Darna Middle Eastern Cuisine, a Toronto-based restaurant offering charcoal-grilled meats and shareable Middle Eastern plates, is set to open a new location at Waterworks Foodhall, 50 Brant Street.
The company’s new location will join the existing lineup of vendors at Waterworks Foodhall, along with Bello Pizza and Union Chicken, according to YourCityWithin. Darna is one of two new concepts announced for the food hall, both scheduled to open in 2026, while Bello Pizza recently opened. While an exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, the food hall expansion will add to Darna’s growing presence in the city. Customers can expect a menu centered on charcoal-grilled meats and traditional Middle Eastern flavours.
Darna Middle Eastern Cuisine currently operates multiple locations in Toronto, including outposts on Bayview Avenue and Roncesvalles Avenue. The concept is inspired by authentic flavours found across the Middle East, with an emphasis on dishes meant for sharing. Each menu item is curated by the restaurant’s executive chef and prepared using traditional techniques. The Waterworks location will bring this approach into a food hall environment.
Waterworks Foodhall operates out of a renovated City of Toronto machine shop and has become a destination for a wide range of culinary offerings. The space includes more than 15 vendors and a large outdoor courtyard used during the summer months. Darna will join established tenants, including Harry’s Charbroiled, Grape Witches, Rasta Pasta, and Aburi Sushi. The food hall highlights a mix of global cuisines under one roof.
This will be an excellent landing space for Darna Middle Eastern Cuisine, as the downtown location attracts office workers, residents, and visitors throughout the week. The food hall format allows customers to sample Darna’s menu alongside other concepts, increasing exposure to new audiences. The King West area continues to support demand for diverse dining options.
With its planned 2026 opening, Darna Middle Eastern Cuisine will expand its footprint while maintaining its focus on authentic flavours and charcoal-grilled preparations. The addition further strengthens Waterworks Foodhall’s reputation as a gathering place for a wide range of cuisines.
