#FOOD: TORONTO’S THE KETTLE UNVEIL BOLD NEW 2025 MENU

Nestled in the vibrant Queen West district of Toronto, The Kettle is celebrating a renaissance, as it unveils a bold new menu alongside a recent renovation that embodies the spirit of renewal this spring. Founded in 2022 by Faiz Shaikh (above left) and Sana Khan (above right)—two friends who bonded as students at George Brown College while in the culinary management and hospitality and tourism management programs—the restaurant reinterprets Indian cuisine by seamlessly integrating the chefs’ experiences from their travels abroad, culinary expertise, and personal food experiences in Canada.

With the unveiling of its revitalized offerings, The Kettle not only reinforces its commitment to reimagining Indian-Canadian cuisine for an ever-evolving dining landscape but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the culinary journey. This thoughtful transformation allows for an array of tastes and dietary preferences, including gluten-free, vegan, and nut-friendly options. Signature dishes, such as halal butter chicken made from free-range Ontario poultry and Atlantic sea bass infused with coconut flavours, beautifully celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage. This new chapter positions The Kettle as a leading force in Toronto’s gastronomic landscape, marking a fresh dawn for modern Indian cuisine.

The New Menu: A Marriage of Tradition and Creativity

As part of the restaurant’s ever-evolving journey, chefs Sana and Faiz have introduced several new dishes that push the boundaries of Indian cuisine. Among the highlights is the Malai Broccoli appetizer, a creative twist on traditional tandoori roasted vegetables. The broccoli is coated in a cashew cream cheese sauce, and topped with beetroot tuiles, offering a perfect balance of creaminess and crispness. For those seeking a gluten-free option, the new Okra Fries are sure to delight. Made with chickpea flour and seasoned chaat masala, made in house, the dish is served with a tangy tamarind and date chutney, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savoury. The Dahi Puri appetizer has also been elevated with a yoghurt mousse and beetroot pearls on top, offering a playful twist on the classic Indian street food. Filled with potato, onions, and homemade tamarind and mint chutneys, each bite of this dish bursts with vibrant flavours.

As part of its commitment to an inclusive menu, The Kettle’s new menu introduces unique vegan and allergy-friendly dishes that have garnered rave reviews. Their Vegan Butter Chicken features cauliflower roasted in a tandoor, a traditional cylindrical oven made out of clay, designed to reach high temperatures, and bathed in a creamy coconut sauce, offering a satisfying alternative to the classic dish. The Tandoori Pumpkin Curry, inspired by chef Sana’s trip to India’s southern region, Bangalore, blends a coconut and lime base with tangy tamarind for a delightful balance of flavours.

For dessert, The Kettle offers a decadent twist on a classic bread pudding, topped with ice cream made in house and maple syrup, a nod to Canada’s maple syrup heritage that brings in Canadian flavours in a truly innovative way. ‘This dessert is inspired by my time working alongside Chef Ryan Lister, a British chef from Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants, who loved bread pudding’ says Chef Faiz. This dish reflects the diverse experiences that have shaped both Sana and Faiz’s culinary journeys, from their travels to the influence of working with talented chefs like Ryan. Each dish on the menu is representative of their personal stories, the places they’ve been, and the flavours they’ve encountered along the way.

Where Heritage Meets Innovation: The Kettle’s Unique Mix of Traditional and Contemporary Decor

The space at The Kettle seamlessly fuses old-world and contemporary, with carefully selected traditional Indian keepsake objects placed alongside modern, geometric designs and colours. The furniture, featuring sleek chairs and plush banquettes, adds to the contemporary feel, while maintaining an air of timeless elegance that mirrors the restaurant’s fusion of heritage and innovation in both design and culinary experience.

The Kettle’s owners, Sana and Faiz, have poured their hearts into every aspect of the restaurant, from the culinary creations to the design of the space. The restaurant’s unique name stems from Sana’s childhood memories, where her mother would hand-paint old-time kettles, pots, and glasses. These hand-painted kettles are displayed throughout the restaurant, adding a personal and emotional touch to the atmosphere.

Another deeply personal touch from the chefs and owners is the curated collection of tapestries adorning the restaurant’s walls, each one hailing from Sana’s hometown of Gujarat. These exquisite pieces, traditionally crafted by women, not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region but also serve as a vital source of income for local women artisans. Often sold as cherished souvenirs, these tapestries embody the spirit of empowerment and community, making them a meaningful tribute to both tradition and the women who bring it to life.

The Kettle’s cocktail program is led by Faiz, who crafts inventive drinks that complement the restaurant’s unique menu. Best-sellers like the Mango Sour Dream, Mango Lassi Vodka, and Masala Mojito continue to delight guests and remain on the new menu. Faiz adds an authentic touch to these cocktails, such as incorporating Alphonso mangoes in the mango lassi vodka and using freshly pressed flower juices. Faiz’s culinary expertise is reflected in every libation, complementing the dishes they accompany.

A Culinary Experience Like No Other

At The Kettle, every dish is a celebration of bold flavours, innovative techniques, and a deep respect for culinary traditions. Whether guests are enjoying a vibrant brunch, sipping on a perfectly crafted cocktail, or indulging in a unique dinner, The Kettle offers a dining experience that combines the best of Indian cuisine with the freshest local ingredients.

The restaurant’s ambiance is contemporary and cozy, with seating for 50 guests, providing a comfortable and intimate setting. Its location in the heart of Queen West makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists, and its proximity to popular shopping areas ensures a steady flow of gourmands and curious food lovers.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday-Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Thursday-Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

For more information, reservations, or to view the full menu, visit https://thekettlee.com/

Highlights from the new Menu:

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(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/The Kettle)