Falafel Yoni Is Ready to Shower Mile End in Crisp-Fried Chickpeas

Montreal’s falafel scene expands on Friday (April 27), as Falafel Yoni opens in Mile End, promising fresh-fried Israeli style falafel sandwiches and more.

As reported in March, Yoni is a 12-seat counter-service spot on St-Viateur West in the space next to pub Bishop & Bagg, which was formerly Café Sunrise, and previously, British goods store Newland & Jump.

There should be no microwaved or soggy chickpea patties kept in a bain marie here: co-owner Yoni Amir (who is working with ex-Satay Brothers chef Daniel Maislin on the project) said it’ll be Israeli-style falafels (with chickpeas, not fava beans), fried on the spot. Amir has Israeli roots, and took trips to the Middle East specifically to research the new restaurant.

Pita sandwiches in half and full portions are the main menu item: they’ll be accompanied by a tomato, cucumber, red onion, parsley salad, lemon-pickled cabbage, tahini sauce, pickled cucumbers, and spicy Yemeni hot sauce z’hug. The same will be available in salad form.

Falafel Yoni/Official

Evidently focusing on doing a few things very well, the menu is rather petite: beyond those falafels is a hummus plate and an Israeli deep-fried eggplant sandwich.

Even though it’s a fast-casual kind of spot with minimal seating, the owners have concocted a clean and chic design — architect David Dworkind (see also: Dispatch Coffee on St-Zotique and downtown Lebanese spot Jouney, both of which have similarly minimal designs) put it together, while Dan Climan did the branding. Take a look.

David Dworkind/Supplied

David Dworkind/Supplied

For those who can’t wait until opening day Friday, the restaurant is throwing an opening party today (Thursday) from 5 to 9 p.m.

STATUS — Falafel Yoni opens Friday (April 27), from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily at 54 St-Viateur West.

• Falafel Yoni [Facebook]
• This Forthcoming Mile End Falafel Counter Is Taking Chickpeas Seriously [EMTL]