Tang Dynasty Best Food Inc 唐朝 — Restaurant in Markham

Tang Dynasty Best Food has been one of our family’s favourite spots for many years. The previous owner retired a few years ago and sold the business, but the new boss lady who runs it now is incredibly kind, hardworking, and welcoming. She always greets customers with a smile, and sometimes her children help out too, which adds to the warm, family-run atmosphere.

This food stall is located inside the food court at New Kennedy Square, so it is ideal for quick meals or takeout. Personally, I prefer to bring the food home to enjoy in peace, since the food court can get lively with people chatting, playing Chinese checkers, and the occasional group of older folks talking loudly. If you do not mind the noise, it has a lot of character, but takeout is definitely the more comfortable option.

The restaurant used to advertise that it was under a Hong Kong executive chef, which explained why the food was always authentic and rich in flavour. Even though that chef may not be there anymore, the food remains delicious and consistent. I believe they are still using the old menu, but keep in mind that prices have increased slightly because of inflation and higher food costs, which is completely understandable.

Our go-to dishes are braised tofu with fish (豆腐焖鱼) and half a free-range chicken (半只走地鸡). The tofu is silky and savoury, the fish is tender and fresh, and the chicken is juicy with crispy golden skin. For about twenty-five dollars, the meal easily feeds a family of three and always leaves us satisfied.

They also offer combos for two, three, and four people, which are all very affordable. Most of them are under fifty dollars including tax. The portions are generous, and it is a great deal for families or small groups. Sometimes when we ordered larger meals or spent over fifty dollars, we even received a complimentary red bean crispy pancake, which was a sweet and thoughtful gesture.

They advertise that they do not use MSG, but like most Chinese restaurants, there is likely some MSG or sodium used to enhance the flavours. That is what makes the food so tasty, although it can be a bit salty at times. I hope they can be more transparent about that or reduce the amount slightly in the future.

The portions have become a little smaller compared to before, but when we mentioned it to the boss lady, she was very understanding and explained that other customers had also shared the same feedback. Prices have gone up slightly, but that is expected given the current cost of living.

It is also worth noting that this place is best for cash payments, since small local businesses like this usually prefer cash, and it makes the checkout process faster and smoother.

Overall, I would generously give Tang Dynasty Best Food 4.5 out of 5 stars because they truly deserve it. We have tried many Chinese food places across Markham and the Greater Toronto Area, but this one is close to home and never disappoints. The food is flavourful, the prices are fair, and the service is always kind. It is one of those comforting, reliable places that we will continue to return to...

I have been getting take outs from this place for years and food always good as they made it clear no msg. Recently went twice and food quality went down and seeing new faces probably there had been a change of ownership. They messed up my orders twice I went plus it's oily and salty so taking over the business without changing the menu as well not removing the no msg statement ... unacceptable. Called them back telling them they gave me something I didn't order and the lady on the phone just plain dead air without acknowledging nor apologizing, not to mention I have repeated what the problem was 3 times and she still didn't seem to get it (what a waste of time). Even the drinks that come with the food was wrong as I said I want soya bean milk when asked and by the time I got home I see it's not soya bean milk. So why asked if you don't have soya bean milk and when I picked up the order they could have said something about the drink and not being so sneaky to give me something else. Not going back anymore since it's no...

The food taste average at best. You've definitely had better food. Their service is slow and you're about to eat your arm by the time the food comes. The front staff who who takes your order hate themselves for working in such a cramped and hot area. This is reflected in how they treat you. But you don't mind because if you're like me, and the countless amount of people who eat here, you believe that the flavour of food is tied to its price.

Let's be honest here, you're coming to this place because it's cheap. It's $5.50 for a fried noodle/rice dish. You can get a 4 course meal for 23 dollars. You can feed six people for less than $35. Swallow your pride and eat here because you want your hard earned money to go further. Unless you're straight up eating 2 McDoubles and having a medium Ice Coffee in the summer, McDonald's will...