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| - O me Omei, I love me some Omei.
This is one place that is definitely worth the trip waaaayyyyyyy north of Bloor for. My family and I are regulars here, and for good reason: the seafood selection is outstanding, the dishes are fresh and flavourful, and service is wonderfully attentive.
Omei is perhaps best known for their lobster dishes, and for those seeking to enter the realm of lobster-sans-butter, it don't get better than this. On our most recent visit, we went with a 9 lb. lobster that they first bring out on a massive tray, live. It's always a reason for people to bust out their camera phones and also reminds you just how fresh the seafood is. The next time we see the big guy, he's done up 4 ways: (1) cut up "oyster" style with thin strips of green onion, (2) cooked up in a wok - or pan - in a more traditional Chinese style with the dressings (3) deep fried in batter with crispy chilies and noodle crisps - my fave, and (4) fried rice made with the delicious green "brains" of the lobster.
On the side, we had a piping hot bowl of brothy soup on a gas stove made with a whole fish, veggies, tofu, and beef strips (for the vegetarian in our clan, we ordered an all vegetarian soup), and we also indulged in some traditional white chicken with glistening bok choy on the side.
The fun doesn't stop here though - their desserts keep the party rolling. A choice of 2 dessert soups (no basic red bean to be seen here!) is served up with a plate of mini mochi balls stuffed with sesame, and another plate of delicious mango mochi-esque creations rolled in coconut. 'Cause we were there a birthday, they also went ahead and steamed a plate of traditional celebratory buns, served up with an enthusiastic English and Chinese rendition of 'Happy Birthday'.
The damage? For the 6 of us it worked out to about $50 per person with tax and tip, and we were stuffed, even 2 hours later.
Get here. Early if you can (on weekends its a full house by 7:30pm). You won't be disappointed.
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