A Taste of Egypt

 Shawarma Chicken

Thin slices of savoury chicken, cooked on  slowly revolving rotisserie, served on a bed of basmati rice with house dressing.

SERVICE:  Our server was new at her job, but she was eager to take care of us.  It was not busy and she got to take the time to keep us happy.  We were very happy.  Monday is a great time to eat out.

QUALITY:  We spoke with the owner and I tried to pry out of him his cooking secrets.  What I did get was that the meat marinates for 24 hrs in citrus juices and many many spices.  This was the best chicken I've ever had, the spices were not overwhelming and the meat melted in my mouth.  The menu is comparable to Greek food.

ATMOSPHERE:  This restaurant has recently opened.  The building was a former jewelry store and the new owner has incorporated that design into an Egyptian Theme, well done.  A soft gold paint on the walls, many ornaments and lots of Arabic music and videos.  Wonderful setting for an evening out.

VALUE:  I found the prices very reasonable.  What does drive your bill up are the appetizers and soft drinks.  We should not mix entrees and appetizers, the appetizers block the flavours of the main dishes.

Would I pay a return visit:  I am excitedly waiting to return again next week.

BOAZ

 

-Asparagus rolled in beef & Salmon Teriyaki-

You have got to try  these dishes, they are packed with flavour.  I love salmon and the sauce truly enhance this fish.  A few days later we returned and had the same experience, great service and food.  I did have a noodle dish, it was as chewy as gummy bears, not my thing. 

SERVICE:   As usual the service was great; 99% of Saint John has wonderful service.  We arrived before rush hour and were treated to extra attention, conversation and calm. 

QUALITY:  The food was a surprise.  I was expecting more Chinese style dishes, not so at all.  Something true to the Culture.

ATMOSPHERE:  Boaz is using an existing restaurant and the atmosphere is not much more than a lovely cafeteria; this did not take away from the service or quality.  Hopefully in time the decor will reflect Korea and Japan.

VALUE:  The price is in the middle, more than Vito's and Swiss Chalet but is less then Decimal 81.  The meal was worth every cent.

Would I pay a return visit:  We did return 3 days later. Good food, nothing cafeteria in this menu.

PEDDLER'S CREEK

-Change of Season-

4 Ace Ribs with Caroline Sauce, Top Sirloin Steak with Demi Glaze.

Roasted squash, asparagus, potato salad and cornbread.

SERVICE:  The server was friendly, informative and attentive.  This is a new restaurant and its beginnings are well done....as in a good impression....not as in over cooked meat.

QUALITY:   Ordering steak is not something I usually do but in keeping with being adventuresome, I did so and was well pleased.  I asked for the steak to be well done and that is how I got it; not tough, gristly or overdone.  The ribs we tender but not as tender as my friend MaryLee's ribs.  The sauces were fun; sweet and spicy.  The potato salad was different; tiny red potatoes boiled but not mushy (if that is a word) and lightly flavoured with a cream dressing and a hint of herbs.  The potatoes were not drenched in mayonnaise like so many salads are; a great change.

ATMOSPHERE:  Peddler's has a relaxing setting, new and fresh but rustic.  A large log cabin with the scent of pine still strong.

VALUE: We each had the special at $17.99.  Good price for a good meal.  Free refills also make a difference in the bill.

Would I pay a return visit:  I will come back again to try more of the menu.  An enjoyable time.