Restaurants
The Host
Indian cuisine, like Chinese, French, Thai and Italian, is no longer fare eaten occasionally. It is definitely food that is part of the everyday - at least in my life.
A trip to the Indian Bazaar is no longer required. Several local grocery stores and even chains carry varieties of masala and parantha. Ready-made curries and Tandoori are also available in many locations.
But, there is one restaurant that stands above the take-out, pop-in-the-oven, and streamlined resto's in the city.
It is The Host.
Located in trendy Yorkville, just off of Prince Arthur - The Host is a fine Indian restaurant that serves up all the favourites and more.
The outside of the restaurant is nothing to rave about. In fact, it looks a little sketchy with a neon sign letting you know the place is open.
Upon entering however, you will be easily mesmerized by the smells floating from the kitchen. The inside is also very nice, with white linen tables and dark and rich maroon walls. Gold ornate dressings are interspersed throughout but nothing too overwhelming.
During my visit, I have vegetable samosas ($4.99) to start. Two large triangle pastries filled with a yummy potato filling.
For the main course, I have the Kofta Dilkhush ($11.99), which is paneer and ricotta cheese in a rich mild cashew curry. It is very rich and the cumin stands out smooth on palate.
I also have the Murgh Makhni ($13.99), which is their butter chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. Definitely one of the best I have ever had...(besides my best pals' mom's of course!)
Fresh nan ($2.95) was ordered, as well as some Kesri Pillaw ($4.99), which is saffron flavoured rice to complete the meal.
The meal was fabulous! But on top of it all - so was the service and atmosphere. It is definitely the place I go to when my attempt at the cuisine doesn't cut it, or when I want to eat out, opposed to ordering Indian take-out.
PS. The Host has been serving Toronto for 10 years.
The Host
14 Prince Arthur Ave.
416.962.4678
(Photo courtest of ComeUndone)
Discussion
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I highly recommend Chettinad Jhinga (or just ask the server for 'tandoori shrimp') which comes are steep price $20, but worth a shot. Rogan Josh works for the red meat lovers. Their naans are awesome too. Though I do think a restaurant for this nature can do much better. Indian food is a lot more than the standard fare these places serve all over the city.
Mind you, the branches at Square One Miss. and Richmond are no where close and I was extremely disappointed by the quality of food served. So Yorkville is the one to go for.
I filled out the comment card at the end and handed it to the manager. I even spoke with him about the slow service. He confirmed my name, number and email address but has never responded. This was 6 months ago.
Don't waste your money or time here. I guess I'm better off in places with a better price, more authenticy and flagging down waiters that will take the order.