A new Mediterranean restaurant has opened in Orillia.
Ali Hamam, co-founder of Tahini’s, started the business with his brother in London in 2012.
“We started as one location and slowly built up from there,” he said. “Within the last three years, we are up to 20 locations across Ontario.”
He says the restaurant’s focus is on delivering unique products that are Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, as well as fusion dishes that integrate other types of cuisines.
“This is something that our customers love about us,” he said. “They love that we have all different options to choose from.”
Hamam hopes Tahini’s will feel more like a locally owned restaurant rather than a franchise that has come to town.
Mitul Patel, owner of the new location, has lived in Orillia for four years.
“I love this community and the people,” he said. “I want to give them exactly what they are looking for when it comes to good shawarma.”
He welcomes people to try the eatery at 975 West Ridge Blvd., even if they aren’t familiar with the food.
“We find that a lot of people who try it for the first time really like Middle Eastern food,” he said. “The food is very good, and we hope people will tell their friends and family about it.”
The Orillia location opened Nov. 20 and, so far, the feedback has been positive, Patel says.
“People are coming back for the food, service and hospitality,” he said. “They want to try our new menu items. It’s going really well.”
He invites the community to the official grand opening Dec. 18, when customers can try a wrap or a bowl for 50 per cent off the menu price.
