Two years ago, Claudio Macri and Patricia Ramos moved to Jackson’s Point from Richmond Hill. They regularly went on walks that would take them along Lake Drive East. Patricia and Claudio would never have guessed the restaurant located at 928 Lake Drive E., which they walked by daily, would one day become theirs. “We wanted to open up a restaurant here eventually but we were thinking in three to four years,” says Claudio.
Working as part of his family's restaurant in Richmond Hill for 11 years, Claudio knows what it takes to run a successful food business. After several discussions with the previous owners, Patricia and Claudio took the leap and bought the business, changing the name from Lakeside Pizzeria and Gelateria to Lakeside Italian Hot Table and Gelateria.
The homemade Gelato will be as flavourful and refreshing as it’s always been, continuing to be offered in more than 20 incredible flavours. Fresh baked goods like brownies and croissants are made in house and available daily to pair with a hot cup of espresso or cappuccino. If you are looking for a meal to eat in, take home or take to the beach, the hot table offerings of veal, chicken and eggplant parm sandwiches, lasagna, penne Pomodoro, spaghetti and meatballs, pizza and the signature penne alla vodka is sure to appease any appetite. Meals can be eaten in the restaurant and patio or taken to go and enjoyed at one of the nearby local parks like Bonnie Park, De La Salle Beach or Jackson’s Point Parkette.
“We are excited to be part of Georgina and the business community here. Our business is within walking distance from our home,” says Patricia. “Since opening, the support from the community has been overwhelming.”
Celebrating its official grand opening on Saturday, Oct. 1, the restaurant and patio were packed with people enjoying a scoop of gelato or trying out the hot table offerings which are served in huge portions. Operating the restaurant year-round, Lakeside Italian Hot Table and Gelateria also offers catering services for a variety of events.
Stop by Lakeside Italian Hot Table and Gelateria Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m - 9 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
If you are thinking about starting or expanding your business in Georgina, connect with the Economic Development and Tourism office. They can assist with property selection, zoning, incentives and business support programs. Visit choosegeorgina.ca to learn more.