The Dunya restaurant, recently opened in Montreal, has already established itself as an essential address for lovers of Lebanese cuisine. Behind this project are Rami Nassim, chef-owner, as well as his partner Megan Heckinger, Michael Kassabji and Imad El-Nawam. The team, young and dynamic, makes us rediscover the cuisine of Lebanon by focusing on simple dishes, but executed with great finesse.
Rami Nassim, who grew up in Lebanon before perfecting his skills at the Ferrandi cooking school in Paris, has worked in prestigious establishments such as Le Clarence (2 Michelin stars in Paris). Upon arriving in Montreal, he accumulated extensive experience at Vin Papillon as well as at Heni where he worked as sous chef. “I wanted to undertake a project that would highlight the richness of Lebanese cuisine, but in a simple and accessible way,” he explains to us. At Dunya you can enjoy dishes bursting with flavor, of remarkable quality and at very affordable prices.
“Shawarma is a craft, not just a dish. It’s not very expensive, fun to eat, and so tasty,” Rami explains enthusiastically. We were immediately charmed, not only by the young, dynamic team at Dunya, but especially by their saliva-making sandwiches. The menu highlights a beef shawarma garnished with tarator sauce, onion, tomato and parsley. The meat, laced with lamb fat on the spit, is tender and full of flavor. And if you prefer chicken, their shawarma served with the classic toum sauce (this famous garlic mayo), pickles and fries is simply a delight.
For falafel fans, you will love their vibrant and colorful plate – 100% gluten-free, and also available in a sandwich version (this one, with gluten!). Everything is prepared in front of you, and their falafel fryer, with its pretty copper cylinder imported from Tripoli decorated with calligraphy, adds a little theatrical touch to the show.
As for side dishes, Dunya offers fries to be dipped in one of six homemade sauces (or all!). Otherwise, their fattouche salad is also a great option. To drink, you have the choice between homemade iced teas, sodas or smoothies. And above all, don’t miss their ice creams, also homemade! We fell in love with the one with honey and pistachio, truly decadent. The flavors change according to the inspirations of the moment, so prepare yourself for delicious surprises!
“Between music, design, style and service, we think outside the box. We wanted to create something new, practical, beautiful, affordable, and above all, delicious,” emphasizes Rami. There is no room for nostalgia here; the team focuses on a modern approach. Everything, from the branding signed Aseel Hariri, to the refined design imagined by Andrée Uranga of Studio Figreflects this vision. As soon as you enter, you are greeted by a minimalist and calming decor, where attention is naturally drawn to the magnificent fresh vegetables and herbs that adorn the counter. “Our dishes are intense in flavor, so we wanted a calm and uncluttered space. Everything here is designed to be simple and functional. It’s a great pride to see this idea come to life and that people appreciate it. It’s not just pride, it’s above all great satisfaction,” he concludes.
Dunya, absolutely worth discovering!
Written by Fabie Lubin
Photographed by Mikael Lebleu
Last updated: October 4, 2024
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