Asian Adventures Photostream: Hong Kong & Singapore

Posted on June 23, 2015 by crystalcarwin

What exactly does it mean to travel? Depending on the situation, travel can mean exploration, reconnection, growth, experience, relaxation or any number of things.

This past May, I spent three weeks in the city of Hong Kong with four and a half days in the middle touring the small island country of Singapore (it’s just 34 square kilometers bigger than Edmonton). Under any other circumstance, you would not find me traveling to Asia in the spring or summer. I typically find the kind of heat during that time of year – highs of 30 to 40 degrees Celsius including 80 to 90 per cent humidity – to be completely unbearable. However, in the name of family, I succumbed and flew with my parents to Hong Kong to celebrate my cousin’s wedding.

It’s unusual for me leave everything to others when I go on a trip, but I planned absolutely nothing. With all the family gatherings that would be taking place, I figured it would be pointless to get my heart set on anything specific, so I didn’t.

While we endured some flight delays, weather extremes and higher costs than expected, the holiday was still a success. A full three week break from my every day life was exactly what I needed. I visited with my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and my little nieces. I got some new stamps in my passport (well, only in Singapore). I ate a ton of food. Too much food, really. I did end up doing some shopping, not just window. After all, eating and shopping are major pastimes in Hong Kong. You can’t expect to go and not do either of those things. That would be impossible. By the time the trip was over, I almost felt acclimated to the heat, too. One of the best things though? I finally had a chance to test out the Fujifilm X10 camera I bought a couple of years ago.

So, this post is going to be more like a pictorial journey of my vacation. There’s a lot of food porn. But, those of you who follow this blog would expect that. Otherwise, it’s a mix of everything that I saw or did during my time there. The majority of the photos were taken on my Fujifilm camera. There are also a few here from my HTC One M8 and my mom’s Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX80 (for those times when my camera battery died). I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Personalized cans of Coca Cola in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Observation Wheel across from the IFC

A view from inside IFC Mall – one of many shopping complexes in HK.

Sushi at sen-ryo

Look at all those plates for the sushi train!

Dessert at the agnès b. cafe

A store devoted to the beloved character, Totoro!

A gorgeous dress from Jessica

Lunch at a Zelo included this amazing smoked salmon from the salad bar

An interactive shoe exhibit inside Pacific Place

The department store windows of Harvey Nichols rivals what you’d find in NYC

Green Tea Listerine was a change

Lounging over drinks and cheese with my cousin

Hanging out at Repulse Bay for dinner

Pad Thai from Spices

Masala lamb from Spices

A view of the Hong Kong skyline from my grandma’s condo

A tree spotted while waiting for the bus

Stan Cafe in Stanley Plaza

My dad

Cheese platter at Stan Cafe

The view of Stanley (Chek Chue) from the 5th floor of Stanley Plaza

The Lovers’ Terrace at Stanley Plaza

Notes on The Lovers’ Terrace at Stanley Plaza

Another view of Stanley from the main waterfront with Blake Pier

McDonald’s Black/White menu seems to be an Asian thing from what I’ve seen

Dressed up teens everywhere! It must have been graduation time.

Outside of a temple in Stanley Plaza

A woman praying outside of a temple in Stanley Plaza

The boats in the main street waterfront at Stanley

The main street waterfront in Stanley. It looks like there’s lots of trash in the water, but there are two really nice beaches – one on the east and one on the west side.

Painting name cards – common in the markets, but never gets old!

Painting name cards

Traditional looking stamps at Stanley Market

Another view of Stanley

A view from Blake Pier in Stanley

My parents and their friends standing on Blake Pier

Lunch at Simplylife

This was kind of random, but I’m pretty sure this is part of a pet store.

Trying to capture a serious photo of these movers, but that guy in the orange caught me!

Kee Wah Bakery’s delicious cakes and sweets

A view of Happy Valley from my aunt and uncle’s home

A quote from the walls of Greyhound Cafe…so true.

More pad Thai

A leather embosser at Log-On

The shoe samples I loved so much that I had pairs custom made for me!

Here’s the damage from GiGi Shoes.

Back at the Hong Kong International Airport to catch a flight to Singapore

Seen at the airport book store. Still haven’t bothered to read these, but I guess they’re too racy to keep unwrapped.

A child eagerly awaiting his flight

Watching our plane being unloaded and cleaned before boarding

I love seeing the view during takeoff!

