02/10/2026
Thank you Lindsay Downtown for writing this wonderful article about our journey.
We love our customers!
๐๐๐๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐๐ฌ๐ฌ: ๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ฒ๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ค๐
At the heart of Lindsayโs vibrant downtown, Pie Eyed Monk is more than a restaurant, itโs an experience. Manager Erastus believes what truly sets the venue apart is its focus on service and atmosphere. Rather than operating like a franchise, the restaurant centers on creating a place where guests feel welcomed, celebrated, and able to unwind from the moment they walk through the door.
Since joining the team nearly seven years ago, Erastus has found the most rewarding part of his role is building connections with guests. From couples planning their weddings to regular customers stopping in for a familiar meal, he values the relationships formed within the space and the stories people share about their connection to the building. Signature soups from Chef Marc and a team that knows many guests by name help create a warm, welcoming environment.
A strong workplace culture plays a big role in the restaurantโs success. More than 65% of the staff have been part of the Pie Eyed Monk team for over five years, with a quarter of the team there since day one. Staff social events like ski outings, summer gatherings, and holiday parties contribute to a workplace where people genuinely enjoy coming to work. That positive energy is noticeable to guests and even attracts experienced servers from other establishments who want to be part of the fun, supportive atmosphere.
The menu carries that same dedication to quality and consistency. Pizza is a true standout, crafted in an authentic pizza oven using fresh ingredients and well-balanced flavours. Chef Marc, a member of the team since the very beginning, is instrumental in upholding that high standard throughout the menu.
Pie Eyed Monk is also known as a versatile and lively event space. Live music nights are especially popular, creating feel-good moments that bring the community together. The venue has also become a sought-after wedding destination, able to host up to 120 seated guests or 163 for a dance-style celebration.
Reflecting on lessons learned, Erastus says, Surround yourself with people who know the answers to questions you donโt. You donโt have to know everything. Focus on doing a few things really well, play to your strengths.
The restaurantโs story is deeply connected to its historic home, the C.L. Baker Block. Built in the late 1800s, the building has housed many different businesses and community spaces over the decades, including a pool hall, dance studio, gym, and brewery. A major renovation preserved its historic charm while making all three floors wheelchair accessible, earning it recognition as one of Lindsayโs best-preserved heritage properties. Pie Eyed Monk officially opened on August 8, 2018, following a two-year restoration, with Erastus joining soon after and bringing a background in theatre, design, marketing, and large-scale event production into the hospitality world.
Today, Pie Eyed Monk offers more than a meal. It provides a place where history, hospitality, and heartfelt experiences come together, and where guests gather to celebrate lifeโs everyday and milestone moments alike. Visit Pie Eyed Monk at 8 Cambridge Street North, or online at pieeyedmonk.com for more information. Pie Eyed Monk