📍 Jamil’s Chaat House – 1086 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1H8
🌍 Country: Pakistan 
🔥 Must-try dish: Lamb Nihari
🪑 Seating: Indoor seating only.
👍 The high: This trendy spot is putting Pakistani cuisine on the map.
👎 The low: You’ll want to book at least a week in advance at least. 

“When you go, it’s all about the vibe,” is how a friend with Pakistani roots described Jamil’s to me. She raved about the food but said what sets it apart from other Pakistani spots in Toronto is the atmosphere. And she was right.

From the moment you walk in, Jamil’s oozes cool. With moody lighting, vibrant South Asian beats, and a stylish crowd, the energy is sexy, buzzy, and scene-y – in the best way. What started as a pop-up is now a full-on hotspot in Parkdale, bringing Pakistani classics to a new generation of Toronto diners. It’s the kind of exposure we’ve always tried to give through our blog, but this place nailed it.

The cocktail menu alone is worth a visit. Eastern flavours are woven into classic drinks. Shoutout to the Spicy Tamarind Margarita and the Cardamom Old Fashioned. The wine list is just as thoughtful, spanning global selections and even featuring some natural bottles. Whether you’re here for the food or the drinks, start ordering as dishes arrive as they’re ready, and the apps come out fast.

Start with the Dahi Puri. These hollow golden spheres are filled with potato, chickpeas, tamarind, cilantro, and yogurt. It’s a velvety, crunchy, tangy bite that we loved so much we ordered them twice before moving on. One of the best dishes on the menu.

Another standout: the Smoked Baingan Kachumar. Who knew raw eggplant could be so good? This hand-held salad mixes tomato, ginger, and eggplant with a bold smoky flavour that makes it addictive. Like most dishes here, it’s perfect for sharing.

The Samosa Chaat was the only dish that didn’t blow us away. The filling-to-pastry ratio was off, and let’s be honest, it’s hard to elevate a samosa. Still tasty, just not a top pick.

I wasn’t expecting to fall for a sandwich, but the Karahi Chicken Bun was a knockout. The chicken is marinated and spicy, topped with ginger slaw and blistered chilies. The soft, buttery bun holds it all together, making this far from your average chicken sandwich.

The Beef Seekh Kebab was slightly dry, but packed with flavour. It’s filling, easy to share, and best when paired with the rich and hearty Lamb Nihari, a slow-cooked, saucy curry that’s ideal for cooler nights. This version uses lamb instead of the more common beef, and it was a highlight of the evening.

For dessert, the Cardamom Date Sticky Toffee is Jamil’s take on British sticky toffee pudding. Not overly sweet, it balances warm spices with just enough richness to finish the meal on a high note.

Presentation here is elevated, which isn’t easy with traditional South Asian fare. And the cocktail/wine program sets Jamil’s apart from many other Pakistani restaurants, where alcohol isn’t usually on the menu.

Like many global cuisines before it, Pakistani food has officially entered Toronto’s trend-driven dining scene, and it’s about time. This spot is helping open minds and palates. We’ll definitely be back to try some of the vegetarian mains like the daal and the paneer.

Eat with you soon,

Mandrea Bike
(Mat & Andrea)