Diversity’s the spice of life

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There’s more to dining out in downtown Oshawa then subs, fries and spaghetti – not that those things don’t have their own perks. Foodies will be happy to know that there are plenty of alternatives to spice up any food routine.
Sushi has become more popular in recent years, but diving into a plate of raw fish is still an unusual occurrence for many people. Osaka Sushi (46 Simcoe St. N.) offers not only menu items you can order individually, but also an all-you-can-eat lunch or dinner that’s perfect for experiencing a little sampling of everything.

Going in a large group allows newbies to eat a lot, without having to dedicate themselves to one dish. The house osaka roll, which is shrimp tempura rolled up and topped with crab meat, is a fan favourite along with popular choices the crazy salmon roll and various sushi and sashimi.
If you’re in the mood for something with more heat, downtown Oshawa is also home to Bamboo House Thai Cuisine (21 Simcoe St. N.).

Dishing up both pleasing décor and generous portions of traditional and fusion Thai dishes, Bamboo House exceeds expectations when it comes to speedy, helpful service. Classic dishes like pad thai will have you placing delivery orders or stopping by for lunch on a weekly basis.
A welcome recent arrival on the downtown Oshawa food scene is Viva Burrito (12 Centre St. N.).

They serve up breakfast burritos for the hungry work masses from 7 a.m. until the lunch menu kicks in at 11 a.m. until they close their doors. Some swear by their carnitas, a shredded pork offering, while others savour their quesadillas with a choice of meat. A bright and festive décor with wacky cactus paintings sets the scene for this fun and friendly location.
Mexico Lindo (74 Simcoe St. N.) is a much loved restaurant that is sure to have you craving more.

Mole verde con pollo, which is chicken strips sautéed in a green tomatillo, jalapeno and pumpkin seed sauce and authentic nachos topped with melty cheddar cheese, onions, jalapeños, sour cream and ranchero sauce will have your mouth watering. Or try the most popular dish at Mexico Lindo’s – the Acapulco platter, which includes one beef burrito and one chicken enchilada alongside rice, salad and re-fried beans with your choice of varying degrees of heat – mild, medium or spicy.
Owner Julia Bergsma says it’s the personal touches that make her restaurant stand out, “I think what sets me apart from the other Mexican restaurants downtown is that we make everything fresh daily and everything is homemade – right now to all of our sauces.”
If you’re in for a show with your dinner, Fridays are also karaoke night. The antics start at 9 p.m., so plan for some laughs with that side of infamous guacamole and gluggable jello shots.

With renovations planned for the first week of January, this seasoned establishment will get a well-deserved facelift and be back in business for its hungry customers.
No matter what the choice of cuisine, downtown Oshawa offers a variety of ethnic restaurants that will put the spice back in your epicurean life.