Flowing raindrops from the moving art sculpture, Kinetic Rain, at the Singapore Changi Airport.

A cartoon sign telling people what not to do with the Kinetic Rain sculpture.

Sitting across from a man at the Changi Airport. I liked his shoes.

Heinz Chili Sauce is “Asia’s Hot Flavour”

I never tried these, and I’m sad about it.

Outside the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

A jogger runs along the promenade outside the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – crazy man!

Din Tai Fung is everywhere, but always busy. They’re apparently famous for soup dumplings. One day!

Inside the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Lots of celebrity chef restaurants. Daniel Boulud was one of them. I know him from this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC4OqdZElX8.

Cut by Wolfgang Puck

An aerial view of the Gardens at the Bay from the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel

A beautiful tropical tree

The Marina Bay Sands hotel is famous for this rooftop pool

The tasting menu of Ku De Ta, located on the roof of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel

David Beckham is a spokesperson for Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Flowers outside of the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

A promenade outside of the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

The serious sushi chef at HY California

Bento box at HY California

A lotus pond outside of the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

The Singapore Flyer

A reflection of the ArtScience Museum in Singapore

A view of Marina Bay Sands Hotel from outside the Shoppes

A bridge and the Singapore Flyer

Metal in Singapore

Another promenade outside the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. This one’s near the top floor.

Trees with giant pods

The Gardens by the Bay

The Singapore Flyer and the Gardens by the Bay

Tropical trees at Gardens by the Bay

The Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay!

Is this a baby pigeon? It kind of looks like one, but I might be wrong. If not, has one ever seen a baby pigeon?

Leaving the Supertree Grove to head into the domes at Gardens by the Bay.

Inside the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay

Inside the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay

Lego plants!

Heading back towards Marina Bay Sands after our trek through the Gardens at the Bay.

The Supertree Grove at night

Singapore’s Chinatown

Apparently this Rucksack hostel is a really good place to stay in Singapore

Souvenirs at the market in Singapore’s Chinatown. That cutout near the bottom looks like me!

Restaurants and street food vendors in Singapore’s Chinatown

The market in Singapore’s Chinatown

The market in Singapore’s Chinatown and the temple next door

Outside the temple in Singapore’s Chinatown

Decorations outside the temple in Singapore’s Chinatown

Walking from Chinatown to Clarke Quay

I don’t remember what this restaurant was, but it’s apparently a must try.

Some of the buildings in Singapore are quite unique. I’m pretty sure that Park Royal is a hotel.

Locks of Love are everywhere!

Clarke Quay in Singapore

Lunch at Swissbake

A temple in Singapore’s Little India

Snacks at Honeymoon Dessert

Honeymoon Dessert in Singapore (better than in HK)

Art inside ION Orchard mall in Singapore

Art outside ION Orchard mall in Singapore

ION Orchard mall in Singapore

The start/finish line for a run at the SEA Games Singapore 2015

Singapore’s first sustainable urban farming project

Walking around the grounds of the Singapore Flyer

A view from underneath the Singapore Flyer

Fish pedicures in a spa at the Singapore Flyer

The bus driving up to Sentosa, an island resort in Singapore

We saw a Chili’s and it was Wednesday BOGO free drinks, but, man, they were expensive! More than double what it costs at home (their dollar is pretty much equal to the Canadian dollar).

On the grounds of Resorts World Sentosa

A fun version of Singapore’s mascot, the Merlion.

Ships displayed outside the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa. This little guy was playful.

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa. Dori!

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa. This one looks scary.

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

Fish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa. Nemo!

The hilariously playful divers inside the giant tank at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa.

Jellyfish at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

An octopus at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa. Someone behind me used flash and scared him.

A happy sting ray at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

A leafy seadragon at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

A seahorse at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

Seahorse with intertwined tails at the S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa

Back in the main area of Singapore

Dinner at Thai Express. This soft shell crab was amazing!

Sticky rice with mango from Thai Express.

The Singapore skyline.

A picture of a guy taking pictures.

The Singapore skyline as it gets darker

The merlion spouting water over the waterfront

More merlions

A night view of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Shoppes and ArtScience Museum before their (sort of sad) light show started.

Another night view of the Singapore skyline.

One of the bridges near the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore

Good quote at this bakery

Back in Hong Kong at another meal with several courses. These were just the appetizers.

At my cousin’s hair ceremony. This takes place the night before one’s wedding.

