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Toronto, ON, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mokable, the groundbreaking culinary creation made from micro-ground coffee beans, is about to disrupt the food industry as an innovative product that can be used with great versatility across the food and beverage space as an ingredient, enjoyed on its own or as a chocolate alternative. Born in Japan and proudly crowned the winner of the prestigious 2024 JFEX Innovation Award, Mokable is not just a product; it's a movement that embraces flavour, craftsmanship, and sustainability. 

Mokable officially kicks off the North American launch in Toronto —just ahead of Valentine’s week, the peak of chocolate indulgence. Mokable (branded as “CAFEXLATE” in Japan) will be available at select restaurants and bars for the first time in North America.

Mokable: A Game Changer in Gastronomy

Mokable (pronounced “Moke-Ah-Bull”) tackles two pressing issues head-on: the inefficient use of coffee beans and the sustainability challenges within the coffee industry. Traditional coffee preparation discards up to 70% of its aroma and flavour. Mokable aims to change that narrative. 

Mokable transforms whole coffee beans into a much more palatable micro-ground form that captures every rich note and aromatic nuance. By blending premium specialty coffee beans with cocoa butter, Mokable achieves a smooth, versatile texture that shines in both sweet and savoury dishes and cocktails. 

“We are so excited to introduce Mokable to North America. We launched in Japan in June and we have been overwhelmed by the positive reception and overwhelming demand already,” says Akinori Itoyama, founder of Mokable. 

 An Ethical Choice for a Sustainable Future

Mokable isn't just a delicious choice; it's also a champion of sustainability. By sourcing beans from small farmers in Nicaragua and Ethiopia, Mokable supports ethical practices that empower underpaid coffee producers, ensuring fair compensation and fostering local economies. The brand proudly collaborates with women-led farms in Nicaragua, celebrating the strength and resilience of women in agriculture.

Mokable debuts with two exquisite flavours: Roasted and Fruity

ROASTED: Sourced from Nicaragua’s Santa Ana Farm, renowned for its UTZ certification and hand-picked cherries, this blend boasts deep roasted notes and a rich, full-bodied flavour. 

FRUITY: Featuring Yirgacheffe G1 beans from Ethiopia's small-scale farms, this flavour embodies vibrant fruity and floral notes, cultivated with sustainable practices and natural processing methods.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits in Toronto

Toronto celebrated for its culinary diversity and innovative gastronomy, is the first North American city to showcase Mokable. From February 3–16, 2025, MICHELIN-starred/recommended, and award-winning chefs and mixologists will feature Mokable in unique dishes, desserts, and cocktails at some of the city’s most acclaimed venues. 

As Mokable is not yet available for retail purchase, this exclusive Toronto debut presents an unparalleled opportunity for culinary enthusiasts. Guests who order a Mokable dish or cocktail at participating venues may even receive a limited complimentary sample.

Where gourmands can try Mokable for the first time in North America

Lucie  

A MICHELIN-recommended restaurant helmed by chef de cuisine Arnaud Bloquel, Lucie is known for its refined cuisine and exceptional dining experiences, blending French techniques with global influences. 

Chef de cuisine Arnaud Bloquel

“Mokable offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the full potential of coffee beans. It’s a thrill to share this innovation with Toronto’s dynamic food scene,” says Arnaud Bloquel, the chef de cuisine of Lucie. Born in France and raised in the Caribbean, Bloquel trained under celebrated chefs at renowned establishments such as Hôtel du Palais and La Chèvre d’Or in France. He has been recognized as the Best Master Restaurateur in France and has earned accolades for his unique and innovative culinary style. 

As part of Mokable’s North American launch, Bloquel has created an appetizer called Le Champignon. A celebration of umami, the dish features mushroom duxelles, an espuma of Armagnac and shiitake, a rich porcini consommé, and freshly grated Fruity Mokable. Bloquel’s Le Champignon appetizer featuring Mokable will be on the menu at Lucie from February 3–16.

