Azhar Kitchen & Bar in Toronto

96 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z4, Canada

★★★★☆
(437 reviews)
Categories: Restaurant

About

Azhar Kitchen & Bar is a neighbourhood gathering place for soulful Middle Eastern-inspired food and drink — hand-made and fire-cooked. With a wood-fired grill at the centre of the open kitchen, expect a transporting taste of Old World cuisine with imaginative twists in an intimate space that will quickly feel like your own. Azhar brings together two of the most celebrated Toronto restaurant leaders with Chef Stuart Cameron (formerly Executive Chef of Byblos, Patria & Mira) and restaurateur Janet Zuccarini (Gusto 54 Restaurant Group).

Website
azhartoronto.com
Address
96 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z4, Canada
Plus Code
JHWJ+G4 Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Time Zone
America/Toronto

Business Hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
4–11 PM
Saturday
11 AM–11 PM
Sunday
11 AM–10 PM

Services

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Great cocktails
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Halal food Happy-hour food Healthy options Late-night food Small plates Spirits Vegan options Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Brunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Gender-neutral toilets Toilets Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards

Photos

Reviews

4.4
★★★★☆
437 reviews

Most Mentioned

pita (67) hummus (40) babaganoush (24) middle eastern food (19) halloumi (14) mediterranean (12) kofte (10) mujadara (8) garlic potatoes (5) fattoush (5)
5 stars
310
4 stars
56
3 stars
24
2 stars
18
1 stars
29
★★★★★
December 13, 2024

I came here with a friend on a Thursday night after getting our nails done at a nearby salon. On a cold night, this was definitely the place to be with great company, amazing food and a cozy ambience. We didn't have a reservation, but luckily there were a few seats available at the bar. We ordered a few dishes to share: - crispy mushroom (small dish) - harissa shrimp (small dish) - wood fired chicken (large dish) We also got a few drinks: - espresso martini - shirley temple (variation of) Hands down, our favourite dish was the crispy mushroom! The crispiness and the garlic sauce were a great combination. A close second was the wood fired chicken. The chicken was full of flavour and cooked to perfection. The shrimp was a great addition to our meal with a nice kick of sweetness and spices. I would highly recommend this place if you're in the area!!

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

Absolutely loved this place! We had dinner around 8 PM with a reservation, and it was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere was beautiful and inviting, though it was a bit too loud at times. One of the highlights was the open kitchen concept, which added an exciting and interactive vibe to the evening. The food was on another level—everything we tried was absolutely delicious. Most dishes are designed for sharing, and the portion sizes were generous. We ordered the spinach arias, harissa shrimp, and roasted chicken, and each dish was outstanding. The chicken, in particular, had an incredible flavor that we couldn’t get enough of. We also enjoyed a bottle of white wine, which had a lovely acidic and slightly sour taste that paired perfectly with our meal. The only downside was that our server seemed rushed and eager to take our order quickly, which felt a little impersonal. However, the rest of the staff was very kind and helpful, making up for it. Overall, it was a great experience, and I will definitely be back for the amazing food and atmosphere!

★★★★★
November 16, 2024

Excellent quality dishes everything tasted very fresh and delicious. Service started off great but the kitchen had issues getting our orders out however they corrected any issues and made up for it. Cozy atmosphere we had brunch and would love to come back and try dinner!

★★★★★
October 20, 2024

Four of us were there for dinner on Friday night. We booked on open table and needed to push back our reservation. They responded very quickly. Mario was our server and helped us navigate the menu. I am gluten free and another of us is gluten free and vegan. There were great options for us. It’s tapas style which means sharing. The chicken was amazing We loved it and will be back. Great atmosphere too.

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

Azhar was such a delight to dine at! Such a cozy space with impeccable cleanliness. The kitchen is frickin' spotless. The food was delicious and honestly I just happened to stumble upon the place so I went in with zero expectations and it didn't disappoint! The servers were warm n welcoming. The small dips platter, garlic potatoes and avo toast was outstanding! We had the habanero and sumac margarita and it was exceptionally well balanced. Overall, it was a nice and unexpected meal and left us smiling all day ☺️ Definitely get the baba ganoush, muhmarra and fermented potato pita!!!!!

★★★★
September 16, 2024

We stopped by for some small plates and the food was very yummy. The portions are small and pricey but the quality of food is great. The ambiance inside and outside is pleasant, located on the bustling streets of ossington. I’d like to come back to try some of their mains and other appetizers!

★★★★
July 20, 2024

Solid 4+/5. Fantastic(maybe the best in town that I’ve had) tasting pita for babaghanoush. Fried mushroom did not disappoint. Steak was good, just that we weren’t asked for how we would like it, and I didn’t really get the coffee butter. I was a bit disappointed at the Margarita - it tasted fine but came in looking like someone already drank some - the glass was 65% filled, with ice in it. Service was delightful.

★★★★★
July 17, 2024

An incredible family style restaurant with Middle Eastern and mediterranean flavours. We picked two dips, 4 smalls and 2 large dishes for 4 people and we left full but not stuffed. The atmosphere consist of a very nice open flame kitchen in the back, with very nice open windows in the front of the restaurant. Service was incredible and the bar menu was great. I would highly recommend the orange wine spritz. ** nothing to do with the restaurant, but parking in this area is limited**

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2024

The food is okay, but I ve had better Mediterranean cuisine, so it didn t really stand out for me. The place is quite crowded, and getting the staff s attention can be slow as a result. I opted for a table over the bar, confident I d finish within 50 minutes, as the hostess mentioned a reservation. However, I ended up waiting over 10 minutes just to place my order. After finishing, I had to wait another 5-10 minutes for the bill, even after reminding the staff, which was especially frustrating since I was asked to vacate the table for the reservation. Overall, the experience felt rushed and poorly managed.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 19, 2024

Great middle-eastern food, atmosphere. and service. Great place to go on a night off...! Cheers!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 16, 2024

Friendly service, great dips. Pistachio dessert was excellent. Quick and efficient service. Good cocktails.

★★★
Local Guide
December 9, 2024

Good food, lovely interior, but very poor service. Our host left for the night with no indication or hand off. We finished our wine and waited 40 minutes for someone to come back and acknowledge our table. No offers for more drinks, no water, or clean up. I went to the front desk host who was typing on her laptop at the bar, to let her know, and she seemed to have NO concern that no one came to our table. Almost acted like we were an inconvenience and bothering her. Unfortunate end to the night.

★★★★★
December 9, 2024

Food and drinks were delicious. The chicken was to die for! Great atmosphere and good service. Definitely recommended!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 9, 2024

Id rate alcohol as 5/5 Ambience as 5/5 Food is good but the limited menu takes some points off. Still Id highly recommend this place. Food : 3/5 |

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 2, 2024

This gem is far from hidden, but on the Ossington strip, it is top 3! You will not have another fusion of flavours, freshness, and friendly staff across Toronto. It is truly farm to table quality. Cocktails are modestly a 10! Must try the mushrooms...they will change your life. Thanks to the amazing staff, our server was absolutely amazing. See you soon and often, lol.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 25, 2024

One of the best restaurants in the city. Everything we ordered from the menu was amazing. Recommend the mushrooms, shrimp and chicken dishes. The food is also halal except the wood fired kofte. They told us that the meat is halal but they do not have official certification.

