Chimichanga Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar
70 Yorkville Ave.
416-546-1246
www.chimichanga.ca
Rating: **** 1/2
Dinner & drinks for 2: $45
It’s across the street from Pusateri’s? Well la di da.
But actually, the new and second location for Chimichanga is not posh at all.
Beneath street level, it appears forlorn, but who cares about what it looks like with food like this.
Our server brings a basket of complimentary, just-made, hot tortilla chips and a deep bowl of homemade salsa — bright chilies, fresh tomatoes — while we peruse the menu, which is a nice touch. We can’t stop ourselves — we obliterate the chips and there’s still salsa left despite our double-dipping. When have you had your dip outlast your chips?
The Fresh Snapper Ceviche ($13.99) reveals fresh, firm and rich snapper, marinated in lime and topped with a refreshing avocado-cucumber salsa. Though our server brings another serving of chips, the fish is alluring all on its own.
The seafood fest continues with Baja Fish Tacos ($11.99). Breaded Pacific whitefish is tucked under thick layers of fresh guacamole, cheese, guajillo sauce and a tangy baja dressing. It’s a messy, delicious delight.
The key here is how vibrant and fresh everything is. This is not the Mexican food you’ve come to know through sad chains.
This right here is the good stuff.
Dining out
Winter Dining
Winterlicious, the city’s biggest food event of the year, is almost upon us. From Jan. 29 through Feb. 11, participating restaurants offer fixed price menus ranging from $15-$25 lunches and dinners for $25-$45. Details at www.toronto.ca/special_events/wintercity/2010/
Good and Cheap
It’s not often that you hear of a restaurant reducing its prices, but Crystal Rolls (372 Bloor St. W.) has done just that! Now all of its Pan-Asian dishes are priced under $10. Not only is it affordable food, but it’s darn good. Dine in, take out or get it delivered — go online at www.crystalrolls.com or call 416-921-6787.
