By Steve Kupferman

Located at the corner of Nassau and Augusta streets in Kensington Market, 234 Augusta Avenue has been a focal point of anxiety for neighbourhood residents and businesspeople since fall 2008, when the fruit market that used to occupy the space was closed after a disastrous health inspection, and local press learned that Starbucks was interested in the building. We found out in June that that the Starbucks deal was definitely a no-go, and now we know what’s going to be occupying the storefront instead: tapas.

Last week, signs appeared on the exterior of the long-vacant property advertising the impending arrival of El Barrio, a tapas bar. They look like this:

The property is situated at the intersection of two of Kensington’s main shopping and dining drags, which makes it a smart location for a restaurant with trendy inclinations (appropriately, the property was listed for five thousand dollars per month). Two other restaurants—Torito and Waterfalls—already serve tapas further north on Augusta Avenue in the Market. El Barrio will represent the southernmost front in the small-plates invasion.
At least one local Sharpie owner is displeased:

There are still two fruit stores across the street from 234 Augusta, and three more elsewhere in Kensington. But it’s true, at least, that this one isn’t coming back.
Thanks to Jonathan Goldsbie for the tip.
Photos by Michael Chrisman/Torontoist.