Ali Babas

What is Ali Babas? Set on Queen Street East just steps east of Yonge, this Downtown outpost is a straightforward, counter-service staple turning out classic Middle Eastern fare. It caters squarely to midday office workers, students, and evening commuters looking for swift sustenance, featuring utilitarian interior seating designed for quick bites rather than lingering dinners. The approach here is casual and no-frills, emphasizing speed, generous portions, and reliable halal standards.

Ali Babas Menu & What to Order Spit-carved meats lead the charge, best experienced via the 'Chicken Shawarma Platter' backed by spiced yellow rice, crisp pickled turnips, and creamy garlic sauce. The 'Chicken Shawarma Crazy Wrap' answers the call for a hefty handheld loaded with extra sauce and fillings, while vegetarians get crisp, herb-packed fritters with the 'Falafel Platter'. Make sure to order a side of crisp-edged 'Garlic Potato' and finish with a slice of syrup-soaked 'Baklava'.

Know Before You Go Service is counter-only with no reservations, though orders are assembled rapidly even when weekday lunch queues spill toward the doorway. Queen Station on Line 1 is a two-minute walk away, which is ideal since Queen East street parking is notoriously difficult. The kitchen maintains continuous hours daily from 9:15 a.m. through 10:00 p.m.