Mak European Delicatessens — Restaurant in Toronto

I'd heard about Mak for some years when discussing Balkan spots in the city/GTA, but never made the trek until recently- in fact, I've now been a handful of times, as I now live closer. I had very high expectations, and on walking in, was certain they'd be met due to the classic Balkan vibe, but sadly, most everything I've gotten here really fell short- except the Turkish coffee; that's great. Both the čevapi and pljeskavica really left a lot to be desired when compared to other Balkan spots on the other side of town. I found the meat considerably under-seasoned, needlessly overly-oily (even by Balkan standards), but worst of all, lacking the bouncy texture and succulent-ness I expect of these dishes- they were also, sadly, overcooked. Further, the lepinja bread is not airy here like most other places, and is too dense- I think their process for making it must be different. The sarma also left quite a bit to be desired, lacking both seasoning, and also featuring overly-thick cabbage leaves, which isn't very pleasant for a smaller-sized sarma like theirs. The burek + gibanica also left something to be desired, obviously churned out in large quantities, so not much care assigned to them- felt like shortcuts taken. Lastly, I found even the items from the deli counter, whether their dried sausages or other cured pork products, also to be really lacking. After giving this spot a fair chance by visiting multiple times now, I won't be going back anytime soon, sadly- I was really looking forward to having a Balkan spot relatively nearby me, but will instead just make the trek to the west end anytime the cravings really hit. Maybe it's good enough for local compatriots not wanting to drive all the way to Etobicoke/Mississauga, but I'd much rather make the drive and get quality product rather than settle. I feel bad to give such a scathing, low, review, but after spending a considerable amount there over my few visits, feel...

My first experience with Balkan-style meat was at a family friend's wedding, when I asked: "What is this delicious meat?" And the answer was: "Ćevapčići" (minced meat kebabs). When I discovered MAK European Delicatessen, this became my go-to place for: tasty meat (ćevapi, pljeskavica, sudžukice), kajmak (Balkan cream cheese), burek (filo pies stuffed with meat, cheese or spinach), ajvar (roasted red peppers sauce), and mineral waters of the former Yugoslavia... even after moving away from the neighbourhood.

While revisiting the neighbourhood recently, it was a joy to stop in for a burek and re-live the old sights, sounds and aromas of the delicatessen and grill. I enjoyed the meat burek (beef). The meaty filling had a judicious amount of onion and spice, though the filo pastry was a bit soft (I like the exterior a bit more crunchy). Pleasantly filling. All in all, a really tasty burek. The interior dining area was more colourful and vibrant than I had remembered it - happy to see that the present is even better than the nostalgic past.

MAK European Delicatessens is probably the best Balkan deli in the eastern part of Toronto - great selection of Balkan meats, sweets and treats to be had. With a bottle of Pelisterka / Пелистерка mineral water in hand, it was time to...

Outstanding service and quality food!! Hands down the best Cevapi and Borek in the city, I’ve tried many places and this has become my go to! Ask for the special bread!!

I do my weekly shopping here, they have a wide selection of deli goods and European foods. They carry a lot of specialty items that you will not find in the city! The chocolate selection is a dream come true for anyone that loves sweets! If you’re looking for an authentic and family friendly place - come to Mak Deli you will love the staff and the experience.

This place is definitely on the top 10 of Toronto’s Hidden Gems! If you haven’t been here yet, or drive by this place all the time, swing by and...