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| - Armando's is in an area packed with lots of small independents and franchise restaurants. The diversity of cuisine and price points nearby offers up stiff competition. So what does Armando's have to offer that might entice you? I caught them on TeamBuy and the deal was just too good to resist, so I bought three of them for my own use! I must share my experiences with you.
First the pros: Getting there couldn't be easier, they're about 20 meters from the Sheppard subway stop and 50 meters from public parking lots that always have a spot available. Inside, the decor is very nice and classy, I enjoyed the mosaic and the ambiance was just lovely. Service has always been very prompt. I regret that everything aside from the ambiance and prompt service is absolutely horrific.
Cons: The menu doesn't offer anything inventive or that I haven't had at many other restaurants and wedding halls, but I guess going traditional isn't bad in and of itself, as long as it is good! The food is so bad!!!! and I really am not one to complain. The pasta: noodles are cooked to al mush and the sauce tastes it definitely came out of a can. The red sauces are all gross and sweet and the white sauce was starchy and bland. I ordered my arrosto di manzo medium rare and it came, no lies, extra well done. Upon complaining, i was told that is the only way it is served despite the server confirming my request for med rare. The sauce did not salvage anything and i had a sore jaw the next day from chewing that hockey puck. The pizza was sort of like a crispy frozen flatbread with more sweet canned sauce, I was very disturbed. Dr. Oetker's pizzas are vastly superior. Given I had three meals with a guest, we did try many more items, but I'm afraid it's all the same as above. The desserts also taste like store-bought frozen grocery store fare, with a drizzle of sauce and highly inflated price.
If you've read this, I apologize for the negativity, but I want everyone to know that this place should be avoided like hot lava. I paid half price for all my meals here given the group buys, and if I had the opportunity to buy more at 80% off, I would not! So, if you are in the area, eat anywhere but here. Only go here for a drink, the food is just that bad, the worst restaurant food I've ever eaten, and the prices are really a joke.
Bob Loblaw
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