In October 2018, Sassafraz, “the little house in the village,” renewed its operation after a two-year planning process of remodeling. Redesigned restaurant's exterior dressed in green sage hues that subtly shift throughout the day surrounds the doors that remain an iconic yellow as a homage to its original look. The aesthetic was inspired by the restaurant's location and it's architecture, as well as Yorkville’s reputation as a haven for artists in the 1960s. “What really inspired us, though, was our guests,” said founding partner Zoran Kocovski. “We spent two years talking to people, conducting formal interviews and poring over Bloor/Yorkville demographic studies before we even looked at design.”

Inside, the S-Cafe Bar is lively in bright. A water-glass window that brings free-spirited informality to space and blurs the line between the café and dining room. Hurricane lamps and column tiles reflect the light around the dining room. The pale sage banquettes echo the building exterior. Walnut tables with clustered seating offer a relaxed setting for conversation.

“Along with the redesign, chef Geoff Webb has re-created the Sassafraz menu. Guests can enjoy dishes with international inspirations, including the sumac roasted aubergine with harissa hummus and herbed quinoa salad, and classic dishes such as Harrison Co-op chicken supreme with white beans and chanterelle mushrooms. The team takes pride in creating dishes with fresh and sustainable ingredients sourced from boutique suppliers in Canada.

Sassafraz's alluring design and complex eats have attracted several famous personalities. According to the Globe and Mail—which labels the restaurant "prime celebrity stalking ground"—past visitors have included Matt Damon, Daniel Craig, and Isabella Rossellini. Despite its knack for hosting glamorous clientele, the staff prefers to remain grounded in wholesome cooking for the community.