A pretty tea set

My cousin’s traditional outfit worn for the tea ceremony the morning of her wedding.

My uncle’s Picasso

All ready for the tea ceremony to start

My nieces

The bridesmaids waiting around

Games for the groom and his men

A good luck charm

The tea ceremony is underway!

Ready for the wedding!

High tea at Mango Tree

Thai style high tea

Thai style high tea – desserts

Thai style high tea – salads

Thai style high tea – meat

I want to say this was the Valentino window display at Elements

Shoes at Titikaka in the Olympian City mall

A view of Hong Kong from The Peak

Pastries at Simplylife

More Honeymoon Dessert in Hong Kong

More Honeymoon Dessert in Hong Kong – Strawberry Sago

Jewelry at the Homeless store inside the Eslite bookstore in Hysan Place

Midday sushi snack at Shiro in Hysan Place

Shiro is known for their Crystal Sushi, which incorporates flavoured jellies with the sushi

Midday sushi snack at Shiro in Hysan Place

The sushi chef creating a combination plate

Midday sushi snack at Shiro in Hysan Place. Our stack of plates isn’t that bad!

Shiro in Hysan Place

Just arrived at Hong Kong Disneyland

At painted wall inside the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

A chandelier inside the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel. Look closely to find a surprise!

Do I feel like a princess yet?

A child’s balloon in the halls of the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

The grounds outside the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

Dim sum at the Crystal Lotus restaurant inside the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

Who knew about Mickey Mouse’s teddy bear?

The grounds outside the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

The grounds outside Disney’s Hollywood Hotel. This makes up the lack of a photo of the real Hollywood sign when I was in L.A. this February.

A bird

A white butterfly

Mickey, Mickey, Mickey

Hong Kong Disneyland

Mickey riding the waves of a whale’s water spout

Thanks for visiting Hong Kong Disneyland!

Children playing with their Disney balloons

A handle on the train that takes you to and from Hong Kong Disneyland

A digital menu at Itacho Sushi.

Rolls at Itacho Sushi

Assorted sashimi at Itacho Sushi

Dinner at the Racing Club. Tasting menu by Chef Shaun Anthony.

Yupi candies!! Thanks to my uncle, I came back with a suitcase full of gummy worms and berries.

Our last dinner in Hong Kong, courtesy of my cousin Kelvin and his wife Kelly.

A pool of oil on a plate while having family lunch at the Jockey Club. Go figure. It looks like a horse head.

Lunch at the Jockey Club

Crystal’s Double Dozen: A Born and Bred Edmontonian’s Top 24 Eateries for 2014

Posted on December 31, 2014 by crystalcarwin

This year I decided to start tackling The Tomato‘s 100 best eats in Edmonton for 2013 and 2014 (once the second year’s was released in March). It pushed me to try a number of local places I had heard about and hadn’t yet made it to, and it also encouraged me to stop at quite a few restaurants that weren’t originally on my radar or on either list. Working my way through as many establishments as I could on the lists, I was inspired to compile my own.

My selections for the top Edmonton eateries are based on the 80 or so restaurants I was able to fit in within the past 12 months. The only stipulation to be a contender for the list is that you’re some sort of food establishment. I believe that whether it is family run, an entrepreneurial business or part of a franchise, it shouldn’t predetermine how good they are perceived to be. I have had amazing meals at chain restaurants, subpar dishes at independently owned eateries and vice versa.

If you already frequent my picks for 2014, you know why they’ve been chosen. But, if these are new to you, I hope this article urges you to get out and take a chance on something different in 2015.

Cibo Bistro interior, salumi, arancini and mezzaluna pasta.

1. Cibo Bistro
An Italian restaurant that is similar to the much lauded Corso 32, the kitchen’s creations blew me away. It’s slightly larger than Corso, their arancini is better, the cured in-house salumi is to die for, and the fresh pasta has the perfect bite.

Review of Cibo Bistro

Dinner at Three Boars Eatery

2. Three Boars Eatery
This tapas style establishment has an ever-changing menu that is meant to be shared. If you can catch them, the lamb neck croquette, roasted beet and carrot salad, oka tart and the pork belly are highly recommended.

Review of Three Boars

Rostizado’s Mexican rosticeria is one of Edmonton’s newest hot spots.

