Tag Archives: dining out

Little Saigon

I love pho, and I wanted to get together with friends to dine for pho. My friend knew this place since he tries to avoid MSG and their pho doesn’t use any. Their tagline is “No Msg, just TLC.”

They even have their own sauce products that are made here in Abbotsford, BC.

I ordered the Large Shredded Chicken Pho $9. It came in a nice large bowl, with the sprouts and lime on a plate underneath. So with each individual order getting their own, I got to have lots (all) the sprouts

The broth was a bit light, resulting in a slightly blander taste. I used some of the sauces to give it more punch.

Sheepie ordered the Coconut Chicken Curry Stew (small) $10.95 with rice. It came with huge pieces of carrots , though it would have been nice to have them chopped up into bite-sized. I tried a few pieces, and the curry flavour was ok.

Service was really good, considering the girl was running the entire front restaurant on her own. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere and an interesting mural on the back wall. I will be back to try their beef pho next time!

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Las Margaritas

Even from the outside, the purple window frames and the signage felt like you were going to Mexico. Not that I’ve been to Mexico yet, so can’t really comment on the authenticity… if it’s not authentic, then it felt like Disneyland where you entered a different world. The same feeling, or even greater continued inside with the decor and vibe.

The table tops were decorative tiles which were unique.

The complimentary chip was nice and hot. Not crumbly, and large pieces. Could have used more of their delicious salsa sauce. Seriously, I was thinking of ordering an actual additional plate of the chips and sauce.

I ordered the Polle Chipotle $15.75. With two boneless big chicken chunks that are gilled and topped with their chipotle cream sauce and mushrooms and sprinkled with feta cheese. There is a small salad on the side, with beans that were bland. I jumped onto this dish because of the chipotle. I love chipotle sauce, and was reminising about Chiptole (the chain)’s flavour. It wasn’t as distinct, and in fact, was a bit jealous of Sheepie’s dish.

Sheepie had the Crap Enchiladas $15.50 with two soft tortilllas that were filled with rock crab, sauteed mushrooms, onions, cilantro and white wine. It was completely covered in cream sauce and cheese with rice and house salad on the side. I tried a bit of his, and wish I had ordered the same! It was really good. Loads of flavour, and the melting cheese and sauce was so good.

Our server was very friendly. Prices are fair and each dish leaves you really full and satisfied. Will be back!

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Earls on Hornby

The three of us sat in the C-shaped booth on Chinese New Day for a late lunch. The restaurant was spacious with modern decor.

I was impressed that all the cutlery were engraved with the Earl’s ‘e’ on the handle. I ordered the Grilled Chicken Caesar $15. You had an option of choosing cajun or hot garlic chicken. I chose cajun. I was quite surprised with the size. It came on a large plate, though mostly all romaine. The leafy greens were fresh and crisp. There were a couple of croutons. I like the shredded cheese that blanketed the leafs like snow. The dressing was really good. The chicken were a bit burnt, but flavourful. The bread was crumbly and dry. I’m not a fan of bread, though I do love most complimentary buns that come out at finer restaurants at the beginning. I was also already full when I had finished the salad and chicken, so I only had a bite from the bread.

Service was satisfactory and the price was fair. The restaurant was clean and laid back. Washrooms are on the second floor.

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