Khai Thai To Go
(emphasis on the 'to go')
Location: 2184 Cornwall Ave. (intersection near arbutus)
Phone: 604. 677. 6767
Price: average for 2: $22
The search is still on for the perfect Pad Thai in Vancouver. I have tried many, but haven't been completely satisfied with any of them. (On a side note, if you are ever in Montreal, Cuisine Bankok, serves THE best pad thai at a whopping $7.50. It is in a food court, but the flavours and authenticity are incredible). Khai's claim to fame, in my opinion, are their curries. I have tried the pad thai twice and have will probably not order it again. It is quite blan, and a little too 'healthy' tasting for me. A good pad thai has to have depth and complex flavours, which their creamy curries do have. All of their main dishes range in price from $8-10. When I go with my boyfriend, we order one noodle (which has only ever been the pad thai) and one curry. Both the red (penang) and green curries are gorgeous. A bit of a weird way to describe them, but they are...They have rich flavours of coconut, thai basil, and fish sauce, but are balanced with a sweet, creamy texture. Khai gives you the option of ordering either white or brown rice. I thought I was a very traditional white rice eater until we paired our green curry with the brown rice option. The sauce absorbes into the rice, just as I like it, and the flavour of brown rice is much deeper and nuttier than simple white rice. It might be an illusion, but I think you get fuller faster on brown rice, therefore giving you an even better value for your dollar. The curries are paired with your choice of chicken or tofu, and chicken has been my choice both times. They fill the bowl with hearty pieces of lean chicken and a variety of perfectly cooked vegetables. I made the mistake of opting for the 'spicy' option. I know I can handle my heat, but spicy here is too spicy for my liking. A medium spice option gives you all the kick you need!
Because Khai is situated directly accross from Kits beach, it seems logical to bring a blanket, your dog, and a bottle of wine, and some paper cups to hide your wine. There is the option to dine in, but it seems crazy to me when you could sit by the beach instead. My nights at Khai were in the middle of the summer, but I wouldn't hesitate to bundle up and head to the beach in the middle of november with a warm bowl of spicy curry of course!
I'm sorry Khai, but the hunt is still on for that perfect pad thai...stay tuned.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Mexicali - Dunbar special
Mexicali
Location: 4424 Dunbar street, Vancouver (near the intersection of w.41st)
Phone: 604.731.6517
Price: Lunch for 2: $5-7, dinner for 2: $18-25
I often have strong cravings for Mexican food, but what I crave is the fresh lime, chipotle, and guacamole. Like Thai food, I haven't been able to find MY place in Vancouver where I can call my own. Mexicali just happens to be in my neighbourhood. In an area where relatively inexpensive dining is unheard of, this little murial ridden mexican spot stands alone. I like to know that the individuals cooking my food have something in common with the cuisine. I may be judging here, but I have a feeling the owners/ cook are about as Mexican as I am Chinese. Non the less, the food seems to resemble the Mexican kind...after all, what do I really know about Mexican cuisine. Anyway, this place suits us just fine...for now. The lunch specials (which you can order anytime of the day) are incredibly inexpensive. (I always want to say cheap, but it makes it sound cheap). The specials are enough of a meal to fill my boyfriend up, and come with all the fixings. I'm not sure where tater tots ever became Mexican, but in this little joint they are everywhere. I complain, but they do taste quite good dipped in their homemade salsa and sour cream. The "lunch special" is completed with a slushy limonata. This is SO good. They squeeze a fresh lime wedge into a slushy lime drink. It always hits the spot. If you are dining with 3 or more people, opt for a pitcher of limonata as it is a better value than ordering it individually. I have tried a few different dishes here. What seems to be the most harmless is the Rondondo roll-up ($6.00), which is available in beef or chicken. The two times that I have had this I have choosen chicken. They are generous with the chicken, and they use lean, big pieces. I am use to having a mash-up of chicken 'bits' in most inexpensive meals, but Mexicali is generous and healthy with their chicken. The rondondo roll-up is VERY simple, so if you have picky eaters this is a great option. A grilled tortillia is filled with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, (minimal) grated cheese, chicken or beef, and a side of sour cream and salsa.
