Istar Restaurant

Istar Restaurant Gives Back for Eid

ahmedwarsamenl — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:18:29 +0000

At Istar Restaurant, we believe that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together, uplift communities, and share love, especially during meaningful moments. This Ramadan, as we marked the end of the Holy Month, we had the privilege of hand-delivering meals to Somali families and the elderly, ensuring that everyone could celebrate Eid with warmth and joy.

A special THANK YOU to Minister Ahmed Hussen and his wife Ebyan Farah for joining us in this heartfelt cause. Your presence and dedication to the community are deeply appreciated, and we need more compassionate leaders like you who truly make a difference.

We also want to extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. Your generosity and kindness helped us make this initiative a success, and we are truly grateful for the support.

At Istar, we are more than just a restaurant; we are a community, and giving back is part of who we are. As we celebrate this blessed occasion, we wish everyone a joyous and peaceful Eid Mubarak! May this day bring happiness, unity, and countless blessings to you and your loved ones.

Stay connected with us for more community initiatives and events!

Istar Restaurant Featured on CityNews

ahmedwarsamenl — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:14:00 +0000

Istar Restaurant Featured on CityNews – Celebrating 25 Years of Somali Cuisine & Community

We are honored to have been featured on CityNews as we celebrate 25 years of serving the Somali community and beyond in Etobicoke, Toronto! The story, covered by Nick Westoll, highlights our journey from a small coffee shop to a thriving 24-hour Somali culinary hub, bringing people together through food, culture, and community.

Located in Westown Plaza, Istar Restaurant has become a home away from home for many, offering a welcoming space for newcomers and long-time residents alike. As our owner, Mahamed Elmi, shared during the interview, our goal has always been to provide a sense of belonging through authentic Somali flavors while embracing influences from Italian, Portuguese, Indian, and North American cuisine.

Our commitment to fresh, homemade-style meals remains at the heart of what we do. From samosas and malawah made fresh daily to our expanded banquet facility and catering services, we continue to grow while staying true to our roots. This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the love and support of our incredible community.

As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to preserving our culinary heritage and providing a space where generations can gather, share meals, and create lasting memories. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey—we couldn’t have done it without you!

Istar Restaurant Featured on CBC

ahmedwarsamenl — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:07:43 +0000

Istar Restaurant Featured on CBC – A 24-Hour Hub for Somali Cuisine

We are thrilled to be featured on CBC News as a cornerstone of Somali cuisine in Etobicoke, Toronto! In a special highlight by Suresh Doss, Istar Restaurant was recognized for its rich culinary heritage, signature samosas, and its role as a gathering place for the community.

Located in Westown Plaza, Istar has grown from a small coffee shop into a 24-hour diner, serving traditional Somali dishes infused with influences from Indian, Italian, and North American cuisine. Our beloved samosas—available in mild beef, hot beef, and fish—have become a standout, made fresh daily with a special housemade xawaash spice mix and served with our fiery basbaas green dip.

Youth Taking Flight Program Hosts Event at Istar Banquet Hall

ahmedwarsamenl — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:04:51 +0000

Soaring High: Youth Taking Flight Program Hosts Event at Istar Banquet Hall

We were honored to host the Youth Taking Flight (YTF) Program at our Istar Banquet Hall, where passionate young minds gathered to explore their enthusiasm for aviation. This incredible program is dedicated to inspiring and guiding the next generation of aviation professionals, from pilots and engineers to air traffic controllers and beyond. The event was filled with energy, ambition, and a shared vision of reaching new heights—literally and figuratively!

A huge thank you to @ytfprograms for choosing our venue and for your commitment to empowering youth in aviation. It was truly inspiring to witness future aviators connect, learn, and take one step closer to their dreams. Seeing so many motivated young individuals engage in meaningful discussions about aviation careers reminds us of the importance of supporting programs that foster ambition and innovation.

At Istar, we believe in lifting our community—whether through great food, cultural experiences, or providing a space for transformative events. We are proud to be part of this journey and look forward to continuing our support for initiatives that inspire the next generation.