Beverage Director Raimey Bristowe

Lucie's beverage director, Raimey Bristowe, is a fine-dining hospitality professional who studied viticulture, winemaking, and mixology. His passion for the culinary arts is reflected in his cocktail development. Guests will enjoy Holy Molé, a cocktail inspired by the flavour profile of Roasted Mokable, reminiscent of a Mexican molé. Crafted with a housemade Mokable molé liqueur, Blanco tequila, mezcal, and fresh lemon juice, the Holy Molé illustrates Bristowe’s reputation for crafting inventive, elegant cocktails that balance technical precision with artistic flair. 

“The depth of flavour in Mokable challenges us to push the boundaries of mixology, crafting drinks that inspire and surprise,” he says. Raimey Bristowe and the team at Lucie will offer Holy Molé, a cocktail made with Mokable from February 3–16.

Miku  

As the flagship Toronto location for the MICHELIN-recommended Miku Vancouver, Miku shares the same spirit of innovation as Mokable. Miku is known for its Aburi (flame-seared) sushi and contemporary Japanese cuisine and has become a cornerstone of Toronto’s dining scene for the past 10 years. Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi’s Mokable creation, Kohi Mame (starting from the bottom to the top), has the base of a flourless sponge cake with Roasted Mokable, served with Hojicha crème brulee, hazelnut cookie crumbles, Wasanbon ice cream, Kuromitsu sauce, and Fruity Mokable in two forms: plaque and a dusting of frozen powder. Uchigoshi’s decadent but balanced Kohi Mame dessert will be available on the Miku menu from February 3–16 while quantities last.

Executive Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi 

“As a Japanese chef, bringing an innovation like Mokable to Toronto is deeply meaningful, as I started my pastry journey in Japan. Its versatility and depth create endless possibilities,” says pastry chef Aiko Uchigoshi. 

Uchigoshi has won multiple awards in sugar and cake competitions, including first place for three consecutive years in a prestigious competition for pastry chefs under 23. She is also currently the Executive Pastry Chef for one-MICHELIN-star restaurant Aburi Hana, the sister restaurant to Miku.

Bar Pompette  

Rated the top bar in Canada and celebrated for its sophisticated cocktails, Bar Pompette consistently pushes the boundaries of flavour and creativity. Ranked No. 1 in Canada’s 100 Best and No. 15 on North America’s 50 Best Bars 2023, Bar Pompette is also the recipient of the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award

Starting as a chef at seven different kitchens in France, he was fascinated with culinary excellence. Togni later fell in love with the art of mixology and moved to Toronto. Co-founder of award-winning cocktail bar, Bar Pompette, Hugo Togni appreciates the unique qualities of Mokable. 

Co-founder Hugo Togni

“Mokable’s unique characteristics allow us to reimagine classic cocktail flavours, creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Without Mokable, I would not be able to create my cocktail with the flavour profiles I have in this drink,” says Togni. 

Togni’s Chaudkan features Suntory Toki Whisky, notes of pumpkin, maple syrup, and yuzu, with a Fruity Mokable foam garnished with gold flakes and cornflower petals. Bar Pompette’s exclusive Chaudkan Mokable cocktail will only be available February 13–14.

Vinoteca Pompette and Bakery Pompette

Known for its rich French influence, Bakery Pompette is one of Toronto’s finest French bakeries with pure butter croissants, baguettes, pastries and specialty coffee. 

Sister property to the Bakery Pompette and Bar Pompette along the same street is Vinoteca Pompette presenting a fresh twist of Italian classics infused with French influences. Bakery Pompette’s Mokable feature will debut with the launch of Vinoteca Café (daytime menu).

Bauer has crafted a Mokable-inspired Financier with her team at Bakery Pompette in celebration of the innovative ingredient’s North American launch. Piped with Fruity Mokable and garnished with edible flecks of gold, the Mokable Financier is a take on the traditional French almond cake—an ideal canvas for Mokable.

Co-founder Martine Bauer

“Mokable’s rich roasted notes are a perfect complement to pastry, offering new dimensions in texture and taste,” says Bauer. 

