Tomars Doner: A Success Story in Fast Food Tomars Doner, located at 94b Lakeshore Rd East in Mississauga, has quickly become a local favorite for its delicious Turkish-style shawarma. The man behind the restaurant, Huner Mervan Tomar, comes from a family with a rich history in the food industry. Huner's father, Seyfi Tomar, emigrated from Turkey to Canada in 1992 and worked as a store and regional manager at 241 Pizza before opening his own restaurants. Huner was always involved in the family business and gained experience while helping his father. At the age of 18, he decided to start his own Mediterranean grill restaurant, Sofra, which became a huge success. He went on to open a second location in Vaughan before venturing into the fast food industry with Tomars Doner. Inspired by his father's heritage, Huner wanted to serve modern Mediterranean food that would appeal to everyone. "We’ve always been very good at taking common Middle Eastern menu items and modernizing them to the point at which every consumer can fall in love with them," says Huner's brother. Tomars Doner's first month of operation has been a huge success, with the citizens of Port Credit embracing the new establishment. The owners have pledged to reinvest all profits back into the business to ensure it continues to grow. Their goal is to serve the Port Credit neighborhood so well that Tomars Doner becomes a local legend before expanding to new locations. In conclusion, Tomars Doner is a success story in fast food, with a rich family history in the food industry. With its delicious Turkish-style shawarma and dedication to investing back into the business, it's clear that this restaurant has a bright future ahead. https://tomarsdoner.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tomarsdoner https://www.instagram.com/tomarsdoner/ https://twitter.com/tomarsdoner https://www.youtube.com/@TomarsDoner https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomars-doner-b9943526b/ https://www.yelp.ca/biz/tomars-doner-mississauga https://www.insauga.com/new-turkish-restaurant-now-open-in-mississauga/ https://nyweekly.com/business/tomars-doner-authentic-turkish-cuisine/ https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154996-d25397088-Reviews-Tomars_Doner-Mississauga_Ontario.html https://www.kobo.com/au/en/ebook/tomars-doner-turkish-restaurant-in-port-credit-mississauga-how-to-start-a-business-and-all-about-port-credit https://www.turkrehber.ca/detail/doner-shawarma-lokantasi-mississauga-688

1. Meat on a Spit: A
Journey Through the
History and Culture of
Gyros, Shawarma,
Doner, and Tacos Al
Pastor
Meat on a Spit: A Journey Through the History and Culture of Gyros,
Shawarma, Doner, and Tacos Al Pastor
Meat on a spit has been a culinary tradition for centuries, with each
culture putting its own unique spin on the technique. In this book, we'll
take a deep dive into the history and cultural significance of four of the
most iconic dishes that are cooked on a spit: gyros, shawarma, doner,
and tacos al pastor. From the streets of Greece to the markets of the
Middle East, we'll explore the origins and evolution of these dishes,

2. learning about the spices, techniques, and ingredients that make them
so special.
But this book is more than just a journey through the past - it's also a
celebration of the present. We'll share recipes and techniques for
making these dishes at home, so that you can enjoy the flavors and
aromas of the world's best street food in your own kitchen. Whether
you're a seasoned cook or a newcomer to the world of global cuisine,
"Meat on a Spit" will take you on a journey that is sure to delight your
taste buds and expand your culinary horizons. So grab a skewer and
let's get cooking!
I would be happy to provide you with information and recipes for gyros,
shawarma, doner, and tacos al pastor.
Gyros:

3. Gyros originated in Greece, where it is considered a popular street
food. The word "gyros" means "turn" or "revolution" in Greek, which is
a reference to the way the meat is cooked on a vertical rotisserie that
rotates around a heating element.
The origins of gyros can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, which
ruled Greece for nearly 400 years until the 19th century. During this
time, the Ottoman Empire introduced the concept of cooking meat on a
vertical rotisserie, which was then known as "doner kebab."
After Greece gained its independence from the Ottoman Empire, the
concept of doner kebab was adapted and transformed into what is now
known as gyros. The Greeks took the basic idea of cooking meat on a
vertical rotisserie, but added their own unique flavors and seasonings,
such as oregano, thyme, and garlic.
Today, gyros can be found all over the world and are a popular fast
food option. In addition to the traditional lamb and chicken options,
gyros can also be made with beef, pork, or a combination of meats.
They are typically served in a pita bread with toppings such as tomato,
onion, lettuce, and tzatziki sauce.
Overall, gyros have become a beloved staple of Greek cuisine and a
popular street food around the world.

