Top 22 Middle Eastern Food Gems in Ontario for Culinary Delights

Ontario's vibrant culinary scene offers an array of incredible Middle Eastern food experiences, inviting diners to embark on a flavourful journey. From authentic Lebanese delights to modern Mediterranean interpretations, this guide highlights 22 must-visit places across the province. Discover top delicious restaurants serving up rich, aromatic dishes, perfect for any occasion. Whether you're craving classic shawarma, flavorful falafel, or exploring new culinary horizons, these spots promise an unforgettable taste of the Middle East.

Table of Contents

1. Lebanese Garden

Experience authentic Lebanese flavors at surprisingly delightful prices.

Lebanese Garden in Toronto is hailed by many as an absolute gem for authentic, healthy Lebanese cuisine. Diners consistently praise the food, from their incredibly creamy garlic potatoes to the flavorful rice and tender meat, noting that every bite is a treat. It's often highlighted as a go-to spot for its delicious, generously portioned Middle Eastern dishes, especially appealing to those on a budget. The staff is consistently described as friendly, welcoming, and attentive, contributing to a truly pleasant and wholesome dining experience.

  • Rating: 4.8 (1.743 google maps)
  • Address: 366 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1S6, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-551-1553
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Signature Lebanese platters featuring succulent chicken tawook, flavorful rice, the best garlic potatoes, and crisp falafel appetizers.

Image Lebanese Garden Middle Eastern food in Ontario

Read more: 10 Best Mediterranean Food Spots in Ontario: Your Ultimate Guide

2. Byblos Downtown

A sophisticated downtown destination for exquisite Eastern Mediterranean flavors.

Byblos Downtown offers an incredible dining experience with its fusion Middle Eastern cuisine, often described as nothing short of amazing. Customers are frequently impressed by the end-to-end excellent service and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere, despite it being a small restaurant. While on the pricier side, the lamb shoulder is consistently highlighted as worth every penny for its tenderness and excellent combination of Middle Eastern flavors. Other standout dishes include the Turkish dumplings, octopus appetizer, and various small plates perfect for sharing in a larger group.

  • Rating: 4.5 (3.428 google maps)
  • Address: 11 Duncan St, Toronto, ON M5V 3M2, Canada
  • Phone: +1 647-660-0909
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Signature dishes include the tender lamb shoulder, flavorful Turkish dumplings, and a variety of small, shareable plates showcasing Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions.

Image Byblos Downtown Middle Eastern food in Ontario

3. Azhar Kitchen & Bar

Toronto's top choice for unforgettable, fire-cooked Middle Eastern culinary artistry.

Azhar Kitchen & Bar is frequently celebrated as one of Toronto's favorite Middle Eastern restaurants, delivering an absolutely incredible food experience. Patrons consistently rave about the top-notch ingredients and the artistry of the chefs, especially recommending their delicious dips and freshly baked bread. The atmosphere is praised for its beautiful, Arabian-inspired decor and open kitchen view, making it a "gem of the city" for a date night or girls' night. Servers are noted for being knowledgeable, attentive, and efficient, enhancing the overall delightful dining experience.

  • Rating: 4.4 (518 google maps)
  • Address: 96 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z4, Canada
  • Phone: +1 647-503-1098
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  • Menu: Hand-made, fire-cooked dishes rooted in Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern traditions, including highly recommended dips, fresh bread, flavorful chicken, and braised beef cheek.

Image Azhar Kitchen & Bar Middle Eastern food in Ontario

4. Fat Pasha

A cozy, authentic Middle Eastern spot where generous portions meet incredible flavor.

Fat Pasha is adored by many as Toronto's best Middle Eastern restaurant, offering an incredibly tasty and authentic food experience. The beef brisket hummus is a standout, described as "so flavourful" and perfectly complemented by the fluffy, chewy pita bread – arguably the best in town. While prices can be on the higher side, the generous portions and phenomenal food make it a worthwhile experience. Customers also praise the cozy, homey atmosphere and the attentive service, making it a perfect brunch spot for an authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.

  • Rating: 4.4 (1.448 google maps)
  • Address: 414 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 1V9, Canada
  • Phone: +1 647-646-1698
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Famous for its beef brisket hummus, fried cauliflower, and chicken shawarma. Also offers large platters like the Fat Salatim Platter, ideal for sharing.

Image Fat Pasha Middle Eastern food in Ontario

Read more: Top 6 Kebab Destinations in Ontario: Savoring the Best Flavors

5. Parallel

A hidden gem serving up consistently delicious and healthy Middle Eastern favorites.

