Redefining Toronto’s Food Scene: A Conversation with Juanita Dickson from Gusto 54 Group

Hey foodies! This episode is a feast for your ears as we chat with Juanita Dickson, President and CFO of Gusto 54 Restaurant Group. Join us as we explore how Juanita and her team are transforming Toronto’s dining landscape with a focus on cultivating happy people and a strong internal culture.

Raise your hand if you’ve dined at one of Gusto 54’s stellar spots? Their restaurants include: Trattoria Nervosa, Gusto 101, Gusto 501, Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen, Pai, Kiin, Azhar, Café Zuzu, Selva and Chaiyo by Pai (not to mention their new West Hollywood restaurant, Stella and LA’s Felix). From classic Italian to Caribbean flavours, Gusto 54’s lineup is a testament to culinary excellence and innovation. 

Don’t miss our host, Laurie, putting Juanita on the spot in a fun rapid-fire round where she names a Gusto 54 restaurant, and Juanita shares the must-try dish at each one. 

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Juanita’s journey and how she’s helped Gusto 54 grow by focusing on happy people and strong culture.
• The allure of Gusto’s $1/oz. wine and how they keep it affordable despite rising costs.
• How food and restaurant experiences shape neighbourhoods, build community, and bring people together.
• How this female leadership team is breaking barriers in the male-dominated culinary landscape.
• Gusto 54 Group’s approach to supporting their teams with mental health in a demanding industry.
• Emerging Toronto food trends and what’s next for Gusto 54.

Whether you’re a foodie, a restaurateur, or someone who just loves a good meal, this episode will leave you inspired and hungry for more.

For more on Gusto 54, check out their website and Instagram.

To get to know Juanita a bit more, you can read a member feature by the BIA here.

Follow Table 6ix on Instagram @table6ixpodcast.

Table 6ix brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: Table6ixPodcast.com.