3. Rostizado
One of Edmonton’s newest additions, this sit-down rosticeria has changed the landscape of Mexican cuisine in the city. A great place for gatherings, the platter of 2 consisting of juicy and tasty roasted Four Whistle Farms pork and chicken creates a family-like atmosphere during your meal. To top off your lunch or dinner, make sure to order the caramel flan.

Review of Rostizado

Clockwise from top: Rosso Pizzeria’s ricotta, Japonais Bistro’s matcha crème brûlée and Canteen’s duck breast.

4. Japonais Bistro
Their traditional bento box includes everything a sushi lover would want to satisfy any cravings. I’m also a big fan of matcha flavoured anything, and their match crème brûlée begs for a second, third and even fourth helping.

Review of Japonais Bistro

5. Canteen
Situated along 124 Street, it is located among numerous other eateries that are making names for themselves. However, if you’re a fan of duck, this is where I have found some of the best. Canteen’s duck breast was the most tender I have ever had. It was also beautifully plated, so you’re not only eating with your mouth, but also your eyes.

Review of Canteen

6. Rosso Pizzeria
The wood-fired pizza crust is both crispy and chewy as it should be. The ricotta with olive oil is indulgent, but still light, and the green olives were so tasty that they will make those who aren’t fans fall in love. The homemade gelato – pistachio, banana cinnamon and Mayan chocolate are wonderful – is a rich and refreshing finish.

Review of Rosso Pizzeria

Clockwise from top: The Common’s duck confit, Wildflower Grill’s gnocchi and Woodwork’s stocked bar.

7. The Common
This hipster hangout has a number of of-the-moment dishes to match. Go for the chicken and waffles – one of the best renditions available in Edmonton – or the unique tandoori calamari.

Review of The Common

8. Woodwork
The second you step foot into this restaurant, you’re overcome with the scent of wood-fired cooking. Their cornbread is delicious, the dill sausage is worth a second visit, the cocktails made by their master bartenders are strong, and the desserts are simple yet decadent.

Review of Woodwork

9. Wildflower Grill
With a menu that is split into small and large plates, it’s a great place to go to cater to parties that have a mix of petite appetites and those with bigger ones. This also allows for groups to sample a variety of items. The food is rich though, so you won’t leave hungry. Do try the three mushroom ravioli.

Review of Wildflower Grill

Clockwise from left: Tres Carnales’ al pastor quesadillas, Cactus Club Cafe’s beef carpaccio and Duchess Bake Shop’s key lime tart.

10. Tres Carnales
This is Mexican street food at its finest. Every time I have been to this establishment, the service has been quick and the food has been fantastic. The guacamole is a tasty starter for the table (I love it even though it contains cilantro). The various aguas – flavoured waters – are a must to quench your thirst on a hot day. If you ever have the chance to eat them, get the duck tacos! They are stellar, but a rarity nowadays. The al pastor quesadilla is a close second.

Review of Tres Carnales

11. Cactus Club Cafe
Sometimes chain restaurants get a lot of flack, but, while Cactus Club venues across western Canada serve the same menu, they treat each location as separate entities working under a shared culture. What we are now witness to are establishments that are more popular than ever because they cater to the cool as well as the foodie. I have yet to have a disappointing meal at the WEM and Jasper Avenue eateries. The dishes that keep me coming back include the beef carpaccio and the BBQ duck clubhouse.

12. Duchess Bake Shop
Their beautifully packaged rainbow coloured macarons are dainty little treats that sometimes come in interesting flavours – rose pops to mind – that have to be sampled. The key lime tart is the dessert for those who enjoy sweet and tangy combinations.

Review of Duchess Bake Shop

Clockwise from top: Under the High Wheel’s gnocchi, The Cavern’s cheese and charcuterie board for two and Select’s gnocchi fondue.

13. Under the High Wheel
This adorable little cafe decorated with vintage furniture is a lovely place to converse over brunch. Go for the savoury Belgian waffles that are topped with smoked salmon. The gnocchi with mint pesto is delectable, too.

Review of Under the High Wheel

14. Select
I haven’t been since the restaurant apparently underwent a renovation at the end of the summer. However, it looks as though their menu remains the same, thank goodness. The gnocchi fondue paired with prosciutto wrapped apple wedges is so boozy that it feels decadent, and the chicken masala perogies provide an unexpected flavour, but a very pleasant one at that.

