Putri Naibaho
Google
i recently visited this restaurant in downtown toronto, and it was a pleasant experience from start to finish. we had a funny start when we got there because the door seemed locked, but the staff spotted us right away and opened it with a smile. once inside, i loved how calm and lowkey the ambiance felt--no flashy colors or decorations, just a warm and welcoming vibe. we even got to choose our own table, so we picked a cozy window seat that gave us a nice view of the busy street.
the staff really stand out for their friendliness. although i can't recall names, my server made a genuine effort to chat with us and see how our day was going. now, onto the food: absolutely phenomenal. i tried the ping gai first, and i'd easily give it a 6/5. it's a large portion of chicken that's not only juicy but also packed with flavor, like it's been marinated for hours. there's not a huge amount of rice, but you get so much chicken that it's more than enough. plus, they provide a little salad on the side and a tangy dipping sauce, which balances everything nicely. for the quality and the portion size, i found it super affordable.
the second dish i had was the khao soi, and i'd rate it a solid 5/5. the noodles were a different experience for sure but i wont complain. the broth was wonderfully rich and creamy, with just the right balance of heat and sweetness. the noodles were cooked perfectly, and the serving size was satisfying. my only minor complaint was the abundance of shallots on top, which can be overpowering if you're not big on onions. still, it was so tasty overall that i'd definitely order it again--maybe i'll just ask for fewer onions next time.
overall, i really appreciate how unpretentious this place is. the staff are warm and attentive, and the food truly delivers. would i come back again? absolutely, 100%. if you're looking for a relaxed spot with outstanding dishes in downtown toronto, this should be high on your list.