4. Gyros are a popular Greek street food made with thinly sliced meat,
usually lamb or chicken, that is seasoned with a blend of herbs and
spices, then roasted on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is then shaved off
in thin slices and served in a pita bread with toppings such as tomato,
onion, lettuce, and tzatziki sauce. Tzatziki sauce is a Greek yogurt-based
sauce that is seasoned with garlic, cucumber, and dill.
Gyros Recipe:
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or lamb
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. dried oregano
1 tbsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
4 pita breads
1 cup sliced tomato
1 cup sliced onion
1 cup shredded lettuce
Tzatziki sauce (see recipe below)
Instructions:

5. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and
black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken or lamb.
Place the chicken or lamb on a vertical rotisserie or skewer and roast
for 30-40 minutes, until fully cooked.
Slice the meat thinly.
Warm the pita breads in the oven for 1-2 minutes.
Fill each pita with sliced meat, tomato, onion, lettuce, and tzatziki
sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce Recipe:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup grated cucumber
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp. chopped fresh dill
1 tbsp. lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:

6. Mix together the yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and lemon juice.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Shawarma:

7. Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food that originated in the
Eastern Mediterranean region. The name "shawarma" comes from the
Turkish word "çevirme," which means "turning" or "rotating," referring
to the way the meat is cooked on a vertical spit.
While the exact origins of shawarma are unclear, it is believed to have
originated in Turkey in the 18th or 19th century. The concept of
cooking meat on a vertical spit was brought to the region by the
Ottoman Empire, and it quickly spread throughout the Middle East and
Mediterranean.
Over time, different countries and regions put their own spin on the
dish. In Israel, shawarma is typically made with chicken or turkey and
served with hummus, tahini sauce, and salad. In Lebanon, shawarma is
typically made with lamb or beef and served with tabbouleh and garlic
sauce. In Syria, shawarma is usually made with lamb or chicken and
served with pickles and tomatoes.
In the mid-20th century, shawarma began to gain popularity in North
America and Europe, particularly in cities with large immigrant
populations. Today, shawarma can be found in many different
variations and is a beloved street food around the world.

8. Overall, shawarma's history is one of cultural exchange and adaptation,
as the dish has evolved and changed to suit the tastes and traditions of
different regions over time.
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food made with
marinated meat, usually chicken or lamb, that is slow-roasted on a spit
and then shaved off in thin slices. It is served in a pita bread with
toppings such as hummus, tahini sauce, tomato, onion, and cucumber.
Shawarma Recipe:
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or lamb
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp. ground cumin
1 tbsp. paprika
1 tbsp. ground coriander
1 tbsp. garlic powder
1 tbsp. onion powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
4 pita breads
1 cup hummus

9. 1/4 cup tahini sauce
1 cup sliced tomato
1 cup sliced onion
1 cup sliced cucumber
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, paprika, coriander,
garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken or lamb.
Place the chicken or lamb on a spit and roast in a rotisserie for 30-40
minutes, until fully cooked.
Slice the meat thinly.
Warm the pita breads in the oven for 1-2 minutes.
History of Doner:
Doner is a popular Turkish street food that originated in the 19th
century. The name "doner" means "rotating" or "turning" in Turkish,

10. which is a reference to the way the meat is cooked on a vertical spit
that rotates around a heat source.
Like gyros and shawarma, the concept of cooking meat on a vertical spit
was brought to Turkey by the Ottoman Empire. However, doner is
typically made with lamb, beef, or chicken that has been marinated in a
mixture of spices, vinegar, and oil before being cooked on the spit.
Over time, doner became a popular street food throughout Turkey and
eventually spread to other parts of the world, including Europe and
North America. Today, it is commonly served in a pita or wrap with
toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and a yogurt-based sauce.

