Makann is a casual sandwich shop in Toronto that takes its cues from Palestinian cuisine.

Founded in February of 2026, this no-frills takeout spot quickly became a viral sensation, thanks to its unique flavours and speedy service.

The shop takes its name from an Arabic word meaning "a place" or "a spot". Owner Mohammed Alkurd, better known as "Mo", explains that he chose this name because it was simple and easy to remember.

He also mentions that the name evokes the Arabic phrase "kan ya makan", a rough equivalent to "once upon a time". 

"It gives the shop a bit of a whimsical feel, almost like a fairy tale," he elaborates.

As its name suggests, the shop's decor is relatively simple. Aside from the walk-up counter and the wall-mounted chalkboard, the only notable features are a standing lamp, a small shelf and a collection of framed posters.

Mo tells us he plans to install a takeout window in the near future, but for now he's content with his current setup.

Makann's menu consists of five different sandwiches. Mo explains that he wanted to keep the menu small so that each dish would stand out.

"If I come up with something really good, then maybe I'll add it to the menu," he concedes. "But for now, it's just these five sandwiches."

The za'atar sandwich ($7.50) consists of tomatoes, cucumbers and za'atar spread, wrapped in a crispy flatbread. Olives are added to give the dish a slightly saltier flavour, while mint gives it a strong, herbal finish.

You can also add a dollop of labneh for $1.50, or a dash of hot sauce for no extra charge.
The foole and egg sandwich ($10) is made with fava bean paste, egg, home fries, tangy sumac onions and Makann's signature sauce.
The egg and cheese sandwich ($10) is the closest thing Makann has to a "Canadian-style" breakfast sandwich. 

Though the sandwich is still served on a toasted flatbread, the fillings are more in line with what you would find at a typical cafe.

Cheese, eggs and home fries are tucked inside the flatbread, along with roasted red peppers and fresh arugula. Sliced turkey can be added for $2 extra.
The za'atar and egg sandwich ($10) offers a happy medium between the egg and cheese sandwich and the za'atar sandwich.

In addition to the two main ingredients — which pair surprisingly well, despite their apparent differences — this dish includes sumac onions, arugula and sauce, giving it a sharp but pleasant flavour.
My personal favourite dish was the smoked salmon and labneh sandwich ($14), which is topped with capers, cucumbers, sumac onions and fresh mint.Overall, Makann is a welcome addition to the Annex's thriving food scene. Mo hopes that by sharing his cooking with the community, they will gain a greater appreciation for Palestinian cuisine and culture.

Makann is located at 866 Bathurst St.