Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill
Every year AccessTO teams up with the University of Toronto's Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy to speak with the future generation of healthcare professionals about accessibility, universal design and inclusion. As part of their continued learning, these students go on to conduct a review of the accessibility for one of their favourite spots, and we share the best of what they put together with you!
Special thanks to OT Students: Tara Bassett, Kathryn Benoit, Andrea Stokes, Brittney Williams and Megan Yang for the great review.
33 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M5E 0A9
Phone: (647) 260-2070
Located at the corner of Yonge and Front Street, Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill is an alluring, spacious restaurant that offers an assortment of freshly-made pizzas, sandwiches, salads and soups, as well as vegan and gluten-free pasta options. This popular spot boasts flavourful and exciting options for all food lovers!
The main entrance on Front Street is 60 inches wide with a threshold under ½ inch. Although the double doors are not automatic, they were secured open at the time of our visit. There is a large, level patio on each side of the entrance; however, it closes for the fall and winter season.
The back entrance, which measures 40 inches wide and includes an automatic opener, is nearest to the underground parking area. Underground parking is available in the building, and the restaurant's validated parking is $2 after 5:30pm on weeknights and all day on weekends. Union Station is the nearest accessible TTC station, however, the 6 Bay Street bus is also accessible and stops a bit closer at Bay and Front.
The open and unobstructed main dining area has no level changes and features a selection of 29 inch high tables with spacious routes in between. All removable chairs are sturdy and supportive and include armrests. The flooring is a smooth concrete, aside from area mats under some of the tables. For special events, there is a private dining area on the main level that can be rented out. Table height here is also 29 inches, although the area is carpeted.
The two-level restaurant also has a 60 x 68 inch wheelchair lift with a 38 inch entrance. The upper level features an impressive bar area with an array of seating, but is somewhat less accessible due to dimmer lighting, high-top tables, and taller chairs without armrests.
There is a single occupancy accessible washroom located on the first level off the main dining area. The washroom has a 35 inch manual door with lever handles. There are also two grab bars conveniently located behind and beside the standard toilet. A clear 29-inch high open space beneath the sink comfortably fits a wheelchair or other mobility device. Both the toilet and sink are automatic, although the soap and paper towel dispensers are not. The washroom lighting is bright and remains on throughout service.
The noise level was low during our Friday afternoon visit and large windows provided an abundance of natural light. Average lunch prices range from $15-25, and although there are no specialty discounts, weekday lunch specials are offered. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and very accommodating to our needs. Oliver & Bonacini’s high standards of food and excellent service make it the perfect spot for celebrating special occasions.
Dining at Oliver & Bonacini's Café Grill? Let us know how your experience was in the comments below!