Review of Select

15. The Cavern
Giving you the option to select wine in 3 oz. or 6 oz. glasses and the chance to build your own cheese and charcuterie boards that are healthy and filling, you’ll be surprised to find that you don’t actually require anything else. With cheese, meat, nuts, dried fruit, jellies and bread, this is a meal in itself. If it’s available, the Comte cheese is particularly good.

Review of The Cavern

Clockwise from top: Corso 32’s chocolate torta, The Glass Monkey’s beets salad and Izakaya Tomo’s oyster ponzu.

16. Corso 32
A tad overhyped, but the food is still really well made. The fried short rib was incredibly tender and flavourful and worked as a meal on its own. The portion sizes of the appetizers and sides are surprisingly large and excellent for passing around the table. For dessert, the chocolate torta with candied hazelnuts is so rich and has just the right amount of bitter balanced with the sweet.

Review of Corso 32

17. The Glass Monkey
This place has gotten mixed reviews, but I enjoyed my meal there. Carrying on with some of the Jack’s Grill (its predecessor) favourites, the beef carpaccio was awesome and, as served, there was no need for accompaniments nor were any provided. Also, everything I saw being brought to surrounding tables looked so good. And, no, don’t order the wine because it’s pricey, but do have a beer. The service received was great as well.

Review of The Glass Monkey

18. Izakaya Tomo
It’s all about lingering over a bunch of shared plates all evening long. Must tries here include the crispy tako yaki (octopus balls), oyster ponzu and the prawn spring rolls!

Review of Izakaya Tomo

Clockwise from left: Sugarbowl’s exterior, Watari’s maki rolls, and Tropika’s pad Thai, sambal bunchies and home style chicken.

19. Sugarbowl
The number one reason to visit this Edmonton staple is the cinnamon bun. Hands down this is one of the best out there; it’s also one of the most refrained as it entirely does away with cream cheese icing (I know, I never would have thought that would have been okay until I ate their cinnamon bun). The only thing is you have to get there early because they sell out. Stay through lunch for their lamb burger.

Review of Sugarbowl

20. Watari
One of the few all-you-can-eat sushi restaurants in the city, and it’s good sushi at that! Sashimi is included with lunch and dinner, and the fish is fresh. There are also a few specialty rolls on the menu along with dishes like beef tataki and ponzu muscles. You get two hours to dine. With the quick turnaround, you’ll have no problem getting your fill and then some.

Review of Edmonton AYCE Sushi

21. Tropika
This Malaysian and Thai establishment is a staple for me and my family. The pad Thai rocks and the satay peanut sauce can go with pretty much anything they serve. For lunch, the combos (available at the west end location…not sure about the south side) are a great value – three pre-selected items and a side of rice – that are super filling and oh so tasty.

Review of Tropika

Clockwise from left: The Art of Cake’s mini cupcakes and cookies, The Parlour’s truffle and short rib pizzas, and Absolutely Edibles’ waffles with the works.

22. The Art of Cake
Seriously, what can’t they bake here? The cupcakes, slab cakes, cruellers, and shortbread cookies have ensured that I probably gained 5 pounds this last half of the year. No matter though, every bite was worth it.

Review of The Art of Cake

23. The Parlour Italian Kitchen & Bar
Part of the Century Hospitality Group, this place exceeded my expectations. Their signature thin crust pizza flavours are different than the norm – the truffle was especially good. The prices during Monday to Friday happy hour (3 to 6pm) really can’t be beat, and, if you still have room, the desserts are worth it.

Review of The Parlour

24. Absolutely Edibles (Closed)
The brunch menu is fabulous with massive portions that you just can’t stop eating. The waffles with the works (breaded chicken) are my top choice, but there’s no wrong decision when it comes to any of their options. I will tell you to be wary of leaving saucy items on top of the waffles though. If they’re left to sit too long, your waffles will become soggy!

Review of Absolutely Edibles

Happy New Year and Happy Eating! See you in 2015!

Edmonton Restaurant Review: Hoang Long Casual Fare

Posted on August 13, 2014 by crystalcarwin

My vermicelli bowl from lunch. This is the only photo I took. I don’t know why I didn’t take more pictures that day…

Hoang Long has had many incarnations in Edmonton over the years. One was the massive, can’t miss, bright yellow flagship restaurant that was situated along 170 Street and 100 Avenue. I’d only been there once before they closed that location, but it certainly had a more traditional Asian feel to it with the rattan chairs and the bamboo decor. Their other establishment, Hoang Long Noodle House, opened in West Edmonton Mall right next to the interior doors to T&T Supermarket. Catering to the many customers that find themselves hungry after a long day of shopping, it’s meant for a quick meal. The newest addition to the Hoang Long family takes fast to a new level. Created with an almost cafeteria-like idea in mind, it was nothing like I imagined it was going to be.

