There are a couple of reasons as to why Chúuk has made it on to my A-list. Firstly, it is the only restaurant on the list that has a menu centered around one particular cuisine, secondly this also happens to be the first restaurant outside Ottawa that I have written about.

The restaurant that is situated in Pickering, Ontario, welcomes you with warm colours and a seating area that follows a minimalistic theme. Every seat in the house (inside and out) strikes a great balance between privacy and engagement, where you can enjoy the meal with your friends and family without missing out on the bustling ambience.

Chúuk also offers a glass walled private room known as the “Pineapple Room” for your larger parties; separated from the rest of the crowd, you are able to maintain the intimacy of your invitees without feeling completely cut off from the outside.

Ironic, but my night started with a “Bon Voyage”, a beautiful cocktail made of gin and lime cordial. I’m a person who notices small details and thought the clip holding the dried slice of lime was very creative and added a little character to the drink. This was accompanied by freshly made chips with guacamole, the chips were still warm which really put the flavour of the guacamole combination through the roof.

The main course then followed with three Campechano tacos topped with perfectly grilled steak, chorizo, avocado, and tomatillo chipotle salsa. I will be the first to tell you that the freshness of the ingredients that they used really shines through every bite!

Finally, I had a taste of their coconut ice cream and caramelized pineapple ice cream, where the taste of each had its own delicate flavours that left a subtle taste on your pallet. The staff at this eatery really pulls everything together, their energy and hospitality will keep you wanting to come back very soon.

All in all, Chúuk is a restaurant that gives you an amazing Mexican culinary experience without actually having to travel too far out, and it is safe to say that Chúuk was the perfect ending to a great birthday.