Tuesday, May 10, 2011

5th Element

5th Element 506 Queen St West 416 504 3213

My family used to frequent the 5th Element when it was on Bay St near Bloor. The food was magnificent and the place was upscale. They closed down and I lost touch with the restaurant.

Apparently a few months ago the 5th Element opened at this new spot on Queen St near Bathurst. This is the trendiest spot in town. The boutique clothing shops are such fun. There are several top of the line furniture shops. This is ‘a happening’ area.

It was Mother’s Day and my family decided to investigate the new 5th Element and see what was happening. It is a delightful spot on trendy Queen St. It is not a tiny restaurant but certainly more manageable than the former large premises. Chef Johnee is a genius. He has created appealing menu. I noticed that he also was the designer for the menu. He prepared all the food and was also our server. How did he do it? He moved slowly and quietly and this wondrous food appeared. He always had a smile on his face. Chef Johnee is remarkable. We loved the sumptuous taste and the presentation was fit for a king. (or queen) The plates were all white and of varied shapes. The food was creatively presented and we were all delighted. The place was comfortably crowded but it was quiet and charming.

The regular menu featuring Indian style food was available. We were shocked and delighted by the special 3 course Prix Fixe Lunch for $9.95. It is hard to believe this was possible. The food was gourmet quality and we all dined in style.

The Vegetable Samosa Melt with mozzarella cheese and basil tomato sauce was chosen by 4 of the 5 diners. The samosas were served in an elongated white dish. There were 2 generous portions and the mixed herbs and spices were so flavorful.

My son opted for the Julianne OF Apple and Pear Salad. There was feta cheese and a Masala dressing. There were raves around the table as we tasted this unusual salad. A Pea Soup Puree was another considered option.

I was filled from the appetizer alone. The basket of warm Naan bread was quickly demolished. It was so fresh and satisfying.

My son was thrilled with his choice of Coriander Crusted Tilapia with Bengaly Curry Sauce. The Basmati rice pilaf was shaped like a pyramid and the whole presentation on the rectangular shaped dish was worthy of Gourmet Magazine.

Tandoori Chicken Supreme is a classic Indian dish. Two of the diners in our party enjoyed every delicious bite.

I opted for my favorite Indian dish, Saag Paneer. Creamy spinach is infused with cubes of Indian cheese. The melody of spices is so tantalizing. Paneer Makhani was served in a creamy tomato sauce & cottage cheese.

We all raved about our choices and sampled from the various dishes. Everybody was satiated and happy.

The Blueberry Cheese Tart was chosen by 4 of the guests. That way we didn’t have to share. It was creamy, rich and delicious. My son ordered the Carrot Halwa. It was a type of carrot cake with a caramel sauce.

There were too many calories. We ate too much. We didn’t care. This was a spectacular feast. I think Chef Johnee is an amazing person and a master chef.

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