Turkish eateries in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are not merely competing with each other; rather, they are progressively taking over the landscape of all food establishments in the region, similar to trends observed in Europe. Undoubtedly, there are reasons for this phenomenon.
Foremost among these reasons is the unique allure of Turkish cuisine, which stands out amongst others, not due to superiority but owing to its singular blend of influences from various neighboring cuisines. Its distinct character springs from a harmonious melding of Turkish, Kurdish, Greek, Assyrian, Arabic, Persian, and Armenian culinary traditions, and its appeal is further heightened by the commitment to freshness—daily-cut salads, never-frozen meats—and a vast assortment of desserts and appetizers.
Take, for example, Shirin Kebab and Barans Restaurant. Both operate in the same vicinity, and their coexistence has been mutually beneficial. Shirin Kebap’s reputation helped bring recognition to Barans, and Barans, in turn, has indirectly boosted the popularity of #MangalKebapHouse (1585 Warden Ave).
In other parts of the city, eateries such as Mustafa Turkish Pizza Rest. Euro Shawarma, Best Istanbul, Narinpastry Eyyupoglu, @Mabella Toronto Pastry, Shawarma Istanbul, Pattycom Cafecom , Meat Point, and Bosporus have found it easier to establish themselves and expand rapidly, capitalizing on the growing popularity of Turkish cuisine.
Up north in Toronto, sofram.ca blazed the trail a decade ago. Since then, residents of the area have developed a taste for Turkish food, leading to the successful establishment of Mama Fatma Turkish Cuisine, Efendi Turkish Cuisine, nevizade.toronto, @Turquoise, Berlin Doner-Kebab, Gulbay, @Nona Amina, Beyoglu, Koz Bingol Canada, Champion Doner Shawarma, Bravo Pastries, ozescafe, Nes Bakery, A La Turk, plus Istanbul.
On the Mississauga and Toronto west side, Turkish restaurants are even more successful, thanks to residents’ familiarity and preference for Turkish cuisine. Establishments such as Tomars Doner, Bursa Kebab House, Kebab 49, Istanbul Kebab House, Ata, Dino’s Wood Burning Pizza , Champion Doner Shawarma, Agha Turkish Restaurant, Keko Shawarma, Anatolia Restaurant – Turkish Cuisine, Flame Food+Design, Shaslik, and Mado have thrived in this climate.
In conclusion, the potential for Turkish restaurants in the GTA is currently under-tapped.
Every time a Turkish restaurant opens, it seems another non-Turkish establishment closes its doors. However, it’s important to note that each new Turkish opening contributes to a greater recognition and appreciation for existing establishments in the Turkish culinary scene.
The way forward reveals an even brighter future for the expansion of Turkish gastronomy in the GTA.
