Sumac Restaurant – Spiced to perfection
SPOTLIGHT | REVIEW | OPINION
Middle Eastern cooking
It wasn’t too long ago that Montreal was a bit lacking in really good Middle Eastern fare. We had a few fast food choices, some of which are addictively delicious in their own way, but not enough that really came close to the delectable and diverse flavours and styles of true Middle Eastern cooking.
That’s been changing over the past few years and Sumac is proof positive that Montrealers are in love.
St. Henri neighborhood
Located in the continually up and coming St. Henri neighborhood, Sumac is a joint collaboration of David Bloom (Tuck Shop, Rustique) and chef Raquel Zagury. The pair have managed to hit just the right vibe to fit nicely within the industrial-hipster-foodie-trendy-but-cozy neighborhood with warm brick walls, relaxed atmosphere and the enticing aroma of spices and grilled deliciousness.
Divine Sumak Fries
Our personal favourite is the sumac fries, but prepare to be blown away by the small, but vibrant menu. While chicken shawarma is a fan favourite, the surprising sabich featuring fried eggplant, hard boiled egg, cucumber pickles and amba pickles inside fluffy, homemade pita will give your taste buds something to talk about. The vegetarian and vegan offerings are generous, sumptuous and comforting and if you’re looking to add a kick to just about any dish, ask for a side of s’rug. The charred pita goes perfectly with the muhammara, which fills you up with ground walnuts and pomegranate molasses, or start off with a simple hummus tahina or baba ganouj before diving into a sumptuous plate of crispy falafel, beef kefta or salade cuite.
homemade
Everything is homemade from the falafel and hummus to the salads and meats to the Nutella brownie that incorporates halvah and cinnamon paste (Yum!).
If you’re tempted to try everything, bring a group and opt for a family-style sharing platter with an assortment of colourful, decadent sides. Just be prepared to feel really, really full afterward.
Tarek Riman
Tarek Riman
Founder | Marketer | Speaker | Best Selling Author | University Instructor
As Founder of Cap.TaiM, a full-service digital marketing agency, I have worked with 100+ agencies, SMBs and Fortune 500s. I hold 30+ certifications in digital marketing including AdWords, Analytics, Bing, Hubspot, Woorank, Facebook & Hootsuite.
With a passion for exploration and sharing new discoveries, I also founded Montrealtips.com, with proceeds going to the UN Refugee Agency, Montreal Children’s Hospital and other causes. I am also involved with NGOs & charities in Canada & worldwide.
Images source: http://sumacrestaurant.com/