We can’t be the only ones thinking it this year: they have gone too far. And “they” are the food vendors at the CNE. Vv Magazine’s Ama Scriver gives us the scoop on what and what not to eat at the 2016 CNE.
Each year, with some anticipation and glory, folks will wait as hungry media foodies attend the big CNE preview day and get the scoop on what’s to come at this fan favourite. We were there and it was epic, in every sense of the word. But if we have to be honest, it was an epic failure.
Now I know what you’re thinking: it’s carnival food, how good can it get? But in all honesty, we’ve had some memorable dishes from the CNE in previous years including bacon sundaes and Thanksgiving waffles. But as I lined up for the weird and wacky eats, it was dud after dud. It seems like us Canadians are trying just so hard to be like our American counterparts.
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Case in point: the sandwich from San Francesco’s is well, a “Mega Sandwich”. Consisting of a fried veal patty, crispy chicken patty, fried eggplant and oozing with mozzarella and provolone cheese then topped with pesto mayo and fries, you would think that the sandwich was done. But oh no – they put a meatball on top because why not. I couldn’t even begin to think of trying this because it was just too much of everything.
Next up we had the Philthy Philly’s Philly Steaklair — a chocolate eclair, with steak, bacon, and provolone cheese. Now I know what you’re thinking, sweet and savoury should taste good right? Um, think again. This is probably the worst thing that you could put inside your mouth for a million different reasons.
And I couldn’t not talk about the Bug Dog, probably the weirdest food being served at this year’s fair. A large frank topped with coleslaw and crispy mustard crickets. Yes, you heard that correctly – crickets. Now, if you’re feeling adventurous – go for it.
But before I go sounding like a negative Nancy, not everything was terrible! For starters, I really loved the Cartoon Dogs from Maggie’s – which consisted of a bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with peanut butter and jam, Capt’n Crunch, and spicy mayo. Oddly enough, the flavours married really well together and I could have gone back for second and thirds.
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Chimney Stax has found a home this year at the CNE and will be making their incredible ice cream concoctions with crumbled Oreos, bacon bits, brownies and assorted drizzles or if you’re looking for something a bit more healthy, the sushi burrito from SU & BU is not to miss.
Either way, my main advice for heading to the CNE this year? Stick to the classics like Tiny Tom donuts or $1 pasta. Because really, isn’t that what the CNE is all about?
RELATED LINK: What to do in Toronto this Month: August 2016
Do you think the food at the CNE is gross? Let Vv Magazine know in the comments below, or tweet us @ViewtheVibe.
