Restaurant group behind Byblos to open a downtown Israeli kitchen
The same restaurant group that’s behind Toronto favourites Byblos, Mira, Figo and Kōst are about to open a brand new restaurant at King and Portland.
And this time, the flavours will be coming out of an Israeli kitchen.
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Shook, the newest venture by Iconink, is projected to open at the buzzing downtown intersection in June. Taking over 77 Portland Street, the new eatery will be offering a sustainable, vegetarian menu that uses ingredients from local purveyors and farms.
“We poured our hearts and souls into developing a rich menu,” said Executive Chef Ben Heaton in a release.
“We’re working with amazing, locally grown ingredients and paying careful attention to every element in every dish. Cooking on an open flame is a unique opportunity to really bring out amazing flavours in a way most people don’t expect. We are very excited about Shook and I think it is really, really special.”
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Pitas will be cooked in a wood burning oven and will be used for daily rotating sandwich specials, plus to pair with Zaalouk and Kale Borani.
A seasonal soup menu, vibrant salads, small plates and a unique selection of mains will round out your options. Keep your eye out for favourites like the burnt eggplant and maftoul soup, green cabbage, dill and pistachio salad, manouri stuffed squash blossom with matzo crust, and mushroom tahdig.
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Look forward to washing down your veg with any of the many options from the spot’s robust bar, which will feature botanical cocktails, mocktails, and an extensive list of biodynamic wines.
And knowing the vibe of Byblos, Mira and the like, we’re betting this spot is going to be serving a mood too.
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You can also anticipate weekend brunch, featuring buttermilk qatayef pancakes with rose cream and pistachio, chocolate babka french toast with spiced orange marmalade, green and red shakshouka, and a signature Israeli fry up.
If you’re in a hurry, no worry. There will be plenty of options offered to-go including coffee, smoothies, baked goods, salads and sandwiches.
The space will also have a retail component, which means that you can bring house-made pickles and spice blends, custom apparel, pottery, and plants home.
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Shook will be open for lunch and dinner Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 5:00 pm onwards.
Weekend brunch will run from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and the takeout counter will be open daily from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Get ready for something delicious.
Shook Israeli Kitchen
Address: Coming to 77 Portland Street
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