Since opening its doors in Charlottetown in 1979, Cedar’s Eatery has played a foundational role in introducing Lebanese cuisine to Prince Edward Island, a region where most residents traditionally trace their heritage to the British Isles. What began as a novel dining experience featuring unfamiliar dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh, and falafel has evolved into a well-established local institution nearly five decades later.

Located in the city’s downtown core, Cedar’s Eatery presents a unique blend of décor that reflects both its Middle Eastern roots and its longstanding community presence. The interior’s wood-paneled walls and cozy paisley-upholstered booths evoke the atmosphere of a British pub, while details like a stained glass cedar tree, a hookah displayed on a raised platform, and a glass stand showcasing baklava hint at the restaurant’s Lebanese heritage.

During a recent weekday lunch, the restaurant was lively with familiar faces. Retirees exchanged family updates, municipal employees discussed summer plans, and a multigenerational family gathered around the table, waiting for a late relative. This steady clientele underscores Cedar’s role not only as a dining venue but as a social hub within Charlottetown.

Ownership and management remain deeply connected to the establishment’s origins. Ryan Abdallah, who grew up in the restaurant environment, now leads operations. His parents founded Cedar’s three years before his birth, and though his father Maroun has retired, he maintains a daily presence, offering advice from the kitchen. Ryan Abdallah draws on this legacy, actively overseeing kitchen operations and advocating for generous portion sizes—ensuring that meals such as the shish tawouk come with enough protein to provide leftovers for another meal.

Staff at Cedar’s also note the substantial servings. Server Jamie Crawford cautioned that portions are large, a point evident after a meal requiring multiple containers to carry away leftovers. This generosity in serving size is often remarked upon by patrons, who leave both satisfied and well-fed.

The culinary landscape in Charlottetown has since diversified, with casual shawarma shops becoming increasingly common in a city once dominated by oyster bars and taverns. However, Abdallah attributes Cedar’s continued success to its commitment to high-quality ingredients, attentive table service, and ample portions, factors that contribute to its enduring popularity among local diners throughout the day.