52. Canada: Café du Lac - a taste of Québec

Café du Lac
2350 Lake Shore Blvd West
(West of Park Lawn)
416 848 7381

For the final restaurant in our weekly ethnic eats challenge we unearth a real gem in an unlikely setting. The Café du Lac has little in the way of local competition and it's clear that well-heeled boomers from nearby condos have been flocking here since it opened five months ago. There's free parking out front after six and it's easily accessible by street car. They host live music on alternate Fridays, and reservations highly recommended. We were greeted and seated promptly and our server offered to take our coats and hang them up.
We order drinks and a basket of gourmet bread, baked fresh daily by the chef, and herb butter arrives with them. The prix fixe menu option is a great deal at $30: Soup or Salad, Duck Trio (duck tourtière, stuffed duck and foie gras), and apple crumble. We choose starters from the list of varied and interesting options: French onion soup, $5; Tarte au tomate cerise [seen here] the garlic herb cream cheese is a perfect foil for the tangy cherry tomatoes, $8; Organic Greens Salad tossed with house vinaigrette, $7; Yukon Gold frites are surprisingly tasty, $5 . Our main courses are : Grilled salmon in virgin sauce with rustic potatoes (Peruvian Blue) and mixed vegetables, $22; the Chef's vegetarian pasta plate, $16 (certainly not your average plate of pasta). The house red, La Vielle Ferme, Cotes du Ventoux, is good value at $18 for a half litre. Tea, decaf & coffee are $2 a cup. Total cost $178.17 for five $205 with tip.
Marketing whiz and manager, Kathryn greeted regulars and newcomers with equal enthusiasm. Her husband Pierre, the chef, was introduced to us at the table and wondered what we thought of his new dish the duck trio.
Café du Lac has a clean, elegant interior with hardwood floors and tables. Tonight, arguably to make room for the musicians, tables are a bit too crowded in and temperature too warm for complete comfort. Over all a top notch restaurant - great food, good value.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (4)
Food Presentation (4)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

51. Australia & New Zealand: Hemingway's

Hemingway's
142 Cumberland Street
(Bay and Bloor)
416 968-2828

We met up at this multi-levelled restaurant pub in the trendy Yorkville neighbourhood. We chose a table on the main floor but explore the roof-top patio, which is open year round, before leaving.
Our starters from the brunch menu consist of : Boston clam chowder, a creamy and chunky house specialty, $5.49; Soup of the day - a tasty blend of sweet potato and carrot, $ 4.29. For main dishes we choose: Farmer's Breakfast - eggs, sausage, mushroom, home fries and toast, $9.39; Kiwi lamb burger - New Zealand ground spring lamb, grilled and served on a lightly toasted bun with goat cheese and mint sauce, garnished with a slice of onion, tomato and lettuce, $9.99 extra mushrooms, add $0.69; Pear and blue cheese salad -warm sliced pears, spiced pecans and spring mix salad, tossed in a house balsamic dressing and sprinkled with blue cheese crumbles, $10.49 (an interesting taste combination, unfortunately the greens were over dressed and wilted); Portobello - grilled mushroom cap with asparagus, roasted red pepper and melted brie [seen here], $9.89; Breakfast fajita - scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, spicy Italian sausage, tomato, onion and barbecue sauce wrapped up in a lightly grilled tortilla and served with home fries, $9.59. Coffee $1.99 with free refills.
Separate bills were no problem and we paid $40.60 plus tip for two.
Downstairs, the decor is more about Hemingway than Australia and New Zealand. Behind us is a surprising photo of author Ernest Hemingway with Cuban dictator Fidel Castro. On the upper levels we spot large, autographed sailing posters and wooden direction signs with stronger antipodean connections. They offer free wireless Internet but we didn't avail ourselves of it.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)

50.Guyana: Bacchus Roti Shop

Bacchus Roti Shop
1376 Queen Street West
(Between Lansdowne and Dufferin)
416 532 8191

Bacchus has long been considered THE roti shop in Toronto. When my sister visits from Seattle, she always puts a Bacchus roti on her itinerary. I sheepishly admit that this was my first time and I must say that I came away impressed.
From the spotless interior to the fast, friendly service you get the feeling that this is a well run shop. When I got there, shortly after opening time, there were stacks of cases of bottled drinks near the counter. A man, I took to be the owner , said to a younger staff member, " I'd like these put away as soon as you get the chance." Between taking orders at the counter, delivering meals to customers and clearing off tables the cases of drinks were soon dealt with.
I order a Veggie Roti filled with squash and curried chickpeas (channa), $6.24, a side of crisp, peppery coleslaw, $1.59 and a can of mango nectar, $2.29. The roti is non-greasy, very tasty and generous but not overwhelming in size. Total for one, including tax, $11.44.The green leafy pattered wall paper, wicker chairs and gleaming wooden tables give the place a tropical feel. But unlike other roti shops, there's no blaring music, boisterous clientele, or clutter to cope with at Bacchus.
Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (2)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

