rev:text
| - My business travel in Toronto became more oriented to the Markham-Richmond Hill area, and I found myself staying in a hotel across the street from a Chinese strip mall center off Leslie Street. Just returning from Beijing, I was happy to be in the middle of such an intensely Chinese area. I drove over to this mall with my business associate and started walking around. Lots of shops, restaurants, banks, grocery, etc., and this Northern Dumpling Kitchen.
I admit to a passion for these dough pockets, and figured this joint had the right name to pull us in for a taste. First glance was of a quarter circular layout with plenty of tables with window views. We took one. Cleanliness wasn't a priority here, but I was used to that coming from BJ. The menu was multiple pages of dumpling, noodle, and other options. We were here for one thing, and we ordered (over ordered) 5 kinds of dumplings - steamed, pan fried, and in soup. Good vinegar, sesame oil, and chili sauce are all part of my preparation and we asked for a generous supply, which was provided in a lot of little condiment dishes. Very cute.
Everything we tried was good to excellent. The dough was not too thick, but able to hold its contents without leakage. The pork, leek, veggie, and beef stuffings were all individually discernible, well made, without lumps or unwanted extras to bite on. The broth was served very hot and steamy. We were able to adjust the spiciness to our taste.
Bottom line - We totally enjoyed everything, and for a few moments I imagined I was in a Hutong dive eating freshly made little pockets of heaven.
|