On Sarnia’s main downtown strip in the charming locale that once housed 'Mexico', Roxy Lounge introduces an invigorating twist to the local dining scene with its Canadian-Nepali fusion cuisine. Despite lacking an external sign, the restaurant's interior exudes a welcoming warmth, promising a delightful gastronomic experience.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by one of the enthusiastic owners, passionate about showcasing her cultural heritage through food. Her eagerness to explain the significance of each dish adds a personal touch that enhances the dining experience. A standout on the menu is the 'Wai Wai Sadheko', a must-try street food staple from Nepal. This dish is not just a treat to the taste buds but also a vibrant exploration into the history of Nepali cuisine. The flavours are simply outstanding, making it an unmissable item for any visitor.
Traditionally, it is made with pre-cooked, crunchy noodles tossed in a mixture of fresh herbs, spices, lime juice, and hot chili, offering a delightful blend of tangy and spicy flavours. The noodles are typically served cold and can be enjoyed as a snack or a light meal. This dish is particularly popular among young people and students in Nepal.
The menu also features 'Mustang Aloo', crunchy potato wedges seasoned with Szechuan pepper. While these may seem akin to typical potato wedges, they are an excellent choice for the less adventurous eater at the table.
The star of the mains are undoubtedly the 'momos'. These dumplings come in various fillings, with the pork steamed momos being particularly succulent and sweet. They are served with three exquisite dipping sauces - a mild tomato base, a zesty lime and cilantro, and a fiery chili oil sauce that packs a punch, catering to all palates.
Not to be outdone, the chicken fried momos are equally delicious, bursting with flavours that promise to thrill the taste buds. They definitely have to be eaten fresh in the restaurant to be properly enjoyed.
Interestingly, the menu pricing, featuring unusual denominations like $16.61 and $7.07, along with minor spelling errors, reflects the charming quirks of a fledgling establishment still smoothing out its operational creases.
Another delightful discovery is the chicken fried rice, a dish that competes neck and neck with the best in town (Tangs on Cromwell). Loaded with tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked chicken, it's a dish that comes highly recommended from us.
Service at Roxy is impeccable, with the owner's vibrant personality making every diner feel like a valued guest. We showed up relatively late for dinner and were pleasantly surprised to know their kitchen is open late. The restaurant's capability to accommodate a full table of ten (a whole party walked in!) after 9PM, coupled with a well-stocked bar, adds to its allure, especially in a town where late-night dining options are scarce.
While there is room for improvement, particularly in refining the Canadian aspects of the menu, Roxy's strengths lie in its authentic Nepali offerings and the ability to cater to diners unfamiliar with the cuisine
Roxy adds another cultural bridge that connects diners with the rich flavours and traditions of international cuisine. Sarnian’s are getting a good taste of Nepal while comfortably seated in view of the St. Clair River. It's spotless restaurant, late-night service, and heartfelt hospitality position it as a promising newcomer to Sarnia’s downtown scene.
For those intrigued by the prospect of savouring authentic Nepali flavours blended with a touch of Canadian familiarity, Roxy Lounge at 216 Front Street North is a culinary adventure worth embarking on while downtown Sarnia.
Sarnia Nibbles is a long-time downtown resident of Sarnia, with an insatiable love for food. They came to life on Instagram as a delicious extension of a personal love affair with food, drink, and the vibrant local community. The creator aims to capture the essence of Sarnia’s food scene, showcasing hidden gems, time-honoured favourites, and stories behind the dishes that make this city a gastronomic treasure trove. Sarnia Nibbles prides themselves on honesty, including the good, the bad, the delicious, and the disgusting in their reviews. For more, follow Sarnia Nibbles on Instagram.
Bon Appetit!