Location: 4424 Dunbar street, Vancouver (near the intersection of w.41st)
Phone: 604.731.6517
Price: Lunch for 2: $5-7, dinner for 2: $18-25
I often have strong cravings for Mexican food, but what I crave is the fresh lime, chipotle, and guacamole. Like Thai food, I haven't been able to find MY place in Vancouver where I can call my own. Mexicali just happens to be in my neighbourhood. In an area where relatively inexpensive dining is unheard of, this little murial ridden mexican spot stands alone. I like to know that the individuals cooking my food have something in common with the cuisine. I may be judging here, but I have a feeling the owners/ cook are about as Mexican as I am Chinese. Non the less, the food seems to resemble the Mexican kind...after all, what do I really know about Mexican cuisine. Anyway, this place suits us just fine...for now. The lunch specials (which you can order anytime of the day) are incredibly inexpensive. (I always want to say cheap, but it makes it sound cheap). The specials are enough of a meal to fill my boyfriend up, and come with all the fixings. I'm not sure where tater tots ever became Mexican, but in this little joint they are everywhere. I complain, but they do taste quite good dipped in their homemade salsa and sour cream. The "lunch special" is completed with a slushy limonata. This is SO good. They squeeze a fresh lime wedge into a slushy lime drink. It always hits the spot. If you are dining with 3 or more people, opt for a pitcher of limonata as it is a better value than ordering it individually. I have tried a few different dishes here. What seems to be the most harmless is the Rondondo roll-up ($6.00), which is available in beef or chicken. The two times that I have had this I have choosen chicken. They are generous with the chicken, and they use lean, big pieces. I am use to having a mash-up of chicken 'bits' in most inexpensive meals, but Mexicali is generous and healthy with their chicken. The rondondo roll-up is VERY simple, so if you have picky eaters this is a great option. A grilled tortillia is filled with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, (minimal) grated cheese, chicken or beef, and a side of sour cream and salsa.
Friday, October 2, 2009
TEMAKI SUSHI - neighbourhood special!
I am not an adventurous sushi eater. I love almost everything I try when I'm dining on sushi, but when I think about cost vs. satisfaction, I always lean towards the rolls! Tamaki sushi is warm, friendly, and consistently delicious!
Name: Temaki Sushi
Location: 2-2156 W. Broadway (almost at the corner of Arbutus)
Phone: 604. 738. 4321 (I've memorized this number...wow)
Payment: Cash, Visa, MC
Price: Up to $30 for 2
Alcohol: YES
Hours of availablity: Closed Sundays. Mon-Sat Lunch: 11:30am - 3:00pm/
Dinner: 5:00pm - 10:00pm. Holidays: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Talk about a neighbourhood favorite. I am not the first to say that Vancouver has its pick of sushi spots around town. No matter where you are in the city, you can always find some aspect of Japanese cuisine to enjoy. Temaki has been MY spot for years. I have watched them grow from a tiny 4 table hole in the wall, to a knock-down-the-wall spacious restaurant. The owner team consists of a brother (head chef) and sister (operation manager). The other dozen or so individuals who work here never stop moving. They are efficient, polite, and Japanese. There is something immediately authentic about the staff. I think it's the Japanese welcoming statement they give you when you walk in the doors. (I still haven't fiured out what they are saying, but I do enjoy hearing it. I think it goes something like, "Hey you white girl...Welcome back") I always expect them to remember me (because I am here almost once a week), but I think I am part of a HUGE cult following that call Temaki a regular.