Parallel is often described as a hidden gem for anyone craving authentic Middle Eastern flavors in Toronto. The food is consistently praised as very good, healthy, and incredibly tasty. Their falafel stands out as "the best I’ve ever had," dense, flavorful, and super filling, making it a great place for vegans. Many are especially fond of their freshly baked bread, rich hummus, and unique walnut pesto dip. The warm, cozy atmosphere, coupled with nice staff and generous portions, makes Parallel a highly recommended spot for friends and family alike.

  • Rating: 4.4 (1.608 google maps)
  • Address: 217 Geary Ave, Toronto, ON M6H 2C1, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-516-7765
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Known for their exceptional falafel, fresh pita bread, a variety of hummus and dips (including a popular walnut pesto), and savory mushroom mix.

Image Parallel Middle Eastern food in Ontario

6. Mar'aa Yorkville

Elevated Middle Eastern dining with stunning city views and exquisite flavors.

Mar'aa Yorkville consistently delivers a phenomenal dining experience, blending upscale elegance with a warm, welcoming Middle Eastern vibe. Guests are captivated by the stunning city views from the 51st floor and the chic, unique decor. The food is described as "exceptional," "incredible," and "full of bold, fresh flavors," offering a delightful twist on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Dishes like the perfectly grilled chicken and succulent lamb kebabs are highly recommended. The service is frequently lauded for being excellent, attentive, and genuinely inviting, making it a true gem in Toronto.

  • Rating: 4.9 (41 google maps)
  • Address: 55 Bloor St W 51st Floor, Toronto, ON M4W 1A5, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-967-0000
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  • Menu: Highlights include flavorful chicken and lamb kebabs, delicious fried rice, and unique twists on Mediterranean appetizers, served with exquisite cocktails.

Image Mar'aa Yorkville Middle Eastern food in Ontario

7. Romi's

A cozy Israeli gem serving Toronto's best falafel and addictive baked goods.

Romi's is celebrated as a "hidden gem" and the go-to spot for the best Israeli food in Toronto, making customers feel like they're back in Israel. The falafel is consistently hailed as "hands down the best I’ve ever had," and the wagyu brisket hummus is described as incredibly tasty. Beyond savory dishes, their chocolate chip cookies and dolce de leche donuts are noted as "addictive" and amazing. The cozy atmosphere, combined with quality ingredients and a chef who takes real pride in his craft, ensures a delightful and authentic Middle Eastern dining experience.

  • Rating: 4.5 (561 google maps)
  • Address: 744 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6C 1B5, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-656-1525
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Must-try items include the Wagyu brisket hummus, phenomenal falafel, delicious schnitzel, and a variety of baked goods like chocolate chip cookies, babka, and rugelach.

Image Romi's Middle Eastern food in Ontario

Read more: The 18 Best Rice Bowls You Can't Miss in Ontario

8. Byblos Uptown

A chic uptown spot offering a sophisticated Middle Eastern tasting journey.

Byblos Uptown provides an unforgettable dining experience, with patrons frequently praising its warm, cozy, and chic atmosphere. The food is consistently described as absolutely amazing, especially the succulent 12oz steak and the delightful fried chicken. Many recommend the tasting menu for a comprehensive journey through their modern Middle Eastern offerings. Reviewers appreciate the attentive service, with staff members going above and beyond to ensure a memorable evening, making it a great place for special occasions or a sophisticated dinner.

  • Rating: 4.2 (968 google maps)
  • Address: 2537 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2H9, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-487-4897
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  • Menu: Signature dishes include their flavorful fried chicken, tender wagyu beef, juicy lamb, and fresh fish, often served as part of a comprehensive tasting menu.

Image Byblos Uptown Middle Eastern food in Ontario

9. Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine (Midtown)

A charming Midtown oasis for authentic, flavorful Lebanese and Middle Eastern delights.

Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine in Midtown is celebrated for its warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a birthday dinner or a casual meal. Customers consistently rave about the delicious and fresh food, noting that everything is prepared with care and high-end ingredients. As a Lebanese-inspired restaurant, their dishes, including house hummus, Kubbe, Kefta platter, and grilled salmon kebab, offer authentic and rich Middle Eastern flavors. The staff is consistently praised for being friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about the menu, even accommodating specific dietary needs like celiac.

  • Rating: 4.4 (2.028 google maps)
  • Address: 2009 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4S 1Z8, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-483-3747
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Offers a range of authentic Middle Eastern dishes including hummus, Kubbe, Kefta platters, grilled salmon kebab, and highly-rated baba ghanoush. Many items can be made gluten-free.

