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| - Cool experience!
GREAT food, TERRIBLE service!
I had never had Filipino food before, so wasn't sure what to expect... I think I thought it would be Thai-ish with more mango and pineapple and stuff... and I had heard about pastries... anyway, my mind was open and my tummy was empty!
The decor is awesome - Tikki-like... leaves and bamboo and such - felt much more tropical than your average North York eatery!
To note:
1. I am a vegetarian.
2. We had one in our party well-versed in the cuisine, which was very helpful in deciphering the menu.
We arrived, someone came and sat us, and unfortunately the service nightmare began there. I won't go on and on, but that's why they lost two stars. There were 3-4 staff members we saw, but it was still 15 minutes after arrival before someone even asked us if we wanted something to drink... Speaking of which, the cocktails were a nightmare too. Syrupy mixes. Ick. There was a language barrier, for sure, but our waitress had no idea what I was trying to order even when I pointed it out on the menu. I guess not many people drink here?? Anyway, the food also took an extremely long time to arrive, as did the bill. But, the food was AMAZING. Strange mix of incredible food and terrible service!
Here is what we ordered:
- Veg Spring Rolls (Lumpia Prito)
- Chicken Spring Rolls (Lumpiang Shanghai)
- Java Rice
- Garlic Chicken
- Pancit Canton (veg. version)
- Pork dish (oops I can't remember... but it was eaten up very quickly!)
We all gorged ourselves. It was soooo delicious! And it was only lunch. We rolled out the door.
SO... I am told this is very close to home-cooking in Filipino families, and I love it. The food is so tasty - not as "clean" tasting as Japanese and not as heavy as Chinese (Westernized Chinese food, I suppose). A nice change of flavours.
I will try Filipino food again, and maybe I'll try Casa Manila again, but only if it's Take Out!
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