East Coast Donair: A Neighborhood Staple Amid Change

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A local restaurateur shares his journey, community ties, and the impact of rapid neighborhood change. Mizan Bhuiyan, the owner of East Coast Donair, shares his experience running a restaurant in a rapidly changing neighborhood. His menu features a mix of East Coast donair, pizza, tandoori chicken, shawarma, and poutine—offering a diverse selection that caters to the local community. Bhuiyan speaks positively about the neighborhood, emphasizing the supportive nature of the residents. He states that he does not face major challenges running his restaurant and is focused on growing his business. Both longtime customers and newcomers appreciate his food, which helps sustain and expand his establishment. The conversation also touches on the transformation of the area, with new buildings consistently emerging. While some residents welcome this change, others express concerns. One customer, who has lived in Regent Park for six years, acknowledges the neighborhood’s evolving landscape but points out that original residents were promised 40% social housing, whereas the actual number is closer to 15-20%. Despite the shifts, the customer appreciates the presence of small businesses like East Coast Donair and Bob’s Convenience, run by another local entrepreneur. They argue that more locally owned restaurants and social spaces would strengthen the community. The discussion concludes with a comparison between chain restaurants like Tim Hortons and Popeyes versus independent businesses. For the customer, affordability, taste, and personal connections make places like East Coast Donair stand out. Bhuiyan’s story highlights the resilience of small businesses in changing urban spaces, underscoring the importance of community support in preserving neighborhood character.

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