I made a trip to Wanas Shawarma on the Danforth from downtown Toronto after seeing numerous Instagram reviews claiming they serve the “best shawarma.” Curious and hopeful, I decided to try it myself. I ordered a Beef Shawarma, Syrian style, without hot sauce, and chose to dine in.
To be fair, the portion size was generous for the $15 price point, and visually it looked impressive. The first few bites were actually enjoyable — I could taste the freshness of the beef, the hummus, and especially the pomegranate sauce, which added a unique tangy flavor.
However, as I continued eating, the experience quickly changed. The shawarma was extremely high in sodium, and the hummus flavor dominated every bite. The meat itself felt very fatty, and when combined with the pickles, the overall taste became heavy and unappealing. Halfway through, it became difficult to continue eating as the fat completely overpowered my taste buds.
Another issue was the excessive liquid dripping from the shawarma. My plate ended up soaked, and it wasn’t clear whether this was grease, fat, or some form of sauce. I’ve attached photos and videos to show what I mean. It significantly affected the dining experience.
I also noticed a thick white substance on the vertical rotisserie where the beef shawarma was cooking, which appeared to be layers of fat added to the meat. While this may be intentional for flavor, it likely explains the heaviness and greasy aftertaste.
What concerned me further was the complete absence of nutritional or calorie information, both on the menu and inside the restaurant. After the meal, the aftertaste lingered uncomfortably, even during my subway ride home.
This is strictly my personal opinion. For those who prioritize bold flavor and richness, Wanas may be appealing. However, for anyone looking for a balance between taste and a healthier meal, I would strongly recommend avoiding this place.
Posted 12/16/2025