Included as part of Vinoteca Pompette’s lunch service from February 5–16, diners can enjoy the dessert from Wednesday to Sunday while indulging in their new daytime offerings.

W HOTEL TORONTO

W Toronto, the luxury boutique hotel part of the MICHELIN Guide Hotels, offers Torontonians an authentic experience with their Skylight Rooftop Bar & Restaurant located on their 9th floor with stunning city lights and Mediterranean-inspired dishes with seasonal ingredients that bring the vibrant flavours of the coast to life. 

For a delight in decadent bites, served with elegance, Living Room Restaurant & Bar offers an unparalleled blend of live music performances, weekly DJ sets, and signature experiences like High Beau-Tea, the hotel's beauty-inspired twist on the classic afternoon tea.

Executive chef Olivier Le Calvez 

“Mokable is a representation of my love for coffee, it captures the full essence of coffee beans and I was so excited to work with this product. It was easily integrated into my offering at W Toronto,” says executive chef Olivier Le Calvez.  

W Toronto, a destination for luxury dining, blends global inspiration with Toronto’s vibrant culinary scene. Le Calvez, originally from Mexico, has decades of experience working. He has worked with renowned chefs like Joël Robuchon and Paul Bocuse.

Le Calvez is thrilled to serve Amour Espresso with tiramisu cream, and ladyfinger cookies, glazed with Roasted Mokable at Skylight Rooftop Bar & Restaurant. Indulge in Le Calvez’s Mokable feature, Amour Espresso from February 9-16th. 

Head Mixologist Olivia Arezes

Those enjoying Valentine’s Dinner at Skylight can also experience Mokable as a cocktail. Developed through the vision of beverage manager and mixologist Olivia Arezes, with over 20 years of experience, the Certified Sommelier (The Court of Master Sommeliers) has crafted a Mokable Martini, which features Fruity Mokable fat-washed vodka, creme de cacao blanc, Licor 43, and Aztec chocolate bitters, garnished with a Fruity Mokable covered strawberry. Mokable Martini will be featured in both Skylight Rooftop Restaurant & Bar and Living Room Restaurant & Bar from February 3-16.

DaNico

Proudly awarded one-MICHELIN-star this year, DaNico redefines modern Italian cuisine with global flavours and seamlessly blends modern Italian culinary traditions with world-class service, unparalleled hospitality, and an exquisite, custom-designed ambiance. 

Executive chef Daniele Corona

Chef Daniele Corona is the first and only Italian chef in Canada to earn one-MICHELIN-star in two restaurants in Toronto. During his leadership at Don Alfonso 1890, Corona’s exceptional talent earned him a prestigious one-MICHELIN-star, and now DaNico has garnered the same esteemed recognition. Corona has perfected his craft at the prestigious I.P.S.E.O.A. Duca Di Buonvicino Culinary Institute and honed his skills at Trussardi alla Scala in Milan. 

Partnering with Corona’s pastry chef, Nikhil Londhe, DaNico will be offering a new dessert feature, “Save the Coffee” which features Itakuja namelaka a fabulous cross between a ganache and a crème pâtissière, Jivara soft caramel, finished with Fruity Mokable crunch with cocoa.

For a limited time only, indulge in “Save the Coffee” from February 3-16.

The Visionary Behind the Innovation

Akinori Itoyama, founder of Mokable, brings a unique blend of expertise to the table. Holding a doctorate in molecular biology from the Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences at Kyushu University, Itoyama's career has been marked by innovation. At Suntory Holdings Limited, he honed his skills in product development for iconic coffee beverages like "BOSS," as well as R&D strategy planning and new business development. With twelve years at Suntory Holdings Limited and his time in the coffee industry, he was inspired to dive further into research and development for sustainability. Thus, Mokable was born. 

Through Suntory's internal venture program, Itoyama conceived a groundbreaking concept to consume the whole coffee bean recognizing the significant amount of coffee grounds traditionally discarded in the coffee industry. By merging his molecular biology expertise with a commitment to sustainability, Itoyama collaborated with 01Booster Inc. to bring Mokable to life.

