Cabbagetown sushi eatery closing on Gerrard

Another popular Cabbagetown-area establishment is disappearing in the wake of the pandemic.

Qi Sushi at 358 Gerrard St. E., east of Parliament Street, announced online they are permanently closing after this holiday weekend.

Qi (pronounced “Chee”) has been serving Cabbagetown and Regent Park patrons for nearly a decade, having opened in December 2011.

The closure was announced by owner Jennifer Park on Facebook on May 19.

“I want to thank everyone in this community for nothing but 10 years of love and support,” she said in the message. “You will all forever be in my hearts, and I’m sorry that this is happening. Thank you for an amazing 10-year chapter in my life.”

The Qi menu was Japanese, at times featuring — besides sushi, of course — udon (thick noodle) dishes, teriyaki and complete bento box meals, plus soups, salads and ice cream desserts.

Qi Sushi was known as having an intimate atmosphere and a friendly staff, with most customers calling the owner Jenny.

Dozens of patrons have responded to the news of the closing with sorrowful but supportive messages on the restaurant’s Facebook pages.

“Oh no! My sons will be so sad. I’m sorry this is happening, Qi was our favourite local sushi restaurant,” reads one message. “Thank you for the great food and the warm welcome whenever we visited. We will miss you, Jenny.”