Simba Grill

What is Simba Grill? Situated at 375 Donlands Avenue (near Plains Road) in Old East York, Simba Grill is a beloved family-run culinary destination dedicated to authentic East African Ismaili and Kenyan Indian cuisine. Commemorating the rich food culture developed by South Asian communities in Nairobi and Mombasa, Simba Grill provides an unpretentious, welcoming setting where open flames and fragrant marinades create extraordinary barbecue.

Simba Grill Menu & What to Order Charcoal-grilled meats take center stage on the menu. The Beef Mishkaki is mandatory—tender cubes of sirloin marinated in garlic, ginger, and red chili, charbroiled on skewers until smoky and served with house tamarind and chili chutneys. The Pili Pili Chicken delivers charred skin and juicy meat infused with fiery East African bird's eye chili marinade, accompanied by crisp kachumbari tomato-onion salad. For traditional side dishes, order the crispy fried mogo (cassava root) seasoned with red chili powder and fresh lime juice, along with Channa Bateta—a comforting bowl of chickpeas and potatoes in a spiced coconut tamarind broth.

Know Before You Go Simba Grill opens Wednesday through Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday), beginning service at 3:00 p.m. on weekdays, 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 1:00 p.m. on Sunday. The Simba Mixed Grill Platter is an ideal choice for groups wanting to sample both mishkaki and ribs. The 56 Leaside bus runs directly along Donlands Avenue, connecting with Donlands subway station on Line 2 in five minutes.