Support group dines out
Bonnie Sandler
Le Petit Szechuan
6521 Somerled (corner Cavendish)
This neighbourhood Chinese restaurant has been a favourite of my family for many years. We have come to know and appreciate the waiter David who is always smiling and upbeat. While the restaurant is owned by Rico, the two seem to work well together and Rico refers to David as his advisor.
Fortunately for us, dining out at the beginning of the week and at an early hour often brings us to a quiet restaurant. Such was the case when we dined at Le Petit Szechuan on a Tuesday evening. While I have frequented this restaurant when there are no empty tables in sight, our chosen evening proved to be to our advantage. We were given a large round table as requested and had the full attention of David. Takeout business conti nued throughout the evening.
The décor is similar to many local Chinese restaurants, subtle, clean and fresh, pink, grey and black tones, with a mirrored wall on one side and tables dressed with white tablecloths.
Most of us buddied up with a partner to share a couple of dishes while one or two diners decided to order on their own. The wine drinkers ordered a litre carafe of the house red, Bottero at $20.95.
All dishes ordered got very good reviews and included: spring rolls, dumplings in peanut sauce (8 for $4.50), mango chicken ($9.95), pan-fried noodles with vegetables ($9.95 for the large portion), sliced duck ($11.95) and a spicy shrimp dish that seemed to be a great hit. It was my first time eating mango chicken and it will not be my last; the blend of flavours worked perfectly.
Typical Chinese desserts are offered such as fried banana sesame, or fried apple sesame, each at $3.50.
Parking is not always easy but, at an early evening hour, none of us experienced any difficulties. Service is very accommodating and David is charming and pleasant. Our group has dined here before, and with this return visit we agreed that we would do so again. All in all, a delightful neighbourhood restaurant.