Image Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine (Midtown) Middle Eastern food in Ontario

10. Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine (Riverside)

Authentic Lebanese cuisine with an inviting ambiance, perfect for delightful dining.

Tabule Riverside offers an outstanding Middle Eastern food experience, consistently delighting patrons with its authentic, flavorful, and beautifully presented dishes. Many consider it their top choice among international cuisines in Toronto, praising the fresh ingredients and the care put into each meal, especially the perfectly cooked lamb and juicy grilled salmon. The restaurant boasts a charming interior and a fantastic back patio, making it an ideal spot for summer dining. The service is often described as amazing, friendly, and highly attentive, ensuring a wonderful dining experience from start to finish.

  • Rating: 4.5 (1.445 google maps)
  • Address: 810 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H6, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-465-2500
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Highlights include delectable lamb skewers, flavorful eggplant dishes, and a variety of delicious dips like hummus, alongside fresh, house-made pita bread.

Image Tabule Middle Eastern Cuisine (Riverside) Middle Eastern food in Ontario

11. Souk Tabule

A cafe-style Middle Eastern restaurant delighting with fresh, authentic Lebanese flavors.

Souk Tabule is a delightful cafe-style Middle Eastern restaurant that consistently impresses with its fresh, flavorful, and authentic Lebanese food. Many patrons, including those of Lebanese heritage, laud its rich menu and the successful modern twists on classic dishes like tabbouleh, hummus, and shawarma. The in-house made pita bread is a highlight, described as always delicious. Reviewers appreciate the quick service, bright and spacious interior, and the casual, inviting atmosphere, making it a reliable go-to spot for quality Middle Eastern cuisine in Toronto.

  • Rating: 4.4 (1.378 google maps)
  • Address: 494 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5A 0J1, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-583-5914
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Features authentic Lebanese staples such as beef shawarma, delicious falafel, fried halloumi, and batata harra. Don't miss their freshly made pita bread and flavorful dips.

Image Souk Tabule Middle Eastern food in Ontario

Read more: 13 Top Spots for Irresistible BBQ in Ontario

12. Tabule Bayview Village

A reliable spot for delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in a casual setting.

Tabule Bayview Village is consistently praised for its authentic Lebanese food served in a casual yet inviting setting. Customers frequently highlight the delicious appetizers and tender, flavorful kebabs. While the food options are described as somewhat restricted to main dishes and appetizers, the quality and taste exceed expectations. The spacious interior and attentive, friendly staff, like Rema, Orla, and Samir, contribute to a pleasant dining experience. Many appreciate the reasonable prices and generous portions, making it a popular choice for Middle Eastern food in North York.

  • Rating: 4.2 (969 google maps)
  • Address: 2901 Bayview Ave, North York, ON M2K 1E6, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-222-5424
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Offers a variety of delicious appetizers and tender kebabs. Patrons often enjoy the flavorful dips and authentic Lebanese options available.

Image Tabule Bayview Village Middle Eastern food in Ontario

13. Mzaar Restaurant

A downtown delight for fresh, authentic Lebanese shawarma and flavorful Middle Eastern dishes.

Mzaar Restaurant is renowned as one of the best shawarma joints in downtown Toronto, consistently delivering fresh, flavorful, and wholesome Middle Eastern food. Customers rave about the caramelized onion shawarma and the tender, juicy chicken platters, noting the generous portions and unexpectedly great service. Their authentic garlic spread is a particular highlight, described as "potent" and "delish." The cozy atmosphere, combined with the fresh ingredients and affordable prices, makes Mzaar a go-to spot for a delightful Lebanese culinary experience.

  • Rating: 4.4 (1.016 google maps)
  • Address: 668 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2A6, Canada
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Known for their exceptional shawarma wraps, including the popular caramelized onion chicken saj, and hearty platters with tender chicken, flavorful rice, and various dips like fresh hummus.

Image Mzaar Restaurant Middle Eastern food in Ontario

14. Ghadir Meat & Restaurant

A vibrant Middle Eastern market experience with exceptionally fresh and authentic Lebanese flavors.

Ghadir Meat & Restaurant offers an authentic "mini Lebanon" experience, combining a Middle Eastern market, bakery, and restaurant under one roof. Patrons consistently praise the exceptionally authentic and delicious Lebanese food, with highlights including their flavorful grilled seabream and the best chicken shawarma in the GTA. The meat pies are also noted for their soft, crisp pastry and perfectly spiced filling. Despite being a busy spot, the friendly and efficient staff ensure a pleasant visit, making Ghadir a must-visit for high-quality, halal Middle Eastern cuisine.

