Small but excellent selection of Lebanese snacks
Yet another entry into the crowded Lebanese space, Fattoush is targeted towards the breakfast and light lunch crowd. Fattoush is also the name of a Middle-Eastern dish, which this restaurant also offers. Note to restaurateurs: pick an unambiguous name that stands out when searching online.
Name aside, the food is great. Almost everything is made fresh in-store, including the breads.
The food
The za’atar manakeesh (مناقيش; flatbread with toppings) was soft and chewy. It’s a different texture from other bakeries that produce crisp or dense manakeesh. Although it was greasy from being slathered with olive oil, it had the right amount of saltiness and bitterness. Since it was freshly baked, there were strong aromas from the sesame seeds and thyme. I don’t think it would be good after a few hours. 7.5/10.
The falafels are a hidden gem. They were crispy and filled with fresh fava bean crumbs. Spices were well-balanced. However, the pita sandwich was sloppy to eat. It was dripping with tahini. I wish restaurants would package sauces separately for takeout. It prevents sogginess and minimizes spillages during transit. Messiness aside, it was one of the top falafel sandwiches in downtown-ish. The nutty tahini and sour pickles complemented the falafel. There was a satisfying variety of flavours and textures. 8/10.
Fattoush’s lamb kofta sandwich was not as good as the vegetarian options but it wasn’t bad either. There were two dominant flavours: pickled onion and spiced kofta. They were too intense and could be toned down. The kofta was cooked medium-well but could use more fat. Parsley rounded up the flavour profile.
The sandwich was packed with ingredients. In fact, it had started to become soggy by the time I brought it home. It’s a shame because the pita was crisply toasted initially. I would be happy to eat this sandwich again if there was less salt and seasonings. And if I could eat it on the spot. 7/10.
The place
Fattoush is at the outer limits of Cabbagetown. Had it been located in the heart of the neighbourhood, it would be slammed with customers.
The interior is styled like a contemporary cafe. There is a grab-and-go display case by the entrance. For those who wish to dine in, there is modest seating.
Verdict
Fresh and above-average Lebanese sandwiches for breakfasts or quick lunches. 8/10.
Practical information
- Name
- Fattoush Levantine Diner
- Rating
- 8/10
- Recommended dishes
- Zaatar manakeesh
Falafel sandwich - Prices
- Zaatar manakeesh: $4.52 ($4.00 excluding tax)
Falafel sandwich: $6.22 ($5.50 excluding tax)
Beef sfeeha sandwich: $7.91 ($7.00 excluding tax) - Address
- 253 Gerrard Street East
- Hours
- Tuesday to Sunday 0800h – 1800h
- Date of visit
- June 2021, August 2021