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| - When I first came to Byblos late last year, I had heard so much about it from trusted foodie friends that I was concerned it would not match inflated expectations: it surpassed them. Have been there twice since, and each time we had superb culinary experiences. So why is Byblos so good? All the food is spectacularly flavoured and decadent. Spices, herbs, textures are combined into what feels familiar and novel, comforting and eclectic. The clear Middle Eastern influences, dishes, and spices are recognizable, but flavours explode with a pallet that's 100 times brighter than any other Middle Eastern cuisine I've tried. Crispy Eggplant, Duck Kibbeh, Tuna Ceviche, Marcona Almonds, Fig Salad are favourite starters. Slow Braised Ontario Lamb Shoulder is good for four to share and is fall off the bone insanely delicious, the best lamb I've ever tasted. The downtown location (near theatre district) and décor are excellent, and the wine cellar is extensive. Service is superb. Overall this is now my favourite restaurant in Toronto and you owe it to your taste buds to give Byblos a try.
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