A popular Ontario shawarma chain is gearing up to roll into Vancouver, bringing its signature garlic sauce and loaded wraps to the West Coast.
We spotted Tahini’s, who is known across Canada for its hearty Middle Eastern eats, setting up shop along Renfrew Street, right across from the Broadway Tech Centre.
This marks the chain’s first Vancouver outpost (and second in B.C. after Kelowna).
Founded in 2012 in London, Ontario by brothers Aly (Ali) and Omar Hamam and their cousin Ahmed Dessouki, Tahini’s started as a small shawarma shop.
The trio grew the brand with a vision to share bold, authentic Mediterranean flavours and make fast-casual more exciting.
Their story went viral during the pandemic when they converted their operations to Bitcoin payroll, garnering global media attention for their unique business approach.
As for the food, expect their signature chicken shawarma, beef shawarma, falafel, and pitas stuffed to the brim with housemade sauces, pickled turnips, and crispy fries.
Photo Credits: Tahini’s
Their bowls and platters offer plenty of mix-and-match options, while vegetarian eaters can dig into falafel wraps and hummus plates.
Fans say the garlic sauce alone is worth the trip.
Other branches feature a clean, casual setup with warm tones, tiled walls, and cozy booths for quick lunches or late-night cravings, which may also reflect in this new spot.
No official opening date has been announced yet on their social pages. So stay tuned!
The nearby Broadway Tech Centre has fueled an uptick in fast-casual openings, catering to busy professionals and students.
Tahini’s arrival comes as the Renfrew corridor continues to evolve into one of East Vancouver’s most dynamic food pockets.
It joins other new and upcoming food spots in Renfrew Street, such as Pokerrito, M Cha Bar, and Boardwalk Burger.
Address: 2603 Renfrew St, Vancouver, BC
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Dining and Cooking