Toronto’s Beloved Bagel Shop Lox + Schmear Seeks Your Support Amid Unprecedented Challenges

Lox + Schmear, a St. Clair West institution, has faced a series of unfortunate events that have left the business on the brink. Founder Lev Levine, an Italian resident since 2018, shares the struggles and asks the Toronto community for help to keep the shop afloat.

From a faulty HVAC installation leading to $7,000 in repairs, to a fire-triggered flood shutting down the shop for five weeks, the bad luck just kept coming. In July, a power outage cost the business $12,000 worth of inventory, and August brought another three-week closure due to flood repairs. These incidents, compounded with the costs of moving to a new location, have left Lox + Schmear facing significant financial challenges.

Levine, who is currently in the process of moving the shop to a more stable location, has launched a Relocation & Reopening Campaign. So far, the community has contributed $14,403 towards a $40,000 goal. Additionally, customers can support by purchasing e-gift cards, visiting the shop when it's open, or pitching in with a donation.