Toronto chef Anthony Rose is always up to something at one of his beloved restaurants, which line Dupont Street and offer a lively but casual dining experience focused on Jewish-meets-Middle-Eastern style food.
Fet Zun, the newest of his pack, opened up last summer and has been drawing in steady crowds ever since. Focused on Israeli-style sharing plates and refined cocktails, the cuisine and concept are in a similar vein to his illustrious Fat Pasha, which happens to be right down the street and has been consistently touted as one of the city's best Middle Eastern restaurants. The story of restaurateurs being forced to "pivot" and dream up creative solutions during these trying times is no longer new. Still, Rose's latest adjustment to Fet Zun's dining experience is nothing short of brilliant.
During warmer months, those who have visited the spot will know that tucked behind Fet Zun is a spacious outdoor locale, typically home to his backyard burger concept Madame Boeuf. Now that temperatures are dropping and indoor dining is once again restricted, Rose and his partner Robert Wilder have decided to transform it from a relaxed summer barbecue joint to a cozy, camp-inspired winter oasis, complete with fire pits, heat lamps, blankets and warm beverages. The best part, though? Private tents are elegantly draped over each table, allowing for an intimate dining experience that is not only ideal for a socially distanced dinner but provides maximum comfort and seclusion.
The menu will be consistent with Fet Zun's usual offerings, including hot and cold mezzes like charred eggplant dip with salsa verde, whipped feta with honey and chopped Israeli salad alongside shawarma chicken, smoked saffron lamb shank and charred broccoli with tahini and dukkah. Everything must, of course, be accompanied by warm and fluffy pita, perfect for tearing and dipping into the silky olive oil and flavourful sauces that are part of every menu item.
Fet Zun is currently open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 4 to 10 p.m., and reservations need to be made ahead of time for a seat at their winter patio. Grab your warmest sweaters and get ready for the most delicious camp experience you'll probably ever have.
