#FOOD: NAARI THAI BBQ NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS

A new modern Thai restaurant has opened in Little Italy, bringing a chef-led, fire-driven approach to the neighbourhood. Naari Thai BBQ centres on bold, balanced flavours, with a menu shaped by Southern Thai influence and a broader perspective that draws from Thai, Indian, and Chinese cuisines—often coming together in a single plate. Reservations are now open and can be made via OpenTable HERE.
The restaurant is backed by Kyma hospitality group with an expanding presence in Toronto, and brings together a team with experience across Thailand, Dubai, and Canada.

Culinary Program
The kitchen is led by Chef Nagu Kandan, whose approach is rooted in the food he grew up with and continues to seek out. His early exposure to Thai cooking came through observation—watching ingredients come together at home, from shallots hitting hot oil to chilies being pounded into paste, and lime balancing richer coconut-based dishes.

Naari’s menu reflects a mix of Southern Thai flavours and technique-driven cooking. Dishes are layered with ingredients like lemongrass, makrut lime, chili, and coconut, with an emphasis on freshness and clarity.

The meal often begins with smaller bites such as savoury coconut-based starters or seafood served with herbs and spices. From there, the menu moves into shareable dishes like fried chicken, pandan-wrapped proteins, and grilled meats served with sticky rice and citrus.

Live fire and wok cooking form the core of the offering, with dishes like marinated flat iron steak, grilled fish with lime and chili, and stir-fried greens. Curries and rice-based dishes round out the menu, alongside familiar Thai staples like khao soi, pad Thai, and fried rice.

Kandan later spent time in Southern Thailand, where his approach was shaped by local markets, street vendors, and fire-based cooking techniques. That experience continues to inform the menu at Naari, where dishes are built around brightness, balance, and restraint.

A la Carte Menu
The menu is designed to be approachable, with one-bite starters, shared plates, and larger-format dishes that centre on live fire and wok cooking. Featured dishes include Khanon Krop- Crispy Chicken, BBQ Coconut Chicken Satay, and Charred Scallops.

Omakase Experience
In addition to the à la carte menu, Naari offers a $65 omakase designed as a structured introduction to the kitchen’s approach. The experience moves through a progression of dishes that highlight different techniques and flavour profiles across the menu.
Optional pairings are available for an additional $35 per person, with both beverage and wine options designed to complement the dishes.

Beverage Program
The beverage program is led by Sakshi Humne, who also oversees front-of-house operations. She brings experience from several Toronto restaurants, including MICHELIN-recognized Bar Goa.
The cocktail list draws influence from Southeast Asia, with a focus on balance and ingredient-driven flavour. Highlights include Gloomy Daizy, Tamarind Honeycomb, and Mango Chipotle.

The Space
Naari is located in Little Italy, a neighbourhood that continues to evolve as a dining destination in Toronto. The space is designed to feel relaxed and welcoming, aligning with the restaurant’s approach to food and service.

(Pictured: Naari interior. Photo credit: The Digital Nuts).

Grand Opening

A public grand opening is planned for April 9, 2026, offering a vibrant introduction to Naari Thai BBQ. Guests can expect live entertainment and other exciting surprises throughout the evening.

Hours & Details
Naari Thai BBQ recently soft launched with varied hours for the duration of March.
Starting April 1, Naari Thai BBQ will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Reservations can be made via OpenTable HERE.

About Naari Thai BBQ
Naari Thai BBQ is a contemporary Thai restaurant in Toronto’s Little Italy, focused on fire-driven cooking, regional influence, and approachable dining. The menu is shaped by Southern Thai flavours and global experience, with an emphasis on balance, freshness, and technique.
High-resolution photos available HERE.