Greater Sudbury has many restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines and dining ambiance, but also automated doors, handicap parking and accessible entrances and washrooms.
There are many factors to consider when determining accessibility in restaurants. The most significant criteria taken into consideration in determining accessibility in the following Greater Sudbury restaurants were:
Using the six key areas above, we assessed the accessibility highlights within a few of Greater Sudbury’s popular restaurants with varying locations and building types:
|
Restaurant |
Automated Doors |
Step free access |
Number of Handicap Parking spots |
Number/type of accessible washrooms |
Door frame size |
Patio? If so is it accessible? |
|
No |
Yes |
2 |
2 large stalls |
Standard |
Yes, accessible |
|
|
Yes |
Yes |
0 |
1 room style |
Standard |
No patio |
|
|
No |
Yes |
0 |
1 room style |
Wide |
Yes, accessible |
|
|
No |
Yes |
1 |
1 room style |
Wide |
Yes, accessible |
Di Gusto is known for its’ dining elegance and its’ dedication to personalized client care. This authentic Italian restaurant features two handicap parking spots and two large accessible washroom stalls. Although their front entrance and lobby door are not automatic, the glass paneling in the entrance way allows for staff to see approaching accessibility clients to assist them into the restaurant. Additionally, their dining room area hosts a range of seating styles with removable chairs, all accessible!
Respect is Burning takes pride in their newly renovated facility and boasts their accessibility with their large front entrance and automatic doors. Their lobby area provides ample space for customers to wait for their reservation. Their tables have removable seating, allowing for more accessibility. Additionally, within the restaurant there are individual tables that provide extra space and comfort to those with accessibility needs. Respect’s luxurious, custom accessible bathroom features automatic lights and a custom sink, the perfect height for accessible clients.
Sixth Avenue is known for hosting annual events with Lively’s Friendship Centre and because of this relationship, Sixth Avenue is experienced in catering to all of their clients’ accessibility needs. Their main entrance features a large door opening and ramp; although the door is not automatic, the staff greet each client at the door to assist any way they can. There are no designated parking spots; however, they allow clients with accessibility needs to park in front of their main club house. Additionally, their outdoor patio and their 6,000 square foot outdoor Garden Party Venue is fully accessible. During events, parking attendants rope off designated spots and assist those with accessibility needs.
Ristorante Verdicchio’s beautiful and intimate patio is what sets it apart from the other accessible restaurants. Their tables are widely spaced throughout the patio making it roomy, but still keeping it elegant and intimate. Although Verdicchio doesn’t have an automatic front door, they do offer a spacious lobby area and two large accessible washrooms. The variety of seating indoors and out provides removable chairs for additional space and comfort for accessibility clients.
Each of these five Greater Sudbury restaurants has something to offer their clients. Providing excellent customer service to all clients is their first priority as well as ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience. So, turn the stove off, put down the dish towel and experience some of Greater Sudbury’s most delicious and accessible restaurants.
By: Emily O’Connell with thanks to Natalie Lalonde
