If you haven’t experienced the mouthwatering delight of shawarma yet, get ready to embark on a taste journey that will leave you craving for more. Shawarma, a tantalizing Middle Eastern dish, has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers worldwide, and Toronto is no exception.
But why do people love shawarma? The combination of perfectly cooked meat, whether it’s juicy chicken, tender beef, or delectable lamb, infused with aromatic spices and herbs, creates a flavor explosion that will send your taste buds into a frenzy.
So, whether you’re a shawarma aficionado or a curious food explorer, join us as we uncover the finest places to get shawarma in Toronto. From hidden gems tucked away in local neighborhoods to bustling spots in the heart of the city, we’ll guide you on a culinary quest to find the ultimate shawarma experience.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Great Shawarma?
When it comes to finding the best places to indulge in delicious shawarma in Toronto, you might wonder how these top choices were selected. Well, let’s dive into the meticulous process and the specific criteria used to determine the crème de la crème of Toronto’s shawarma scene.
Taste and Flavor
Taste is paramount. The quality and flavor of each shawarma place were carefully assessed. Only the best-tasting succulent meat and tantalizing spices.
Authenticity
Authenticity is essential to experiencing shawarma. We sought out authentic Middle Eastern shawarma restaurants for an immersive experience.
Quality of Ingredients
High-quality ingredients are used at the best shawarma restaurants. Quality was a key factor in choosing the top options, from premium cuts of meat to fresh vegetables and carefully sourced spices.
Consistency
Consistency is the key to great shawarma. We considered places that consistently delivered high-quality service to make every visit enjoyable.
Popularity and Reputation
The popularity of the places aided in the hunt for the best shawarma, but it wasn’t the sole factor. To determine each shawarma spot’s reputation, we considered local residents, foodies, and online reviews.
By meticulously evaluating these criteria, we were able to handpick the absolute best places to get your shawarma fix in Toronto.
| Best Shawarma in Toronto | Google Rating | Google Reviews |
| Ghazale On College | 4.9 | 556 |
| Chef Harwash | 4.9 | 514 |
| Pita lite Shawarma | 4.8 | 638 |
| Delina Restaurant | 4.8 | 534 |
| Mooring Eats | 4.7 | 655 |
Where to find the Best Schwarma in Toronto
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Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that promises extraordinary taste, authenticity, and an unforgettable shawarma experience.
Ghazale College Street
“A taste of consistency and flavor”
Freshly cooked chicken shawarma wraps with flavorful toppings and sauces. (Image source: Ghazale website)
When it comes to reliable and satisfying shawarma, Ghazale on College Street is a go-to spot for many. With its late-night operating hours, it caters to those late-night pita cravings, ensuring no shawarma lover goes unsatisfied. If you’re looking for perfectly cooked chicken shawarma, delectable falafels, or a mouthwatering falafel wrap, Ghazale offers a range of options that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
Flavorful falafels make for an ideal snack on the go at Ghazale College Street. (Image source: Ghazale website )
What sets Ghazale apart from other shawarma places nearby is its flavorful menu and commitment to top-notch service. The moment you step in, you’ll be greeted warmly by the staff and, in some cases, the owner himself. It’s a very welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming back for more.
Pricing: Shawarma starts at $9.00.
Pros
- Delicious falafels.
- Reasonably priced shawarmas.
- Excellent customer service.
Cons
- Some customers complained about the packaging.
Location: 661 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1B7
Google Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5 (556 reviews)
Chef Harwash
“Indulge in timeless flavors”
Chef Harwash’s shawarma boasts flavors deeply rooted in Damascene heritage. (Image source: Chef Harwash Instagram)
Step into Chef Harwash’s culinary haven, which brings the rich heritage of Damascene cuisine to your plate. With over a century of history behind its delectable dishes, including the renowned shawarma and kabab, Chef Harwash takes pride in preserving traditional flavors while adding his own touch of culinary expertise.
Chef Harwash delights with great portion sizes for a truly fulfilling experience (Image source: Chef Harwash Instagram)
Every bite tells a story of passion and dedication, as the chefs at Chef Harwash carefully craft their juicy meat using special lamb fats, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience. From their small-batch garlic mayo made fresh daily to the spices passed down through generations, every element of the shawarma at Chef Harwash is infused with love and authenticity.
Pricing: Shawarma starts at $12.00
Pros
- Authentic and fresh dishes.
- Flavorful and delicious options.
- Friendly and approachable owner.
Cons
- Flavors and spice mixes may be different for each order.