★★
November 25, 2024

The food was decent, small portions for the pricing tbh. For example when ordering Saffron rice you d expect the color of saffron to truly show and it really didn t. Ordered the pickles and olives for 10 dollars to only give 5 olives is insane. $48 dollars for what looked like a 6oz strip loin.. While we were trying to enjoy our meal a waitress not ours, spilt wine from the table beside us all over my purse. Brought some napkins and then did not even comp absolutely anything despite pretty much pouring wine all over my purse. Truly customer service is dead in Toronto. The right thing to do is take care of something on our bill or even a dessert and yet it nothing. Side note, there were fruit flies swarming our table the entire meal.

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

Fantastic food and beautiful atmosphere. Would recommend the dip trio and buttermilk pancakes!

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

I recently dined at Azhar, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish. The food was exceptional each dish arrived quickly and was beautifully presented. Everything was so fresh, flavourful and carefully thought out. The staff were knowledgeable and attentive, offering helpful suggestions and making us feel truly welcome. I will be back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

Great vibe. Excellent food. Went on a date and we shared everything. Fresh and flavourful. Service was excellent and servers very attentive. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

The food and service were excellent! I would definitely visit again!

★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

ISRAELI MASQUERADING AS ARAB FOOD --- DO WHAT U WANT WITH THAT! I WILL NOT GO AGAIN. I LEFT SEE MY PHOTOS

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

This place is a treasure! The Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired dishes are crafted with the freshest seasonal ingredients, and the flavors are simply outstanding each bite transports you as if you re dining abroad. They ve got a happy hour menu starting at just $5, which is practically unheard of in Toronto these days, making it perfect for a casual yet elevated experience. The atmosphere is stunning, too, creating the ideal vibe for a night out. Everything here is designed to be shared, so don t hold back order a little of everything, and you won t regret it. Every dish is bursting with flavor, and whether you re here for happy hour or a full meal, this spot is an absolute must-visit!

November 23, 2024

Went to this fly-infested restaurant today. We got babbaganoush and crispy mushrooms, the portion sizes are very small for the price and mushrooms tasted stale. There is basically no vegetarian main. Not to mention We were served By a rude and offensive waiter. Made the easy decision to never go back. There are way better restaurants out there that are worth your buck. Don t waste your time and money here please. The only saving grace is the great ambience. Vegetarian options: No mains for vegetarians

★★★
November 23, 2024

Food was ok and service was ok. We went for my dad s 55th and was disappointed. Better places out there but the decoration was nice.

★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

Incredible interior imo. Ingredients are not that great quality for their dishes to be that minimalistic (I e. The pita by itself is pretty plain, the fish is quite average, a bit fishy, no/minimal seasoning ). Nicer servers.

★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

The food here was extremely subpar. The mushrooms had a chalky taste, and the steak was underwhelming.

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

Service was wonderful and food very flavourful and tasty!

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

The restaurant is a warm and inviting restaurant, and the ambiance is perfect for a date night or night out with friends. Overall, I recommend this place if you want great food and service. We were there for dinner, and we ordered a variety of items to share. We had the babaganouch to start, followed by a warm halloumi, wood-fired köfte, and fattoush salad. They were all declicious, especially the köfte. Our main was the striploin steak, and we paired it with a glass of red wine. It was cooked to perfection, and the flavour was rich. Last but not least, dessert. We had the chocolate tart topped with ice cream and a pistachio puff pastry that was topped with strawberries and filled with pistachio cream. They were the best desserts that Ive had in a long time!

★★
November 23, 2024

Food was over Salted, got the Scallops and were very fishy and over salted. Also ordered the Wood-fired köfte was way too salted and was not able to swallow it due to the amount of salt thrown into it Food

★★
October 23, 2024

Very surprised by all the positive reviews. We were excited to try Azhar as all the images of the food looked so appetizing online. Our server was lovely. The interior is beautiful. The cocktails were nicely presented. The pita was warm, fluffy, with a touch of crispiness in the center which we really liked. We thought we were in for a treat, but sadly it all went downhill from there. The hummus was fine. The shrimp was fine. The scallop crudo was tasteless. The zucchini salad made of raw strips of zucchini was tasteless. The $50 lamb came DRY AS A BONE with the only flavour (and moisture) coming from the sauces provided on the side. We were starving so we ate most of it, but let our lovely server know about the lamb so she could at least communicate this to the kitchen. She gave us a bowl of ice cream on the house. Overall we left very disappointed.

★★
October 23, 2024

Ambience and service were lovely, but we were really disappointed with the food. The price didn t match the portion size or quality. Koftë was bland and spongy. Hoping it was just an off night because the ambience was great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

Fantastic hummus and great drinks!

October 23, 2024

After seeing an Instagram ad, my husband and I decided to visit this restaurant yesterday. Upon arrival, we waited at the entrance for a few minutes until the manager, Josh, approached us. He asked us to wait a little longer while a table was prepared. Shortly after, a table near the window became available, and my husband politely asked if we could sit there. To our surprise, Josh answered: Absolutely no , offering no explanation. We were shocked by his response but reluctantly sat at the table he directed us to. In retrospect, we probably should have left. Had he explained that the table was reserved or intended for a larger group, we would have understood. Instead, his rudeness caught us off guard, leaving a negative impression. Despite this, we decided to stay and enjoy the meal. Unfortunately, while the food was acceptable, it was nothing remarkable, the portions were really small. I don t often write reviews, but I felt compelled to share this experience, as I ve never felt so mistreated at a restaurant.

Local Guide
October 23, 2024

Stealing other cultures food is disgusting.

★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

Finest israeli food!

October 23, 2024

They charge by the pita. So overpriced and rude behavior. Condescending staff.

★★★★★
October 23, 2024

Love Azhar! They have a fantastic Happy Hour menu & a late night Happy Hour they run on Fridays & Saturdays. Great spot to have share plates with friends. Pitas are unreal. Loved the hummus, spicy eggplant, wood-fired kofe and chicken! 10/10!

October 23, 2024

The food is very bad, cold and stale.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

We had dinner and brunch here and both times the food was really great. At brunch, our particular server would be better off in a different line of work but the rest of the staff, food and ambiance were great and we are definitely making this a regular spot! Food

October 23, 2024

Food is so so, very small dishes (unexpected small) Ordering takes forever. At the end, we got two different bills from a waiter and a waitress. one normal bill and one with a 20% large group mandatory tips bill. the waitress explained that we will have to pay this large group tips and the other bill is wrong. Noticing we are very confusing, the waitress keeps on talking, do you understand English? Does anyone in this group understand English? Very very rude . We DO understand English, but we don t like being forced to pay a bill without pre-notification. Very very bad experience, won t come again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

What an amazing experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Happy hour on Sunday... Tasted only the dips and hot appetizers with hot pita bread...they were delicious..

★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

I went here thinking it s going to be white-washed middle eastern food but I was quite shocked at how good and quite authentic everything tasted. We had the fattoush, potatoes, and lamb. I literally cannot stop raving about how good their lamb is to this day. The fattoush and potatoes were also really good and the flavours were there. Service was great and the place has a beautiful ambiance. Will definitely be back.

★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Went for dinner at Azhar and the food was amazing only tried a few dishes but everything they served was great. They staff were on the ball as well, it was really busy that night yet you never felt like you were waiting for a server to come around. Overall it was a lovely dining experience will be going back soon!

