rev:text
| - This was my first exposure to Filipino cuisine, so maybe my experience is limited, but given the limited Filipino options in Toronto in general, I do think this place is as good as it gets. Don't worry, though, they set the bar high.
Perhaps the restaurant is aware of the limited experience most non-Pinoy Torontonians have had with Filipino cuisine, so the staff are all extremely knowledgeable about their dishes and helpful with the selection.
The menu itself is varied and extensive without being cluttered. In particular, I'm a big fan of their congee-like soups which are the perfect size for one or two people. The only dish I'm not really fond of is the mango salad -- it's a little too simple, and the shrimp paste dressing a little too strong. This might just be my tastes, though, and all the ingredients looked and tasted fresh. They also have Filipino desserts and drinks, and sometimes in the summer I'll pop in just for halo-halo.
The atmosphere is warm and festive, in no small part due to the friendly staff. The clientele seems to consist of both newcomers and many regulars.
In case it wasn't obvious already, the service here is REALLY great! The higher up staff in particular are very warm and inviting. Actually, the last time I went, I ordered the lemongrass chicken leg. They were low on leg in the kitchen and knew we had already been waiting a while so served me the breast instead, even though that's a dollar more. It was a very small change, so I didn't mind at all, but they were all apologies and then took the item off of our bill! (We gave them big tips, of course.)
Only con is the food takes a while to prepare, so don't pop in here if you're in a hurry. If you have time to really relax and savour the food, though, I really recommend it!
|