Location: 707 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 2W6
Google Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5 (514 reviews)
Pita lite Shawarma
“Wrap it up”
Wrap your hand around delicious shawarma wrap at Pita lite Shawarma. (Image source: Pita lite Shawarma Instagram)
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Bloor, Pita Lite Shawarma stands out as a top destination for shawarma lovers. If you’re in need of a quick and satisfying meal on the go or seeking a cozy spot to dine, Pita Lite Shawarma has you covered. Their chicken shawarma wrap is a must-try, featuring marinated chicken that’s freshly carved at the last moment, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Chicken shawarma on the salad at Pita lite Shawarma. (Image source: Pita lite Shawarma Instagram)
You can customize your wrap with a delightful array of vegetables and sauces, allowing you to tailor your shawarma to your taste buds. Pita Lite Shawarma prides itself on serving quality, mouthwatering food straight from its kitchen, making it an ideal spot to satisfy your cravings for Mediterranean halal cuisine.
Pricing: Shawarma starts at $10.95
Pros
- Flavorful sauces.
- Friendly and funny staff.
- Delicious chicken shawarma on rice.
Cons
- Long lines at peak hours.
Location: 175 Bloor St E unit -N3, Toronto, ON M4W 3R8
Google Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5 (638 reviews)
Delina Restaurant
“Unfussy yet unforgettable dining experience”
Delina Restaurant offers a wide variety of options to cater to different dietary preferences, including delicious vegan and vegetarian choices. (Image source: Delina Restaurant Google business photo, Jan Kieljan)
Nestled at the east end of Queen St., Delina Restaurant is a culinary haven that shouldn’t be missed. As you step into this cozy eatery, you’ll be greeted by a mother-daughter duo who pour their heart and soul into crafting a menu that seamlessly blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern classics with an enchanting East African twist. Delina’s shawarma offerings are nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing their commitment to delivering amazing, fresh, and delicious food that will leave you craving for more.
Delina Restaurant’s commitment to preserving traditional flavors shines through in its exquisite shawarma creations. (Image source: Delina Restaurant Google business photo, Ben Bain)
If you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or have specific dietary preferences, Delina Restaurant offers a wide variety of options to satisfy your palate. Indulge in their chicken shawarma platter served with fragrant rice and lentils, and prepare to be transported to a world of authentic flavors derived from their signature recipes. Delina Restaurant prides itself on providing an unfussy yet unforgettable dining experience.
Pricing: Starts at $10.00
Pros
- Large portions and great value for the price.
- Warm and friendly staff.
- Sides and salads are loved by customers
Cons
- Decor is described as crummy upon entering the restaurant.
Location: 1891 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1H3
Google Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5 (534 reviews)
Mooring Eats
“Nautical vibes and delicious bites”
Mooring Eats captures the essence of Syrian cuisine with its mouthwatering shawarma. (Image source: Mooring Eats Instagram)
Mooring Eats is a charming and casual Syrian spot that has quickly become a favorite among locals craving Middle Eastern cuisine. Stepping into this nautical-themed eatery, diners are transported to the shores of Syria, where the owners bring their expertise and skills to create a true and authentic dining experience.
The presentation at Mooring Eats is as delightful as the flavors, making every dish a feast for the eyes. (Image source: Mooring Eats Instagram)
From their perfectly seasoned and tender meat to their impeccable presentation, every bite is a delightful journey of flavors. The menu at Mooring Eats is simple and straightforward, allowing the star of the show, the shawarma, to take center stage. Vegetarian options are also available and equally enjoyable, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to pair your meal with their recommended garlic potatoes as a side, and get ready to savor the best chicken you’ll find in any shawarma place.
Pricing: Shawarma starts at $10.99
Pros
- Great customer service.
- Excellent and flavorful food.
- Clean and hygienic restaurant.
Cons
- Limited seating.
Location: 2481 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M8V 1C5
Google Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5 (655 reviews)
Unveiling the Shawarma Paradise of Toronto
Toronto’s shawarma scene is a testament to the city’s rich multicultural tapestry, with influences from the Middle East, Mediterranean, and beyond. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional chicken shawarma wrap, a vegetarian seeking flavorful options, or an adventurous foodie eager to try new twists on this beloved dish, Toronto has it all.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Toronto with your taste buds tingling and craving shawarma, remember the gems we’ve uncovered on this culinary adventure. Step into these vibrant eateries, savor the perfectly seasoned meats, delight in the fresh ingredients, and immerse yourself in the rich flavors that make Toronto’s shawarma scene truly extraordinary.