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Dining Out

New Ho King Restaurant
Michael Vaughan’s Bargain Chinese Destination
updated December 2009

At one time, I might have been reluctant about revealing my favourite Chinese bargain restaurant. Today I want to share this cheap & cheerful destination with FBTI supporters.

There are real secrets in this very ordinary looking spot on the west side of Spadina Avenue just two blocks south of College Street. First is getting a seat. It can be very hectic on weekends, especially around 7:00 pm. Tip #1 - you can actually reserve a table. Tip #2 - it is critical to order the “right” things on the menu - some offerings are disappointing. Fortunately, the recommendations here are usually very good. My favourite dish is Deep Fried Calamari with spicy salt ( $8.95 for a full portion or $4.95 for the half portion), which is usually crispy, very flavourful and tender. Once in a while it can be a tad overcooked and a bit heavily battered, but it is still the best in town. Tip #3 - half portions are half price plus one dollar, which s great if just two people are dining. There are some exceptions to this rule, like the recommended Cantonese Chow Mein ( $8.50).

Don’t miss the terrific Lemon Chicken ($8.50), tasty Egg Foo Yung with Shrimp ($8.95), Beef with Chinese Broccoli ( $9.50) and my favourite apair of Ginger Scallion Fried Lobster Cantonese Style ($29.95 for 2 lobsters). Portions are generous, so you should have lots to take home. Open daily 11:30 am to 4 am at 416 Spadina Avenue. Call 416-595-1881.