The Host is located at 87 Elm St. in Toronto's downtown core. There is another (which may be non-ACYE) location in Richmond Hill, but their AYCE Mississauga location closed and probably moved to here... all the better for locale. The Host has a lovely interior brick with nice furnishings and looked newly renovated.
Onion bhajia were excellently seasoned to complement the flavour. Cream of broccoli soup was very good though a bit dilute. Bahrwa karela, stuffed bitter gourd is an okra-like veg dish Mishy said was the best thing ever. (is this the same as bitter melon in Chinese cuisine? It looks like it...) Butter chicken was excellent with great spicing including a bit of heat. Papri chaat was delicious and very fresh which is important. Rice pillaw very good and with a nice floral flavour. Chana masala was excellent with rich thick sauce and wonderful seasoning.
For dessert, moong dal halwa was delicious with a peanutty flavor, which makes sense as they are also legumes. Gulub jamun honey balls were very good and we enjoyed them. Weekend lunch was $21.99 (on weekdays it’s $19.99); this may be subject to change as is an opening special but whatever it may be, it’s excellent for the price in an otherwise very overpriced area. Hope to return soon!
Rating: 9 - 9.5 / 10
