BB’s Brings the Michelin Magic To the Filipino Food Scene in Toronto

Photo Credit @neilanthonywatson

A newly Michelin-rated spot is making waves in Toronto, Canada and people are traveling from near and far to see what all the rave is about. Justin Bella, founder of BB’s explains that  "BB’s” moniker comes from "Bahay ni Bella," which translates to "Bella's house" and serves as a tribute to Justin Bella's surname and to his Lola.

“She always loved to house people and the way that you showed hospitality was by feeding them," he once shared in an interview. 

While BB’s Michelin status was only granted this past August 2023, its been a mainstay in the Toronto Filipino food scene for quite some time and has had quite a journey before they landed the coveted title. Having began in 2018 in a humble space near Little Italy and were known mainly for brunch, they had to shutter doors due to the pandemic and a building sale. But they came back with fiery presence in 2022 and opened up shop in the vibrant neighborhood of Parkdale. A here we are a year later, seeing the Micheline Guide 2023 sing their praises.

From day to night, BB’s is a force to be reckoned with. The popular diner has a special way of making everyone feel the hospitality of the Filipino people in every way possible- the Michelin Guide loves their “come as you are vibe” and lively and colorful energy. From the aesthetic interiors to the fusions of taste in every plate served, you can feel the power of Filipino creativity and the magic that comes with sharing it, as they do on the daily. 

Photo Credit: @daniel_neuhaus_

The diner consists of a space of 28 seats inside and a patio on the outside that contains 60 seats. At first glance, BB’s is an obvious sight for sore eyes. Every corner of the space, from the outside to the inside, holds fun energy and unique furniture fixings. 

Photo Credit: @bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs

During the day, customers can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes, cooked to perfection and placed on IG-worthy plates for brunch. 

Photo Credit: @neilanthonywatson

Their Pancit Canton features a fun vegetarian-friendly assortment of tofu, lemon, vegetables, and sweet soy, all put together to form a beautiful mix of food with a little kick. 

Photo Credit: @daniel_neuhaus_

Aside from obvious brunch essentials like coffee, one can enjoy Filipino staples like BB Silog, which contains fried eggs, garlic rice, atsara, and either longganisa, corned beef hash, or fried milkfish. 

Photo Credit: Fareen Karim

Photo Credit: @bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs

In an Instagram post, head chef Robbie Hojilla, shared his inspiration for their Pork & Shrimp Lumpia. “This dish is dedicated to Oliver. 12 years ago, we became fast friends. Bonding over our heart conditions, hospital stays and being Filipinos in this industry. We came up with this at Mr. Pong’s Bar. Based off my mom’s recipe, Oli asked me if I could add shrimp to it. I was holding back tears prepping these today and reminiscing…There’s a million more things I could say about you but I’m not great with words. So I’ll express myself through cooking, hope I did you justice with these. I love you brother, it was an honor being your friend. You are forever amazing.”

Photo Credit: @bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs.bbs

By night time, the place is alive and filled with cocktails and laughter. Nightlife in the diner consists of a number of fan favorite drinks like their Pandan Express, Kiss of Life, Fire and Desire, The Pink Matter, and so much more. 

Photo Credit @neilanthonywatson

Since the start of BB’s, Justin has made it a point to create an environment for Filipino culture- a very important facet to all he does and he wants to make sure that his heritage, in all of its wonders, thrives and is highlighted under the most brightest of lights. Whether it is through the food being served in the diner or in his actions in the community, Justin continues to make strides for the motherland. 

There’s no doubt that BB’s Michelin recognition puts Filipino cuisine on another level. With Filipinos and non-Filipino people alike partaking in the incredible dishes and unique cocktails that the diner has to offer, the sky's the limit. We can’t wait to see how much BB’s will continue to grow and make its mark on the food scene.

"Our goal was never to be a Michelin, our goal was to be the realest," says Bella years ago in a BLOGTO interview. "We genuinely wanted to create a space where people felt proud to bring their friends and family. Confident that we could enjoy a good meal."  Looks like that strategy has paid off handsomely.

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Written By Nico Belasco

Photographer, Writer, Speaker, Podcast Host, Creative

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