unique way through a delicious meal and welcoming atmosphere.”
NBA Courtside Restaurant will be operated by Toronto-based Urban Dining Group, a family-owned and operated business serving the Greater Toronto Area since 1989. Toronto-based chef Erica Karbelnik, who won Top Chef Canada Season 9 and Chopped Canada Season 3, will serve as NBA Courtside Restaurant’s Culinary Ambassador and will oversee the development of a globally inspired menu.
“It’s an honour to be a part of something in our city that is so special. Toronto loves the game. It’s part of our culture, and to showcase that in such a creative way is truly amazing,” said Karbelnik. “From the artwork and wine to the food, this is a Toronto gem that will continue our love and passion for basketball. I am lucky to be a part of the NBA Courtside Restaurant and am excited to see what the future holds with the NBA.”
According to information provided by the NBA, the new restaurant will “showcase the stages of an NBA player’s journey from dreamer to champion through artwork and décor inspired by the league and its influence on popular culture, including historic moments from NBA history.”
Artists such as KWEST and Victor Solomon will be featured. A large-scale Woodland pop art-style mural titled The Journey by Anishinaabe artist Jenny Kay Dupuis will be featured on one of the restaurant’s exterior walls. There will be NBA moments a-plenty for serious fans to enjoy. And, of course, a retail space with merchandise from 47 Brand, New Era, Mitchell & Ness and Wilson, and will feature a selection of prints and products featuring custom illustrations by Dupuis.
