It has been another banner year for restaurants across HRM's business parks. A crop of new locations have emerged, while established eateries have upped the ante in response to the latest wave of good food. Here are my ‘best of the best' picks from 2011.
Top Choice: Sunwich
Affordable and satisfying, the Dartmouth Crossing site specializes in wholesome, homemade soups, salads and sandwiches. Fresh, healthy ingredients pepper a simple menu that includes a yummy Caesar wrap, a zesty Philly Steak on Ciabatta, a Loaded Baked Potato soup and a Blue Mountain salad. Both the bread and broth are rich and delicious, and be sure to try the milkshakes as well - they're the very best in the area.
Runner-up: Modern Orchid
Also located in Dartmouth Crossing, Burnside's latest foray into Asian cuisine is ideal for those looking for something savoury without being too seasoned. Both the Beef Pho and Thai Chicken Cutlet are recommended, as is the Singapore Spicy Vermicelli. The hearty Curry Vegetable Soup goes down well with a side-dish of sticky steamed rice. Simple, yet deceivingly delicious in both décor and menu, Modern Orchid is worth the price of admission.
Honourable Mention: Pizzadelic
My Italian blood might be biased towards pizza, but anyone of any ancestry will be passionate about Pizzadelic's Works concoction, a hearty and zesty blend of pepperoni, deli-style salami, crumbled bacon, ground beef, mushrooms and green peppers. If you visit the Joseph Zatzman Drive eatery, a word to the wise - stick with the house specialties: both the Saucy Sicilian and the NY BBQ Chicken are excellent. The panzarotti is exceptional as well.
Other options from 2011: La Cucina, Japan Deli, Kababji Authentic Lebanese Cuisine, Cha Baa Thai, Grande Finales, Angie's, Cora's (breakfast), the Peppermill in the Ramada Park Place Hotel (buffet breakfast/brunch), the Rodeo Lounge (wings and beer).