What I like to order: It has become my goal to order at least ONE new item every time I go. My most recent visit prompted me to try the Hamachi (Yellow tail tuna) Nigiri at $2.00/each. It was gone before I knew it. But I do remember that I liked it. I am still trying to find the balance between soy sauce and wasabi. I can never get the ratio perfect. I have recently discovered the tuna world. Whether it is tuna tail or tuna belly, I love it. I thought tuna came in one form and one form only, which is what you get inside a classic "tuna" roll. This is not the case. I always found that "type" of tuna too mushy and lacking flavour and texture. If you are willing to spend a little bit more, you too will discover the delightful world of tuna.
Sorry, what I like to order: Without looking at the menu; Chef's roll - $7.95. This roll is larger than most with 8 bite-sized pieces. It is a colourful, crunchy, sweet roll. There are bits of tempura goodness and fresh sweet mango inside and decorated with thinly sliced tuna on top. The final result of this roll relies heavily on the sweetness of the the mango, it truely makes the roll complete! I doubt a traditional Japanese roll consists of mango, but it really works here (think about pinapple on your pizza!!) As a healthy start we usually share the seaweed salad a.k.a Gommae. This is a small mountain of cold, cooked spinach carefully adorned with sweet sesame sauce (tastes like light peanut butter) and crunchy seasame seeds. YUM. Our other roll favourites include the Negitoro (which isn't on the menu, but they will make it for your without any hesitation), chopped scallop roll, spicy salmon roll, and the Kamikaze (cream cheese, avacado, crunchy cucumber, tempura bits, and salty smoked salmon grazing the top of each piece - think bagel and cream cheese without the bagel....)
If I am dining alone, which for the record I'm not very good at. I stare at people and am very self-concious (obviously something I need to work on), then I like to order the Tuna Tetaki Salad. This fresh salad offers you warm lightly seared tuna, sweet miso dressing, and crunchy fresh daicon. It's healthy without thinking you are being healthy. I think this is THE only salad I have ever ordered in a restaurant (also something I need to work on).
Name: Temaki Sushi
Location: 2-2156 W. Broadway (almost at the corner of Arbutus)
Phone: 604. 738. 4321 (I've memorized this number...wow)
Payment: Cash, Visa, MC
Price: Up to $30 for 2
Alcohol: YES
Hours of availablity: Closed Sundays. Mon-Sat Lunch: 11:30am - 3:00pm/
Dinner: 5:00pm - 10:00pm. Holidays: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Talk about a neighbourhood favorite. I am not the first to say that Vancouver has its pick of sushi spots around town. No matter where you are in the city, you can always find some aspect of Japanese cuisine to enjoy. Temaki has been MY spot for years. I have watched them grow from a tiny 4 table hole in the wall, to a knock-down-the-wall spacious restaurant. The owner team consists of a brother (head chef) and sister (operation manager). The other dozen or so individuals who work here never stop moving. They are efficient, polite, and Japanese. There is something immediately authentic about the staff. I think it's the Japanese welcoming statement they give you when you walk in the doors. (I still haven't fiured out what they are saying, but I do enjoy hearing it. I think it goes something like, "Hey you white girl...Welcome back") I always expect them to remember me (because I am here almost once a week), but I think I am part of a HUGE cult following that call Temaki a regular.
What I like to order: It has become my goal to order at least ONE new item every time I go. My most recent visit prompted me to try the Hamachi (Yellow tail tuna) Nigiri at $2.00/each. It was gone before I knew it. But I do remember that I liked it. I am still trying to find the balance between soy sauce and wasabi. I can never get the ratio perfect. I have recently discovered the tuna world. Whether it is tuna tail or tuna belly, I love it. I thought tuna came in one form and one form only, which is what you get inside a classic "tuna" roll. This is not the case. I always found that "type" of tuna too mushy and lacking flavour and texture. If you are willing to spend a little bit more, you too will discover the delightful world of tuna.
