Serbian Food in West Toronto

When we talk with our relatives and friends about foods and culture, it might be unlikely that Serbian food is mentioned. Recently I heard about a good place to try Serbian food in Toronto, and I became interested in it.

The restaurant is Bonimi, a Serbian restaurant near Islington subway station. About Serbian food, I have to say that its traditional cuisine has several influences. We can highlight the influences of the Mediterranean world, the old Austro Hungarian Empire and some Slavic influence.

One of the most popular dishes is the Ćevapi, or Ћевапи.  It is grilled minced meat, related to the popular Turkish Kebab. Rolovani Ćevapi is a mix of pieces of grilled beef, veal, and lamb, wrapped in bacon. It is accompanied with potatoes and salad. I read in several pages that traditionally a dish has groups of 5 or 10 pieces, but I did not find a specific reason for the numbers.  

One of the most popular starters that this restaurant offers is lepinja sa kajmakom. Lepinja is a flatbread. Kajmak is typical cream cheese. The word kajmak Is of Turkish origin. Interesting to note that I read in different sites that both foods are traditionally served as sides in a meal with Ćevapi.

Grilled Calamari can be seen in different styles in the Mediterranean cuisine. What is different is that those large squids are grilled already stuffed with mozzarella cheese and smoked prosciutto.