Story and Photos By Pat Forrest
The Skaf family’s tradition of entrepreneurship in northern Ontario is carrying on with the opening of Best Bite Shawarma located at 332 North High Street. Opened by Tony Skaf in late August, Best Bite Shawarma is in the building that used to house Skaf’s Combo Corner (across from Superior CVI High School).
The Skaf family moved here from Lebanon and have always had businesses in Thunder Bay and the region. Tony had small grocery stores and restaurants in Schreiber and Geraldton. He has always been a good cook and butchered his own meat, which he continues to do at Best Bite Shawarma. The recipes are ones Tony and his daughter, Alice, have perfected over many dinners with family and friends. The dishes are inspired by visits to Lebanon or ones learned from other family members. Tony says, “We offer our customers authentic Lebanese cuisine. All of our dishes are made in house, using fresh ingredients and spices. We also sell a variety of imported goods from Lebanon. Our goal is to offer a diverse taste, along with a glimpse of Lebanese culture.”
Best Bite Shawarma offers something for everyone, including meat-based dishes along with vegetarian and vegan options. Favourites include the dish that inspired the name: marinated chicken and beef shawarma, cooked on a vertical rotisserie and paired with fresh vegetables. There’s also falafel served with fresh mint, pickled turnips, and tahini sauce, kibbeh with a side of tabbouleh salad, and of course the pastries (try the pistachio or cashew baklava). There are even a few favourites from the Combo Corner era, including a crispy chicken and potato wedge dinner, poutine, and burgers.
Best Bite Shawarma is open for takeout Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm. Call 983-3278 to place your order.