Sorry, what I like to order: Without looking at the menu; Chef's roll - $7.95. This roll is larger than most with 8 bite-sized pieces. It is a colourful, crunchy, sweet roll. There are bits of tempura goodness and fresh sweet mango inside and decorated with thinly sliced tuna on top. The final result of this roll relies heavily on the sweetness of the the mango, it truely makes the roll complete! I doubt a traditional Japanese roll consists of mango, but it really works here (think about pinapple on your pizza!!) As a healthy start we usually share the seaweed salad a.k.a Gommae. This is a small mountain of cold, cooked spinach carefully adorned with sweet sesame sauce (tastes like light peanut butter) and crunchy seasame seeds. YUM. Our other roll favourites include the Negitoro (which isn't on the menu, but they will make it for your without any hesitation), chopped scallop roll, spicy salmon roll, and the Kamikaze (cream cheese, avacado, crunchy cucumber, tempura bits, and salty smoked salmon grazing the top of each piece - think bagel and cream cheese without the bagel....)
If I am dining alone, which for the record I'm not very good at. I stare at people and am very self-concious (obviously something I need to work on), then I like to order the Tuna Tetaki Salad. This fresh salad offers you warm lightly seared tuna, sweet miso dressing, and crunchy fresh daicon. It's healthy without thinking you are being healthy. I think this is THE only salad I have ever ordered in a restaurant (also something I need to work on).
SERI MALAYSIA - My personal favorite Malaysian restaurant
I hate picking favorites, but I can't hold back with this Malaysian phenom. My brother and sister-in-law must be recognized and praised for finding this hole-in-the-wall treat. I think they found it through anothers recommendation. Apparently this is the ONLY way to dine in Vancouver.....word of mouth!
The Restaurant: SERI MALAYSIA
Location: 2327 E. Hastings, Vancouver V5L 1V6 (Intersection - Just west of Nanaimo st.)
Phone: 604. 677. 7555
Payment: Cash ONLY (lots of nearby banks)
Average cost of meal for 2: $25.00
The Review:
My family and I can't get enough of this gem. The atmosphere and decor need a major face lift, and some soft music wouldn't hurt either. Often you will walk in here and wonder why you have an overwhelming need to cough. It's because of the fresh chilli's they use in most dishes. You can sit wherever you want. At most times of the day you have your pick of the restaurant. They usually notice that you are there after about 10 minutes, and then present you with the menu's and a much needed jug of water. I have a horrible tendency to order what I already know that I love....'the usual'. It is fun when you go in a larger group because this gives you the opportunity to try lots of items! Everything is shared at this place. As good as everything is on it's own, there are SO many different dishes to taste and try. Like any restaurant I have my favorite dish. At Seri Malaysia, it is definitely the Beef Rendang. This is a rich stew-like curry that has been simmering on the stove for hours (or at least it tastes like it has). The flavours are deep and complex, with a strong emphasis on garlic and spice. It is best paired with plain rice. Another dish that we always order is the Char Kway Teow, with your choice of beef, chicken, or seafood. All options are fine, but I think the chicken is the best. This is a thick, flat noodle dish made with dark soy (darker in colour than taste), belacan (dried shrimp paste), garlic, ginger, and sugar. The sauce absorbs into the noodles, making it extremely flavourful. Growing up in Asia gave me the opportunity to try all of these dishes with the greatest of authenticity. Seri Malaysia is the closest thing to actually being in the hawker stalls in KL. If you are looking for a lighter meal, this isn't the place for you. My mum's favorite has to be the roti canai. This is a light, flaky pastry dish often ordered as an appie. It comes with a rich curry dipping sauce (which happens to be the same sauce as the Chicken curry - another great dish). This is definitely an item that is shared because even though it is light and flaky, it is fried and crisp. It is one of those items you use to to soak up all of the 'left over' sauce left on your plate. You might need a work out the morning after this meal, but whatever extra weight you are carrying around after this experience is well worth it!
If you are in a rush, this isn't always the most effecient restaurant. If you walk in and there are already a few tables sitting down NOT eatting, you better be patient. I can't emphasize enough that this meal is well worth the wait!
