For modern Lebanese cuisine in a trendy and welcoming environment, consider visiting Amal Toronto for a high level of quality and service in the fast-paced Yorkville neighbourhood

By Sydney Ingram

Amal Toronto opened on Aug. 18 in the midst of a global pandemic and a mandate to follow strict guidelines including no dining room service. Despite this, Amal Toronto continues to serve modern Lebanese cuisine by Beirut-born Executive Chef Rony Ghaleb in a trendy, yet approachable environment 

While located in the trendy Yorkville neighbourhood near high-end shops like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, Amal manages to offer a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its second-floor patio creates the sensation that you are far away from the fast-paced business of the surrounding city. 

The patio is warm and inviting while still maintaining a stylish essence with its off-white, burnt orange, and baby blue interior that is lavishly decorated with soft couches, potted plants, and geometric patterns. Despite dining on a chilly evening, the environment was still warm and inviting with chic couches and chairs scattered across the area and heat lamps placed between each table.

A reservation is a necessity if you plan to visit Amal. I managed to grab the last available reservation the night before and when I arrived at 5 p.m. the restaurant was filled with no room for walkins.

After the hostess collected contact tracing information, I was sat in a cozy spot in the corner with an extensive menu. Admittedly, this was my first experience with Lebanese cuisine, and considering that I had no idea where to begin, the menu was not exactly approachable for a beginner. However, our server was helpful by showing us her favourite dishes, describing the popular meals, and explaining each ingredient in detail.

The first course was a soft start. Opting for the enticing $25 sampler platter allows you to choose three of the four mouth-watering dips with two sides of pita bread. This is a good deal as the dips can range from $12-$13 dollars individually. I choose the classic hummus and baba ghanoush along with muhammara, a dip made from fire-roasted pepper, house spices, and walnuts. 

A massive plate of dips was promptly brought to the table, the presentation was stunning. Presented were two small pieces of pita bread that were hollowed out and served as an accompaniment – perfect for dipping. The hummus was light, creamy and, all-in-all, delicious. The muhammara was something that I never had before but I was pleasantly surprised by its unique taste, it was unlike anything I had ever had before. Flavour exploded in the first bite.

For my main dish, I opted for the chicken tawook skewer ($32) at the recommendation of my server. The dish was served on top of biwaz pita, garnished with grilled tomatoes, serrano peppers, and served with a side of house fries. 

While the chicken was incredibly tender, the flavour left me with something more to desire. It was disappointingly bland. This was corrected with a side of what seemed to be a garlic labneh, a thick and creamy yogurt spread which was similar in texture to cream cheese. 

The meal was redeemed with dessert. The Kanafeh, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with semolina, akawi cheese and rose water syrup, was possibly the highlight of the meal. While cheese and desserts can each stand on their own, the combination of both for this dish was sheer perfection. 

Overall, Amal is the perfect spot for a special meal or celebration. While the meal can range high in price with starters running as high as $20 and entrees ranging from $22 to $58, the bright atmosphere, quick service and delicious food make it a worthwhile experience. 

Amal has also adapted well to COVID-19 safety guidelines which is a necessity as Toronto continues to adapt protocols. As chilly winter months approach, there is no doubt in my mind that Amal Toronto will continue to adapt while still maintaining a high level of quality and service to offer to the lavish, fast-paced Yorkville neighbourhood.