A popular dessert shop in Ajax, recently spotlighted by celebrity food critic Keith Lee, is being compelled to relocate following a zoning complaint triggered by the influencer’s visit last month.
Biscuits to Baskets, nestled in a backyard shed within a tranquil residential area of Ajax, garnered widespread attention after Keith Lee’s enthusiastic endorsement on April 5. The shop experienced a surge in patrons following Lee’s TikTok video, which reached his extensive audience of 16 million followers.
Victoria Fliegel, manager of Biscuits to Baskets, shared her excitement with CP24, noting the influx of new customers in response to Lee’s promotion.
However, the burgeoning success was short-lived. Just weeks after Lee’s visit, the municipality informed the business that it could no longer operate from the backyard shed due to a zoning violation triggered by a complaint.
In a statement on social media, Biscuits to Baskets expressed surprise at the discovery, acknowledging their unintentional breach of zoning regulations by running their business from a separate structure on the property.
To comply with municipal regulations, the shop will relocate operations to the main house on the property effective June 1, 2024. Despite having operated as a home-based business for two decades, the decision to expand into the shed five years ago inadvertently breached zoning bylaws.
In response, the Town of Ajax confirmed issuing a letter to Biscuits to Baskets from the bylaw services division, citing the violation of zoning regulations and indicating options to facilitate legal operations either within their primary dwelling or exploring expansion into a commercial storefront.
Keith Lee, in a recent TikTok video, expressed concern over the situation and extended support to the shop owners by initiating fundraising efforts through the sale of T-shirts and soliciting donations via Cash App and Paypal.
The phenomenon known as the “Keith Lee Effect” has propelled numerous businesses to newfound popularity after receiving recognition from the food critic. Lee’s visit to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) marked his first international stop for the “FamiLee Food Tour.”
Despite the boost in clientele following Lee’s review, Biscuits to Baskets emphasized the need for additional financial support to facilitate a potential move to a commercial space by fall.
Keith Lee reiterated his admiration for the shop’s offerings and customer service, underscoring his commitment to aiding the business in navigating this unexpected transition.
As the dessert shop strives to secure a new location while staying rooted in Ajax, the community remains engaged in supporting the family-owned establishment during this challenging time.
