How We Got Started

We started getting shawarma in high school because it was convenient, but we quickly learnt that these places are often more than just food spots. They're run by such great people, often families that have built the business from scratch.

For instance, I was in the west end at a place called Shadi Shawarma recently that we always used to go to after playing golf at Scarlett Woods in high school, a good 4–6 years ago. I walk in and the first thing the guy says is "I remember when you guys used to come in here after golf, how have you been".

First off, I look a lot different than I did then. Second, I'm from Cabbagetown and this place is at Bloor and Runnymede. It's not like I'm passing by all the time. I genuinely don't know how he remembered me, but he did and that was pretty cool.

Every interaction matters to these folks. That's why these places are special and that's probably why we keep going back. Not just because of the great food but because you always feel welcomed there.