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Landmark space · The Senator

The Senator

One of Toronto's oldest continuous restaurants, The Senator has served classic diner fare and a taste of history for nearly a century.

Toronto, ON 518

When The Senator opened its doors in 1929, the world was on the precipice of the Great Depression. Originally known as Buscombe's, the establishment quickly became a haven for those seeking an affordable, hearty meal in downtown Toronto. Situated near the Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres, it drew in theatre-goers and workers alike, offering a sense of normalcy and comfort amidst growing economic hardship. The original owner, a British immigrant, understood the need for value, and the restaurant gained a reputation for its generous portions and friendly service. While many businesses faltered during this tumultuous decade, Buscombe's, later to become The Senator, quietly endured, a testament to its simple yet essential appeal to the struggling populace.

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