Caribbean Food - Ox Tail Beef Cutlets, Red Kidney Beans & Kola Champagne Island Soda Soft Drink

Caribbean food was simmering away at the tropically inspired eatery at 1911 Finch Avenue West, Unit 31D, North York. The Living Well restaurant was tucked away at one side of a larger mall. But, the store itself was small. When I walked into the little shop, the atmosphere was festive. I was subtly greeted by music swaying in the background. On the other side of the counter, the view inside the store allowed me to see both the attendants as well as the cooking area and chefs in the back. Above the staff, a large menu board represented many different meals considered as staples in the West Indian diet, including fish, dumpling, ackee, rice, etc. Having decided on what to eat, the cashier extended his arm for a “daps” (or a first bump; as I’ve eaten here before) then took my order. I had one small Ox Tail (meat) with Rice and Peas, with a Kola Champagne to drink. The total came to $10.90. This was higher than other items on the menu, such as chicken, if only due to the facts that it was cooked by a longer process and of a better quality meat. Minutes later, the call number on the receipt was announced and I was presented with the hot dinner. All meals were packaged in take-away containers. The seating area was compact, but there were vacancies. So, I sat in one of the few seats within the store – a stool looking outside. The hearty smell of the food, its appearance and taste were combined in each bite. Although the wind chill on the other side of the window made the temperature to feel like -20° Celsius, I was kept warm by my taste buds and a satisfied appetite. Finally, at Living Well, good food was served well!