A Historic Moment

Mokable is more than a new ingredient; it launches an entirely new product category. It represents an innovative fusion of sustainability, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence. With Toronto, as the first city in North America to explore this revolutionary product, diners have the unique opportunity to savour world-class chefs' and mixologists’ bold and artistic creations. 

Through these incredible collaborations, Toronto diners will be the first in North America to taste Mokable. This debut is not just an introduction—it’s a bold foray into the future.

Visit these incredible venues in Toronto to experience Mokable in February. For more information on Mokable’s launch and sustainability story, visit their Instagram @mokable_na, and their website, https://cafexlate.jp/ (branded as CAFEXLATE in Japan).

 
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Premier Ford announced today that US products will be pulled from LCBO shelves and will not be available for sale, including for Ontario restaurants and bars.   

We are in active communication with the Government of Ontario and LCBO as we seek to affirm important details of interest to your business.

At this point, our understanding and expectation is that US products will be pulled from shelves on Monday evening and will not be available for sale Tuesday morning.    

Of greatest concern to our members, this action will impact US wines and 324 spirits SKUs. While not exhaustive, top selling impacted SKUs will include: Titos; Bacardi; all bourbons; Jack Daniels; Kraken Rum; Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum; Kahlua; Jim Beam; and Sour Puss.  

Outstanding Questions  

We have asked LCBO and the Government to confirm: 

  • Will orders already placed, but scheduled for delivery after Monday still be honoured? 
  • Can orders for delivery still be placed on Monday? 
  • Can restaurants return unopened inventory of US products for full refund? 
  • Will the government take action to lower wholesale discounts for licensees to help offset rising costs? 

Other Key Information 

  • In media, we are calling out that restaurants will have to change menus and product offerings, which will include pricing impacts. 
    We continue to address alcohol wholesale pricing opportunities.  
  • We are also broadly calling out that US led measures, and Canadian retaliatory measures, will impact restaurant prices, supply chains, and consumer spending.  We are therefore calling on governments to provide support that will help our sector protect restaurant locations and jobs.
 
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MONTREAL, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- KFC Canada is proud to announce its official partnership with the Montreal Canadiens, Canada’s most beloved hockey team. Bringing PFK’s iconic fried chicken to the Bell Centre, KFC Canada joins forces with a legendary institution that embodies Quebecers' passion and pride for their national sport. This collaboration promises to make hockey nights even more memorable.

Within Quebec, KFC is known as "PFK", which stands for "Poulet Frit Kentucky" – the French translation of "Kentucky Fried Chicken." This local branding reflects the company’s commitment to serving its signature fried chicken in a way that resonates with the French-speaking community. KFC Canada is incredibly invested in the market, with plans to lead in the expansion of PFK locations across the province combined with exceptional operations. This partnership marks the latest move from PFK to further strengthen their position in Quebec and accelerate regional growth.

The Canadiens are more than just a hockey team—they're a way of life for millions of fans. With one of the highest ratings in the entire NHL, the Canadiens bring together a passionate and loyal community. This partnership taps into that unmatched energy, that serves up a PFK dining experience that lives up to the hype that Habs fans embody. Starting this season, the Bell Centre will feature PFK stands located throughout the arena, where fans can enjoy classics such as chicken fingers, Popcorn Chicken, and perfectly seasoned fries.

Beginning February 2nd, fans can celebrate every Habs win with PFK’s exclusive 3-piece chicken offer for just $3. Fans can choose between 3 pieces of original recipe chicken or 3 piece chicken tenders. Available for one day following each victory, this special deal can be redeemed at participating restaurants in Montreal and surrounding areas. Valid for both dine-in and takeout, the offer applies to all winning home and away games, with a minimum $1 additional spend required to unlock the deal.

“Quebec and Canadiens fans share a love story that is passed on by generations, just like our chicken” said Katherine Bond-Debicki, Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Digital Officer, KFC Canada. “As a brand, it was only natural for us to partner with such an iconic team. This collaboration is an opportunity to create core memories for fans and bring them closer together, whether they’re cheering in the stands or watching from home, all while digging into our delicious chicken.”

