Modern Entrepreneur Profile: Shakir Al-Qanbar of Mississauga's East Tea Can
/In conversation with Shakir Al-Qanbar, owner of Mississauga’s East Tea Can and Soul Smash Burgers, on blending traditional food in a modern world.
2026 sees East Tea Can celebrate their 10th year serving our community with fabulous food in an approachable atmosphere.
What was the inspiration behind creating East Tea Can?
East Tea Can started from something personal. I missed home. When I first came to Canada, I felt there wasn’t a place that truly represented Middle Eastern food and culture in a modern, welcoming way. I wanted to create a space that respected our roots but made the cuisine approachable and understandable for everyone, especially those who had never visited the Middle East. It was never just about food; it was about representation.
East Tea Can has been in the Mississauga community for several years; how would you describe the dining experience to someone who's never been?
When you walk in, you’re met with a warm rush of energy that feels vibrant and welcoming. The dining room is full, trays of colourful mezze move through the space, and the aroma of fresh tea and spices fills the restaurant. Bread bakes at the bakery station, while people browse the spice displays and merch shelves. It's lively but comfortable, elevated yet approachable.
What are you most proud of with East Tea Can?
This year marks 10 years for us, and what I’m most proud of is that we’ve become part of the community. We’ve hosted celebrations, Ramadan Iftars, business meetings, and family gatherings, and we continue to see many of the same faces year after year. That loyalty means everything to us. I’m also proud that we’ve helped introduce Middle Eastern cuisine to people who may not have experienced it before, and to do so in a way that feels welcoming and familiar.
Food is one of the few things in the world that brings all people together; how have you blended traditional dishes and the modern dining scene?
Even when we modernize or tweak a recipe, it’s not just to follow trends. We do it to make the flavours more approachable and easier to appreciate, without losing their soul. Our goal is to bridge cultures, keeping the authenticity while presenting dishes in a way that feels familiar and inviting. We want people to recognize the traditional elements and feel at ease enjoying them in a modern dining setting, so the food can connect cultures and bring people together.
Describe the dining experience at East Tea Can?
The dining experience at East Tea Can is multi-sensory and built around sharing. Our style is mezze, a big table filled with many dishes for everyone to try. Each meal is meant to be shared, explored, and enjoyed together, creating a space where people can connect over food and conversation.
Mississauga has a diverse and cultural dining scene; how is East Tea Can positioned?
Mississauga is very diverse, and we’re proud to be part of that. We’re known as a Middle Eastern restaurant that offers both food and experience, and for many guests, we are their introduction to the culture. We take that responsibility seriously and work hard to uphold it. Our goal is for people to leave feeling that they have experienced something authentic and meaningful.
What makes East Tea Can unique?
What makes us unique is our identity and consistency. For 10 years, we’ve stayed true to who we are. We don’t follow trends; we focus on quality, hospitality, and culture. This summer, we’re celebrating our 10th anniversary with new menus, new experiences, and more community events. It’s our way of thanking the people who have supported us and continuing to grow alongside the city.
