Darna

What is Darna? Positioned along the vibrant stretch of Roncesvalles Avenue at number 413, Darna brings the comforting, home-style traditions of Palestinian and Levantine cooking to Toronto's west end. Founded by Marwan Carmi using recipes passed down from his father-in-law Osama Khalaf—who operates a namesake establishment in Ramallah—the restaurant takes its name from the Arabic phrase for "our home." The dining room features clean timber accents, warm amber lighting, and comfortable banquette seating suited for everything from weeknight family dinners to celebratory group feasts.

Darna Menu & What to Order Start with the essential Darna Sampler, dipping freshly baked pita into silky hummus, tangy labneh drizzled with shatta, roasted mutabal, and walnut-rich muhammara. For mains, the kitchen excels at charcoal-grilled mixed skewers, slow-cooked Kufta Tahini, and delicate Shish Barak beef dumplings simmered in warm, garlicky spiced yogurt. Pair the meal with a tart Pom Spritz or traditional loose-leaf mint tea, and finish without question on the golden, unripened-cheese pistachio kunafah bathed in rose water syrup.

Know Before You Go Table reservations are easily secured through the restaurant's website, though weeknight walk-ins along the avenue can often snag a table without long delays. Weekend brunch is popular with neighbourhood locals starting at 10:30 a.m. for shakshuka and savory pastries. Street parking along Roncesvalles is metered and limited, making the 504 King streetcar or a quick walk south from Dundas West station your best transit bet.