11. Doner:
Ingredients:
1 lb. boneless lamb, beef, or chicken, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup vinegar
1 tbsp. dried oregano
1 tbsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:

12. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, oregano, thyme, cumin,
paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the sliced meat to the marinade, making sure that it is evenly
coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Thread the marinated meat onto a vertical
spit and roast in the oven for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is cooked
through and browned on the outside.
Remove the meat from the spit and slice it thinly. Serve in a pita or
wrap with your desired toppings.
General Information:
Doner is a popular street food around the world, and its popularity has
led to many variations and adaptations. For example, in Germany,
doner is often served with a spicy tomato sauce and french fries, while
in the United States, it is sometimes served with lettuce, tomato, and
ranch dressing.
While doner is often made with lamb, beef, or chicken, it can also be
made with other meats, such as veal, pork, or even fish. Additionally,
the spices and seasonings used in the marinade can vary depending on
the region and personal taste preferences.
Overall, doner is a delicious and versatile street food that has a rich
history and continues to evolve and adapt over time.

13. Tacos al Pastor:
Tacos al pastor is a popular Mexican street food that originated in the
20th century. It is believed to have been inspired by the Lebanese

14. shawarma, which was brought to Mexico by Lebanese immigrants in
the early 20th century.
The dish is typically made with thinly sliced pork that has been
marinated in a mixture of spices, chilies, and pineapple juice before
being cooked on a vertical spit. The meat is then shaved off the spit and
served in a tortilla with toppings such as cilantro, onion, and salsa.
Over time, tacos al pastor became a beloved street food throughout
Mexico and eventually spread to other parts of the world, including the
United States. Today, it is commonly found in taquerias and Mexican
restaurants around the world.
Recipe for Tacos al Pastor:
Ingredients:
2 lbs. boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
1/4 cup achiote paste
1/4 cup pineapple juice
3 tbsp. white vinegar
1 tbsp. dried oregano

15. 1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
Corn tortillas
Chopped cilantro, diced onion, and salsa for serving
Instructions:
In a bowl, whisk together the achiote paste, pineapple juice, vinegar,
oregano, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the sliced pork to the marinade, making sure that it is evenly
coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Thread the marinated pork onto a vertical
spit and roast in the oven for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is cooked
through and browned on the outside.
Remove the meat from the spit and slice it thinly. Serve in a tortilla with
your desired toppings.
General Information:
Taco al pastor is a beloved street food in Mexico and is often sold by
vendors from small stalls on the street. The dish has become so popular
that it is now served in many Mexican restaurants around the world.

16. While taco al pastor is traditionally made with pork, it can also be made
with other meats, such as chicken or beef. Additionally, the spices and
seasonings used in the marinade can vary depending on the region and
personal taste preferences.
One unique aspect of taco al pastor is the addition of pineapple, which
is often served on top of the meat. The sweetness of the pineapple
complements the spiciness of the meat and adds a delicious tropical
flavor to the dish.
Overall, taco al pastor is a delicious and flavorful street food that has a
rich history and continues to be enjoyed by people around the world.
SHAWARMA vs DONER

17. Shawarma and doner are both popular Middle Eastern dishes that are
made with meat that has been cooked on a vertical spit. While the two
dishes share some similarities, there are several key differences
between them:
Meat: Shawarma is typically made with thinly sliced marinated chicken,
beef, or lamb, while doner is traditionally made with ground lamb or
beef.
Seasoning: The seasoning for shawarma varies by region, but typically
includes a mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic.
Doner, on the other hand, is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and
sometimes cumin.
Cooking method: Shawarma is traditionally cooked on a spit that
rotates horizontally, while doner is cooked on a vertical spit that
rotates. This difference in cooking method can affect the texture and
flavor of the meat.
Accompaniments: Shawarma is typically served with accompaniments
such as tahini sauce, hummus, pickled vegetables, and pita bread.
Doner is typically served with a flatbread called lavash or pita, along
with lettuce, tomato, and onion.