I, in no way, am disappointed with what I saw though. I’m just surprised that this is the way they decided to go. However, their decision makes sense when you take into account where Hoang Long Casual Fare (@HoangLongcf) is situated as well as the restaurant’s full name. Located in one of the commercial spaces at the bottom of the Mayfair Village building on 109 Street south of Jasper Avenue, the establishment is a looker that caters to the business crowd. With high ceilings, modern furniture and light, airy colours, aesthetically, it’s quite pleasing to the eye. It’s comfortable, clean and convenient, too. They have an open kitchen where they’ll make your meals for you as soon as you order and they also have prepackaged foods such as salad rolls. The concept is that you order and pay at the till and then receive one of those notifiers that buzz when your food is ready, letting you know it’s time to pick up from the counter. You have the option to stay and eat there or take your food to go.

The vermicelli bowl lunch menu.

My friends and I made our way there from work over lunch hour about a couple months ago. Craving vermicelli bowls, I was excited to try out their new venue. We went later in the afternoon, so it wasn’t that busy. After deciding what each of us wanted, our food was ready within minutes. Delighting in the fact that it was a relatively warm day, we found ourselves a spot on their small patio (Yeah! They have one!). While the view isn’t of anything spectacular and it was slightly overcast that day, it’s still good to know that there’s the option to soak in some sun there. If the weather isn’t cooperating, the large windows let plenty of light into the interior, so don’t fret.

The vermicelli bowls were really tasty. The grilled beef that accompanied my noodles was delicious. Cooked in soy sauce, lemongrass, garlic and sugar, it had that unmistakable flavour. I also very much liked the texture of the beef as it had some bite, but was still pretty tender. They also give you an ample serving of fish sauce for the noodles – important so that everything is well coated and adds to the overall profile of the dish. The spring rolls, which I chose as my second topping were fried perfectly, so that the outside stayed nicely crisp even until the end of my meal. My bowl completely satisfied my craving for their Vietnamese and Thai food.

Another beef vermicelli bowl. Photo Credit: Hoang Long website

A beef and shrimp vermicelli bowl. Photo Credit: Hoang Long website

The many options at Hoang Long Casual Fare. Screenshot from the Hoang Long website.

The patio space. Photo Credit: Hoang Long website

Photo Credit: Hoang Long website

The exterior of the restaurant. Photo Credit: Hoang Long website

While I didn’t have one, they also had an enticing dessert case filled with individual cakes and macarons that are made in-house. My friend took a piece of chocolate mousse cake to go and she said it was alright. I’ll have to see for myself sometime as I know taste can be selective and dependent on the person, but I’m glad for the additional opinion.

Regardless, I would certainly recommend Hoang Long for their classic menu items and so do the readers of The Tomato. The establishment was voted into the No. 46 spot on the magazine’s list of 100 best eats and drinks in the city for 2014 and they rarely, if ever, steer people wrong when it comes to food! Cited on the list as a favourite is the restaurant’s lamb curry dish, so next time I’m there I’ll have to give that a go. And, being that it’s so close to the office, I can see this becoming a regular hangout either for lunch or even after work.

One quick thing to note is that, although Hoang Long Casual Fare is similar to a fast food joint during the day, they do offer full service dining during supper hours. If it’s anything like their original restaurant, I’m sure they’ll offer a great dinner experience for their patrons.

For a more in-depth look at the establishment’s involvement in the community and its efforts towards sustainability visit The Local Good to read my profile of Hoang Long Casual Fare.

Edmonton Restaurant Review: Wild Tangerine (CLOSED)

Posted on June 19, 2014 by crystalcarwin

The restaurant’s tag line.

I had been to Wild Tangerine (@goWildTangerine) years ago, visiting after hearing many excellent reviews. While the experience at the time was great, for some reason, even though I kept telling myself to go back, I never did. Fast forward to the beginning of this month and I came across a Twitter post or perhaps a quick news snippet announcing the impending closure of the restaurant on June 21. I was shocked to hear that such a successful and loved establishment was deciding to shutter their business after 10 years, especially when siblings Judy and Wilson Wu’s passion for food has continued to shine so brightly (voted by readers into the No. 19 spot on The Tomato‘s list of 100 best eats and drinks in Edmonton in 2014 and No. 22 in 2013).