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

Choosing a spot on Ossington Ave isn t easy with all the options, but we re really glad we picked Azhar. The food was fantastic, and the service was top-notch. We felt welcome from the moment we arrived, thanks to Josh, who found us a great seat. Our server, Sofia, was awesome as well - she really knew the menu and recommended some fantastic dishes! The open kitchen adds a nice touch, and the music is just right - not too loud, so you can actually enjoy a conversation without raising your voice. Definitely coming back!

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

Came here for a family dinner on a Thursday night. Everything was great - from service (friendly, quick, professional) to atmosphere (lively but cosy and relaxing). The food is yummy. We ordered three dips out of the four available on the menu, and they were all delicious, a must-try. The sharing plates format allowed us to try most dishes on the menu. The scallops and the chicken were a highlight. The wine was really good too - we got a modestly priced bottle of Greek, and it paired greatly with our food. Thanks for the fun night! We ll be coming back.

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

The food was so good! I recommend the Kofte, the sauce was so good we order more pita and licked our fingers! He had Briana as a server and she is really great!

★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Overpriced and in a very popular location, but would not recommend this place as must try food. The babaganoush was bland, the pita bread was small, and the $39 large plate of chicken was 4 measly pieces of chicken breast. Overall fun place for ambience. Food is not tasty and doesnt justify the price.

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

Everything was delicious! Pricey but a perfect spot for a special occasion

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Helpful and friendly service. I had a table for 8 and we all had a great time. Enjoyed the food and drinks.

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

We had one of the best meals we have had in a long time in Toronto. Mario our server was a champion of a man and we will be back . Thanks Mario and compliments to the kitchen !! Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Ive been to Azhar numerous times now, the food, drinks and service are always top notch. If you want excellent Middle Eastern food in the city then you cant look past this lively spot. My personal go to dishes are any of the dips with their amazing pita or the haloumi, keep up the good work Josh and team!

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

The best happy hour in the city!!!

★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Started off with a Hugo Spritz, the drink of this summer which was probably the best Ive ever had. Between two people we got the Warm Halloumi (a plate of two is not enough because its divine), the Arugula + Herb Salad, followed by the Slow Roasted Lamb (10/10). Finished off with dessert, the Pistachio Choux, which was phenomenal! My only complaint is that the service was a bit slow on clearing empty dishes and following up on drink orders. Regardless will definitely be coming back to try more.

★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

Took my parents out for dinner here. Lovely decor and a good place to have intimate dinners/conversations. We stuck to 4-5 shareables and cocktails for 3 people which was sufficient for us. Possibly the best pita bread we ve had in the city, elite baking skills. The babaganoush is a must try. My mum left her phone behind and we tried calling the restaurant but kept getting sent to voicemail. Fortunately they had kept the phone safe and handed it to us upon return that same night.

★★★★
August 23, 2024

Sweet little place with friendly good staff. Bit noisy, limited brunch menu, but the chicken was scrumptious. Drinks a bit watered down, bartendar a doll. Id visit again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

First and foremost, what drew me to write this review was the service, as we only had stopped in for dessert - which was honestly incredible. We ordered and enjoyed both, but the chocolate one was to die for. We were at another restaurant for dinner, and a last-minute wanted to check this place out. They couldn t seat us for dinner, however, the manager had said to come by for dessert. My dad is very hard to please and impress, honestly it makes going out to eat with him stressful sometimes, but I have to tell you, the man does know a genuine Soul when he sees one. Our server, Garett (I hope I heard correctly, maybe Gareth?) was a breath of fresh air! Present, patient, kind, authentic. He totally reminded me why I had got into serving back in the day. We go out a lot, and it seems to be the norm these days, hardly anyone in the service industry today enjoys it, and they do the bare minimum expecting a decent tip - 0 connection, 0 effort, 0 care. Garett was a gem - super grateful to have come and nice way to end my dad s birthday. I will be back! **edot** have been back three times since for brunch and dinner, absolutely phenomenal. my new favourite spot in the city for the best pita and dips .we call their bread the Jesus bread. go and eat it yourself and tell me it doesn t taste like that level of purity Dietary restrictions: AMAZING DESSERT!! gluten free too, wow you d never guess!

★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

We ordered the Crispy Mushrooms, Halloumi, steak, and Scallop Crudo. Everything was eye-wideningly delicious. The crispy mushrooms were my favorite, really a satisfying crunch. The steak comes with a Tahini that is so perfectly balanced. The scallop crudo is like a ceviche, with an excellent citrus-tomato sauce. Service was excellent and personable. Vibe is on. Why not 5 stars? Genuinely wish the portion sizes were larger. It is a sticking point that after spending over $80 pp, we had to go somewhere else to feel full. Having said that, Im definitely coming back - really enjoyed the food and service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

Love the food and cocktails

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Just a wow

★★★★★
July 23, 2024

Excellent restaurant! Above and beyond service. A special thank you to Sami that took care of us and recommended the best Lamb in the city ( by far)!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

The best pita bread in Toronto imo. They serve the pita bread which is fluffy and hot along with their dips. The hummus dip tastes great as they have some paprika in it. The zucchini salad is thinly sliced green and yellow zucchini peppers mixed with fennel. Tastes is refreshing and has good texture as they have mix it with some nuts. Chicken main was amazing and their striploin is sous vide and striploin steak is a generous portion in comparison to some other restaurants.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Excellent restaurant; Middle Eastern dishes cooked with delicacy and refinement, intelligently revisited without distorting them. Pleasant atmosphere and pretty decoration. Impeccable service with attention and a smile. To remember

★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Price on the expensive side when considering the size of the plates. Service is good.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

10/10 experience. Great atmosphere. We sat the bar and Shayne C took great care of us. We went during happy hour and the drinks were still strong and great tasting. Not at all diluted. Food was great - we had the hummus, kofte, and harissa shrimp. No critique needed.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Ari was serving us and she was so kind and amazing! We can t wait to come back, the happy hour menu is awesome.

Local Guide
July 23, 2024

The restaurant is gorgeous. Cosy interiors. The food was extremely disappointing. Crispy mushrooms and Kofta arrived burnt. Everything was bland. Extremely expensive for comically small portions. Waiter was not knowledgeable about the dishes either and kept trying to upsell.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

What an establishment! Happy hour couldn t be better. Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

4.5/5 - Would highly recommend Azhar Kitchen & Bar! We were 3 people and we ordered the Dip Trio between us, a drink each, and an entree each. Azhars pitas are unreal. They are sooo fluffy and smooth and delicious. The dips were INCREDIBLE. The hummus was my personal favourite, it tasted so fresh and unique. The dip trio is a great start to your meal. We ordered 3 extra pitas in total to go w the dips, totally worth it. Our drinks came out next. The mint lemonade was pretty good, left a littlee to be desired for a $14 non-alcoholic drink. But nevertheless was nice on a hot day. I got the Baharat-Crusted Chicken. Its not a huge portion, 2 pieces of chicken. But w the dip and drink, and the QUALITY of the entree itself, I actually saved one of the pieces of chicken for later. The chicken was prepared PERFECTLY. The baharat crust was a delicious treat. It was flavourful and the perfect amount of cooked. The accompanying tuom was a perfect balance of umami and sour. Same w the sourdough. I could have done w a littleeee less chive oil but it didnt take away from the taste of the food at all. Im just being picky. The food was incredible, the service was wonderful, and the atmosphere was really lovely. I am looking forward to coming back here again soon!

