GTA General Contractors is proud to announce the recent completion of the full design-build interior and exterior restaurant construction for Golden Horseshoe Barbecue, a new smokehouse concept bringing authentic Southern-style barbecue to the heart of Toronto’s Dupont corridor.
The project involved transforming a historic brick building into a warm, rustic/industrial-inspired dining environment while integrating state-of-the-art back-of-house cooking facilities, mechanical upgrades, and a custom outdoor smoker enclosure purpose-built for large-scale barbecue operations.
Interior Finishes & Design
The design pays tribute to rustic barbecue culture with a modern industrial edge. Key interior features include:
- Whitewashed brick walls contrasted with matte charcoal accents for a clean yet grounded atmosphere.
- Custom reclaimed-wood millwork throughout, including the front service counter and feature trim bands.
- Barn-style sliding doors in natural wood tones adding warmth and character.
- 12-foot ceilings with exposed ductwork and oversized industrial pendant lights enhancing openness and authenticity.
- Large arched windows allowing natural light to flood the dining area, framed by crisp white brick detailing.
- Custom solid-wood communal tables paired with black steel frame stools, blending comfort and durability for high-traffic use.
- Polished porcelain tile flooring chosen for longevity, easy maintenance, and a refined appearance.
The restaurant layout promotes both efficiency and customer engagement, with a visible open kitchen and a centralized condiment station that reinforces the communal barbecue experience.
Kitchen & Back-of-House
Behind the counter, GTA General Contractors coordinated the full mechanical, electrical, and plumbing installations to support heavy-duty commercial kitchen equipment, high-capacity ventilation, and food-safe finishes.
Key features include:
- Stainless steel walls and prep areas for hygiene and durability.
- Integrated beverage cooler and service line design for optimal flow.
- Concealed service corridors for staff movement without interrupting guest experience with pass-thru windows for easier food movement
Exterior & Smoker Enclosure
One of the signature components of this project is the custom outdoor smoker enclosure, designed and built to meet all Toronto Building Code and health standards.
- Constructed with corrugated metal cladding for weather resistance and industrial appeal.
- Features a multi-chamber smoker with high-efficiency exhaust and ventilation systems.
- Enclosure design ensures both safety and temperature control, enabling year-round barbecue operations — even through Canadian winters.
Final Results
The completed space combines authentic barbecue character with urban refinement, offering a distinctive dining environment that perfectly aligns with Golden Horseshoe Barbecue’s brand: “A Taste of Texas in Toronto.”
From concept to completion, GTA General Contractors handled all aspects of construction — including base building upgrades, custom millwork fabrication, mechanical/electrical coordination, and final interior detailing — delivering a project that blends craftsmanship, functionality, and brand storytelling.
Photo Highlights
📍 657 Dupont St | Toronto, Ontario
📸 Completed by GTA General Contractors
💡 Sector: Restaurant & Hospitality Construction
