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Cusina Mediterranean Bistro: What to Know Before You Go

Written by Lily Montgomery • Published August 26, 2026 • Last verified August 26, 2026

Cusina Mediterranean Bistro is a Lebanese restaurant in Guelph that people search for by name. It's a sit-down place with a menu built around family recipes: hummus, tabbouleh, shawarma, kebabs, and grilled meats. If you're looking for a meal that isn't fast food, this is one of the independent spots to consider.

The bistro sits on the south end of the city, near the intersection of Stone Road and Gordon Street. That puts it close to the University of Guelph and the Stone Road Mall, so it's an easy stop if you're already in that part of town. The exact address is on the restaurant's official website and social media pages.

What sets Cusina apart is its focus on Lebanese cuisine with a home-style feel. The menu includes appetizers like garlic dip and stuffed grape leaves, and mains like chicken tawook and lamb chops. There are also vegetarian options, including falafel and a lentil soup. Portions are generous, so you might leave with leftovers.

If you're planning a visit, know that the restaurant tends to be busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings. Weekday lunches are quieter, and the bistro offers a lunch menu with smaller portions and lower prices. For dinner, reservations are recommended on weekends, though walk-ins are often fine on weeknights.

One thing to check before you go: the hours. They vary by season, and the restaurant may close for a few days around holidays. The most reliable way to confirm is to call or check their Facebook page, which they update regularly.

Cusina also does takeout and delivery through local apps. If you order for pickup, the food is packed well and stays warm. For delivery, you'll pay the app's fees, which vary. If you're on a budget, pickup is the cheaper route.

Another practical point: the restaurant is licensed, so you can order beer or wine with your meal. The drink list is short but includes Lebanese options like Almaza beer and a few wines. If you're driving, remember that alcohol service ends at standard provincial times.

For people with dietary restrictions, the kitchen can adjust some dishes. Gluten-free options exist, but you should ask about cross-contamination if that's a concern. Vegetarian and vegan guests have several choices, but the menu doesn't mark them clearly, so ask your server.

If you're comparing Mediterranean spots in Guelph, you could also look at By the Bridge, a downtown restaurant with a similar menu, or the shawarma places like Shawarma G and Shawarma House. Each has its own style: By the Bridge is more upscale, while the shawarma spots are faster and cheaper. Cusina sits in the middle: a full-service restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.

Parking at Cusina is free and plentiful. The restaurant is in a small plaza, and there's usually space right in front. If you're coming from the university, it's a short drive or a 15-minute walk from the campus core. Buses on the Stone Road routes stop nearby.

One more thing to know: Cusina has been around for several years, and it has built a regular customer base. Reviews are generally positive, with people praising the food quality and the friendly service. But like any restaurant, experiences vary, so it's worth checking recent reviews before you go.

Before you head out, confirm the opening hours and any holiday closures by checking their official website or Facebook page. That's the best way to avoid a wasted trip. And if you're planning a special occasion, ask about their catering or party platters, which they do for events.

So, if you're in the south end and craving Lebanese food, Cusina Mediterranean Bistro is a solid choice. Just check the hours, decide on pickup or dine-in, and bring an appetite.

Sources

• Cusina Mediterranean Bistro official site

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