★★★★★
June 23, 2024

The food was great! I took advantage of their Happy Hour to try this restaurant, I tried almost all of the small plates listed and no complaints! The food was flavorful, fresh and cooked perfectly. The cocktails were on point as well. I will be coming back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Really good middle eastern food, with a nice interior

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

We visited Azhar for drinks and some appetizers, they have a good selection of cocktail and whiskey options. The white smoke was good, along with the orange wine spritz. We got the hummus, spinach arayes, and the wood-fired kofte, they were good. The vibe is pretty nice inside as well.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

I visited Azhar for the first time on a beautiful Sunday morning and chose to sit on their patio to enjoy the lovely weather. Service was good, and the staff were friendly although it wasn t easy to catch a server (3.85/5 for service). The brunch experience was spectacular, with each dish feeling light and fresh. For our table of two, we shared: - Hummus Masabacha with kofte - Turkish eggs - Pancakes The portions were perfect, and we even had a bit of leftovers. Every bite was light and flavorful, and the presentation of the dishes was beautiful, adding to the overall enjoyment. Highly recommended!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

The food is awesome and I love how the host is welcoming and always manages to setup a table although the table are almost occupied

★★★★★
June 23, 2024

Good options to share. Delicious middle east inpired food. Classic Drinks and wines Vegetarian options: Egg plant , humus , haloumi

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Great food and Great service! Had a really nice time there. Highly recommend!

★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

I agree exactly with the review below mine

★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

The food tastes decent but the portion sizes are quite small for the price you are paying. We got the shakshuka and the egg/lamb sandwich and left hungry. The salad side with the burger was way too small and the bread with the shakshuka was barely 4 bites.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Family took me here for a mothers day dinner and it was incredible. Shareable plates but everything was delicious and fresh. Highly recommend the drinks. Service was amazing.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

I went there for my birthday dinner and had an amazing experience. We ordered babaganoush, shrimp, charred brussels and kofte. Pita that comes with the dip was amazing, everything was delicious, kofte was not my favorite though. Our bartender Kelly was great and everyone was friendly and nice. Also thanks for the drink that was offered on the house after our meal!

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey unlike any other! Nestled in the heart of the city, Azhar is a treasure trove of culinary wonders that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. When you walk in, the air is alive with the aroma of freshly baked pita bread. But let s dive into the stars of the show starting with the hummus. Creamy, velvety, and bursting with flavor, its a testament to the artistry of Middle Eastern cuisine. Paired with the pita bread, its a match made in heaven that you wont be able to resist. Next up, the rice oh, the rice! Fragrant, fluffy grains cooked to perfection, its the perfect accompaniment to any dish. And lets not forget about the falafel crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with mouthwatering herbs and spices. Don t get me started on the halloumi .DELICIOUS. Sadly I don t remember our server s name (I believe her name started with a A and she looks like an auburn Emma Stone) - she absolutely MADE our night! She went above and beyond to make our anniversary one to remember. With attentive service and an ambiance thats as inviting as it is vibrant, this restaurant isnt just a place to dine; its an experience to savor. So, gather your friends, bring your appetite, and prepare to be whisked away on a culinary adventure that will leave you coming back for more!

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

One of the best restaurants in the city food is so flavourful and creative, and the service is the best anywhere. Consistently terrific recommendations and thoughtful, attentive staff. Couldn t recommend it more!

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

I am really surprised by the quality that this place offers! I wanted to spend a day with my family and we went during brunch time. I have no complaints about it. We ordered a masabacha hummus and the protein was delicious, I loved the texture. We also ordered a banana pancake which had a wonderful texture! Its taste was very natural and had crunchy touches. And finally, we ordered the lamb sandwich which completely fulfilled our expectations. On top of all this, the place is beautiful and is suitable for families. We would go back and would recommend it to anyone who wants to have a family morning.

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

My wife and I had the pleasure of dining yesterday, and it was an absolute delight! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a cozy ambiance. I really loved the lamb sandwich. Were already looking forward to our next visit!

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

Always such a wonderful cultural experience. The food is so interesting and flavours never disappoint. Look forward to visiting Azhar again next time we are in Toronto.

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

Food was great, attentative servers, and cozy by the front window.

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

I usually dont write reviews but had to, because Azhar is by far one of the best restaurants Ive experienced in the city! The food is delicious and the service is truly outstanding. Ive been a few times now and every time has been a phenomenal experience. Our server this past experience, Maggie, was super knowledgeable and warm, and gave my friends and I great food recommendations and wine pairings! Not to mention the rotating wine list that is by far the best Ive seen in the area. I bring all of my visitors to Azhar and always look forward to coming back!

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

Amazing! The service was great and the food was so good. We ordered hummus, tuna, steak and chicken and they were all fresh and tasty. The cherry dessert was delicious!!! They don t have some dishes I saw reviews for on here though

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

We had an amazing time at azhar today for brunch. The girls working were warm and attentive from the moment we walked in. Our server Ari gave us great suggestions and everything was delicious - we re excited to come back soon for dinner!

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

I love it

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

They had a limited menu, the food was good! Ordered hibiscus tea for drinks Nice decor!

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

The brunch here was AMAZING! The server was great answering questions and everything tasted fantastic! Would definitely come again for brunch and would love to try for dinner too!

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

There s absolutely nothing to complain about. The food - muhammara and steak - were both excellent. The service was congenial and considerate. The atmosphere was nice. The pita that comes with their dips comes out hot from the oven which is incredible with the cold dips. The muhummara was the standout for me.

March 23, 2024

Unfortunately our last visit was very disappointing. And when we talked about it with the waiter and manager, they didn t even care about it, and didn t try to compensate. The quality of food from appetizers, main dish and the desert was a complete disaster and not comparable to before. We felt not respected at all and will not give them another chance ever.

Local Guide
March 23, 2024

As a regular patron of Azhar, my latest visit was not only disappointing but shockingly subpar. The quality of food and service has drastically declined, marking a departure from the high standards we had come to expect. From the starters to the desserts, every course fell short. The dishes, which were once familiar and beloved, seemed completely reinvented - and not for the better. The portion sizes have noticeably shrunk, yet the prices remain unadjusted. A specific letdown was the cake in the dessert course, which was uncharacteristically dry and lacked flavor. Upon addressing our concerns, the manager disclosed they are in the midst of transitioning to a new chef. While his apology was noted, it was disheartening to see a lack of effort to rectify our dissatisfaction, especially knowing our status as returning customers. A simple gesture or offer could have made a significant difference, yet none was extended. Additionally, the imposition of a 20% charge for a table of six, given the circumstances, felt unjustified and left a bitter taste. The service mirrored the decline in food quality. The waiter displayed an indifference to our experience, showing no concern for the evident dissatisfaction at our table. This lack of empathy and customer care was truly disheartening.

Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Their recent food and services was a great departure from a unique culinary experience we had here last time. Unfortunately substandard quality and inadequate hospitality shows that they ve taken paying return customers for granted. Wouldn t go back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Brunch here was delicious!

