Address: 4215 Monroe St, Toledo, OH 43606

Phone: +1 419 473 8942

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://www.tigerbakery.com

Tiger Bakery & Deli

The Tiger Bakery & Deli, established in 1971, is a Toledo staple for anyone craving authentic Mediterranean cuisine. You might first be drawn by the humble exterior, but step inside, and you're greeted by a vibrant deli-style setup that's more akin to a treasure trove of Middle Eastern flavors and aromas. The family-owned bakery boasts a clean, inviting environment where you can either dine in or take your food to go. A notable mention should be made for their kitchen's impeccable cleanliness—definitely a reassuring sign when it comes to food safety.

For those new to Mediterranean cuisine, or even seasoned foodies, the selection at Tiger Bakery can feel a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, the friendly and patient staff are quick to offer recommendations. Start your meal with their incredible assortment of salads and dips. The original garlic hummus is silky smooth, and it's only one of several varieties offered, including Cajun, Chipotle, and Roasted Red Pepper. Don't miss the Baba Ganooj, a smoky, creamy delight made from roasted eggplants.

Moving on to the Fatayer, these handmade dough pockets come in versatile flavors like cheese, spinach, and the must-try meat pies, all for $2.99 each. But it doesn't stop there—Tiger Bakery's range of bread includes everything from Yellow Cheese Bread to the zesty Zataar (Thyme) Bread and Focaccia. These are perfect for scooping up dips or accompanying your main meal.

Now, if you’re looking for something more substantial, their sandwich selection is a crowd-pleaser. The Gyro Sandwich and Lamb Shawarma Sandwich are both standouts, featuring tender, flavorful meats wrapped in fresh pita bread. Each sandwich is reasonably priced at $7.95 and pairs excellently with the side dishes on offer.

Another hit is their selection of traditional Middle Eastern entrees. The grape leaves, available in both meat and veggie options, are prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The Tajeen—a combination of roasted eggplant and potatoes in a homemade tomato sauce—and the Zahra, featuring cauliflower and potatoes in a tahini sauce, are evidence of their commitment to delivering rich, authentic flavors. Trust me, these dishes are worth a try.

Tiger Bakery wouldn't be complete without mentioning their desserts. Their homemade baklava varieties, including almond and walnut, are deliciously fresh and decadent. But for a modern twist, try the Chocolate Baklava topped with Nutella—it’s the perfect sweet finish to your meal.

The place operates on a counter-serve model, which keeps things casual and quick, perfect for a grab-and-go lunch or a family meal. Seating is limited, making it more of a takeout destination, especially during peak hours around lunch. Speaking of which, lunchtime specials are a steal: one sandwich and two sides or any four sides for $11.95 is an unbeatable deal.

Reservations aren’t necessary at this no-frills deli, but preparation helps, especially if you’re planning to visit during the bustling lunch hour. The bakery also offers curbside pickup and online ordering, making it super convenient for those tight on time.