What can you say about a restaurant, which has had only three incarnations in just under a century? In 1921, The Savoy Café and Quick Lunch, located at 371-373 Queen St. W. in Toronto, was owned by C.S. Jung. Its motto was "Pure Food, Quick Service". The tin ceiling created drama, while the tin light fixtures hung in front of the picture window.

In 1936 Jung sold The Savoy to Chuck Woo. After the addition of ten popular booths, Peter Pan Lunch was born. One could order the now famous Peter Pan burger for five cents, while a sirloin steak would set you back thirty-five cents. A sweet tooth could be appeased with a slice of fresh blueberry pie, accompanied by a refreshing glass of buttermilk (five cents). Wartime customers were encouraged to "BUY YOUR MEAL TICKET HERE AND SAVE MONEY".

Things really got interesting in 1976, when the Peter Pan, as we know it today, changed hands for the third time. It has been described as "a late-70s cultural nexus". Culinary favourites were gaining popularity, and Peter Pan emerged as an innovator. Staple classics, such as the Chicken Sandwich, and the Butternut Squash & Watercress Salad grew from this creative time. Owners Larry Guest and Mary Jackman have not been afraid to take chances over the years. Susur Lee got his first break in the Peter Pan kitchen.

The Peter Pan Bistro marries a sense of the absurd with tradition, yet never misses its forays into the modern art of culinary extension. See the original tin ceiling and light fixtures. Experience the colossal cows witnessing every bustling moment. Admire the changing works of art, bringing local artists closer to appreciative patrons. Watch the world of Queen West meander by, from the popular window seat. Inhale the fresh flowers, suggesting perpetual growth and light. Listen to conversations, some charming, some banal, and some, the very same ones you might have had when you were at “The Pan” in 1976?