Arbequina: Levantine Flavours and Sustainability in Toronto’s Roncesvalles
Tucked away in Toronto’s Roncesvalles neighborhood, Arbequina is a must-visit for anyone seeking a soulful dining experience. Chef Moeen Abuzaid and his wife, Asma Syed-Abuzaid, blend Levantine flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. They create a menu that reflects the story of Abuzaid’s life and career. With roots that include Michelin-star kitchens and a successful New York pop-up, each dish is crafted with passion and a nod to his Palestinian and Jordanian heritage.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Heritage and Sustainability
- Location: 325 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto
- Price Range: $$-$$$
- Cuisine: Levantine
- Social Media: @arbequina_restaurant
- Menu: Arbequina Menu
Arbequina isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an expression of Chef Moeen’s journey from his first kitchen role as a teenager to cooking in Europe’s finest establishments. Named after a Palestinian olive, the brand embodies Abuzaid and Syed-Abuzaid’s vision: to honor the flavors of the Levant while infusing them with global inspiration. The menu is designed around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting their commitment to sustainability. They collaborate with local farmers and cultivate herbs in their own garden, focusing on whole utilization of produce and proteins to minimize waste.
What We Tried
- Steak tartare
- Lima Bean Hummus: Lahmeh, curry leaves
- Seabass: Tatbileh, shishito, brussels
- Kale Salad: Apple, endive, bulgur
- Chocolate Cake: Semifreddo, olive oil whipped cream
- Baklava Mousse: Booze, pistachio
- Sticky Apple Sukkar: Cinnamon ice cream
Elevating Non-Alcoholic Dining with Zero-Proof Beverages
Arbequina is a halal, alcohol-free establishment, yet it offers a full lineup of unique, zero-proof drinks crafted with the same attention to flavor and detail as the food. These drinks go beyond the usual non-alcoholic options, with refreshing botanicals and spice-infused mocktails that pair seamlessly with Levantine flavors, enhancing the dining experience.
Flavors with Purpose, Dining with Heart
The menu at Arbequina is an homage to Levantine classics with a fresh, modern twist. Expect mezze platters, spice-forward mains, and thoughtful flavors that balance Abuzaid’s technical precision with a warm touch of tradition. Arbequina’s approach to fine dining is refreshingly accessible, offering a high-quality experience at an approachable price, making elevated dining inclusive for all.
Why Arbequina is a Must-Visit on Toronto’s Food Scene
Arbequina is a unique blend of tradition and innovation, sustainability and taste. From its thoughtfully sourced ingredients to the story behind each dish, Arbequina is where culinary passion meets purpose. For anyone looking to explore Levantine flavors reimagined or experience Toronto’s best new restaurants, Arbequina offers a dining journey that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
References