49. Phillipines: Mayette's

Mayette's
3331A Danforth Ave
(east of Victoria Park)
416 463 0338

Mayette's is a unique establishment for several reasons. It's the oldest Filipino restaurant in Canada. It's survived in the highly competitive Toronto restaurant market since 1987 without a liquor licence. But what really makes Mayette's a unique place is Mayette herself. This charming and gracious lady makes you feel truly welcome and appreciated.
As a starter we share an order of Lumpia - Vegetable Egg Rolls, 3 pieces $3.95. We follow this with a huge bowl of Veggie Soup to share which is custom made to order , $6.95. For our main course we order: Pinakbet - a dish of mixed vegetables including squash, eggplant and bitter melon which is beautifully prepared [pictured below], $6.95; Adabo - chicken and pork slow simmered to perfection in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaf and peppercorns, $6.95; and steamed rice $1.50. We enjoy two pots of green tea, $2.00 and share cassava cake and banana fritters for dessert. The latter are lengthwise slices of plantain wrapped in spring roll wrappers. Total for three, an unbelievable $31.70 plus tip.
We have a interesting, lengthy chat with our hostess about the history of the restaurant, cultural differences and how Toronto has changed over the years.
Although the decor is not much to write about, Mayette's has a homey kind of charm. There are many framed photo's of Mayette with various celebrities and potted tropical plants.
There's free parking after 6 pm out front and it's a short walk to Victoria Park subway station however, our only regret is that Mayette's isn't closer to home.


Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (4)
Food Presentation (2)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

48. India: Curry Twist

Curry Twist
3034 Dundas Street West
(at High Park Avenue)
416 769 5460

The delicious aromas and friendly greeting immediately gave us the impression that we were in for a real treat - and Curry Twist did not let us down.
Glasses of water and poppadoms were brought to the table as our server explained the day's specials. We choose the Veggie Samosa special to split as a starter, $5.45. The pastry is crisp, not greasy with a tasty filling, served with a tangy tamarind dip. We opt to share: two veggie entrees -Veggie Paneer Twist , $9.95 and the daily vegetable special - Okra & Eggplant, $9.95 each and both beautifully prepared, plain Naan $1.95, and Plain Basmati Rice $2.95. All of the dishes were freshly made from high quality ingredients and not greasy.
We were seated in the front window, and the open kitchen is in the middle of the restaurant, so we did not get a full view of the dining area. What we could see, we liked. The colour scheme is that of exotic spices and the art work and light fixtures have an eastern flair. It was a busy night and the layout doesn't provide much space to maneuver in however service was prompt and friendly. Definitely worth a repeat visit.
Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

47. Scotland: McNie's Fish and Chips

McNie's Fish and Chips
315 Burnhamthorpe Road
(At Martin Grove)
416 231 6916

We hadn't been to this fish and chip shop for several years and were disappointed to find that it just wasn't the same. It was, at one time, a bustling place that served up the best in Scottish grub and where you heard lilting highland accents. There are still a number of traditional dishes on the menu including mushy peas, black pudding and the inevitable haggis. The Scots meat pie and steak and kidney pie had tasty fillings but the pastry was rubbery - as if the pies had been heated in a microwave oven, $4.99 pie only, $5.99 with chips. [pictured here] They were out of coleslaw - "our delivery is not coming today" - and the garden salads, $3.49 were fresh but unimaginative. Two bottles of Kraft salad dressings were plunked on the table. The lunch special haddock and chips, $5.95 from 11 am to 3 pm daily, is great value for money and a reasonably sized portion. We ordered tea and got a large pot of hot water and teabags in our cups. The food and service were OK but there's nothing much to recommend coming here. Unless you live nearby or have a taste for haggis, you might be better off trying one of Etobicoke's other traditional fish and chip shops - Kingsway, at 3060 Bloor West or Viking, at 826 the Queensway.

Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (2)
Food Presentation (2)
Food Quality (2)
Value for Money (3)

46. Russia: Anton's

Anton's
6233 Bathurst Street
(just south of Steeles)
416 222 7727

Tucked out of the way in a strip mall, Anton's is a popular place with people from former Soviet Union states. Russian television plays on a large screen over the bar and we English speakers are in the minority. Downstairs is a banquet room for special functions, but it's unoccupied this evening. We receive friendly, efficient service even though the place is packed and they're possibly understaffed.
The menu has a wide cultural range of items including two Uzbeki traditional dishes. Our starters small combo salad (middle eastern fare including tabbouleh, babaganoush, grilled eggplant with tomatoes), $7. 99, bread and borscht $4.45 arrive promptly and I quickly realize that I have over ordered. The main courses come with garden salads: Salmon kebabs with mashed potatoes [seen here]$14.99 and Lamb kebabs $14.99 with rice. In both cases the kebabs are grilled to perfection - not over-cooked and dried out like you get some places. We drink lemon tea, coffee and ice water. Our total bill for three is $52 plus tip. Our server packs up what we can't finish and I head home with food for at least two more meals.

Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)

45. Japan: Fune Japanese Restaurant

Fune Japanese Restaurant
100 Simcoe St
(West of University, at Adelaide)
416 599 3868

This Japanese restaurant is located in a basement on a side street in downtown Toronto. It has a pleasant, welcoming authentic atmosphere - we were greeted by "Moshi Moshi." We arrived at about 17:00 on a Saturday when it was uncrowded, and we were seated beyond the novelty conveyor belt [pictured] where the food goes round in circles in wooden 'boats.'
We order drinks: plum wine, cranberry juice and green tea. We choose our entrees which come with miso soup and salad to start: chicken teriyaki dinner char-broiled tender chicken with teriyaki sauce, vegetables and steamed rice, $17.95; vegetable tempura dinner which is more than just your average variety of veggies and includes squash, oyster mushrooms, sweet potatoes and yams, with steamed rice $16.95; Deluxe Sushi Dinner -chef's choice of 8 kinds of Nigiri Sushi with California rolls [pictured here] ,$24.95. For desert we order ice cream - one scoop of ginger and one scoop of green tea servd together in a dish, $2.95.
Overall a good experience, although the food was somewhat bland. If you're in the Theatre District, it's worth a visit for the ambiance and unhurried service.
Total for four dinners including tip $120.00.

Rating: Ambiance (4)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)

Sister Act

Sussex Ethnic Eats

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and so I'm very pleased to announce the launch of a "sister" blog called Sussex Ethnic Eats.
When my sister and her family visited Toronto last spring, they enjoyed joining in our restaurant reviews and have been inspired to visit multicultural eateries in their home county of Sussex in the southeast of England (population approximately 1.4 million).
Their group kicks of this weekend as they sample Greek cuisine at the Harbourside Inn, in Newhaven [picture above].
Bon Appétit!

44. Uruguay: La Pasiva

La Pasiva
896 Wilson Avenue
(between Keele and Dufferin)
416 636 6555

It's 12:30 on a warm, sunny October afternoon and there is only one other occupied table at this local eatery. Parking was tricky in this strip mall which has limited appeal.
We are greeted quickly by a friendly waitress who brews a fresh pot of good coffee for us, $1.50 a cup including refills.
I chose the tuna stuffed tomato from the appetizer section of the menu, [photo above] $6.00. It comes attractively presented but is unexceptional in taste. The Figazza - crisp pizza crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, sauteed onions and herbs, however is very tasty, $3.50.
Hubby ordered a Chivito, which is a Uruguayan national dish. The menu described a much heartier version - with fried egg, olives and more - than what arrived. Served with fries this chicken sandwich was bland and short of fixings, $9.95.
The lived-in interior is nondescript although there's a map of Uruguay on the wall and jolly Latin music was being played. Total for two lunches, $25.37 plus tip.

Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (2)
Value for Money (3)

43. Serbia:Royal Meat Barbeque

Royal Meats Barbeque
710 Kipling Ave
(at North Queen)
416 251 1144

Royal Meats has transformed this former site of a run down donut shop into a bustling hamburger restaurant. Like the Sky Ranch, it's not an ideal spot for vegetarians but there are some interesting meatless menu items.
The Shopska salad - sliced green peppers & onions with diced tomatoes, cucumbers and sirene (a white brine cheese with a milder flavour that feta), $4.99 for the large size. The kaymak (a clotted cream spread) on a lepinya bun is a steal at $1.99. At the server's suggestion, I added sliced tomatoes and pepper. The meat eaters in the group thought that their sandwiches were exceptional value for money. The Steak Sandwich [picture below] was fresh and properly cooked, $11.99 in a fries and drink combo.
Don't be fooled by the exterior, which suggests a licensed, table service restaurant. You order your food at the counter, which looks like a butcher shop with sausages, patties and other cuts of meat on display, then pay the cashier and find a table. They give you a plastic disk that flashes and buzzes when your food is ready and you go back to the counter to choose your toppings.
With the decor they've gone for a black and silver pseudo-industrial look and an open kitchen so you can watch your order being flame broiled. Food is served on china plates and with proper cutlery. This gritty neigbourhood is not "a destination" but if you're looking for an alternative to the fast food chains this is it.

Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (2)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)

42. Argentina: Sky Ranch

Sky Ranch
2473 Dufferin Street
(north of Eglinton)
416 787 0491

Several staff members attempted to entice us to come/stay later in the evening to enjoy the live music provided. We were wary of taking public transit home from that neighbourhood later in the evening and so stuck to our plan for a 6:30 dinner and are safe at home by nine.
The menu is, as one would expect, heavy on the beef but we choose to order differently.
For starters: Camarones al Ajillo Shrimp in Garlic Sauce $10.90; Palmitos con Salsa Golf - tender hearts of palm, on lettuce with black olives with a tangy tomato-mayonnaise dressing, $7.90 [pictured here].
Our main courses were: Salmon a la Parilla - grilled salmon steak served with rice $14.90, which was slightly undercooked; Camarones al Ajillo - Shrimp in Garlic Sauce with rice $13.90.
I ask our server to recommend a dessert and choose the Flan con Dulce de Leche -homemade custard with caramel cream, $4.00, and I'm not disappointed.
It's nice to have a house wine that originates in the same country as the cuisine served (Argentine house red $15.00 for a half litre).
Print up a coupon from their website to save 15% on your food order. Total for three courses with drinks and tax was $71.35 for two people, after the discount.
Service was friendly and informal, if a little quirky. Latin and North American pop background music were alternately played. The band setting up were more on the Latin side. We were the only people speaking English in the place, which enhanced the authentic ambiance.


Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (4)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)

41. Sudan: The Empire

The Empire
1018 Bloor Street West
(east of Dufferin)
416 532 5511

It's counter service at this busy eatery which does a lot of take-out business. The cook greeted regulars warmly and quickly dished up requests for their "usual" orders .

Much of the menu is mixed plates where you choose items from the steam table. The Veggie Plate [picture above] includes salad with pickled turnip & cabbage, two hot vegetable dishes ( I picked okra and white kidney beans) roasted eggplant, falafel balls and your choice of rice (lentil or raisin) with a whole wheat pita. It makes a very filling lunch for $6.49. The lamb shank plate came with similar choices of sides. Amused by the plastic knife she was given my friend asked, "How will I cut the lamb?". The cook jokingly suggested she borrow his Donair carving knife. Then another customer quips, " The lamb is so tender it will just fall off the bone, you won't need a sharper knife". He was right. The eggplant sandwich was generous and tasty, if a little on the oily side, a bargain at $2.99.
It is a halal restaurant, so there's no liquor license. Beverages consist of self serve tea, $1.50 and the usual canned and bottled soft drinks, juices and water.
The wood panelling is quite distinctive and there's an illuminated copy of the Koran in a glass case with prayer lists taped to the outside. Nearby, a wide screen TV airs a European soccer match.
Rating: Ambiance (2)

Service (2)

Food Presentation (2)

Food Quality (3)

Value for Money (4)

40. USA: Southern Accent

Southern Accent
595 Markham Street
( Bloor & Bathurst, in Mirvish Village)
416 536 3211


To Southern Accent on a pouring wet Sunday night, when they offer a $19.95 prix fixe menu. We opt for al fresco New Orleans-style eating undercover to the sound of the delta blues. The place is busy but not crowded with a pleasant atmosphere. We start with a butternut squash soup, from the set menu, and crab cakes [pictured] with a ginger remoulade sauce, $8. This is an excellent start and we are willing them on - can they keep it up?
The first foot fault is they don't have my choice of wine, hardly a major ricket, so I settle for a half-litre of Portuguese red at $16. We also order southern-style brewed ice tea. I opt for Bourbon Street Chicken: blackened, boneless chicken breast, napped with fresh lemon beurre, served with fingerling potatoes and grilled baby bokchoy with chili brown sugar sauce. The Mrs goes for St Peter’s Street Ricotta Gnudi, with Enoki, Oyster & Cremini mushrooms in sherry sauce, served with sautéed green beans. They bring the wrong main course - and there is a short delay. Why don't waiters write things down? The dessert is a bread and butter pudding with bourbon - judged to be 'heavenly' - and home-made vanilla bean ice cream.
I am in good mood and apply the port test - yes, they do have a port to finish. The meal is $105 incl tip. Well worth the trip y'all.