18. Origin: Shawarma has its origins in the Middle East, while doner is a
Turkish dish. While both dishes have spread in popularity throughout
the world, they have distinct regional variations and cultural
significance.
Overall, while shawarma and doner share some similarities, they are
two distinct dishes with their own unique flavors, cooking methods, and
cultural significance.
Meat: While shawarma is typically made with thinly sliced marinated
chicken, beef, or lamb, doner is usually made with ground lamb or beef
that has been mixed with spices and then packed onto a large vertical
spit. In some variations of doner, layers of chicken, beef, and lamb may
be used together.
Seasoning: The seasoning used for shawarma can vary depending on
the region, but generally includes spices such as cumin, coriander,
paprika, and garlic. The meat for doner is usually seasoned with salt,
pepper, and cumin, and sometimes also includes paprika, coriander, or
sumac.
Cooking method: Shawarma is typically cooked on a spit that rotates
horizontally, while doner is cooked on a vertical spit that rotates.
Because doner is made with ground meat that has been packed
together, it can be easier to cook evenly on a vertical spit. Additionally,

19. the vertical spit allows for the meat to cook in its own juices, resulting
in a moist and tender final product.
Accompaniments: Shawarma is typically served with a variety of
accompaniments, including tahini sauce, hummus, pickled vegetables,
and pita bread. Doner is often served with a flatbread such as lavash or
pita, along with lettuce, tomato, onion, and sometimes a yogurt-based
sauce.
Origin: Shawarma has its roots in the Middle East, but has become
popular in many other parts of the world. Doner, on the other hand,
originated in Turkey and is popular throughout Europe and the Middle
East.
Overall, while both shawarma and doner are popular Middle Eastern
dishes that are made with meat cooked on a vertical spit, they have
distinct differences in terms of the type of meat used, seasoning,
cooking method, and accompaniments.

20. TOMARS DONER
Tomars Doner, where we pride ourselves in serving the finest Turkish
doners packed with the best herbs, sauces, and spices. Our savoury
chicken and beef doners are mesmerizing with every bite, made with
the highest quality halal meat adding to its freshess and distinct flavour.
We have revolutionized the doner market worldwide by combining the
finest meat and distinctive sauces to create the perfectly sized doners.
Over time, we have refined and improved our recipes, using traditional
spices, rich ingredients and cutting-edge cooking techniques. We only
use the finest ingredients to prepare our doner wraps, pitas, and boxes.
Our secret spice blends, sauces, fresh meat, and bread give our
products a superior taste.

21. Tomars Doner takes pride in using pure chicken fillets and lean, luscious
beef, imported from trusted sources to preserve quality and
consistency. We source only locally grown, fresh vegetables, prepared
and delivered everyday along with our freshly-baked doner pita or wrap
breads. We also offer a variety of salads, snacks, and side dishes to
accompany your main course.
Tomars Doner's time-tested methods are unique from other businesses
in the doner world. As a result, you can indulge in a delectable and
fresh Mediterranean cuisine experience day or night. From chicken to
beef, you can select your favourite side dish, and savour the ideal
Mediterranean feast.
Our commitment to providing top-notch customer service in a clean,
and welcoming atmosphere that feels like home is unparalleled.
Whether you're looking for fast takeout or a sit-down meal, we offer
both dine-in and pick-up options. We are passionate about sharing the
taste of authentic Turkish cuisine with our customers, and we invite you
to come and experience the difference for yourself.
Tomars Doner is where old-world charm meets a contemporary lifestyle
by presenting traditional flavours in an unsurpassable setting. Step into
an antique oriental mansion that promises to surprise your palette
every time you arrive here.

22. We are at Port Credit, Mississauga, and our restaurant brings the
authentic flavors of Turkey's street food culture to your doorstep. Visit
us and experience the buzz of the most famous streets in Istanbul with
sumptuous brunches featuring a selection of signature dishes,
unlimited meats from the mangal grill to your table, paired with a
selection of beverages, live entertainment, and cultural experiences.
Tomars Doner is a host to superior tastes, rich ingredients, and exciting
aromas. So come and experience the taste and warmth of Tomars
Doner today!
Seyfi Tomar
March 16th, 2023