"1"^^ . "4"^^ . "5"^^ . "3"^^ . . "Run, don't walk, to Banu. Food, drinks and service are about as good as it gets. \n\nBanu bills itself as a Persian vodka bar. The second you're walking into the room you feel like you're in 1960's Tehran, sitting on low white leather couches and listening to Iranian pop music. \n\nDespite the vodka bar tag, Banu is one of the few restaurants I frequent where I rarely order alcohol. That's mainly because I am addicted to their Pomegranate drinks and the never ending mint tea that complements the food perfectly. With the curtains drawn and the hookah being smoked at the next table (don't worry, there is excellent ventilation and it never gets bothersome) you really feel that you're thousands of miles from Queen West. \n\nThe food is where Banu shines brightest. Meat is organic and well chosen. Kebabs in all their manifestations dominate the menu but vegetarians need not worry, there's plenty of non meat choices. \n\nThe food is incredibly fresh, juicy and flavourful. Mint, lemon and basil are dominant flavours, backed up by green olives and walnuts.Everything is served with a wonderful flatbread to mop up the juices. \n\nService is friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. For us, Banu is one of our favourite places in Toronto."^^ . . . "2010-01-24T00:00:00"^^ .