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)