Leila

Leila is a Mediterranean restaurant on Saint-Laurent Boulevard in Mile End, a collaborative venture from chef Amine Laabi and three longtime friends from his Cafe Gentile days: Gregory Watson, Philippe Carile, and Giuseppe Carta. The 50-seat space, decorated in warm browns, greens, and blues, features an open kitchen and a cozy back lounge area with vintage rugs and armchairs where guests can enjoy drinks while waiting for their table.

The menu draws inspiration from across the southern Mediterranean, from Morocco to Greece, emphasizing simple, seasonal preparations with three to four ingredients. Standout dishes include house-made merguez from Quebec lamb, Moroccan sardine toasts, and a tender braised beef cheek with fennel and chickpeas. The wine list, curated by Alizée Jutras, focuses on selections from Italy, France, and Spain, complemented by classic cocktails.