Sault Ste. Marie Restaurant Closes Amidst Immigration Concerns
Local Eatery Cites Policy Changes and Market Challenges
A unique South Asian restaurant in Sault Ste. Marie has permanently shuttered its doors, a decision driven by evolving immigration policies and difficulties finding a sustainable customer base. The closure highlights the challenges faced by immigrant entrepreneurs in Canada.
Unexpected Closure of Ojas
Ojas, which launched in June 2024 in the former Muio’s location at 685 Queen St. East, initially gained attention as the city’s first meatless dining establishment. However, the restaurant announced a “temporary” closure on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, which has now been confirmed as permanent by chef and co-owner Surendra Kumar Bansal.
Bansal explained that he initially used the term ‘temporary’ because he was struggling to communicate the news to his landlord, suppliers, and other stakeholders. He added, “I don’t see any long-term opportunity to become part of the community because of the ever-changing immigration laws.”
Immigration Policy Impact
The cancellation of a program that would have allowed Bansal to become a permanent resident of Canada in March played a significant role in the decision. He expressed respect for Canada’s need to manage immigration, stating, “I’m sure I’m not the only one. There are many others who were affected, but it makes no sense investing our time and money in something which does not guarantee us long-term integration in the community.”
This situation mirrors a broader trend; according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, processing times for permanent residency applications have increased by 30% in the last year ( IRCC, May 2024).
Shift in Menu and Market Response
In January 2025, SooToday reported that Ojas had been listed for sale. The restaurant then made a significant change in April, removing the “plant-based” designation and adding chicken and fish to the menu. However, this shift did not improve business. Bansal admitted, “It did not help us improve the numbers. It was not a product that was suitable for the market, for the demographics.”
He emphasized, “I would not blame the community. People eat what they like to eat.”
A History of Culinary Success
Bansal and his partner, Oyunbileg Chuluunbazar, arrived in Sault Ste. Marie from Mongolia, bringing with them a successful track record in the hospitality industry. In Ulaanbaatar, they operated three meat-free restaurants, including Namaste Ulaanbaatar, which was recognized by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations as one of the top six Indian culinary experiences globally in November 2023. Their restaurants have even catered to dignitaries such as the Dalai Lama and prime ministers of India and Bangladesh.
Looking Ahead
Bansal takes responsibility for the outcome, acknowledging that their market research may have been insufficient. “I won’t blame anyone but myself. Maybe our due diligence was not updated. It was not good enough to identify what would work and what might not work,”
he said. Despite the closure, Bansal expressed gratitude for the support received, and Mayor Shoemaker reportedly offered assistance, though limitations at the federal level hindered further help.