The Restaurant: SERI MALAYSIA
Location: 2327 E. Hastings, Vancouver V5L 1V6 (Intersection - Just west of Nanaimo st.)
Phone: 604. 677. 7555
Payment: Cash ONLY (lots of nearby banks)
Average cost of meal for 2: $25.00
The Review:
My family and I can't get enough of this gem. The atmosphere and decor need a major face lift, and some soft music wouldn't hurt either. Often you will walk in here and wonder why you have an overwhelming need to cough. It's because of the fresh chilli's they use in most dishes. You can sit wherever you want. At most times of the day you have your pick of the restaurant. They usually notice that you are there after about 10 minutes, and then present you with the menu's and a much needed jug of water. I have a horrible tendency to order what I already know that I love....'the usual'. It is fun when you go in a larger group because this gives you the opportunity to try lots of items! Everything is shared at this place. As good as everything is on it's own, there are SO many different dishes to taste and try. Like any restaurant I have my favorite dish. At Seri Malaysia, it is definitely the Beef Rendang. This is a rich stew-like curry that has been simmering on the stove for hours (or at least it tastes like it has). The flavours are deep and complex, with a strong emphasis on garlic and spice. It is best paired with plain rice. Another dish that we always order is the Char Kway Teow, with your choice of beef, chicken, or seafood. All options are fine, but I think the chicken is the best. This is a thick, flat noodle dish made with dark soy (darker in colour than taste), belacan (dried shrimp paste), garlic, ginger, and sugar. The sauce absorbs into the noodles, making it extremely flavourful. Growing up in Asia gave me the opportunity to try all of these dishes with the greatest of authenticity. Seri Malaysia is the closest thing to actually being in the hawker stalls in KL. If you are looking for a lighter meal, this isn't the place for you. My mum's favorite has to be the roti canai. This is a light, flaky pastry dish often ordered as an appie. It comes with a rich curry dipping sauce (which happens to be the same sauce as the Chicken curry - another great dish). This is definitely an item that is shared because even though it is light and flaky, it is fried and crisp. It is one of those items you use to to soak up all of the 'left over' sauce left on your plate. You might need a work out the morning after this meal, but whatever extra weight you are carrying around after this experience is well worth it!
If you are in a rush, this isn't always the most effecient restaurant. If you walk in and there are already a few tables sitting down NOT eatting, you better be patient. I can't emphasize enough that this meal is well worth the wait!
Getting Started
The Concept...
As a student in Montreal I had to be creative and innovative about the way I spent my student dollar (thanks again Mum & Dad). There was NO way I was going to eat every meal in my dinky living/dining room/ bedroom/ kitchen/ hallway (350 sq ft means that every room is one room...lovely). As adventerous as my taste buds are, I hate trying something new and being disappointed, therefore I left the guess work up to others. My boyfriend Cam and I always tried restaurants on the recommendation of someone else. Most of the time we would gauge the recommendation on their eatting habits. If we had had dinner with them in the past and they ate chicken strips and fries (a personal childhood favorite) then we would probably skip their idea. BUT, if we had been to their house and they whipped up a "curry" concoction then we would probably take them seriously when they told us about a new thai place they had discovered.
We also (actually Cam) discovered a sweet little book entitled "Cheap Thrills" which promoted and documented cheap restaurants in Montreal from all corners of the world. The index allowed you to think of an ethnic craving then look up the area you were in, therefore narrowing your seach to your specific area. Although it ususally didn't matter where this restaurant was because the Metro system in Montreal is fantastic. This book allowed us to dine without the surprise bill at the end. We knew before we entered the place that the restaurant was going to be within our budget. Cheap thrills also recommended different dishes, whether it be the "house specials" or the writters personal favorite. Like a cook book where you highlight and write your own notes in the margin, I began documenting my notes and ideas in the margin. If you have never done this before, it is extremely satisfying. I love going back and seeing the date I tried the restaurant, and what I exactly thought of my experience. (A mature journal if you would...) My mum taught me this trick while you are cooking, so that you always know how to improve the recipe. Whether you need to keep it in the oven for 3 extra minutes or add an extra 1/2 a cup of chocolate chips for a more decadent cookie, it always helps to write about your trials. Thanks mum!!
