Tomer Markovitz, a Tel Aviv native who relocated to Toronto in 2016, quickly made his mark on the city’s culinary scene. He first led the kitchen at Parallel Brothers in Geary Avenue, in the west end, where his inventive approach to Middle Eastern cuisine turned the restaurant into a must-visit hotspot. His hummus and vibrant, flavor-packed falafel were nothing short of extraordinary—easily the best I’ve ever had. Under his leadership, Parallel Brothers became a thriving destination. Renowned for its innovative, fresh takes on traditional dishes.
After moving on, Tomer began working as a consultant and private chef. I was fortunate to experience his cooking firsthand in my own home. Then, in 2023, he opened Romi’s Bakery Café at 744 St. Clair Avenue West, named lovingly after his daughter. Romi’s quickly became a favorite for breakfast and lunch, known for its fresh-baked challahs, rugelach, babka, cookies—and of course, Tomer’s signature hummus and falafel. His fried chicken sandwich and egg sandwich also earned a loyal following.
In the winter of 2024, Romi’s expanded its offerings to include dinner service three nights a week—Thursday through Saturday. The restaurant remains cozy and intimate, with about 26 seats in a sunlit space that transforms into a warm, candlelit dining room by night. In warmer months, patio seating will be added, making it an even more inviting neighborhood gem.
Chef Tomer’s food is deeply personal, drawing from his Hungarian and Libyan roots, as well as his culinary journeys across the Middle East and North Africa. Everything is made in-house, fresh daily, and the open kitchen gives guests a front-row seat to his culinary artistry.
Highlights from the menu include a delicate amberjack crudo, challah bread service with pickled vegetables, tahini, and hummus, as well as hearty dishes like brisket, steak and chips, and perfectly crispy chicken schnitzel with a juicy center. The double-fried fries are stellar, and the maitake mushrooms—deep-fried with an aromatic spice rub—are a must. The branzino, Israeli chopped salad, cauliflower tabbouleh, and kebabs round out a menu that balances comfort and creativity.
Tomer even shares wines from his personal collection, featuring bottles from Israel, France, Italy, and New Zealand. House cocktails include a refreshing Arak Spritz, a classic Old Fashioned, and an Espresso Martini. For non-drinkers, options like a limona spritz or hibiscus spritz hit the spot.
Desserts are surprisingly sophisticated—his chocolate chunk cookie and rugelach are well-loved, but the standout was a freshly baked pistachio kunafa served with vanilla ice cream. Cool Israeli music plays softly in the background, adding to the relaxed and inviting vibe. Service is warm and attentive, with thoughtful touches like frequent changes of dishware and silverware—rare in such a casual, compact space.
Romi’s is the kind of place you instantly want to become a regular at. Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
06/12/2025
