McDonald’s Canada opened the doors of its newest flagship store on Yonge Street Tuesday, but one Ryerson prof says another fast-food joint isn’t likely to make a mark on the student diet around campus.
“…In a neighborhood that is already saturated with eateries and quick-service restaurants will prove innocuous in terms of its effect on the nutrient intakes of Ryerson students,” said School of Nutrition professor Nick Bellissimo.
The new restaurant at Yonge and Elm Streets is being marketed as a “residence away from residence,” with the hope that students will take advantage of the 62 power outlets, 24 hour service and unlimited free Wi-Fi.
It’s the company’s largest restaurant in Ontario coming in at 2,743 square metres. It features two levels, seating for 270 and a separate McCafé counter.
“(I) probably won’t study there as it’s so distracting and loud,” said Erika Hayashi, a third-year urban planning student.
First-year nursing student Kaltun Adan, on the other hand, said, “I’m going to go soon, as it’s so much closer to school. I don’t have to go all the way to Eaton Centre.”
Ronald McDonald made an appearance at the opening to cut the ribbon, along with franchisee Lindsay Bridge and vice-president Ontario Sharon Ramalho. Hundreds of guests lined up to be the first inside the new location and the first 356 customers were given a free bag of McCafé ground coffee.
“It’s amazing to have so much space to work with in a downtown location,” Bridge said. “It allows us to provide the ultimate experience for our guests and a gathering place for the community to work, play or relax.”
Sydney is a graduate of the Ryerson School of Journalism and a former Copy Editor for The Ryersonian.