So, I left Montreal after I graduated from Concordia University in 2007. I had to come back to Vancouver. Even though I started a full time job at the Pan Pacific Hotel (I no longer work there.....eh hem) I still wanted to make my hospitality dollar go a long way. Whether you have a full-ish bank account or not, it always feels good to love what your eating without spending a fortune. I've discovered that there is a more affordable option to every type of food experience.
This is where I am going to document and 'blog' about my Vancouver experience with food. Maybe this isn't such an orignal idea in the city, but I still haven't found an outlet where "inexpensive" restaurants are critiqued and promoted for all those budget concious foodies. The concept is that all couples OR individuals should and CAN enjoy a meal out for under $30. (Unfortunately alcohol, tip, and tax often get in the way of keeping your costs down). So, the idea and the goal....2 can dine for under $30!! If you don't think this is possible...keep reading and start eating.
Enjoy...
As a student in Montreal I had to be creative and innovative about the way I spent my student dollar (thanks again Mum & Dad). There was NO way I was going to eat every meal in my dinky living/dining room/ bedroom/ kitchen/ hallway (350 sq ft means that every room is one room...lovely). As adventerous as my taste buds are, I hate trying something new and being disappointed, therefore I left the guess work up to others. My boyfriend Cam and I always tried restaurants on the recommendation of someone else. Most of the time we would gauge the recommendation on their eatting habits. If we had had dinner with them in the past and they ate chicken strips and fries (a personal childhood favorite) then we would probably skip their idea. BUT, if we had been to their house and they whipped up a "curry" concoction then we would probably take them seriously when they told us about a new thai place they had discovered.
We also (actually Cam) discovered a sweet little book entitled "Cheap Thrills" which promoted and documented cheap restaurants in Montreal from all corners of the world. The index allowed you to think of an ethnic craving then look up the area you were in, therefore narrowing your seach to your specific area. Although it ususally didn't matter where this restaurant was because the Metro system in Montreal is fantastic. This book allowed us to dine without the surprise bill at the end. We knew before we entered the place that the restaurant was going to be within our budget. Cheap thrills also recommended different dishes, whether it be the "house specials" or the writters personal favorite. Like a cook book where you highlight and write your own notes in the margin, I began documenting my notes and ideas in the margin. If you have never done this before, it is extremely satisfying. I love going back and seeing the date I tried the restaurant, and what I exactly thought of my experience. (A mature journal if you would...) My mum taught me this trick while you are cooking, so that you always know how to improve the recipe. Whether you need to keep it in the oven for 3 extra minutes or add an extra 1/2 a cup of chocolate chips for a more decadent cookie, it always helps to write about your trials. Thanks mum!!
So, I left Montreal after I graduated from Concordia University in 2007. I had to come back to Vancouver. Even though I started a full time job at the Pan Pacific Hotel (I no longer work there.....eh hem) I still wanted to make my hospitality dollar go a long way. Whether you have a full-ish bank account or not, it always feels good to love what your eating without spending a fortune. I've discovered that there is a more affordable option to every type of food experience.
This is where I am going to document and 'blog' about my Vancouver experience with food. Maybe this isn't such an orignal idea in the city, but I still haven't found an outlet where "inexpensive" restaurants are critiqued and promoted for all those budget concious foodies. The concept is that all couples OR individuals should and CAN enjoy a meal out for under $30. (Unfortunately alcohol, tip, and tax often get in the way of keeping your costs down). So, the idea and the goal....2 can dine for under $30!! If you don't think this is possible...keep reading and start eating.
Enjoy...
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