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TorontoJo Jul 18, 2006 07:56 PM

Best caterers for a shiva gift?

A friend's father just passed away and they will be sitting shiva. I wanted to send a platter of food for one of the afternoons (probably just finger foods rather than a dinner). Can anyone recommend a caterer/shop that specializes in this? My first thought was Chapman's, but I wanted to see if anyone else had suggestions. Would I be better going with one of the deli's, like Yitz's?

Oh, and they would need to deliver to the Bathurst/Deloraine area. TIA!

  1. TorontoJo Jul 19, 2006 03:03 PM

    Thank you to everyone for all the suggestions. These help me out immensely as this is an area I don't have much experience in. I love the idea of going with something away from the traditional, but still appropriate. I will call Boujadi and Jerusalem, which are two restaurants I love and I know my friend also loves. Thanks again.

    1. Webdude Jul 19, 2006 02:23 PM

      When my grandfather died, someone thoughtfully sent us a shiva tray from Boujadi, a great Moroccan place on Eglinton West. Although not strictly kosher, you can request vegetarian, carnivore or a combination - and be pleasantly surprised with the results.

      The best part? Everyone does Sonny Langer, whose food is good. This is something different. And yes, they deliver.

      3 Replies
      1. re: Webdude
        p
        pinkmin Nov 13, 2010 07:30 AM

        I know this thread is very old, but wanted to make a comment for all those that may come across it now like I just did. Boujadi is actually Glatt Kosher. The extremely orthodox will not eat from there because they do not have a hechsher due to being open during shabbat. However, the food itself is all kosher, including the meat, and I know many modern orthodox who find it acceptable to eat there. Just saying ... it is very delicious!

        1. re: pinkmin
          TorontoJo Nov 13, 2010 11:11 AM

          Boujadi is closed.

          1. re: TorontoJo
            foodyDudey Nov 13, 2010 11:38 AM

            Yes, closed for at least 2 years.

      2. p
        peppermint pate Jul 18, 2006 09:02 PM

        Agree with Sonny Langer rec - they do all dairy catering, and therefore kosher, and their food is excellent (they are also great to deal with and well-versed in shiva catering). But, if kosher isn't an issue and given that at least one - if not more - of the meals will invariably be from Sonny Langer, I agree that it's nice to send something a bit different - I've had great experiences with Paese's catering arm (L-Eat?). Middle Eastern food is good - I'm not a huge fan of Tov Li (it's okay) but you could also try Jerusalem or Tabule. Get a sense of how many people will be there for the meal and I'd encourage you not to over-order as the leftovers really start to build up over the course of the week. My condolences.

        1. r
          robb Jul 18, 2006 08:33 PM

          For something a little bit different, Tov Li does great platters that include falafel balls, salads, pita, tahina and hot sauce-with lots of other veggie options. Perfect for do your own falafels. Brought this once to a shiva and it was a huge success.

          1. Fwagra Jul 18, 2006 08:02 PM

            Sonny Langer is a good option. If strict kosherness is not an issue, be creative. I have seen people send in North44, and I can tell you that it was MUCH appreciated.

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