It's about time I add my accolades-- having either dined or obtained takeout at this neighbourhood gem about a billion times since they opened.
It's a great addition to Riverside. Things to love: a beautifully decorated space that makes you feel as though it's a proper outing; decent to excellent service; a large patio (benches); reliable food. I have taken friends, parents, teammates from out of town and everyone has enjoyed themselves.
Best bets:
- Labneh, a strained yogurt cheese...you get get the 'sample platter' and add baba ghanoush, the eponymous tabbouleh, or hummus. This is a sharing platter good for 3-4 people or more. They also offer gluten free bread for an additional fee.
- Fried eggplant: super tender and crispy. I always order this.
- Lentil soup is perfectly balanced, rich, filling and vegan. A bargain.
The cocktails are refreshing and pay tribute to middle eastern flavours; and there are plentiful alcohol-free beverage options (not just water) for your preggy/detoxing/non-drinking friends.
The food is not complicated or particularly inventive but well-executed for what it is. There are the usual mediterranean options for veggies: chickpeas in all of its many forms; and eggplant. Woe to vegetarians who don't like eggplant or chickpeas.
The salmon, lamb and beef skewers are nice and tender (sometimes under salted to my palate); and for paleo/low carb people: you can sub your rice for more veggies. Portions are sizeable and it's easy to over-order and over-eat! They'll wrap things up so you can take them home, or order a few apps and split a main.
And they do this cute thing of pouring your water from really high up.
(Skip dessert and go to Ed's Real Scoop in Leslieville if you have room!)