Zezafoun Syrian Cuisine – 4 Manor Rd E, Toronto, ON M4S 1P8
Country: Syria
Seating: Small indoor and good sized outdoor dining
Must-try Dish: Fetteh
Dinner Guest: Young Matt

Zezafoun comes from the name of a Linden tree grown in the mountains between Syria and Lebanon. This tree symbolises togetherness, a place of gathering, sharing meals, dancing and singing. The Zezafoun tree is mentioned in many songs and is even known to repel mosquitoes on account of its perfume, making it the perfect place for a mosquito-free party. Therefore, it’s no surprise that the owners of Zezafoun Syrian Cuisine named their intimate and cozy family-run restaurant after this purposeful tree that brings people together. 

This restaurant predates our blog as Mat discovered it on a solo mission when he was looking for top-rated eateries around his midtown Toronto neighbourhood. With a 4.7/5 rating on Google, it was imperative to check it out and explore a new style of cooking. It became evident quickly that this score was well-deserved. 

As predicted, the must-try dish of the day was the Fetteh. It consists of toasted, fresh and stale flatbread combined with chickpeas, tahini and a variety of spices. It has a hearty-soup texture, that makes it ideal for dipping flatbread. This dish is packed with flavours that all come together as you taste each bite, and there’s no denying the presence of tahini, which is one of Mat’s favourites. 

To accompany the Fetteh, we ordered: 

• Mutabal (roasted eggplant dip, similar and arguably better then babaganoush) 
• Kebab Platter (includes three small lamb kebabs, rice, and salad)
• Falafel
• Vine Leaves 

This place is a MUST TRY. 

Mandrea Bike was holding out on dining here in order to attend one of their Syrian dinner and music evenings. However, the anticipation took over and a takeout lunch during the pandemic went down. But rest assured, Mandrea Bike will be in attendance at Zezafoun’s first dinner and music night when the city’s restaurants are allowed to operate like they could in the good old days.  

We urge you to support local restaurants throughout these tough times, AND ORDER TAKEOUT OR DELIVERY. Places These like Zezafoun help build communities and the multicultural facade that Canadians cherish.

Eat with you soon,

Mandrea Bike
(Mat & Andrea)