March 23, 2024

This wasnt our first visit to this restaurant, but that was our last time for sure. We were disappointed by the quality of the food, the portion sizes, the taste, and the service we received this time around. The food was overpriced, and the quality did not live up to that of a fine dining experience. Not recommended any more.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Had My birthday day dinner with group of 14 here and it was great! Food were delicious but I think portion is a bit small so I was a bit hungry. Very Mediterranean feel and lovely service. Will be back again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Food and service were absolutely perfect. On Friday night it was a little loud for me, but Im old.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Food was fresh and absolutely delicious. Best fresh pita I have had. Clean, comfortable vibes. Friendly staff. Portion size to price was the only slightly negative review

March 23, 2024

We came here for brunch. When the reviews say portion size is small, IT IS SMALL. I got the Turkish egg, total came to $26 after tax and tips. You are basically paying for 2eggs with dips and a small piece of sourdough. The portion can t even be justified if this was an appetizer. Service was okay? I don t understand why I have to pay 20% for someone to bring me water and bill at a restaurant. Lesson learned: if you can walk in for brunch without a reso on the weekends, something s wrong.

March 23, 2024

I recently dined at this restaurant and I must say, the experience was utterly disappointing . The food quality was abysmal, with dishes tasting stale and lacking any semblance of freshness.The dessert I ordered was a disgrace to the culinary world. The cake was dry and crumbly, as if it had been sitting out for days. Steer clear; not worth it.

March 23, 2024

Very disappointing. We were a group of six went there for dinner. All of us were unhappy with our food and service Quality and quantity changed a lot rather than last time we were there. The manager was very indifferent when we expressed our unhappiness about food and service. Never come back there.

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

Absolutely stellar! From the moment we walked in, we were treated to an unforgettable dining experience. The menu was exquisite, offering a delightful array of flavors. Josh went above and beyond to make our evening special. The ambiance was perfect, striking a balance between elegant and comfortable. This restaurant is a true gem, deserving of more than five stars. Cant wait to return!!!!!!

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

One of my favourite spots to hit when I visit Toronto!!! Super nice staff and the food is SO GOOD, you gotta come with friends and try as much as you can

★★★★★
March 23, 2024

What an incredible dining experience from the moment we walked in, to the moment we left! The ambiance was inviting, comfortable and cozy yet classy. Our server, AJ, deserves special recognition for making our evening truly exceptional. Her attentiveness, knowledge of the menu, and genuine friendliness added so much to our night. Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor and absolutely beautifully presented. The pita, in particular, was my absolute favorite - warm, fluffy, and addictingly delicious. The chefs attention to detail was evident in every bite. We left feeling not only satisfied but also delighted by the overall experience. Well definitely be returning soon, and well be asking for AJ again!

★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

Top notch service - we were helped within seconds of sitting down, no finished dish sat longer than 2 minutes, and our drinks were always topped up. As for the food, we ordered: 1) hummus (the one with the mango): avg. hummus, nothing special. The pita that came with the hummus was exceptional - thicker than your standard pita with a fresh texture. 2) falafel: best falafels I ve ever had. You can t visit this restaurant without trying them especially if you like spice. The sauce that came with it was subtle in flavour and complemented the dish well. 3) tabouleh salad: I was quite surprised by the size of the salad. It was way too small for the price. Regardless, it was refreshing and packed with flavour (Italian parsley and dill). 4) shrimp: although delicious, I don t think it justified the price. 8 standard sized shrimp in a tomato sauce. It also came with 4 sauces on the side. Although I m never one to turn down a good sauce, the shrimp was already covered in a tomato sauce and didn t require more. Drinks: 1) spicy hibiscus margarita: wasn t as tasty as it was salty. Lacked spice and flavour. 2) coconut whiskey sour: delicious. The drink was light and not at all sweet. As someone that doesn t like whiskey, I was surprised by how much I loved this drink. For the whiskey drinkers, this apparently meets the standards of a real whiskey cocktail .

★★★★★
February 23, 2024

Delicious and great variety of food and drinks in the menu. We loved the experience and the service of all of the servers. Recommended!

★★★
February 23, 2024

Too expensive for what it is as Food tasted ok with exception to the lamp shoulder which was excellent. The service is average but manager had to ask us to leave in 5 minutes as another reservation is approaching which was not right or Acceptable especially we were still finishing our food!!! they should notified us when we came and brought the food in a time that allows us at least to finish our meal. $370 for 4 people with two large orders and 3 appetizers with no alcohol is $$$ . I would not go again

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

Fabulous evening with friends. The service was just great. The food, was spectacular. It s definitely a refined take on Middle Eastern cuisine, which is not bad at all. Lamb shoulder was exquisite. Falafel was soft. No complaints honestly.

★★★★★
February 23, 2024

Very nice and outstanding. We had such delicious food. I recommend Muhammara dish! Thats a good start for your main meal.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

We went for dinner on a Sunday evening and to be honest I wasnt really expecting much from Azhar. Turns out it ended up being much much better than I thought. The food was amazing, the Dip Trio and the Falafel (a little bit spicy) were a great choice to start off the night. We then went with the Charred Octopus (THE best octopus Ive ever had), and the steak with garlic potatoes and coffee butter, which was also spectacular. We wrapped up the night with the Cherry Cake, which was such a good surprise and was really delicious. Service-wise we noticed they were perhaps a bit understaffed but everyone was really friendly.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

Went with a friend for dinner and it was a fantastic experience. Service was warm, friendly, attentive, and very considerate. Generous portions and food was delicious. A great place to share plates. The Muhammara was out of this world! The open kitchen is a very cool atmosphere! Will definitely come again.

★★
February 23, 2024

Food 3.5/5 value 2/5 service negative (-)5/5 We selected this restaurant for the wide variety of vegetarian food. Made a reservation for 6 on OpenTable, they asked what we were celebrating, I marked it birthday and wrote in the comments we were celebrating 2 birthdays. The only time slots on a Friday were 615 or 845 so I selected the latter since 615 would be tight. We met before for a pre dinner drink and cheese and crackers since dinner was so late. We arrived a bit before 9 and the table was still not ready. Seated by 9:10. We got: *Babaganoush salad which was good *Halloumi was ok, nothing to write home about *Dip trio - hummus was very smooth and creamy but not very flavorful. It supposedly had Aleppo pepper but it was lackluster for Aleppo; Beet hummus was meh and one person got a clove of raw garlic; Muhammara was spicy and delicious. The three dips though only came with 2 mini pitas (size of a scallop shell) and then they charged $3 each for any extra pita. *Spicy garlic potatoes were good *Fire roasted chicken was super juicy and tender. The sides with it were meh. *Roasted cauliflower with hummus was ok. The cauliflower wasn t really very flavorful, and the dish only came with one of those mini pitas. Considering they said the plates were for sharing, it seemed rather ridiculous. Food was not served until 9:45-11pm, and we got a warning kitchen was taking last calls at 11:10. We had no acknowledgment of the birthdays at that point, so one person tried to talk to the staff. They were belligerent and unhelpful. Asked at least three times about doing something for birthdays and staff was very unwilling to accommodate until the last minute. We ended up with cake that was dry, possibly somewhat frozen in the middle, and we got charged for it. No staff said or sang happy birthday. Miserable place to celebrate an occasion. As a party of 6, there was auto gratuity of 20%. Service wise, the waiter never came to take our order until I flagged him down. Never asked if he could answer any questions, and I constantly had to ask for more water. He changed our plates between cold and hot food, but then took so long, the girl came out with our hot food and had to take it back while he finished setting the table. Didn t clear wine glasses when the table switched to cocktails. Just really not attentive. I think he was annoyed that we only ordered 6 dishes when he recommended we order 10. The drinks actually seemed to be a big part of the draw. Cocktails were mostly found good, and sparkling spiced hibiscus tea which was delicious. We had one non-drinker and there were many non alcoholic options. It s a very small restaurant and we originally wanted to be seated at the front, where we would not be by the door, but it turned out to be not great there either because the speaker for the music was right above us so it was hard to hear across the table. The seating was also really low, my back hurt after. We spent $500 for 6 people including drinks and a mandatory 20% gratuity. We had some good dishes but overall, it was a very disappointing experience.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

Good food and nice service.

