Akram Shoppe is located in the wonderful Kensington market. They specialize in Syrian cuisine from the Druze region.
They are part super market and part take out restaurant. There is a small seating area that can be busy during peak times.
The owners are a couple that came to Canada in the mid 90s
The portions may be a bit smaller than other places but you can be rest assured that these proud owners are really focused on quality before quantity, while offering one of the cheapest meals in town.
Falafel is $2 and each is fried to order. She makes them using mung and fava beans with cumin, garlic, and coriander. They are nor premade then heated up
The Tabouleh salad is the freshest I have ever had and its prepared to order so its not soggy.
Ful is something I have not tried yet but its a fava bean stew served with tahini, parsley, onions and a splash of olive oil.
People really seem to come here for the combo plate special which at $5 is a steal.
Saffron Basamati rice, black lentils, salad with lemony tahini sauce and a choice of an item from the hot table. I had the lamb kebab that is spiced up , grilled and sits in a tomato sauce. You cannot believe how moist and flavorful it is.
They offer an impressive desert section with sesame cookies being a favorite.
On the way out grab some packages of nuts, hummus, and couscous for your lunch the next day.
Healthy and Fresh and served up with a smile by people who treat their customers like family.
if you come for a $5 lunch then bring a $20 for the extras to take home