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3320 Midland Ave, Toronto ON 416-332-0288 Map Approx $20 per person Local Food? some local ingredients Local Wine/Beer? very small selection |
Lunch, Dinner Mon to Sun: 11am to 2am |
Chinese cuisine has always enticed gourmets with its distinctive flavors and infinite varieties. Obviously there’s no shortage of Chinese cuisine in Toronto, to the point where it’s practically a staple.
I was introduced to this little joint for some really late night snacking. Fantasy is more Cantonese than Hunan or Szechuan (albeit there were a few Szechuan dishes) or Mongolian. I suppose out of all of China’s vast geography and culinary history, that of Canton has been the most famous.
The atmosphere is tacky; a messy mix of Ikea accessories, and gaudy artwork. There’s even a faux white picket fence by the windows, giving the illusion that you’re well protected by the busy road on the east side of the restaurant. Its very lively, and its can be very, very busy. But such is common with Chinese dining.
As I said, they also have some Szechuan dishes. The Szechuan beef, shrimp and chicken are all great choices. I’ve sampled all of them and would definitely recommend them if your stomach can handle the attack. The spiciness of the food tells of locally grown chilies and the inclinations of the local palate, though some say the spices are used to mask the taste of foods that rot quickly in the heat.
My favourite dish at Fantasy is the Tenderloin beef, stripped and sizzled with onions, garlic and black pepper. It comes to your table sizzling on a hot plate and melts in your mouth. It makes a perfect meaty garnish on some steamed rice or Malaysian style friend rice. The best introduction to any meal at Fantasy is the Chicken Corn soup. Order a small bowl and sample it. It’s rich, thick with chicken and has a slight sweet tinge for those that like your corn soup that way. Another great appetizer is the Deep Fried Shrimp. Now this is something I’ve ordered almost every time I’ve been to Fantasy. Deep fried jumbo shrimp in garlic, green peppers, black peppers and various spices. Put aside the scale and dig in. The kitchen is fastidious and efficient so you won’t have to stare at the other tables for too long.
Avoid Fantasy on the weekends, unless you like standing in a queue for a table. The wait can get quite lengthy. Take out is served under 15 minutes!
Other memorable dishes have been the Mixed greens with garlic. The deep fried Crab is mouth watering and I keep promising to give it a try. My best friend swears by the fried ½ chicken.
So if you’re around the area, or you’re looking for some really good Chinese, check it out. Dinner for two with plenty of food will run you under $30.
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