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‘LICIOUS NIX ‘BURBS

By STEVEN DAVEY

According to a report in today’s Star the Scarborough contingent on City council are in a snit because the dining establishments of their fair ‘burb have been blanked yet again by the City-funded Winterlicious restaurant promotion. It seems to qualify for ‘Licious, an eatery must have been favourably reviewed in the local edition of the questionable Zagat Survey, the appalling Patron’s Pick or Toronto Lite before its considered to be asked to participate in this prix fixe program. Out of 260 joints rated acceptable by the City, only two were located in Scarberia — don’t call it Scarlem, they’re still upset about that, too — though neither wished to Winterlish.

As someone who regularly dines east of Victoria Park, I’d like to ask the Scarborough councilors which restaurants they feel are being unfairly recognized for their culinary excellence. Since chains and franchises are ineligible — sorry, Rainforest Cafe, East Side Mario’s and Frankie Tomatto — that kind of limits things right there. I’m sure the pair in question that made the grade — undoubtedly Dragon Dynasty and Ruby, two cavernous Cantonese cantinas — don’t need the business since they’re packed to the gills seven days a week from nine in the morning to midnight. Same with haute Japanese spots Zen and Le Café Michi. And why would Sri Lankan take-away Hopper Hut come on board? Dinner there already costs less than a bottle of water at Canoe. And besides, none of these spots serve prix fixe meals.

But here’s the real reason Scarborought restos don’t make the cut: The likes of Gramps & Elaine’s Roti Palace and Johnny’s Shawarma don’t accept reservations let alone American Express.

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