"Perfecting your craft" : How the Volcano Cafe & Lounge is Shaking up the Pickering Community
Updated: Dec 22, 2020
When I started this blog, I wanted to share my recipes, tips, and tricks and represent local businesses around the GTA. In a time of uncertainty when a lot of local businesses have now closed their doors, I have taken it upon myself to explore different restaurants, cafes, and patios, in the hopes of being a driving force to help them continue to stay open and serve us the delicious food they do! Now that I have this platform, I can formally share these fantastic places to eat and explore. Presenting to you my first restaurant review!!
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to review and interview the owner of the Volcano Cafe and Lounge located right here in the heart of Pickering. This family-run business first opened its doors to customers in February, right before the Pandemic hit. It quickly became a hit amongst crowds of all ages, from teenagers coming to study to families enjoying an intimate dinner; you'll be sure to find a table that suits your needs. To top it all off, all food options are Halal!!
As I looked around the lounge, Noora told me why they had chosen Pickering to start up their new endeavors.
"Pickering is a community where diversity is growing and lacks an authentic Italian and Mediterranean restaurant that serves delicious Halal food, super-rich, and sweet desserts and flavourful Shisha options! From seating to lights and decor, we have ensured that we provide the community with a relaxed and cozy atmosphere perfect for all their needs."
As Noora mentioned, The Volcano Cafe / Lounge serves up a unique mix of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, with a fantastic mix of burgers, pastas, fries, and more. Still, the star of my visit was all the delicious desserts I tried! From waffles to customized crepes and decadent cakes, it was like being in a candy shop. Noora, Volcano's owner, knew about my obsession with Nutella and served up a waffle topped with vanilla ice cream, strawberries, drizzled with the star of the show Nutella!!
My friend Elizabeth tried another one of their famous desserts called the chocoholic. The name fitting perfectly for all chocolate lovers! A warm, rich chocolate cake topped with a side of French vanilla ice cream drizzled with milk chocolate YUMMY!
As I started working on my cup of black coffee, I took the opportunity to ask Noora a few questions. I wondered if she had any tips on running a successful business as I wished to own my own brick and mortar store in the future.
"You have to perfect your craft and continuously develop new skills. This applies to everything you plan on doing in the future."
She said, "Providing spectacular customer service will allow you to build an amazing reputation. Trust me, providing the best customer service to your customers will have them coming back. Lastly, build a relationship with all of your employees and work as a team! Having a strong team will build your business and allow you to grow with the people around you."
This will definitely not be my last time enjoying a night out at the Volcano Cafe and Lounge. It's quickly become a favorite place to hang out, not only because of the delicious food but because of how everyone welcomes you in, making you feel like family. All the employees are genuinely so lovely and accomodating, going above and beyond to ensure you have an excellent experience.
To see a more in-depth video on my trip to the Volcano Cafe & Lounge, check out my Instagram @minniesweetmiracles.
THE VOLCANO CAFE & LOUNGE
Instagram: @thevolcano.cl
1755 Pickering Pkwy, Pickering, ON L1V 6K5, Unit A25