Aadab
Aadab is an elegant Indian restaurant in Toronto that specializes in the cuisine of Hyderabad.
Located in an unassuming plaza along a busy stretch of Kennedy Rd., the restaurant has been open since February, 2026.
The dining room is decorated in shades of brown and gold, with intricate tapestries on the walls and ornate chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
A mural featuring Indo-Islamic architecture, such as domed temples and slender minarets, can be seen along the northern wall. If you look carefully, you may notice a few familiar landmarks (including a cleverly hidden CN Tower).
Additional seating can be found to the left of the entrance. These tables offer a slightly more intimate dining experience, as a result of their plush cushions and adjustable curtains.
The name 'aadab' refers to a polite gesture used primarily as a form of greeting. Co-owners Bhavya and Avani tell us that this name was chosen to convey a sense of closeness and community.
It also connects the restaurant to its cultural roots. Aadab's menu consists entirely of Hyderabadi-style dishes, which take inspiration from Indian, Turkish and Arab cuisine.
Bhavya explains that Hyderabadi cuisine strikes the right balance between spicy and mild: it isn't quite as hot as Andhra cuisine, but it still has a little bit of a kick.
She also mentions that all of the items on the menu are prepared without the assistance of machines. Instead, the kitchen staff use traditional techniques to infuse the ingredients with flavour.
Irani chai ($1.50) is a rich, creamy variation on black tea, sweetened with sugar and condensed milk.
Mango lassi ($5.99) is a refreshing yogurt-based beverage with an unmistakable fruity flavour.
Mutton marag ($8.99) is a flavourful soup, made with goat meat, vegetables and spices. I particularly enjoyed the mutton, which was so tender that it practically fell off the bone.
Chicken lollipops ($15.99) are a staple of Indian restaurants throughout the city. Available in both regular and masala variations, these juicy drumsticks are delicious no matter which version you try.
Paneer tikka ($15.99) is a spicy vegetarian dish, made from chunks of soft cheese. Spicy gravy is drizzled on top, while mint chutney is served on the side.
Street style chicken noodles ($15.99) are stir fried in oil, then served with chicken, carrots, green onions and chilies.
Mutton dum biryani ($17.99) is a fragrant rice dish, made with slow-cooked mutton and flavourful basmati rice.
Nalli gosh biryani ($21.99) substitutes the mutton for lamb shank, giving the dish a slightly richer taste.
The non-veg mixed grill mandi ($69.99) is a massive platter, meant for a party of five or more. Served on an enormous golden tray, this combo allows diners to sample a wide selection of meats, vegetables and sauces.
Tandoori chicken, chicken peshawari, juicy mutton and Lahori fish tikka arranged around a pair of bowls. One contains garlic mayo, while the other contains tomato salsa. Beneath them sits a layer of basmati rice, topped with sliced carrots and cucumbers.
All of these dishes — including the dips — are 100 per cent halal and are made in-house.
Aadab is located at 1176 Kennedy Rd.
Fareen Karim