Toronto Gets 'Functional Dining' Restaurant

The restaurateur behind the concept is Hemant Bhagwani, a familiar name in Toronto's food scene with previous ventures including ORO Luxury Dining, Bar Goa, and Amaya. Kyma's menu was developed in collaboration with a clinical nutritionist to ensure that the meals are scientifically sound. The restaurant is located at 2865 Dundas St. W. The menu centers on Mediterranean bowls that are high in protein, ranging from 40 to 55 grams per serving. These bowls feature ingredients like sprouted grains and fermented fibers to support gut health. Notably, the restaurant avoids using seed oils in its preparations, a choice popular with some health-conscious consumers. Specific menu items include the Harissa Bowl, with 52 grams of protein from grilled chicken and black lentils, and The Olympian, which contains 40 grams of protein from Ahi tuna, quinoa, roasted chickpeas, and avocado. Diners also have the option to build their own bowls or pitas. To drink, Kyma offers beverages designed for "hydration and high-performance," such as a cucumber-mint electrolyte drink, iced collagen tea, and a Greek yogurt kefir cooler. The interior of Kyma is described as a "sanctuary of wellness," featuring high ceilings, natural light, and pale wood finishes to complement the healthy focus of the food. The "functional dining" concept is part of a larger "food as medicine" movement, which has been gaining traction in the food industry as consumers show increased interest in health and wellness. This trend is seeing a rise in restaurants designing menus with a focus on nutritional science.