District Oven

Annabelle Goodman —

Isam Kasi is the chef/owner of this new restaurant. It is affiliated with 93 Harbord, a popular Middle Eastern restaurant. I loved the place the minute I walked in. Notice the creative lighting. I don’t think I have ever seen red banquettes before. There are many very long tables with delightfully designed red chairs. I was hardly noticeable in my new red jacket. I just blended it. We even tried out the chairs at the bar. Beautifully designed and comfortable. The place was jumping but because the tables were well spaced my dining companion and I were able to carry on a conversation while we enjoyed our amazing food. I inquired about the fine design and wondered about the architect. I was surprised to hear that Isam’s wife, Hanacli Lobani did the interior design. I asked if she was a designer. She is actually a human rights advocacy person. The art work on the wall was original, creative and whimsical. I was tempted to buy one. The art work added so much to the festive air of this charming restaurant. The evening was first rate from beginning to end. The charming Soey Horyna is the manager. She hails from Melbourne Australia. I could have listened to her chat all evening. Our delightful server, Nicole had only started a few days before. I hope she never loses her charm and smile. She was superb and helped us to select our items.

842 College St.W – 416 901 7717

The Pita was the best I have ever tasted. It was fresh from the oven, hot and delicious. It wasn’t heavy or overwhelming. It was so good we kept indulging. We shared the Spinach, Arugula, Figs, Goat Cheese and Walnut Salad. It arrived in a very large white bowl. Tasty, fresh and delicious.
 
My dining companion opted for another Meze (Appetizer) The Falafel with Tahini Salad was so light and beautifully flavored. There were so many of those falafel balls. It was filling. I also ordered anther appetizer, Seared Cauliflower, Vadouvan, Tahini Sauce. I forgive you if you can’t get excited about cauliflower. It is one of my favorite vegetables and I have been known to eat a whole one for dinner. The cauliflower was perfectly cooked and had a touch of a flavorful spice. There was a topping of a delicious olive oil. I scraped the olive oil with my tasty pita. Babaghanouj and Pan –Fried Halloumi Cheese with a pomegranate drizzle were also appealing appetizers
 
Flatbread Pizza was tempting but will save that for another visit. Chicken, Caramelized Onions, Sumac and Almonds is a favorite Pizza special. Figs, Shallots, Mint. Halloumi Cheese makes for a Middle Eastern touch. I found the menu to be creative, original and delicious.
 
I was impressed with the Vegetarian specials. The Seared Cauliflower is available as a main course served with maftool risotto and a sumac chili oil. Quinoa Lentil Pilaf is prepared with caramelized onions and a village salad. Cheese Tortellini with a warm yogurt brown butter sauce will surely be delicious.
 
Meat lovers may be tempted with the Kefta Burger served with arugula, fig jam, brie and spiced frites. The Lamb and Vegetables Tangine with Ras el Hanout sauce was highly recommended. My friend was also tempted with the Mix Grill of lamb kefta, chicken and beef kabob. The Market Fish of the Day was Grouper. Shrimp with Maftool Risotto and a saffron dill sauce will surely bring me back. We loved the energy. All the workers in the restaurant were so welcoming. How lovely to see large families with children as well as the young couples out for a Friday evening dinner. This was a special evening