Experiences
Reimagined Chinese Cuisine for the Modern Palate at 3 Notable Restaurants in Canada
Across Canada, a new wave of Chinese restaurants is redefining tradition with inventive dishes and fresh local flavours. Discover the innovation at three of these standout restaurants in the east and west that honour tradition while pushing culinary boundaries.
By Rae Kung
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Chinese cuisine in Canada is evolving, moving beyond the familiar into uncharted territory, where tradition meets innovation. Across the country, a new wave of chefs and restaurateurs are infusing classic techniques with bold, contemporary ideas. Here are three of the establishments that are helping to reshape the dining landscape, offering fresh takes on dishes while honouring the rich culinary heritage of Chinese cuisine.
MONTREAL: ONCLE LEE
Located in the heart of Montréal, Oncle Lee is led by chef-owner Anderson Lee, who aims to showcase traditional and authentic flavours often associated with Chinese cuisine, together with local ingredients. The decor evokes the lively ambiance of late-night Chinese eateries, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Standout dishes include: Steamed Black Bean Oysters and Tofu Dip, featuring a rich blend of caramelized onions, confit garlic, and aromatic sesame oil served with crunchy chili crisp and crispy shrimp chips; and a New York Strip with bone marrow, served in a sizzler with charred onions, Szechuan sauce and ginger scallion sauce.
TORONTO: SUNNYS CHINESE
Sunnys Chinese is Toronto’s tribute to the vibrant world of regional Chinese cuisine, embracing the lively street food traditions of Sichuan, Shaanxi, Guangdong, and Hong Kong. Born from a popular pop-up kitchen and sister restaurant to MIMI Chinese, Sunnys is helmed by culinary director David Schwartz. If you visit you'll find bold flavours served up in a casual and friendly atmosphere, where familiar dishes like Typhoon Shelter Squid and Silver Needle Noodles shine bright. Each plate reflects a deep respect for authenticity while adding a playful edge. From fiery Sichuan spices to the rich flavours of Guangdong, Sunnys offers guests a culinary journey through China’s beloved food cultures, with a fun, modern twist.
PENTICTON: KIN & FOLK
Penticton, BC is home to family-owned Kin & Folk – a restaurant co-founded by chef Zachary Chan that blends Asian flavours with Canadian ingredients. Featuring a refined room with calm ambiance and a beautifully inviting garden patio, it's worth a stop for a meal come rain or shine. Two must-order items are the Ginger Beef Double Double, a unique take on a Calgary-born, classic Chinese Canadian dish reimagined in burger form, and the Chef's favourite dish - Cantonese-inspired Soy Chicken, featuring soy glazed roast chicken, pickled things, and scallion cashew cream.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Chinese food or looking to explore new culinary destinations, these three restaurants are a great start.
If your food journey takes you to the west coast, note that on November 5, 2024, the 15th annual Chinese Restaurant Awards will unveil its winners for the Greater Vancouver area, celebrating the best in Chinese cuisine across the city.
Rae Kung
Contributor
Rae Kung is a cross-cultural marketing strategist and the Managing Director of the Chinese Restaurant Awards. Committed to elevating Chinese cuisine, she has pioneered programs that nurture chef talent and celebrate the artistry of Chinese culinary traditions, bridging cultures and sharing this rich heritage with a wider audience. Through her own PR and creative agency, Think X Blink Communications, Rae has helped major Asian brands establish a strong foothold in the Canadian market. But for Rae, work is only a side dish—she has a deep passion for travel and never stops exploring new horizons.