Rating: Ambiance (4)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

39. Hakka: Danforth Dragon

Danforth Dragon
861 Danforth Avenue
(at Donlands)
416 461 9238

Hakka cuisine is true fusion cooking. It evolved in Bombay and Calcutta through second and third generation Chinese immigrants. It blends Indian spices with traditional Chinese cooking methods. The Hakka are an ethnic group of Han Chinese who have settled in many parts of the world including the Caribbean, East Africa, Europe and North America. Be prepared for spicy food!
Our shrimp pakora starter [pictured here], chock full of large shrimp in a hakka spiced crisp batter, which we sprinkled with fresh lemon juice, was exceptionally tasty, full serving, $10.99. The main dishes: Manchurian Paneer, with Chinese greens, Indian cheese with shanghai Pak Choy came with a bowl of steamed rice, $ 8.50; Singapore Rice Noodles, vermicelli noodles with vegetables, egg, shrimp and chicken, $ 8.99 - were equally generously portioned and delicious. We slightly over did it when we ordered a dessert - fried Banana with ice cream, $5.99.
Our beverages were a bottomless pot of Jasmine tea, $1.50; and a half litre of house red wine, $10.99. Total for two, including taxes $53.29 plus tip.
Service was prompt, friendly and attentive.
Chinese artwork on the walls is an attempt to liven up the decor, but you get the feeling that take out and delivery are what keep the place going. Saturday night disco music did not add to the ambiance.
Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (4)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

38. Nicaragua: La Bella Managua

La Bella Managua Restaurant
872 Bloor St W
(At Ossington Ave)
416 913 4227

After a summer hiatus, the Ethnic Eats Challenge is back. Arriving from various points on bicycle, by subway and car we gathered at this friendly spot for lunch on the Labour Day weekend. The room is decorated with Nicaraguan handicrafts, colourful landscape paintings and other cultural displays, including the Nicaraguan flag and a map of the country.
Some folks opt for a quesadilla starter. These corn flour tortillas stuffed with Monterrey Jack cheese and green onions accompanied by a side of salsa al pimento, bear little resemblance to Taco Bell fare, $5.95. The main courses, all served with generous portions of Gallo Pinto (fried rice with beans), fried plantain and salad included: Pollo a la Parrilla seasoned grilled chicken breast, $11.95; Carne Asada grilled boneless beef steak, $10.99; Bandeja Tipica [seen here] a vegetarian plate with cabbage salad and slices of avocado and Spanish cheese, $9.99.
Fusion style entrees were also well received: Stir Fry - a mixture of vegetables with ginger and soy sauce, $9.50; Linguine Portobella noodles with field mushrooms, scallions and chicken in a tomato basil sauce.
The dessert special, a square of traditional cake, topped with dulce de leche or creamy rice pudding (served warm with plenty of cinnamon), $4.00, rounded out the meal. Our beverages, house red wine, $6.00 a glass, coffee, fruit juice and soft drinks were what you'd expect most places.
Our server told us about the daily specials, explained the menu and helped with food selection. Latin music at a good volume. Menu is in Spanish first with English translations underneath which would lead you to believe that much of their clientele hail from Central and South America.
Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)

