India: A Taste of India in the Nation’s Capital

Ottawa’s Indian food scene rivals Toronto’s, offering everything from North Indian thalis to Kerala fish curries and inventive spots like Second Wife Indian. At Kalinga, highlights included velvety Lasooni Palak Paneer, tender Chicken Tikka Masala, and a standout Shahi Chicken Biryani layered with peanut, cashew, and tamarind. It’s a delicious first taste of the capital’s rich South Asian flavours, and reason enough to plan a return trip. Continue reading India: A Taste of India in the Nation’s Capital

Indonesia: From Pop-Up to Full-On Heat: Sambal Has Arrived

Sambal has brought Indonesian food front and center on the Danforth, and it’s about time. From fiery sambal dips to melt-in-your-mouth beef rendang and hand-pulled noodles, the menu is small but packed with bold flavours. Go with friends, order as much as you can, and prepare for a spicy, shareable feast. Continue reading Indonesia: From Pop-Up to Full-On Heat: Sambal Has Arrived

Laos: From Toronto to Vientiane: A Culinary Trip at Lao Lao Bar

Lao Lao Bar offers a vibrant taste of Laotian cuisine 🇱🇦 in the heart of Toronto, blending traditional Southeast Asian flavours like lemongrass, tamarind, and chilies 🌶️ with a modern twist. Standout dishes include the spicy green papaya salad 🥗, caramelized pork belly stew 🍖, and Jeow Bong pineapple fried rice 🍍, all served in a warmly decorated space that transports diners straight to Laos 🏮. While the much-anticipated Leap 🥩 never arrived, the overall experience was flavorful, fun, and definitely worth a return visit 🔁✨. Continue reading Laos: From Toronto to Vientiane: A Culinary Trip at Lao Lao Bar

Jamaica: Let’s Get Tropical 

Tropical Joe’s in Gerrard Square is a no-frills, takeout-only Jamaican spot that delivers bold, authentic flavours. The jerk chicken is a standout, tender, boneless, and perfectly spiced, while dishes like jerk pork, oxtail, and chickpea curry round out the compact but delicious menu. Don’t let the food court location fool you, this place is a hidden gem worth the trip. Continue reading Jamaica: Let’s Get Tropical 

United States of America: Canadian BBQ 

Beach1 Smokehouse in Wasaga Beach serves up exceptional Texas style barbecue with standout dishes like smokey , tender beef brisket and fall apart pork ribs. Though it’s a bit outside Toronto, the quality, friendly service, and relaxed beachside vibe make it worth the trip. With generous portions, made to order meats, and a personal touch from the owner, it’s a must for barbecue lovers. Continue reading United States of America: Canadian BBQ 

Pakistan: It’s All About the Vibe! 

Jamil’s isn’t just another Pakistani restaurant—it’s a vibey hotspot ✨ that blends moody ambiance 💡, elevated cocktails 🍸, and bold, shareable flavours 🍽️. Standout dishes like the Dahi Puri 🥔, Karahi Chicken Bun 🍔, and Lamb Nihari 🍛 bring modern flair to traditional favourites. With its cool crowd 😎 and thoughtful drink menu 🍷, Jamil’s is helping put Pakistani cuisine in the spotlight—and doing it in style. 💃🏽🔥 Continue reading Pakistan: It’s All About the Vibe! 

Ireland: Introducing the Spice Bag 

The West Cork Irish Pub 🍀 brings cozy Irish charm to Queen East with hearty classics like shepherd’s pie 🥧, bangers and mash 🌭🥔, and the standout spice bag served in a paper bag 🛍️. While the atmosphere is warm and inviting—with fireplaces 🔥, darts 🎯, and friendly staff 😊—some traditional touches like Irish music 🎶 were missing. Still, it’s a solid spot for comfort food 🍽️, pints 🍻, and good company 👯‍♀️ any night of the week. Continue reading Ireland: Introducing the Spice Bag 

United States of America: The Texan Marriage of Mexico and Japan

A weekend in Austin offers more than just barbecue — fusion gems like Ramen Del Barrio 🍜🌮 mix Mexican and Japanese flavors in bold, inventive ways. Originally a humble garage project 🚗➡️🍽️, the ramen shop now draws crowds for standout dishes like the Carnitas Tonkotsu and Tako taco. With a possible move to a standalone location on the horizon 🏠✨, it’s a must-visit for adventurous food lovers looking for something unforgettable 😋🔥. Continue reading United States of America: The Texan Marriage of Mexico and Japan