El Gourmet Express
Visited and reviewed in person by Sami Karim. Halal status checked on the visit — see how.

Halal deli sandwiches, mortadella, Montreal smoked meat, shawarma — inside a grocery store
El Gourmet Express
A completely unique halal experience. El Gourmet is inside a grocery store in Pickering, and what they've built is something genuinely special — a halal deli counter with options you just can't find anywhere else. Mortadella, Montreal smoked meat, vegetarian options, all halal. It's the kind of place that barely exists in this city.
What to Order
The deli sandwiches. Whatever they're building at the deli counter that day — mortadella, smoked meat, the specialty options. The shawarma is decent too, but the deli is why you're here.
Must Try
The deli — go in with an open mind and try the mortadella or Montreal smoked meat option. It's a rare find in the halal world.
The Verdict
One of the most exciting halal concepts in the GTA for what it does in the deli space. If you're in the Pickering area, this is a must. Completely unique, genuinely delicious, and fills a gap that barely anyone else is addressing. The deli alone earns this a permanent spot on the Hit List.
See El Gourmet Express on TikTok
Full visit, the order, and the verdict — on TikTok.
Watch on TikTok →El Gourmet Express — quick answers
Is El Gourmet Express halal?
Yes — El Gourmet Express in Toronto is listed as "Fully Halal" on the Halal Hit List. Halal status is verified in person before a restaurant is ranked, not taken from third-party directories.
Where is El Gourmet Express located?
El Gourmet Express is at 820 Church St, Toronto, Ontario, in the Yonge & Bloor / Rosedale area.
Is El Gourmet Express worth visiting?
The Halal Hit List verdict for El Gourmet Express is "Hit", based on an in-person visit. 4.9 rating is rare. Catering-strong. Falafel coins are the cult item.
Other halal lebanese spots

Ghadir Meat & Restaurant
Middle Eastern restaurant and cafe

Al'Deewan
Lebanese manakish, pastries, and 24-hour Middle Eastern fare

Aseer Time
Fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, and Middle Eastern desserts