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New Palestinian Restaurant Louf Opens in Toronto, Celebrating Heritage and Community

by Ella

Toronto’s food scene has a fresh addition in Louf, a new restaurant dedicated to showcasing Palestinian cooking and fostering community. Opened in November 2024, Louf brings together traditional Palestinian ingredients, local produce, and centuries-old cooking techniques. The restaurant’s name, Louf, refers to Arum Palaestinum, a wild medicinal plant native to Palestine and considered a delicacy.

The restaurant’s mission is clear: to celebrate the rich yet under-represented Palestinian cuisine and create a space where people can come together to enjoy exceptional food and culture.

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The Visionaries Behind Louf

Louf is the brainchild of Nicole Mankinen and chef Fadi Kattan, who joined forces to bring this vision to life despite never having met before. It all began when Mankinen reached out to Kattan for his recipe for hilbeh cake, a traditional Palestinian dessert made with fenugreek and semolina. Their conversation about Palestinian food and culture sparked the idea of opening a restaurant, and Louf was born.

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Before officially opening its doors, Louf participated in Black Creek Community Farm’s annual fundraiser, offering a sneak preview of its menu and ethos. This event helped build anticipation and excitement for what Louf would offer once it was up and running.

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A Menu Rich in Tradition and Innovation

Louf’s menu features a vibrant mix of Palestinian dishes and locally-sourced ingredients. Guests can expect to find delicacies such as:

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  • Pan-seared akkawi or nalbusi cheese with zaatar oil
  • Labaneh with micro sorrel and sumac
  • Braised lamb shank
  • Roasted Palestinian dumplings
  • Chicken pâté inspired by the traditional Palestinian dish musakhan
  • Kibbeh nayyeh, a Palestinian version of tartar with bulgur

In addition to these staples, Louf offers a Palestinian brunch that celebrates local and indigenous ingredients. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, highlighting the best of both local and Palestinian produce, such as GTA-sourced laban jameed and sumac, alongside Palestinian-sourced freekeh and Dead Sea salt.

A Celebration of Palestinian Art and Culture

The experience at Louf goes beyond just food. Plates and bowls at the restaurant are crafted by Palestinian ceramicist Nur Minawi, ensuring that every detail of the dining experience reflects Palestinian culture and artistry. Louf aims to be a cultural hub in Toronto, hosting events that support and enrich the local arts scene.

A Community-Oriented Space

As much as Louf is about food, it’s also about bringing people together. The restaurant seeks to create a space where Toronto’s diverse communities can connect over the shared joy of food, arts, and culture. With its focus on Palestinian cuisine and local ingredients, Louf stands as a tribute to the resilience and richness of Palestinian heritage.

Visit Louf

Located at 501 Davenport Rd., Louf is now open, inviting diners to explore the flavors of Palestine through a creative and bold lens. Whether you’re discovering Palestinian cuisine for the first time or looking for a new place to enjoy your favorite dishes, Louf offers a truly unique dining experience in the heart of Toronto.

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