★★★★★
January 23, 2024

Food was excellent, service was great and fast, priced well for the fresh quality ingredients used. Can see the chefs prepare the food in the open, we got the avocado toast and Turkish eggs.

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Open kitchen concept is so nice and clean . Food is fresh and delicious, one of the best avocado toasts that I have ever had!! Service was amazing and I will definitely come back

★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Food is good interesting flavours but some the greens that accompany the dish, parsley, dill, mint were not washed and had sand in them once I moved them away and washed my mouth with water it was OK. The cocktails were a waste of time. Watery and minimal alcohol in them. Chairs are too low. Very uncomfortable for a tall person.

★★★★★
January 23, 2024

Consistent all around - on of the better restaurants on Ossington.

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Delicious brunch and food options! I went with 3 friends and we all loved our selections (pictured).

★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

the steak was so chewy that we had to return, then replaced it with chicken skewer that made the experience much better. Overall, not excited to go back. I am not surprised about the hype, there is nothing special.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Fantastic ambience, food is beyond superior, amazing flavor. A must go restaurant.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The baba ghanoush here is just heavenly - and the pita - freshly made, so warm, doughy, soft and delectable. They are the best I ve ever had. The chicken skewer was amazing too and the service lovely. Highly highly recommend!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Tried the weekend brunch and it was great. Will definitely go back to try their dinner menu.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

This is saying a lot but this is the best Mediterranean restaurant I ve ever been to. AMAZING! Burst of flavours, sizeable shareable portions! Good ambience. Love it

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Delicious food and good vibes. You can t ask for more. Azhar is definitely worth the visit Pitas: 10/10 Best I ve had in the city Hummus: 10/10 Olives: 6.5/10 - least favourite item Roasted Mushrooms: 10/10 the tahini it comes with is next level Rice: 8/10 Braised Lamb: 9/10 I wish the serving was larger Scallops: 8.5/10 however $26 for 4 scallops seems a little stingy Octopus: 10/10 Best dish of the night. The dish comes with orzo and a jalapeño tzatziki. Insane stuff Chicken Shish: 9/10 Halloumi: 8/10 Cherry cake: 7.5/10 Chocolate desert: 8/10 Drinks are solid but very pricey.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This was my second time at Azhar and definitely wont be my last. The food was really tasty (the halloumi and braised lamb were standouts), the service was great, and we really enjoyed the ambiance. We ordered five dishes for three people and felt it was enough. It is fairly pricey but not outside of the norm for restaurants of this type. Vegetarian options: Vegetarian options are available (hummus, halloumi, etc.). It was all very tasty!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I have to say that it was an amazing experience. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was inviting and had a great vibe that set the tone for the rest of the evening. The service was also top-notch, with attentive staff who made me feel right at home. But what really stood out for me was the food. Every dish was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. From the appetizers to the main course, I couldnt find a single fault in any of the dishes I ordered (hummus, steak, tartare, etc)It was clear that the chefs took great care and pride in their craft, and it definitely showed in the quality of the food. Overall, I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great dining experience. The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and a fantastic vibe make it a standout in my book.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great ambiance, service and food. Highly recommended this place, it s definitely one of my top restaurants in Toronto. The lamb dish is out of the world, must definitely try. 100% will be going many times here.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Richly flavoured and beautifully presented dishes. Great space too. Ill make the trek across town again just for the pita and muhammara!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Azhar Kitchen & Bar, and I can confidently say that it was one of the best dining experiences Ive had in a long time. The restaurant serves delicious Middle Eastern food that is bursting with flavor and made with the freshest ingredients. Overall, I would highly recommend Azhar Kitchen & Bar to anyone looking for delicious Middle Eastern food in a welcoming and stylish environment. The quality of the food, the attentive service, and the cozy atmosphere make this restaurant a true gem. I cant wait to go back and try more of the menu!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Shareable plates with lots of options. Food was flavourful and well spiced. Potatoe pitas we re a great start and useful with all the dips.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food was delicious! We went for brunch. Loved the small plates we had at the beginning. The service was also fantastic.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I recently had the pleasure of dining there and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed with the creativity and flavors that the chef brought to the table. The restaurant itself has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. But its the food that really steals the show. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The chef has taken classic Middle Eastern dishes and added his own unique touches, resulting in an explosion of flavors that left me wanting more. I totally recommend to try it out

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

We left here extremely satisfied. My spicy margarita was incredible, then every dish we ordered (hummus, fattoush, lamb shoulder) was delicious and to die for. The salt hangover later on was less fun but still totally worth it. And interestingly, they have an open kitchen so you get to watch everything being made.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Food and service were excellent.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The pita is amazing!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Hummus and Muhammara were unique and very good. The falafels were extremely dry. They already have a very limited menu and still ran out of cauliflower shawarma on the night. Overall not a very satisfactory experience.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Incredible food, incredible service! Stunning atmosphere! 10/10

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

One of my faves in the city, the labneh is exceptional! We always love peeking at the open kitchen! Celestina was the best waitress weve ever had, what a star! We will definitely be back :)

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Incredible service and food! Best hummus that I ve ever had in my life.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I ve been wanting to try this place for so long now and finally had the chance!! I always walk by it on ossington and see how cosy it looked so decided to finally try it! Wow! I m not an expert on middle eastern food, so I can t comment on how authentic it is but it is definitely tasty. we had the hummus + pita bread and babaganoush + pita bread to start - it was super smooth and the pita bread was definitely home made. Then our favourite dish was the halloumi!! I was honestly so sad when it was done because it was AMAZING it was a little salty and a bit sweet, so the perfect combination. For our main we had the cauliflower shawarma which was really good and came with 4 different sauces which complimented the dish nicely. We sat at the bar which was not a problem and ordered the lavender gin drink which was very well done! (I can t remember what my boyfriend ordered but he enjoyed his drink). The service was really good as well, and meals came out in a timely fashion. I loved the interior of it! Super cozy and dim lights are my favourite. I m only giving it 4 stars instead of 5 because although we knew it would be a little pricey as it s a fancier place but I think some of the things were maybe a little pricier than we d hope. For example the main (cauliflower shawarma) was extremely tasty and it was a whole head of cauliflower, but it was over $30. And we really wanted a bottle of wine with our dinner but the wines started at $70+ which is just a bit hard to justify for 1 bottle with dinner. But nonetheless the food is really good, the service is also very good and the atmosphere is very warm and inviting. I m really happy I finally got to try this place and I ll definitely be back I would suggest booking a reso in advance if you plan on going (like most places in Toronto), and it s a good restaurant if youre looking for shareable dishes! Vegetarian options: Tons of veggie options - hummus, babaganoush, salads, cauliflower