In addition to this craveable menu, KFC Canada has a season full of surprises in store for Habs fans. From exclusive game-day promotions to unforgettable experiences and engaging initiatives, this partnership will take the Habs community’s excitement to new heights.

 
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CALGARY, Alberta, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ecstatic to share the details of their first collaborative event, Tavern at Deerfoot Meadows is getting ready to host a special celebration like no other. Partnering with local supplier Mountain View Meats, and beloved Banded Peak Brewing, the team is preparing to put on a nostalgic Sunday Roast, with a twist.

From 3.00 pm MT on Sunday 09th February, Tavern is inviting the Calgary community to join them as they serve up a deliciously slow-roasted meal. Openly prepared on-site, the inspiration behind the gathering comes from the historical preparation of roasted meats by local taverns in the past. Wanting to incorporate a modern take on this tradition, the team is mixing in the atmosphere of a neighborhood watch party, sparking new and exciting moments for guests to enjoy together. 

For $35 per person, locals and visitors will be treated to a choice of either two succulent pulled pork sandwiches or a plate of flavorsome seasoned pulled pork, with 3 additional complimentary sides included. Completing the meal is the option to order a Banded Peak Microburst pint or a non-alcoholic beverage per ticket holder. Finally, as part of their purchase, guests will have a reserved table and guaranteed front-row seat to watch all of the action that the biggest Sunday in the sporting event calendar brings!

“We can’t wait to show off everything we’ve been working so hard to bring to life for this event!”, shares Vadym Nosov, Executive General Manager of Tavern at Deerfoot Meadows. “Let’s face it, there’s nothing better than a mouth-watering meal paired with genuine hospitality. It’s about creating vibes, dishing out unforgettable moments, and making people smile. We’re here to serve good food, good times, and all the good feels. Can’t wait to welcome everyone and start creating memories that’ll stick.”

Easily distinguished by their lovable, esteemed Frenchie mascot JD, the brand-new public house recently opened at the end of last year and is situated in the former premises of the renowned Shark Club Bar & Grill in South Calgary. An affordable and inclusive dining brand, Tavern at Deerfoot Meadows offers a delicious globally inspired menu of 29 items that is a mix of traditional pub food, new classics, and healthy dishes. Carefully crafted new signature cocktails, worldly wines, or featured draft beers are also on tap to enjoy in a comfortable atmosphere, driven by great service.

Tickets for the Super Sunday Pig Roast are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be purchased on-site in Tavern at Deerfoot Meadows or via phone at (403) 250-5973.

For further information on this event and full opening hours details, please visit The Tavern Collective website or on social @thetaverncollective.

 
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TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lactalis Canada, the Canadian dairy leader behind iconic brands like Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Balderson, Astro and Lactantia and a subsidiary of France-based Lactalis Group, is proud to be named on Forbes’ Canada’s Best Employers for 2025. Lactalis Canada has been recognized amongst the country’s top 300 employers, making the list as the only dairy company and amongst the top 10 in the Food & Beverage category in 2025.

This most recent accolade comes hot on the heels of the company recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for 2025 and previously featured on Forbes’ Best Employers in Canada list in 2021 and 2022.

“To once again be named on Forbes’ list of Canada’s Best Employers in 2025 is an honour and a testament to the exceptional work of our team across the country who proudly deliver on our purpose to enrich and nurture the lives of Canadians every day,” said Mark Taylor, President & CEO at Lactalis Canada. “As part of the Lactalis Experience, we are committed to unlocking our human capital and building pride through engaging and inspiring experiences, empowerment, development opportunities, as well as a supportive and trusting workplace for everyone to leverage their unique skills and contribute to our collective success.”

The ranking was determined through an anonymous survey conducted by market research firm Statista in partnership with Forbes to more than 40,000 Canada-based employees working for companies and institutions that employ at least 500 individuals within Canada. The survey focused on a range of criteria, including salary, work flexibility, training programs and development opportunities.

Read more on Forbes’ list of Canada’s Best Employers HERE.

 

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