37. Spain: Casa Barcelona

Casa Barcelona
2980 Bloor Street West
(at Royal York Road)
416 234 5858

You can either order several tapas dishes to share or a main course for yourself. Six of us choose to sample some of the dozens of tapas items from the extensive menu:
Salads: Barcelona salad - tomatoes, cucumber, red onions, extra virgin olive oil; mix salad - spring mixed greens, tomato, cucumber, $7 each.
Tapas: salmon marinado - marinated salmon, grilled peppers, asparagus with alioli sauce [pictured below]; sliced eggplant with goat cheese, organic mushrooms and piquillo pepper sauce; tournedo Rossini - beef tenderloin topped with duck foie & demi glace; grilled shrimps, Catalunian style; Canadian fresh lamb stew; my mother’s chicken and sausage croquettes - $9 each. And mini seafood paella - assorted seafood with saffron rice, $10.
Hubby wanted to try the shrimp paella as an individual main course - shrimps & vegetables in saffron rice, $29. I opted for a very different sounding desert - fig loaf - which is made with dried figs and almonds has a very firm texture and is quite delicious, $7
You write out your menu choices on paper and they arrive as they are ready so you've got a stream of plates being brought to your table. We ask for water and seven very tall glasses appear promptly. They were not overly busy on Saturday lunchtime and service was hospitable and relaxed. The patron greeted us, re-arranged tables for our party in the window and explained the menu. They offer steak-and-egg breakfast on Sunday mornings. Gratuity is added to the bill for parties of six or more. Seven lunches including tax and tip $145.00.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)

36. Nepal: Mt. Everest Restaurant

Mt. Everest Restaurant
469 Bloor Street West
(between Bathurst & Spadina)
416 964 8849

The decor is a mixture of east and west with comfortable wooden tables and chairs and a typical bar against one wall. Interesting marionettes and large, original oil-paintings of Himalayan landscapes add eastern flavour.
The $8.95 Saturday lunch buffet is bringing in a steady stream of customers of a mixed demographic. There are plenty of vegetarian choices on the buffet for salad, main course and dessert. From the buffet, hubby chooses tandoori chicken, basmati rice, salad, mango chutney, raita, with fresh fruit for dessert. My veggie friend goes to the buffet too enjoys the cucumber salad, Indian fries & veggie entrees finishing with rice pudding & gulab jamun (golden fried balls of powder milk soaked in sweet saffron syrup,served warm).
I order from the menu and choose a traditional Nepalese entree - aloo tama bodi: Potatoes, bamboo shoots, black eye beans cooked with mountain spices, $10.29 [pictured here], naan, $2.29 and follow it with a dessert of ras malai - cottage cheese patty in a sweet milky sauce flavored with saffron and rose water, $4.49, and masala tea $2.49. The buffet is definitely the better value for money but I wanted to try things from the Nepalese rather than north Indian side of the menu and was not disappointed.
Total for three lunches $42.34 plus tip.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)

35. Tanzania: Simba Grill

Simba Grill
375 Donlands Avenue
(at O'Connor Drive)
416 429 5067

Don't let the sign fool you, this place not does not serve typical Indian cuisine. The Simba Grill is Toronto's only Tanzanian restaurant. Its decor may not be polished but, from the murals to the carved wooden boxes on the tables, it certainly conjures up images of Africa.
Our host, owner Sultan Jessani, was gracious and hospitable. He showed us clippings of restaurant reviews and helped with menu selection.
A pitcher of water and condiments are quickly brought to the table. There are four chutneys, in order from mildest to hottest: tamarind, coconut, green chili with cilantro, and red chili. For a starter, we share the Mogo (Cassava) which is cut and cooked french fry style but has a taste and texture of its own [pictured below], $ 3.75. My friend, who was born and raised in the Congo, opts for the Ugali with bean and coconut curry, $13.50. When her meal arrives, at first she's disappointed that the Ugali is made with cornmeal and not cassava but after tasting it she prefers the East African cornmeal version. She finds the portion generous and so takes some of it home. My Fish Thari arrives on a compartmented tray: seasoned potatoes, daal, basmati rice, whole wheat roti, kingfish steak (cooked to perfection) and pickles, $ 14.00. Again it's a generous portion. Total for two dinners $41 including tax and tip.
We are tempted by our host's description of his Tanzanian style ice cream but will have to sample that on our next visit.
The Simba Grill serves 100% Halal food and does not have a liquor license.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (4)

34. Brazil: Caju

Cajú
922 Queen Street West
(East of Ossington)
416 532 2550

As we arrive at this stylish restaurant in "trendy" Queen St West Friendly, a friendly greeting from the servers makes us feel welcome. The interior has a clean, contemporary decor with gleaming Jatoba cherry wood flooring, wooden table tops and chairs. The framed photos of Brazilian urban and rural life are engaging.
A small wooden platter of bread and butter & glasses of water arrive promptly. Our server described the specials, helped with food selection.
We share a starter [pictured below] : Beringela Grelhada: Grilled eggplant with roasted garlic and goat cheese purée, with field mixed greens and passion fruit dressing, $ 9. Main course: Peixe com Vatapa: Seared fish of the day (today's catch is Monkfish), served with Vatapá (a blend of cashew nuts, ginger and coconut milk) with a red pepper sauce, $ 24. We finish up with decaf Cafe Americano, $2 each and share a rich dark chocolate confection topped with passion fruit for dessert, $7. Total for two with tax and tip, $85.
The quality and freshness of the food is excellent. It may be a bit pricey, but it does not disappoint. The staff are very well trained and gracious in guiding you through an exceptional dining experience.

Rating: Ambiance (4)
Service (4)
Food Presentation (4)
Food Quality (4)
Value for Money (3)

33. Lebanon: Falafel World

Falafel World
2396 Bloor Street West
(just east of Jane Street)
416 769 9336

No matter when you drop in, Falafel World always seems busy. It's counter service and, to give them credit, they dish it out quickly. This family run business is popular with the Bloor West Village locals but it will never win an eco-friendly competition. Even if you dine in, you're served on foam plates and have to struggle with plastic cutlery.
That being said, the food is consistently tasty, filling, good value for money and there are many veggie options. I order a Falafel Plate - cabbage salad, hummus, tabbouleh, three large falafel balls, tahini dressing, whole wheat pita, $7.00. Add a bottle of apple juice and tax - $8.50 for a generous dinner.
There are a few faded posters of the middle east but they fail to cheer up the gloomy, cafeteria style decor. It's not surprising that much of their business is take-out.
Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (2)
Food Presentation (2)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (3)

32. Greece: Astoria Shish Kebab House

Astoria Shish Kebab House
390 Danforth Ave
(at Chester)
416 463 2838

A second attempt to visit the Konditor Austrian bakery on Queen near Woodbine failed as they were once again closed, this time without explanation. They've now officially been crossed of the list.
Faced with the dilemma of where to eat, I decide to visit Greek Town on the Danforth on this warm, sunny Saturday afternoon. I get off the subway at the Pape station, start walking westward and am slightly overwhelmed by block after block of Greek restaurants. How to choose? Then I remember friends recommending the Astoria which I found, right outside the Chester subway station.
There is a large patio but I opt for the cool, relatively quiet dining room. Greek music plays in the background and I hear the language spoken by many patrons, although this being Toronto, I hear other languages as well. I am impressed by how quickly tables are bussed and efficiently cleaned and reset.
I order the Traditional Veggie Platter, $11.99 [pictured above]. A basket of bread and at what at first glance looks to be a run-of-the-mill Greek salad arrives promptly. With very fresh ingredients and just the right amount of a well balanced vinaigrette, the salad is refreshingly good. When my platter arrives I can already tell I'll be taking some of it home. Accompanied by potatoes, rice and tzatziki are three dolmades (grapevine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs and spices) and two sizable spanakopita (filo pastry triangles filled with spinach and feta cheese).
Having lived in Toronto over forty years, it's my first visit to Greek Town. I'll definitely be back.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (2)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)

31. Thailand: Thai Chef Cuisine

Thai Chef Cuisine

233 Roncesvalles Ave
416 915 0095

We turned up on a quiet and rainy Sunday lunchtime in this historic west-end neighbourhood, that grows on you, for lunch in this converted bar. Water started dripping from a skylight once indoors. We presented a 10%-off coupon printed out from their website.
We chose for starters: T & T - deep-fried tofu triangles and crisp taro patties with a peanut dressing on the side, $5.95, tasty and different; spring rolls - three pieces of typical Thai restaurant fare $3.95.

Main courses were: Radnar Raummitr - Fried thick noodles topped with tiger shrimps, chicken, squid, and vegetables in Thai gravy, $ 10.95, light on shrimps; Spicy Eggplant - perfectly cooked baby eggplant with perhaps too many large chunks of onion, $8.95; Cashew nut tofu - stir-fried tofu, oranges, bell peppers, cashew nuts, and onions in chili sauce, $8.95; with the last two we ordered two sides of steamed rice at $1.50 (in retrospect we could have shared one; also regret failing to sample the Thai curry).

I had to ask twice for a pot of Ginger tea, which didn't appear on the final bill, $1.95. Whether this was deliberate or not is debatable, we only spotted it on returning home. Acceptable house red wine at $5.50 a glass. Lunch for three $60 including tip. Overall a quiet unhurried lunch in a pleasant part of town.

