First Pinoy resto in Markham

First Pinoy resto in Markham

Grand Opening

MARKHAM–February 21, 2012 – A lifelong dream will be realized on Saturday, March 10, 2012 when LJ Kusina hosts their official grand opening as the first Filipino restaurant in the culturally rich town of Markham, Ontario.

Lorenza and John Maillet – the L&J – have envisioned a business partnership ever since they met in 2004, but opening a Filipino restaurant is only part of the story.
“My vision is to feed the hungry in the Philippines,” says Lorenza who grew up in the impoverished country and came to Canada in 1992 as a caregiver. “We are so blessed with all the comforts in Canada, enough that we can make small sacrifices for those who have less.”  Over the last 20 years Lorenza has been making those sacrifices for her family back home for everyday necessities and education. At the same time, she has been accumulating the financial resources to realize her own business.

“Service to our Community will be key to our success,” says John, when asked what will identify LJ Kusina in Markham. “Our facility can host events of every kind, and we will support all organizations looking for creative ways to grow.”  John has over 15 years in the food industry and he knows that today’s market is vastly different from when he was managing a pizza franchise in Halifax, N.S. in 2003. “Back then, direct mail and knowing your customer base by name was vitally important; today you have to know how to market to everyone’s smartphone,” says John. “When someone dines at LJ Kusina, we want them to feel engaged in the dining experience. We will try to greet everyone personally and the word will soon spread that LJ Kusina is the place to feel welcome in our Pinoy setting.”

Representing the Filipino cuisine is a great responsibility, so John and Lorenza have surrounded themselves with a strong kitchen staff, guided by Lorenza’s expert culinary and organizational skills. LJ Kusina offers a casual/fine dining experience with a seating capacity of 70 patrons.    

View details of the grand opening at www.ljkusina.com.; contact: John Maillet; dine@ljkusina.com; 7690 Markham Road, Unit 6C, Markham, Ontario  L3S 4S1; Ph: 905-209-7050; Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10am – 8pm; Friday & Saturday 10am – 10pm

(PRESS RELEASE RELEASE)