So, upon learning of the countdown to the restaurant’s final day, I immediately texted my friend and asked if she wanted to join me there for supper the following week. When she agreed that we should definitely make a point of going before it was too late, I reserved us a table and we were off to the races.

The interior of Wild Tangerine

Walking into the brightly lit and colourful space, it hadn’t changed much since my first meal there, but I could see that everything was well taken care of and had been kept in great condition. We were seated at a booth by the windows at the front, giving me a view of the entire room. Arriving a little before the dinner hour, there were only a handful of other occupied tables. However, as we dined, the restaurant was eventually filled to capacity with patrons both showing their love and wanting to indulge in one last meal that usually consisted of at least one order of their known shrimp lollipops.

Enticing as that appetizer sounded, my friend decided to go with Chef Judy’s famous Thai Green Curry with Prawns & Tortiglioni minus the seafood as she is allergic, making it a vegetarian dish. I opted to go with the Cha-Siu Organic Pembina Pork Tenderloin with Spicy Tangerine Glaze as well as a side of Gnocchi with Coconut Cream. What I love about their food is that they always serve everything with fresh seasonal vegetables, so you know you’re getting the best that producers have to offer and that the meat products are one hundred percent Alberta grain or vegetable fed in addition to being antibiotic and growth stimulant free.

My order of pork tenderloin and gnocchi with coconut cream.

I tasted a bit of my friend’s Thai Green Curry dish and the flavours were fantastic. It wasn’t overly spicy and was filled to the brim with green beans, zucchini, red peppers and eggplant. And, as we found out at the end of our supper, they were really fair in that they lowered the cost of my friend’s meal since she had asked for no prawns. They could have charged the regular price of the dish without resistance from us, but they went ahead and altered the cost in a way that was pleasantly surprising. It showed me that this is an independent business that really knows how to take care of their customers.

The Pork Tenderloin that I ordered was very good, too. The meat was, well, tender. Pork is often easily overcooked, but it was perfection here. The tangerine glaze was a nice balance to the saltiness of meat and the bok choy was another little nod to their Asian roots. Paired with the coconut cream covered gnocchi, I was easily satisfied. Of course, I still saved room for dessert, and, am I ever glad that I did!

The warm gingered bread pudding with black sesame ice cream. To die for!

When Wilson brought the dessert menu over to the table he made a quick disclaimer about the warm gingered bread pudding, saying they were now out of the typical banana ice cream and that they had replaced the usual with a black sesame seed version instead. That really didn’t matter to me. I was sold as soon as I saw bread pudding there and, truth be told, I love black sesame, so that is indeed what I went with. When the plate was placed on our table, it looked almost too good to eat. The ice cream was in this perfect little cube next to a round cylinder of the bread pudding that was encrusted with a thin layer of torched sugar like a crème brûlée. It was served with a side of blueberries and small cubes of watermelon. The whole dish was wonderful and really the best cap to my meal. The slightly gritty texture of the ice cream was a great compliment to the smoothness of the bread pudding and the fruit provided an excellent palate cleanser.

I would say that I can’t wait to go back again, but, alas, that is not to be the case this time around. Now, it’s more like I’m kicking myself for not having gone more often in the past. I don’t think I’m the only one who feels that way either. I overheard a table of ladies tell Wilson that they were sad to see the restaurant go, and although Wilson appreciated the sentiment, he wasn’t down about the idea, telling them it was just time for them to move on.

The dessert menu…everything sounded so good!

The restaurant’s logo on the cover of their menu.

The beverage I paired with my meal.

My friend’s order of Judy’s Thai Green Curry with Tortiglioni.

The good news is that Wild Tangerine will still remain in some form after June 21. Judy and Wilson will continue to manage their prepared foods business part-time, serving up items such as soups, snacks and bagged cuisine meals at the new Mother’s Market, a downtown farmers’ market that is located indoors and open year round on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 102 Avenue and 109 Street.

With that, I wish the Wild Tangerine a fond farewell. It will truly be missed by Edmonton foodies. However, the show must go on, and I give three cheers to Judy and Wilson as they take their next steps! All the best!