  • Rating: 4.4 (6.904 google maps)
  • Address: 1848 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1R 2Y4, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-750-7404
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Famous for its exceptional chicken and beef shawarmas, grilled fish dishes like seabream, batata hara (spiced potatoes), and a variety of freshly baked goods including meat pies and manakish.

Image Ghadir Meat & Restaurant Middle Eastern food in Ontario

Read more: 7 Top Korean BBQ Restaurants in Ontario You Can't Miss

15. Jerusalem Restaurant

A timeless spot for authentic, healthy, and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

Jerusalem Restaurant is hailed as the "undisputed champion" of Middle Eastern culinary experiences, with many calling it a fantastic, traditional, and authentic spot. Customers consistently praise the delicious and healthy food, noting that everything is freshly made and worth the price. The combo dinners for two or four people offer incredible value, featuring a delightful spread of tabouli, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, garlic eggplants, skewers, and salad. The inviting Middle Eastern decor and casual atmosphere create a pleasant dining environment, complemented by friendly service despite often being super busy.

  • Rating: 4.3 (1.105 google maps)
  • Address: 955 Eglinton Ave W, York, ON M6C 2C4, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-783-6494
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Known for its generous combo dinners featuring a variety of Middle Eastern staples like tabouli, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, garlic eggplants, and skewers of chicken, beef, and kofta. Also offers lentil soup and fresh pita breads.

Image Jerusalem Restaurant Middle Eastern food in Ontario

16. Bait Sitty

An authentic Palestinian culinary journey, serving heartfelt home-style Middle Eastern cooking.

Bait Sitty is cherished as an authentic Palestinian restaurant that provides a delightful culinary experience, often described as "just like home cooking." From the moment guests walk in, they are welcomed with warmth and a genuine desire from the owner and servers for guests to have a great time. The food is consistently rated as exceptional, fresh, and bursting with authentic Palestinian flavors, with the fire-roasted full chickens and hummus with beef being standout choices. Portions are generous, making it a perfect spot for families and groups looking for true Middle Eastern comfort food.

  • Rating: 4.6 (2.338 google maps)
  • Address: 3145 Dundas St W Unit # 1, Mississauga, ON L5L 5V8, Canada
  • Phone: +1 647-400-0488
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Specializes in authentic Palestinian dishes, including their highly praised fire-roasted full chickens, flavorful hummus with beef, Sitty's Family Mix Mashawie, and freshly baked bread.

Image Bait Sitty Middle Eastern food in Ontario

17. Nai Restaurant

Burlington's elegant destination for authentic Arabic flavors and vibrant live entertainment.

Nai Restaurant in Burlington offers an exquisite Middle Eastern dining experience, boasting an elegant interior and a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends with live music and belly dancers. Customers rave about the delicious and authentic Arabic food, noting that every dish is bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The mixed grill and kunafa with ice cream are frequently recommended. Beyond the delightful Middle Eastern cuisine, the exceptional service from staff like Ritta, Abdullah, and Jessika makes every visit memorable, whether for a special occasion or a fun night out.

  • Rating: 4.4 (1.838 google maps)
  • Address: 4460 Fairview St b105 b107, Burlington, ON L7L 5P9, Canada
  • Phone: +1 289-348-5677
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Offers a wide buffet with meat and chicken dishes, fresh salads, cheese rolls, mixed grills, and the popular kunafa dessert with ice cream.

Image Nai Restaurant Middle Eastern food in Ontario

18. Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen - The Queensway

A spacious and welcoming spot for fresh Middle Eastern delights, complete with family amenities.

Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen on The Queensway is celebrated for its warm, calming ambiance and consistently top-notch Middle Eastern food. Patrons often receive warm, fresh pita bread upon arrival, setting a delightful tone for the meal. Highlights include the amazing soup, delicious falafel, and fresh manakish. The restaurant offers generous portions and is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a children's play area and a praying area. Many praise the friendly and helpful staff, who ensure a welcoming experience for all diners exploring Middle Eastern cuisine.

  • Rating: 3.8 (1.415 google maps)
  • Address: 1585 The Queensway, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 1V1, Canada
  • Phone: +1 647-748-1585
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Features delicious mixed grill platters, flavorful falafel, fresh salads, and authentic manakish. Their hummus and freshly baked pita bread are also highly recommended Middle Eastern delights.

