The restaurant was founded by first-time restaurateur Wafa El Rhazi, who was born in Paris to a Moroccan father and Algerian mother. Growing up, North African cuisine was a staple in her home, while French influences naturally seeped into her culinary world. "I'm French and Moroccan, and I wanted to create a place that feels like both, where you can order a croissant or a lamb tagine, and halal food is simply part of the experience." Halal food, as it stands in Toronto, is typically (though not necessarily accurately) associated with quick-service dining; shawarma joints and roti takeout. At Rayah, though, that the food is entirely Halal is simply a byproduct of its authenticity, but it's available within a holistic dining experience.