A cafe that served as a cornerstone of the Toronto Islands community for decades is set to return in a new form after a devastating fire laid waste to its 90-year-old home back in March.

Owners of the Island Cafe were humbled by the outpouring of support they received in the wake of the blaze, and started making plans to rebuild almost immediately.

That work is now well underway, with an anticipated opening date of August 1 for a whole new — albeit temporary — iteration of the restaurant and gathering place on Ward's.

Toronto restaurant destroyed by fire already gearing up for return this summer https://t.co/uGW0eNM1XB

— blogTO (@blogTO) March 23, 2024

The family behind the business told the Star this week that the basic kiosk structures that will comprise the new spot are about to be moved onto the site, which is near the former Island Cafe and Ward's Island Community Association clubhouse, but technically on City-owned green space that they are leasing on a three-month term with an option for extension.

Despite the many residents, patrons and employees who are thrilled to see the Island Cafe's revival after such an unfortunate incident that could have meant its permanent end, a few have apparently expressed concern about insufficient public consultation.

In response, Ward 10 Spadina—Fort York Councillor and Deputy Mayor Ausma Mailk has vowed to provide more transparency and engagement about the process and plans for the temporary cafe, which included running a well-attended open house meeting last month that owners said was "difficult" due to some negativity.

Owners shared their appreciation to supporters on Instagram afterwards, giving special thanks to "those that spoke on our behalf about their love of the Island Cafe and encouragement to reopen a temporary spot" and "all the City staff that came to answer all the questions. Specifically our Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik for your insightful comments."

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They have also shared other updates, including blueprints of the forthcoming container cafe, kiosks, patio and walkway, which have been met with tons of excitement from followers.

The space will "have the values, integrity and familiar Island Cafe family-friendly character with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients and from-scratch cooking," the team wrote.