Edmonton Restaurant Review: Tropika Malaysian & Thai Cuisine (West)

Posted on March 13, 2014 by crystalcarwin

About two weeks ago, my friend Ashley and I braved the cold weather on the way to West Edmonton Mall to stop at Tropika Malaysian & Thai Cuisine for dinner. I’ve been going to the 149 Street and Stony Plain Road location ever since it opened. It’s a favourite of my family’s and, therefore, we eat there frequently.

Ashley and I selected the restaurant for the evening because it is one of the establishments listed on The Tomato’s 2013 list of the top 100 eats and drinks in Edmonton, coming in at number 36. While we’ve gone separately before, we had never been there as a duo, and as it is on the list we’ve currently decided to tackle, we thought it would be a great opportunity to enjoy a supper together.

The food is consistently good and the service is impeccable (the servers make sure to refill your glass of water even when it’s still half full and they come by to clear away things like cleaned off satay sticks, so your table stays clutter free), which is why it holds an 86% positivity rating on Urbanspoon.

Some of my favourites – pad Thai, sambal bunchies and Tropika homestyle chicken – amazing food, plenty to go around!

The menu at Tropika is extensive, but my parents and I have narrowed down our favourite dishes to satays (beef and lamb) with peanut sauce, Indonesian spring rolls, roti canai (Malay bread), pad Thai, sambal bunchies, Tropika home style chicken, stir-fried eggplant with chicken in Thai’s bean sauce and sayur lemak hot pot (vegetables in coconut milk).

What I love about going there for a meal (really any Asian restaurant is like this) is that it brings individuals together by allowing you to linger, converse comfortably and encourages sharing. The dishes served are meant to be split between everyone at the table, allowing you to try several items as opposed to limiting yourself to merely one or two things.

On this particular occasion, we did only end up ordering a couple of plates as it was just the two of us. Unfortunately, we did not order the sambal bunchies that were specifically singled out on the Tomato’s list. We attempted to have it made without the prawns since Ashley is allergic, but unlike the traditional sambal sauce made simply out of chili peppers, Tropika’s sauce is made using shrimp paste as well, so there was no getting around that for her. However, I can still vouch for those who voted to have it added to the Tomato’s top 100. Sambal bunchies, a mix of fried green beans, tomatoes, prawns and sambal sauce, is addictive because of the spicy flavours of the sauce mixed with the acidity from the tomato and the nice crunch of the beans.

I especially like to have the sambal bunchies with their pad Thai, which we did order this time. Again, the prawns were cooked and placed in a side dish. The stir fried rice noodles are cooked with chicken, fried tofu and egg in a Thai style sauce, topped with crushed peanuts and served with bean sprouts, lettuce and a slice of fresh lime on the side. The taste of the pad Thai is so good that sometimes my family orders two plates because one isn’t enough to go around. This evening, it was no different. One plate was plenty for the both of us, but we each probably could have eaten a whole order on our own if we wanted to indulge. Instead, we ordered two Indonesian spring rolls to complement our pad Thai.

My plate that evening out with Ashley – pad Thai and an Indonesian spring roll – so delicious!

The spring rolls are a good size, made with pan-fried chicken, Chinese mushroom and shredded jicama inside a crisp flour shell that is coated with peanuts. It comes with a side of chili sauce for dipping. I was happy to introduce this scrumptious appetizer to Ashley, and I’m pretty sure she really liked it as she told me, “I could have 20 of these. Well, I can definitely have at least 2.” When someone has eyes bigger than his or her stomach when it comes to their appetite, you know you’re on the right track.

As long as Tropika continues to serve up interesting dishes with layers of contrasting yet complementing flavours, I will continue to support the restaurant, and I’m certain that, if you try it, you will find some new menu items to call favourites as well.

Should you be unable to make it to a physical location, you can still treat yourself by having them deliver (free within a 6 km radius from their south side or west end locations and only $4 outside of those areas). Or, if you happen to be in a rush and want to get takeout on the way, you can save 10% on all orders over $30.

Have you been to Tropika before? What’s your go to dish?

Fa(shion).Fi(lm).Fo(od).tography

Tag Archives: Thai

Edmonton Restaurant Review: Hoang Long Casual Fare

Edmonton Restaurant Review: Wild Tangerine (CLOSED)

Spread the word:

Like this:

Spread the word:

Like this:

Spread the word:

Like this:

Spread the word:

Like this:

Spread the word:

Like this: