Ming Teh Chinese Restaurant

What I absolutely LOVE about this place are several things.. even after years of coming for our favourites .. with so much appreciation for consistency of perfection, we are still discovering new dishes that we love! Also WENDY who strives to make every visit the very best! 5 * all of the way!

Excellent food and great service

tasty food and served HOT!!

The service was aweful,was the first ones to be seated and the 5th ones to be served.The food was disgusting, the chicken and beef was mushy,didn't taste like real meat also the vegetables were frozen not fresh.was so bad I felt I didn't want too tipthe waitress or whoever it was came right to my vehicle to get her tip iwould never have done thatif it was just terrible food but the service was aweful I didn't feel they deserved a tip could not believe she came out to my car gave her a 5 but was

Fantasy makeover part 2

Food and atmosphere are two thirds the ingredients of a ‘rated ten’ evening, and a server can make or break the experience. Our server was thoughtful, kind and friendly and related to us genuinely. Our water was filled and she was conscientious and polite. I don’t know about you but I am not enjoying the robot waiter of ‘Hi my name is Josi and I will be your server tonight let me tell you about our specials’ genre these days, and it is nice to have someone actually look at you and smile as you discuss the options. Whether it was the set-up of the kitchen or she was multi tasking beyond her capabilities, we had to go look for our server a few times and although we were OK with it, many would have been annoyed. A server is the master of ceremony and must oversee your experience without you noticing. A table of people desiring an enjoyable evening arrive, and a good server is expecting to provide just that. They pour the water, take a drink order and be available for questions as the menu is perused. They pay attention to each person individually, ask if there are any dietary restrictions that need acknowledgement, and make dining suggestions accordingly. All dishes appear at once and are introduced and arranged on the central revolving table. If the guests desire, the entrees are served out on individual warmed plates, starting with any elders and then the youngest children, with ladies before gentlemen. If the party chooses to help themselves, wish them a wonderful meal and fade into the background. Keep your eye on each table, noticing the wine and water levels and always keep the tea pot full! If you notice a patron looking around, show up by the table in case they are looking for you. There is no need to interrupt a conversation to ask if anyone needs anything if you are paying attention. If a problem comes up, as it does on some nights, explain to your guests what is going on and why their meal is delayed. If I know that there is a backlog in the kitchen, and why that is happening, whether due to an unexpected large party, electrical problem or staffing emergency, and I am brought complimentary appetizers while I am waiting, it becomes part of a good experience rather than an annoyance. I have been in a place during a storm where lights out and stoves shut down meant the chefs, staff and customers had an impromptu party. Amazing salads and entrees were created out of what was available and as it was a Japanese place, a lot of sushi was tried that night! It may have been the only place that stayed open and made any money in that town that night. The flexibility of creativity can turn any ‘bad night’ into a memorable occasion that endears your customers. Yes it takes skill to keep eight to ten tables under your attention, but a good server earns their tips, and the reputation of any establishment. Ming Teh has all the ingredients for a huge international success in any economy, and it would not take much expense or effort at all to transform it into a place people will come a long way to experience, again and again.

fantasy makeover part 1

Ming the’s is right on the river with a beautiful view and that could be enhanced with some landscaping and subtle lanterns. I can see a patio garden on the back that would be a huge hit on sunny days. A solid frosted sunshade roof providing shelter and kitchen herbs and climbing flowers creating open walls, an oasis of peace for business luncheons and relaxing tourists. It was dark when we arrived and I did not see much of the front of the building as we walked around from the parking area, so I will leave the outside for someone else to re-design and focus on the inside. The entrance; there is a lot of space here that needs help I want to feel like I am walking into a temple, a sanctuary ream coloured walls, some of those lovely paintings, tasteful maroon armchairs or settees inviting diners wait for their table to open. I want someone there to greet me who makes me feel like I am their personal guest. A good memory for names in a host or hostess can ensure that your regulars remain your regulars. People bring their friends to places where they are greeted by name, that is a fact. The washrooms could easily be transformed with a bit of paint and some living plants and lighting. Frame the mirrors, hang some decent paintings and have good hand soap. It’s all in the details. I would go with more subtle colours in the overall decor, perhaps a deep maroon and ivory offset with hunter green and royal blue in accent. That would compliment the interesting paintings that gallery the entrance, though I would suggest a tasteful display throughout the rooms would allow one to appreciate them better. The hall leading to the dining rooms may be short but it could be quite elegant with a bit of enhancement, and as suggested, the gallery of paintings has far too many frames in a row, distributing them around the whole place would unify the atmosphere. The first dining area was not open on the night we were there, but I imagine it is full in season. It makes sense to do it this way, but an expanse of empty tables creates a distinct impression on first time visitors, an ‘Oh oh, have we made a mistake?” sensation. A couple of properly placed, aesthetic paper screens may be one way to shift this effect on nights they do not expect to be busy. The second dining area is partitioned by a glass wall which is perfectly creates a sensation of separation while maintaining a sense of expansiveness. Proper lighting with dimmer switches against the window wall here, and a few live vining plants could enhance the feeling of coziness without losing the spacious effect. Use the large back window facing the river in all seasons as the focal point of the restaurant, situating romantic couple tables along the window, with room for the larger parties bracketing so the line from the kitchen is unobstructed for the servers. Tables need to be larger to accommodate a smoother service, I like the places that have the wheel in the centre of the table so that passing of dishes is graceful, our table of four sat three, yet felt crowded and it was awkward to serve oneself. The place settings aught to compliment the graciousness of the food, Deep maroon table cloths with Ivory overlay for the lazy susan. Ivory cloth napkins, water and wine glasses and decent chopsticks with holders would shift the whole experience into five stars. Comfortable elegant chairs make the diners feel like Kings and Queens, and they will stay long enough for desert and liqueurs.

Pleased with Potential

I am writing this the morning after meeting friends at Ming Teh for dinner. I am not hungry. Chinese food is suppose to leave you hungry again in three hours, or not feeling very well the next day. That’s our tradition here in the Americas, but Ming Teh is one of the places changing that tradition. You will see no plastic dragons or fancy fans, you have to ask for chop sticks, and there are certainly no packages of sauces or extra condiments on the table. The food is very good, it would be insulting to think you could better the flavourings. A table of dedicated foodies, we were really enjoying the subtle flavours of each other’s soups, dipping hand rolled crispy spring rolls into a tangy sauce that stirred discussions on the virtues of our keen palates. The main dishes were tantalizing. Fried rice turned out to be a cloud of buttery jasmine tumbled with fresh veggies, infused with a perfume we could not identify. The vegetables and spices were fresh and still crisp, the cashews crunchy and the shrimp pink and tender, and were delivered enfolded in delicate sauces that set our tongues dancing. One member had asked the difference between dried tofu and regular, and the server thoughtfully provided her a piece of steamed tofu with that dish so she could distinguish the flavours and textures herself. Savory and subtle or spicy and playful, we compared the dishes and enjoyed the chef’s presentation of gastronomical delights. We will most definitely return. We already have chosen what we want to order next time. I don't really have a critique though I do have some suggestions for improvement. Mings is a little out of the way and is third in a row of Chinese restaurants with not a lot of visibility. They could play on that. They could be the little secret you have to know about, the place that friends surprise friends with, where loyal customers come back for all special occasions, the place that when you bring your date, you score big points for knowing about it. They need a makeover in service and presentation though. I do not have room in this review for all I envisioned in my makeover fantasies, may do a follow up review for that.

so flavorfull

this was our 4th time to Ming Teh, and I can't wait to go back and work thru the menu! The hot and sour rice is the best, the flavors of all the food just jump out at you. I love spice and garlic, so it is perfect for me. The hostess Wendy is warm and so was our waitress.

We attended the Dim Sum evening. It was awesome. The food was well spaced so that you could enjoy each dish. the hot and sour soup and the steamed dumplings are my favourite.

If you crave both bland and overcooked, this is certainly it.

Hard to understand the rave reviews for this spot? Nice that people love it but those who call this "Real Chinese" have never visited Toronto's real chinatown. Overcooked right down to the cashews that sport the texture of a fresh gummie bear.

Amazing Restaurant!

My husband and I have been visiting this restaurant for about 4 years. We heard about it after it was voted the best Chinese food in Buffalo...and it is located in Fort Erie, ONTARIO! They remember us every time we go, and the staff is always extremely friendly to us. If you are looking for a fast meal this would not be your first choice. The food is fresh so it always takes some time to prepare. We have tried every dish on the menu, and we love everything. Just be aware that this Authentic Chinese food, and it may not be for everyone!

After hearing the rave reviews about this...

After hearing the rave reviews about this restaurant we thought we would head over and see what all the fuss was about. We were greeted with friendly faces, good start and seated right away. We ordered soup, spring rolls, rice, and a few chicken dishes. Well, I can honestly say what a big dissapointment this place was. Tasteless, the food looked pale and unappetizing. We partially ate what we could, and took the rest home not to be rude. As soon as we got home we threw it in the garbage, what a waste of money in this saddened economy. Would not recommend this to anyone.

Ming Teh rific

best chinese weve had since going to the Olympics. The fish with the bean and chilies sauce was out of this world, and the fish didn't have all the bones I had to deal with in real chinese food. My wifes beef dish with sweet/sour was also great! My 11 and 8 yr olds loved their platters. The fried rice is very kid friendly, but was too tame for my oldest- she wound digging into the beef. We all shared the fried rice. The rice/vermacelli shrimp dish really entertained my 8 year old, and we also shared due to its generous portion. The only suggestion to make this more authentic would be to put the large glass lazy-susan at the tables for those who ask(as every home and restuarant we visited in china had).5 stars, great Niagara river view,no cheesy decor either! 4 dishes with drinks $80, well worth it! Thanks.

great! Its the best hot and sour soup ever! I had...

great! Its the best hot and sour soup ever! I had a fundraiser dinner and I got Wendy, the owner, to get me bowls of the soup to serve! It has delicious food and the restaurnat is popular with americans and canadians, and I see why it is! The moo shu pancakes are delicous and I always get them. Te fried rice is indescribeable, its soooo good! Yes, I love the family-friendly restaurnat! I espceiallay like how they sell paintings and items that you can see behind the cash register and in the front room. Go ming teh!

Excellent and authentic Szechuan Chinese, best...

Excellent and authentic Szechuan Chinese, best around, friendly servers,don't go for atmosphere though, A++.

This was the best chinese food I've ever tasted...

This was the best chinese food I've ever tasted! The food was hot and tasted great, the service was awesome except for a lady named "Pamela." She seemed to have allt he tables and I, by myself, handed the tip to Wendy, our waitress and the owner. I love this place and visit a lot of times. My suggestion, ask for Christina, Lody, Wendy, Maria and Michelle. Pamela went to slowly. Thanks!

I was referred to Ming Teh's by a waitress at...

I was referred to Ming Teh's by a waitress at another restaurant!! I'm from Los Angeles and eat chinese food a lot. The food here is exceptional.

Have always loved Ming Teh but was a little...

Have always loved Ming Teh but was a little aprrehensive when learned of new ownership. No need for concern though, everything is as perfect, flavorful and unique as always. Staff is attentive and professional. Food is fresh, unique and yet reasonably priced. I always state that Ming Teh has ruined my ordering dumplings from anyone else since no one can compare to theirs. Looking forward to many return visits to the Ming Teh.

OK, I have to admit - I've been to this...

OK, I have to admit - I've been to this restaurant dozens of times and have never been disappointed. Over the past couple of years, I've ordered practically everything on the menu and it is always exceptional. Most recently we had the Garlic Broccoli/Shrim which is to die for, especially if you like garlic. We also had the moo shu pork which is my husbands favorite and the hot and sour beef - this dish is outstanding - tons of flavour and cooked to perfection so the beef is very tender. The owner - Wendy is the most gracious host and her husband is the chef whom she has brought out to introduce us to. The wait staff are very attentive and knowledgeable regarding the dishes...even the back of the menu gives you a description of the ingredients and how it is cooked. Always fresh, hot and DELICIOUS. The dishes here not not the typical deep fried chicken balls smothered is a gooey sauce. If you get a chance, try it and ENJOY. (or make a special trip - you won't be disappointed.)

Ming Teh is in my opinion one of the best Chinese...

Ming Teh is in my opinion one of the best Chinese restaurants on the planet. The food is beyond delicious, it's almost medicinal. Unfortunately I have not been able to get there lately because I live in Europe now. But it is very easy to get to from Buffalo New York, right across the Peace Bridge. I daresay it's almost worth a visit to Buffalo just to dine at Ming Teh. I'm glad to see that they still exist. Sometimes wonderful things have a way of vanishing before we've had sufficient time to enjoy them. If you have a chance to try this place, don't pass it up. love S G Collins Postwar Media, Amsterdam