Rating: Ambiance (3)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (2)
Value for Money (3)

30. Ireland: Whelan's Gate

Whelan's Gate Irish Alehouse and Pub

1663 Bloor Street West
416 531 1311

An Irish pub with local regulars, a short walk from Keele subway station. Their website boasts of fifteen beers on tap, an extensive scotch list and the 'best' Irish whiskey selection in town.
Our dinners from the main menu were: Fish and Chips [pictured above] - Kilkenny battered fish served with chips and a bit of salad , $12.95 ; Whelan's Nachos - tortilla chips with onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, diced bell peppers, melted cheddar and Monterrey Jack Cheeses $11.95 and a side order of beef chili for an extra $3.00 ( the nachos were over-grilled and a lot of the cheese was welded to the paper lining the tray); Veggie Curry - chickpeas with veg in a hot & tasty sauce, rice and flat bread on the side. From the specials list: Seafood platter- scallops, shrimp, tuna and calamari (the calamari served in one large piece off the grill, was overwhelming. Cut it into strips or rings would have been more manageable), $12.95, and the Polynesian Chicken [pictured below], by far the best dinner of the lot, $9.95.
We were tempted by the Guinness pecan pie $4.95, apple pie and ice cream for dessert, none of which was exceptional.
Service was fairly prompt if a little brusque. We arrived at 18:00 on a Friday evening, when it was fairly quiet, but it soon got busy. The connection of the menu and ambiance to Ireland is somewhat tenuous. Food and beverage total for eight people was $229.39 before tip.
Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (3)
Food Presentation (2)
Food Quality (2)
Value for Money (2)

29. Tunisia: Djerba la Douce

Djerba la Douce
1475 Danforth Avenue
416 778 7870
(just west of Coxwell Subway station)

When I phoned ahead to make a reservation, I was told to come in after 6 pm as that's when the server started work. Everything is prepared fresh so plan on a leisurely meal. Our server recommended we start with the traditional Tunisian before dinner drink - mint tea drunk out of small glass tumblers. We order two large pots for the table, and then a third one at $6 a pot.
Our starters were:-salad grill mushwa [pictured here]- garlic, onion, peppers and fresh tomatoes blended with spices olives, bread, $4.95; salad Tunisienne - Tomato, cucumber, garlic, onion, radish and olive oil, $4.75; brique - pastry stuffed with potatoes, parsley, egg and tuna, $3.99; calamari Djerbieno - green onion, garlic, chili peppers and tomato sauce, $5.95; Shrimp la Marseillaise - grilled shrimp, garlic and tomato sauce, $7.50 and
Djerba la Douce soup - pureed vegetable soup, $4. 25. The calamari and shrimp get rave reviews.
For main courses we try: veggie couscous - carrot, chick peas, greens, cabbage on a bed of couscous $9.95; lamb couscous, $13.99, chicken merguese couscous, $12.95; lamb with mint, served with either veggies or couscous $13.95; and the trout and grouper specials.
We round out the meal with Tunisian coffee which separates in to layers and is attractively presented in glass cups, $2.75. Baklava(not overly syrupy) and "sea shells" (small round pastry shells filled with walnuts and caramel) satisfy the sweet tooths.
The Djerba la Douce serves halal food and does not have a liquor license. It's cash only as they accept neither credit nor debit cards.

Rating: Ambiance (2)
Service (2)
Food Presentation (4)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)

28. Pakistan: Lahore Tikka House

Lahore Tikka House
1365 Gerrard Street East
(between Greenwood and Coxwell)
416-406-1668

We showed up on a saturday lunchtime in what is not the most fashionable part of town - we weren't sure whether the restaurant was open as renovations were in progress. There was hammering and banging while we were there, dining in an adjacent portacabin. The new restaurant is due to open in June. An old 'tuk tuk' was parked out front- truly a slice of life!

We dined on disposable plates and cutlery, with a gratis salad starter with two dressings. We chose from a tick-off menu, placing our order at the counter. We selected a Vegetable Combo Sizzler which includes Tarka Dal (lentils), Aloo Gobi (cauliflower & potato), Chana Masala (chick peas) and Palak (spinach), $9.95; a Hefty Sizzler which includes two chicken kababs, chicken tikka and a generous portion of basmati rice, $11.25; Tandoori naan $1.25.

For this lunch no starter was required - for those seeking a light lunch I would recommend an order of 2 dishes for 3 people. The naan bread was light and not greasy. We appreciated the free parking. Due to renovations our visit did not represent 'normal' service. Total cost $30 including tip.

Rating: Ambiance (4)
Service (2)
Food Presentation (3)
Food Quality (3)
Value for Money (4)