¡°pc28¹ÙÍøhas become a magnet for top chefs and food lovers, alike. The city’s diverse markets and suppliers make it easy to bring bold, authentic flavours to life,¡± says Chatsuda Drouin, a.k.a. Chef Ko, the executive chef behind Isaan Der¡¯s succulent Thai food. ¡°As a chef, having quality local and imported ingredients at my fingertips is a dream. I love pushing boundaries and experimenting with new techniques and tastes, and it’s a great feeling to know that customers are open and willing to embrace new flavours.¡± She and her husband, Donald Droin, co-own the three-restaurant chain; celebrating its eighth anniversary this month, they focus on delicious dishes from the northeastern Isaan region of Thailand.
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Isaan Der is proudly Thai-owned, and Drouin loves sharing stories of her upbringing in Thailand over dishes inspired by the vibrant Isaan street food culture. ¡°Our food is known for being bold, spicy, and herbaceous. Think sticky rice, aromatic farm herbs, fresh vegetables and the deep, complex flavour of pla ra, or fermented fish sauce. Isaan cuisine is shaped by the rich flavours and traditions of Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, all linked by the Mekong River,¡± she says. ¡°It¡¯s a beautiful blend of traditions, resulting in a vibrant and deeply flavourful cuisine.¡±
Here, Drouin shares some of the spots in pc28¹ÙÍøto experience more fabulous flavours.
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Hidden gem
, various locations
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Repeat reservation
,?various locations
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The last best thing I ate
Yu Seafood, various locations
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Current obsession
,?4020 Finch Ave. E.
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Fancy dinner
,?2950 Kennedy Rd.
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Comfort food
,?484 Dundas St. W.
ÔÚ Instagram ²é¿´ÕâÆªÌû×Ó
Best dessert
,?1262 Danforth Ave.
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Late-night spot
,?5 Glen Cameron Rd.
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Best takeout
, various locations
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Favourite weekend brunch place
,?225 The East Mall
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Favourite coffee shop
,?713 Gerrard St. E.
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Best cocktail bar
, 1378 Queen St. W.
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Best date-night spot
, various locations
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Best bakery
,?230 Commerce Valley Dr. E.
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BS
Briony Smith writes about culture, entertainment and
lifestyle for the Star.
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