Image Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen - The Queensway Middle Eastern food in Ontario

19. Paramount Fine Foods (Wilson)

A reliable hospital-based outlet offering fresh, flavorful Middle Eastern shawarma and plates.

Paramount Fine Foods at Wilson Ave is praised for its high-quality Middle Eastern food and excellent customer service. Customers particularly enjoy their mixed meat grill platters, noting the chicken is tender and the beef is mouthwatering. The freshly baked bread and hummus are also popular. The staff are frequently described as very friendly, helpful, and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. This location consistently delivers delicious, fresh, and healthy Middle Eastern food with good menu options, including flavorful lamb shank.

  • Rating: 4.3 (642 google maps)
  • Address: Humber River Hospital, 1235 Wilson Ave, North York, ON M3M 0B2, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-246-9291
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Offers classic Middle Eastern grill platters with tender chicken and beef, fresh shawarmas, flavorful lamb shank meals, and a variety of vegetarian options including hummus and falafel.

Image Paramount Fine Foods (Wilson) Middle Eastern food in Ontario

20. Paramount Fine Foods (Mississauga)

A convenient spot for delicious, fresh Middle Eastern essentials within a friendly setting.

Paramount Fine Foods in Mississauga, located within a Rabba store, offers a convenient and pleasant experience for those seeking Middle Eastern cuisine. Customers appreciate the well-prepared chicken shawarma box with both fries and rice, noting the freshness and good packaging of their orders. The staff, particularly Ahmed, is consistently praised for being very nice, friendly, and dedicated, preparing food with care and efficiency. While the dining area is small and more casual, it's a great spot for fresh and tasty Middle Eastern shawarma and other signature items.

  • Rating: 3.5 (25 google maps)
  • Address: 25 Kingsbridge Garden Cir, Mississauga, ON L5R 3K7, Canada
  • Phone: +1 905-568-4700
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Features classic Middle Eastern shawarma boxes, wraps, and various Krispo items. Popular choices include the falafel wrap and the lentil soup.

Image Paramount Fine Foods (Mississauga) Middle Eastern food in Ontario

21. Flaming Stove (Davisville)

Toronto's top-rated spot for massive, flavorful Middle Eastern shawarma on fresh saj bread.

Flaming Stove in Davisville is widely acclaimed as serving "the best shawarma in all of Toronto" and even "in the world" by some enthusiastic patrons. Customers consistently rave about the huge portions and incredibly delicious, flavorful chicken shawarma wraps made with fresh saj bread baked in-house. The unique texture of the saj bread and the generous toppings make it stand out. Beyond the main wraps, the falafel is highly praised, especially when combined with their "stupid hot sauce." It’s an affordable and fulfilling Middle Eastern meal, offering great value for money.

  • Rating: 4.6 (684 google maps)
  • Address: 21 Davisville Ave, Toronto, ON M4S 1G3, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-644-5051
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Specializes in generously portioned chicken shawarma wraps and bowls on freshly made saj bread, delicious falafel, and a variety of fresh toppings and sauces, including their famous hot sauce.

Image Flaming Stove (Davisville) Middle Eastern food in Ontario

22. Flaming Stove (Newmarket)

Newmarket's hidden Middle Eastern gem, crafting huge, flavorful shawarmas with homemade flair.

Flaming Stove in Newmarket is enthusiastically recommended as a hidden gem for Middle Eastern food, hitting the spot for those on the hunt for excellent shawarma. Patrons consistently rave about the chicken, describing it as "beyond tasty" and "juicy," perfectly complemented by their exceptional homemade wraps, especially the saj bread. The portions are notably large, with one shawarma often enough to feed two people. The friendly and polite staff, combined with the clean store and delicious sauces, ensure a consistently positive and satisfying experience for Middle Eastern cuisine lovers.

  • Rating: 4.8 (510 google maps)
  • Address: 869 Mulock Dr, Newmarket, ON L3Y 8S3, Canada
  • Phone: +1 416-644-5051
  • Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
  • Menu: Famous for their exceptionally large and flavorful chicken shawarma saj wraps, fresh falafels, and a variety of fresh toppings and sauces, including a highly-rated "stupid hot sauce."

Image Flaming Stove (Newmarket) Middle Eastern food in Ontario

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a place for authentic Lebanese cuisine, delicious shawarma, or a sophisticated Middle Eastern dining experience, the options above will meet your needs well. From bustling downtown spots to cozy neighborhood gems, Ontario offers a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern flavors to explore. Choose a place that suits your preferences and needs, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!