From Backyard to Brick-and-Mortar: The Story Behind BEAR Steak Sandwiches

In a city brimming with culinary options, it’s rare to find something that feels both new and nostalgic. That’s exactly what BEAR Steak Sandwiches delivers. Born from a simple craving and a shared dream, BEAR is the brainchild of longtime friends and business partners Aki Erenberg and Ricardo Barrientos—two individuals who turned their personal passion into a full-fledged neighbourhood favourite.

The origins of BEAR are as humble as they are heartfelt. In 2021, with the world in the thick of the pandemic, Aki and Ricardo decided to launch a backyard weekend pop-up. The idea was casual: create and serve the steak sandwich they had always wanted but could never quite find in Toronto. What started as a passion project quickly turned into a sensation. Word spread fast, and weekend after weekend, the duo sold out.

“It was just meant to be something fun—something that brought people together during a time when everyone was feeling isolated,” recalls Aki. “But the response we got told us this was more than just a backyard idea. People really loved the food, and that gave us the confidence to take things further.”

That confidence led them to open their first brick-and-mortar location in November 2023, just one block away from where it all began. BEAR Steak Sandwiches now operates out of 550A College St., but the spirit of the backyard remains embedded in everything they do—from the menu to the sense of community.

The name BEAR is more than just catchy—it’s personal. It stands for Barrientos, Erenberg, Aki, and Ricardo, encapsulating the founders’ names and their hands-on approach. “We wanted something straightforward and clean, just like our original menu,” says Ricardo. “We only served steak sandwiches when we started, so it felt right to let the name speak for itself.”

Before starting BEAR, Aki worked in architecture and interior design, while Ricardo was in real estate. Both had stable careers, but they also shared a growing desire to build something of their own. “We always knew we wanted to start a business,” says Ricardo. “Food wasn’t necessarily the plan from the beginning, but once we realized the impact of what we were creating, it became clear that this was our path into entrepreneurship.”

Taking that leap wasn’t easy, but it felt right. The pair left behind the structure of corporate life for the unpredictability of the restaurant industry, trading security for independence. “The hours are longer, the responsibilities are greater, and the stakes are higher—no pun intended—but it’s also incredibly rewarding,” Aki says with a smile.

While creating the initial concept, recipes, and brand identity came naturally, the real challenge began once the business was up and running. “There’s a lot of pressure when you’re no longer doing something casually,” says Aki. “It’s about showing up every day, holding yourself to your own high standards, and never cutting corners.”

One of the biggest lessons they’ve learned is the importance of knowing your "why." For Aki and Ricardo, it’s about more than just food—it’s about community, integrity, and a shared vision. “In business, there are always shortcuts that seem tempting, especially when things get hard,” Aki explains. “But we believe that long-term success only comes when you stay true to your values. Making decisions from a place of panic or just chasing the bottom line will catch up with you.”

That philosophy has shaped how BEAR approaches growth. From brand partnerships and pop-ups to event invitations and collaborations, every milestone has come from staying adaptable, listening to feedback, and staying open to change. “There’s no blueprint for this,” Ricardo says. “Every goal we’ve set has come with unexpected challenges. But we’ve also seen how resilience opens doors we never anticipated.”

Their hope is to one day turn BEAR into an international brand—but for now, they’re focused on growing sustainably and continuing to serve their local community with the same passion they started with.

“To our community: thank you for every visit, every word of encouragement, every sandwich shared,” says Aki. “Whether you’ve joined us for a special event, tried one of our collaborative creations, or just stopped by to say hello—it all means the world to us.”

And to anyone thinking of starting a business, the BEAR team has simple advice: just go for it. “You’ll never know what you’re capable of until you try,” Ricardo adds. “The world is your oyster—or your steak sandwich.”

You can find BEAR Steak Sandwiches at 550A College St., where the team continues to serve up their signature sandwich and other evolving specials. Stay updated on events and collaborations by following them on Instagram: @bearsteaksandwiches.