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Gorgeous place from decor to service. The creativity on the plates of known middle eastern dishes is spot on. Surprising tastes on every plate. Highly recommend.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

one of my fave spots in the city!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Amazing ambiance and outstanding food. Beef sirloin and chicken harissa skewers were to die for. Yummy dips and sides. Definitely trying again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Excellent. The food and service were top notch. Cocktails were superb. No complaints.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

This restaurant is great. Im French & therefore love only fine food (right?) well trust me I found my pleasure here. The warm welcoming of Sofia, Celestina & Nicole was the cherry on top of my amazing meal. Would definitely recommend and make sure you rate them too, they deserve it. (PS : get the banana pancakes ) Wish yall a great time there. God bless you.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I lived in the Middle east long enough to know that the food was unimpressive and definitely not authentic (except for the dips). And on top of all that, I caught the team lead/manager staring multiple times; and later pointing towards us and laughing with the waitress. That s very RUDE and UNPROFESSIONAL!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good spot for Middle Eastern/Mediterranean food! It was very lively even on a weekday, so it might be a little difficult to have a conversation. The server recommended ordering 4 dishes for two people, and the menu is created to shared. My favourite dish was the Haloumi.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

If you like cloudy pitas youll love this place! The food was incredible. Aside from the pitas the chicken skewers are also worth coming back for.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

A friend and I popped in for dinner after the place we had planned to go was closed for a private event - serendipitous! We shared a bottle of wine with the babaganoush and pita, steak, octopus, and the hazelnut chocolate ganache. The flavours were amazing! We both agreed the octopus could have been a bit more charred, but all things considered, it s a small criticism. The service was outstanding: present and attentive but not overbearing. As someone who has worked in casual fine dining, I was impressed by the seamless steps of service, which is not something that happens often in this city anymore. Wine service, drop notes, default resetting between courses, crumbing the table, etc were all on point. The atmosphere was well designed; we sat under a speaker so it was a touch loud but given we were a walk in, no complaints.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Came here for brunch, and the mezze alone was to die for. Everything is super tasty and bountiful

★★
December 23, 2023

This was our second time at Azhar and was a disappointing experience. Nowhere on google or website says Brunch menus only and the menu itself was small and very underwhelming. Dishes were not properly cooked however, service was great and so was the ambiance. Best part was the Cappuccino! P.S.: Our first time and the regular menu was a big hit!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The staff was excellent, very friendly and helpful. The food came quickly and everything we had was great. I would definitely recommend hummus, pita bread and also the chicken skewers. The Lamb was good also. A must try place.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Hands down, best lamb I ve ever had!! Ever!! Hats off to the chef. Even the chicken musakhan was amazing and it s dark meat with bone and I don t touch dark meat! Portion sizes were generous and it tasted great even after I reheated the little bit of leftovers two days later! Only complaints I have are tough to find parking, and the chairs are really low which makes for an uncomfortable seating position and posture when dining - and I m not very tall, 5 -11 . One more suggestion would be to work a bit on the appearance of the food. It looks good but the looks don t do justice to the amazing taste!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Incredible. I am a huge fan of middle eastern food and have tried a lot of places. Azhar definitely gets a top spot. The chicken and octopus skewers are so well cooked. Juicy, flavourful, and paired with the perfect sauce. The lamb shoulder melted in my mouth. The broccoli fattoush was a beautiful medley of flavours and textures, and was a welcomed brightness to balance the heavier dishes. The hummus and babaganoush were also amazing, but they were comparable to other places Ive been. Everything was very well made, but also quite expensive. Was it worth the price? Questionable. Was it insanely delicious? Yes. Great place for a special occasion.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I am an unofficial Azhar ambassador because I dont miss telling everyone I know to go there.

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This used to be a great restaurant. But unfortunately our most recent meal may be our last. The menu has changed. They replaced some of their best dishes with new items that are much lower i quality. It s a shame to see a once Great place take a wrong turn.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This is a very lovely little restaurant on Ossington. There s a wide variety of food and drinks and everything is very much shareable. We had the babaganoush which comes with two pitas (the pita is epic), falafel plate, baby gem salad, and chicken skewer. Split between two people we were full but I probably could ve ate one more small dish. The highlight for me was the salad, dip, and pita

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Most of the dishes contain too much sugar, not a diabetic friendly menu

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Excellent brunch, although they removed the free mezes that used to come whenever you ordered something for brunch which was one of my favorite things to have here. But still would reccomend this place although I think they shiuld consider bringing it back.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

All of the food was absolutely, hands down, delicious. I m dreaming of the halloumi and the chicken as we speak. Yes you read that right, dreaming of chicken. They are masterful in the balancing flavours without over complicating the dishes. The only negative was the service, but it seemed like our server was new so giving them benefit of the doubt. It was pricey for the portions in my opinion, but it was just so tasty I know I ll come back. Recommended!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I have worked to that place its very nice place. All The staff is so friendly and supportive, from the head Chief Moon to the manager Liui its a place to be and the food is sooo DELICIOUS. It was such a great experience I highly recommend that restaurant .

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Wonderful , food is ok

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

We were very disappointed with the food and service. The Halloumi appetizer was the only saving grace. The wait staff didnt really check on whether we wanted water or wine refills. We definitely will not be going back

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Absolutely fantastic dining experience! From the highly attentive gentleman greeting you upon arrival and seating, he was constantly assisting the wait staff with realigning bar stools, pouring more wine and ensuring the meal an ambiance was superb. Then our waiter (Samy C) was above an beyond both in terms of service and personality. It was a delight to have a waiter that knew the perfect timing for food & drink attention, and the perfect timing for great banter an hospitality. We were very happy to have such an excellent evening at Azhar (being our first time there), and would highly recommend this establishment to anyone looking for the perfect evening of amazing food and fun

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Great service and amazing food.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

So many mice and cochroachs had to leave Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Amazing. So many rich flavors. I definitely ate more than I should have, but Im not going to pretend I regretted it. We ordered about a third of the menu and everything on it was excellent. The staff was friendly and made great recommendations - which is easy when everything is good!

December 23, 2023

The food does not taste good enough to be served that small. It is not enough to share as they claim. The waiter was extremely pushy and rude, they clearly wanted our table to keep ordering after 2 drinks, 3 dishes. We probably would have since we were still hungry if he wasn t such a jerk. When we declined, the attitude and curtness would increase. Won t be going back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good food and service. Perfect for sharing plates.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Both their brunch and dinner were excellent. Delicious and fresh food. Loved it!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food was great! Tried a lot of new things and as Im always a sucker for things cooked with pomegranate and/or pistachio I loved a lot of it (especially the Halloumi and the Olives)! Staff was also very friendly and helpful, explaining each dish clearly as it was set on the table so we knew what we were eating and when. Ambiance was also great, though it gets loud when the restaurant fills up. Its pricey though

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

It was good food. Nothing to rave about. Good service, good cocktails. Sharing style menu. Great date spot. Would try once but wouldn t go back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Food is incredible. The curry hummus and baba ghanoush with the pita bread is so good. Also, the lamb and chicken skewer are great.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Had my birthday dinner here and loved their mezze. Was not a big fan of their braised lamb, very chewy and dry. Octopus was great

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Hands down one of the best brunches my SO and I had in a long time. We shared the Avocado toast (loved the attention to detail with the presentation), garlic potatoes, soft egg, and pickled veggies. It was incredible!!! We cleaned the plates completely. If you re looking for a cool vibe, amazing food, reasonable prices (for the area) and awesome service then definitely come here. A bonus is the people watching and the whole neighbourhood is such a great atmosphere overall. Will definitely be back and highly recommend. Vegetarian options: We re vegetarians, and there were tons of options to choose from.

