Affy’s Premium Grill, the Ultimate Ramadan Experience

One of Toronto’s busiest halal restaurants, Affy’s Premium Grill, has captivated many hearts (and stomachs) over the past few years and is where I decided to open my fast recently.

Being born and raised in Toronto, we didn’t have the same calibre of halal options ten years ago that we have today — let alone, steak/grill houses. Located in Pickering, right off the 401, Affy’s Premium Grill is a decent commute for most people in the GTA. Not only do they have restaurant space available but they also have a small banquet hall for larger parties which they open up occasionally for the restaurant on very busy days.

I wasn’t sure what to expect on a Thursday evening in Ramadan. It was a last-minute plan and there was no time for reservations. As sunset was at about ten minutes to nine, we decided the only way to be safe was to arrive one hour early. We were seated promptly for a table of five by a friendly member of the waiting staff.

After much deliberation, we placed our orders. I requested their special for the day: Mexican Veal Chop and Chicken. If I’ve learned one thing over the last couple of years with Affy’s, it’s to always order their special. The rest of the entrées ordered were Stuffed Cajun Chicken Breast, Grilled Cajun Chicken Sandwich, Super Loaded Burger and Mango Jalapeño Grilled Chicken & Shrimp.

We had approximately a half hour from the time the order had been placed to the time we could open our fasts, making us slightly nervous. We couldn’t help but think, would the food be ready on time? However, when sunset arrived, we opened our fasts with dates accompanied by light, crispy vegetable spring rolls which were provided to us, free of charge.

We were also accommodated with plenty of room in the banquet hall to offer maghrib salah. There was even enough space for a Brother to lead both men and women in congregation. When we arrived back at our table, our entrées were ready and waiting to be eaten, smelling simply so delish!

I ordered my Mexican Veal Chop and Chicken well done and at first was worried because the edges looked slightly burnt. However, one bite into it and the veal had my taste buds dancing (in a halal way, of course). The dish was fresh and light; the bold and colourful flavours of Mexico shook up my fasting taste buds. The veal was very tender & juicy, however, the chicken was slightly dry. I hope Affy’s would consider adding a full dish of the veal chop alone as apart of the regular menu one day. Definitely, a two thumbs up in my books.

The Mango Jalapeño Grilled Chicken & Shrimp has always been a favorite of mine at Affy’s. It may not be for everyone but worth trying once. The spicy chicken breast is grilled and topped with jumbo tiger shrimp layered with a sweet mango sauce. The combination of the sweet mango with the spice of the jalapeño is a pleasing contrast. Now for those of you who do not admire sweet or seafood entrées, this dish may not be for you. But for those who love Caribbean & Mexican inspired seafood dishes, the mango sauce drizzled on the tiger shrimp tasted simply blissful. As I write this review while fasting, I’d be lying if I said my mouth isn’t watering at the thought.

The Super Loaded Burger, as you can see was definitely SUPER LOADED. It included mixed cheese, grilled onions, peppers, mushrooms and jalapeno. The overflow of the burger may have been the only positive aspect of the sandwich. The burger meat itself lacked flavour or maybe… it was just the fasting, food deprived taste buds.

The Grilled Cajun Chicken Sandwich can be compared to the Stuffed Cajun Chicken Breast except in sandwich form. Just the right amount of flavour on the tender chicken breast, served on a sesame bun with lettuce, roasted red peppers and tomatoes. A light spread of garlic mayonnaise balanced and perfected each bite.

The Stuffed Cajun Chicken Breast most certainly is a best seller amongst the crowd at Affy’s. The Cajun marinated chicken is stuffed with feta cheese, roasted garlic, spinach and mushrooms and then garnished with creamy, Cajun garlic butter. That signature garlic butter melts in your mouth and is what really draws me to this dish. If you haven’t already experienced this – it is a must try at Affy’s Premium Grill.

We ended the night on a very positive note with some with some fabulous drinks, mango milkshake and piña colada. I definitely look forward to going back soon.

After dinner, I was able to conduct impromptu interviews with a couple of people to ask if they enjoyed their experience at Affy’s Premium Grill. All feedback was positive and everyone enjoyed their experience that evening. Good location, halal food and variety on the menu were the top answers of what people enjoy the most, making them frequent and loyal visitors. This is why we will be adding Affy’s Premium Grill on our article of The Best Halal Restaurants in Toronto.

Do you agree? Tell us what you love and don’t love about Affy’s Premium Grill. Just remember to be nice

Affy’s Premium Grill
2200 Brock Road  Pickering, ON L1X
(905) 239-5415

Sumaiya is a restaurant reviewer for Halal Foodie, follow her on twitter at @Jeds_wife