Kelly Landing’s prime location in downtown Toronto has made
it a popular place for me; typically for after work drinks but there’s been a
lunch and dinner as well. Indeed, it’s a go-to place for many people – by 5pm
there’s already a small line-up at the door. Yet, they’ve always seated
reservations quickly and with their large space the only time I've been turned
away without one is when there's a sporting event.
Having tasted the Moroccan curried chicken ($20) at their
grand opening event, I wanted more. This was the first dish ordered during a
return visit and thankfully it didn’t disappoint. Just as flavourful as I
remembered, it combines North African spices creating a curry that has a good
amount of heat, you’ll want a bit of the crema to help cool the tongue. The
bits of almonds and apricots help add texture and there’s plenty of basmati
rice and flatbread that you won’t leave hungry.
For a smaller meal, the pan seared scallops ($21) paired
with salad is a good alternative. Being sizeable, the scallop arrives slightly
raw on the inside with a great caramelized crust. There’s also a sweet and
salty aspect to the starter thanks to the thinly sliced crispy pork belly and maple
sherry glaze.
Despite not looking very appetizing, the nachos ($22) were
really satisfying. It could be due to the ample cheese melted onto the chips
and the jalapeño crema that adds a tangy kick to everything. With the crunchy
peppers, onions, and olives there were sufficient ingredients on the nacho.
However, two ingredients were lacking: the Cajun chicken
pieces were a little dry (perhaps a pulled chicken would be better) and the guacamole
resembles a premade mixture from a tub, it’s a terrible puke green colour and
lacks taste (the extra $3 to add it on was a waste).
Having seen other tables order the steak frites ($23), I had
high hopes for the dish. When it arrived, it certainly looked impressive with
beautiful grill marks and a glistening coating of sauce. Once I cut into it,
the cooked through meat (when it should have been medium rare) was a huge
disappointment.
Moreover, it wasn’t a one-off incident as my friend’s was
overcooked as well. Nevertheless, I begrudgingly ate the steak (our waitress
did offer to re-fire both dishes but we didn’t want our other guest to wait
around) and it was passable; at least well-seasoned and the hot demi-glace
(likely partially responsible for the steak being overcooked) helped add
moisture.
Overall, with some highs and lows, sadly the food isn’t as
consistent as their staff’s friendly service. Yet, with their great location I’m
sure I’ll be returning, I’ll just stick to the tastier items sampled at their
opening event.
Overall mark - 7 out of 10
How To Find Them
Location: Toronto, Canada
Address: 123 Front Street West
Address: 123 Front Street West
Website: http://kellyslanding.ca/
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____________________________
Gastro World's Grading System
- Anything under 5 - I really disliked and will never go back
- 6 - decent restaurant but I likely won't return
- 7 - decent restaurant and I will likely return
- 8 - great restaurant that I'd be happy to recommend
- 9 - fantastic restaurant that I would love to visit regularly and highly recommend
- 10 - absolute perfection!
Is That It? I Want More!
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