Allergen-friendly gelato shop in Toronto celebrating one year of serving community

Two millennials in Toronto opened up their first allergen-friendly gelato and wine bar after their catering business took a hit at the start of the pandemic.

Located in the West Queen West neighborhood, you can find On Third Thought co-owner, Jade Lalonde, and her partner, Joey Ottaviano, serving up scoops of vegan gelato that customers trust.

“On Third Thought gelato is food that you don’t have to think twice about. It’s a dessert that everybody can enjoy,” Lalonde said.

Lalonde told CityNews the idea behind On Third Thought was inspired by the difficulties in finding food that she and her friends could share.

“For the people in my life and I who do have allergies and dietary restrictions, it’s so isolating sometimes to eat and be in social situations when you must identify your allergy and you can’t share food with people,” Lalonde said, “Breaking bread is truly what brings people together.”

This weekend marks the one-year anniversary of On Third Thought’s store launch.

“It feels so exciting making it to one year, this has been the toughest and most rewarding year of my life,” Lalonde said. “Starting this business was super scary. But we had such a positive and overwhelming response from the local and allergen community.”

Lalonde and Ottaviano’s mission is to take dietary restrictions out of the conversation so their customers can focus on their busy lives and not the treat in front of them.

“Just enjoy the good flavors, the good conversations and the good times with the people that they want to share scoops of gelato with,” Lalonde said.

On Third Thought is inviting the community to their patio party Saturday, May 28, between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. to celebrate their one-year anniversary.

You can visit 6 Markham Street for discounted gelato, music, prizes and more.