"PRIDE OF THE EAST....YUMMMM"

With my addiction to italian food (although no one could ever wen me off of it!) I admit that I've neglected other tasty foods from other parts of the globe. So here I've proven that I've indeed expanded my horizons beyond the 'old country' to find that I too can find contentment in other establishments having absolutely nothing to do with my heritage.

Each time I venture out of, what I like to call 'my little pasta-pizza bubble' I always manage to find something on the menu that appeals to my discerning palette. This time it was no exception. The 'Eastern Restaurant' is as far out of the box as I've been meaning it's out in Markham. The drive is 30 minutes (Hwy 401 east, to Hwy 404, exit at 16th Avenue) but well worth it!

This place is tiny like a bachelor pad without the bachelor. Frankly, if you're looking for spacious this definitely isn't it. However, it's quaintness, friendly (and fast) service is just perfect for the complete dining experience right down to its tranquil carp tank on display. The main attraction (of course) is the awesome food and let me just say the 'Mandarin' it isn't! With no disrespect to the Mandarin, Eastern's food is freshly prepared just for you (it kinda makes you feel special) as you wait (and in record time, it only took 20 minutes) so none of the food sits under hot lights as it would in a typical buffet setting.

I ordered a 'spring roll', 'pork fried rice', 'sweet and sour chicken balls' (there were 12 in total), 'thick Shanghai noodles with beef' (with a nice kick to them, although you can make them as spicy as you desire), and 'mixed vegetables'. Each dish (all of which were generous portions) came out slowly giving me ample time to thoroughly enjoy (and digest) your previous dishes, until they were all out on the table. Being bombarded with plate after plate (in other places) gives it an 'assembly line' feel to it, which shouldn't be a factor in dining. Save that for the Chrysler plant!

The prices are reasonable (2 can dine for $50) so it keeps me coming back again and again. They do offer take-out but sadly residing in North York it would be a huge stretch for them to deliver as they're located in York Region. That is why I make sure I order extra food to go for those cravings that seem to creep up just when I get home. Oh those darn Shanghai noodles! Yummy!

Oh and in case you're wondering, yes you do get a fortune cookie at the end of your meal. Mine read, 'Stop procrastinating - starting now'. Translation: You owe it to yourself to try this place pronto. Yes, that means now!

Just don't forget to pick me up an order of spicy thick Shanghai beef noodles to go when you're done please. Thanks!

EASTERN RESTAURANT
1 Stone Mason Drive (between Woolen Mill & 16th Avenue)
Markham, Ontario
L3P-6X2
905-294-0892