"Open for: Lunch and dinner Price range: $$$ Torontonians are divided over owner Charles Khabouth, but it’s hard to deny the club mogul’s talent for experiential dining. After establishing a successful family of restaurants under his Ink Entertainment brand, Amal returned to his earnest Lebanese roots at his namesake restaurant. Inside the airy space with gilded ceilings and sweeping murals, executive chef Rony Ghaleb tips his hat to old-world charm through a modernist lens. Try the fattoush, which dresses a verdant garden of greens and seasoned fried pita in a zesty dressing of sumac and pomegranate molasses. And don’t miss the signature truffle rakakat: phyllo cigar rolls stuffed with akkawi cheese, mozzarella, and truffle paste, bookended by honey and pistachio. Know before you go: Amal is surprisingly family-friendly if you go earlier in the evening before the DJ sets start. Otherwise, this is another spot that offers a great (and little-known) brunch option on Saturdays and Sundays." - Tiffany Leigh