★★
December 23, 2023

The food was great but the waitress brought us the bill before we asked for it. Im not sure why she didnt like our group but it was very rude of her.

★★
December 23, 2023

My partner and I made a reservation on OpenTable specifying it was our anniversary and that we d like bar seating. First we were sat at a standard table and asked to move. So not a big deal. Our server then was neither welcoming nor friendly. After we ordered an appetizer and a round of drinks, she took our menu away (?). Our appetizer and drinks were fantastic. We were just extremely disappointed with the service, particularly for an upscale/not cheap restaurant and when you specify you re celebrating a special occasion. Ended up walking out and going elsewhere.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Though food looked amazing we didn t have any food because they were serving Brunch until 3pm. I was hungry for lunch, but my husband actually got a drink and that was superb! It was a hibiscus margarita, so elegant and delicious.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Such a lovely spot. I still dream about the quality, taste and presentation of the food. Babaganoush, Pita, Chicken, Salad, Pita, Babaganoush <3

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Really good food - very small portions and expensive Vegetarian options: Really good vegetarian dishes

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Stopped in midday while shopping in the neighbourhood . We didn t want to go to a coffee shop where it was more busy and wait in line. We wanted to sit down, rest and enjoy a small afternoon pick me up and coffee. Azhar just so happened to be right in front of us. Upon a quick search and good reviews we decided to stop in. We only ordered the banana pancake and it was DELICIOUS!! It was soft, beautiful to look at and flavourful. It had these crunchy bits on it that added to the texture. They also have a beautiful bar and the table beside us ordered the trio dip and it looked amazing also. Anyways, love!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This place is decent, service is on point, the food is tasty although the portions are on the smaller side which makes the dishes overpriced. the Large share dishes are not enough to share but nonetheless they are tasty. One weird thing is with the open kitchen, your clothes will end up smelling like spices and garlic...

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Pros: Flavourful foods. Good portion sizes and fillings. Lovely open kitchen concept and elegant feel inside. Cons: Pricey menu. Limited menu selections for brunch.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I cant say enough about the incredible dining experience I had at this Azhar. From start to finish, was utterly delighted. The healthy food options are a breath of fresh air. Its rare to find a place that combines fine dining with such a focus on health, but this restaurant does it with finesse. Every dish was not only beautifully presented but also packed with wholesome, quality ingredients. The flavours are out of this phenomenal. They take classic Middle Eastern dishes and infuse them with a modern twist that makes each bite an absolute delight. The attention to detail in their preparation is evident in every bite. The dips they are a MUST. Creamy, rich, and bursting with flavour, theyre the perfect way to star. The pitas are baked fresh when ordered, arriving hot at the table. Its an experience and youll find yourself craving more, they are heavenly. One of the things I truly appreciate about this place is its ambiance. While its considered fine dining, it maintains a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Its the perfect spot for a night out, where you can savour every moment without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. In summary, Azhar exceeded all of my expectations.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food was incredible. Ive eaten at a lot of places both in the middle east and here, and Azhar is truly top tier. Their food combinations are absolutely phenomenal. Eggplant cooked to perfection. Banaganoush, smokey and perfect. The potato pita buns with zatar were freshly made and HOT! Even the Ghia Spritz was so fresh and so good and paired so well with everything. Our server, Jenny, was awesome too. And the ambience + even dinnerware was gorgeous. The only thing missing was some gluten-free pita for my celiac girlfriend, and maybe some vegan dessert options since we both cant have dairy. Will definitely be back! Dietary restrictions: Their menu is gluten-free except for 3 dishes - 2 of the salads that have couscous and the chicken (which I believe is technically gluten-free but comes w bread.) Instead of pitas, they give you cucumbers which isnt a great trade but the food is more than worth it.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great Mediterranean fusion menu with a classy atmosphere and excellent customer service. Prices are definitely on the higher end but worth it. We ordered the humus with freshly baked pita, olives with pomegranate and chicken skewers. Each was incredibly flavourful in a very unique way compared to traditional dishes. Well worth a try!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

3.5/5 Came here for brunch! The portion size was very less compared to the price paid for it. The options available for brunch were not too many. The ambience is great and the food also tasted good. However, the service could have been better. They took a lot of time to just take the order and then bringing it. I ordered for an extra side which was not even brought to the table. Would want to try the other items on their menu apart from the limited brunch options.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Went for brunch, they have a small menu but they deliver! I had the hummus avocado toast with falafel and pomegranate juice. I loved the toast, the bread was lovely the the hummus avocado blend creamy and the olive oil fresh! Definitely recommend that! The falafel was good mainly because of the dip, the labneh with mango was yummy! My friends had great things to say about the pita bread, which was fresh out of the oven! One caveat is the drinks while the food is reasonably priced some of the non alcoholic drinks are a bit expensive. The decor and the feel is very pretty, definitely recommend this place! We were 8 of us and great service!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The food was solid. I love the idea of an open kitchen. It was very entertaining. I enjoyed the experience. The non-alcoholic drinks were somehow very expensive. I didnt pay too much attention at the time, but I ended paying about 15 for a lemonade. And my main was around 18. I dont see how that makes sense.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Quite busy and noisy! We trued a few of their plates. Some were nice and unique but taboule was okay.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

My wife and I were exploring Ossington Ave when we stumbled upon this amazing restaurant! We ordered the hummus sujuk, which came with some of the most delicious, fluffy pita bread weve ever had. For our main course, we had the garlic potatoes, which were crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside and perfectly seasoned, and the braised lamb. The lamb item was really delicious, lots of different complex flavors coming together and working just perfectly! We thoroughly enjoyed our night here and hope to come back soon! Dietary restrictions: All meat is halal here, according to the servers!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

From the moment we entered, it was clear that this dining experience would be nothing short of a culinary adventure. The ambiance was welcoming and set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The service truly stood out. We were greeted with warm smiles and attentive care that made us feel valued and well-looked after throughout our meal. However, the highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the food. Each dish was a delightful surprise, presenting a bold and unexpected fusion of flavors. The halloumi cheese with its unique sauce was my personal favorite, offering a taste sensation that was both new and deeply satisfying. The hummus, moutabal, and tabbouleh were fantastic, bursting with authentic flavors that transported us to another world. The skewers, steak, and mushrooms were also noteworthy, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented, adding to the overall enjoyment of our meal. In summary, this restaurant offers an exploratory journey through flavors and textures that is a must for anyone eager to venture beyond their culinary comfort zone. It s a place where each dish invites you to experience something new and exciting. A visit here is highly recommended for an extraordinary dining adventure.