Nevertheless, the concerns were valid: The inability to tend to one's own schedule in the absence of information is admittedly frustrating.
Instead, we continued along the main trail, largely unshaded and full of ponding patches. It wasn't until after rounding the corner that a series of blossoming trees would be spotted - none of which were cherry blossom, however.
It is also worth noting that an incredulous amount of construction persists about the centre of the park - storm pipe and drainage activities that hadn't been observed from the Centennial Park Road access.
But, lo and behold, beyond the double glass doors was nearly a full house of patrons. Yet, amidst the chaos, the staff were still as prompt, courteous, and helpful as ever.
At this point, I pointed towards Claw & Kitty, reminding of an unfulfilled promise. The establishment's 8 PM closing time assisted in my case, for there was just over sixty minutes to relish in the experience.
Frankly, there were fewer claw machines than expected given the spaciousness of the internal quarters. Variety was on par with Koi Claw, though the plushies contained within the machines themselves were of noticeably better quality. Dislodged eyes and manufacturer defects were remarkably few.
The minimum quantity was 22 tokens for $20 - essentially, market price. That said, game play averaged at 5-6 tokens per play, as opposed to the standard 3-4 tokens. Our eventual decision resided with the $56 package, which included 100 tokens. For a limited time, visitors could earn a bonus Piplup plushie with any purchase of $100 or more; extra stuffed, non-furry toys were not my goal though.
The same member of staff would later observe us attempting to secure a Moomin, only to see the toy plummet back into its pile when we had failed to initiate the "grab" function on the claw.
"Nooooo" she called out in the distance, where she had been restocking another machine. "Our machines have a two-press system. It must be your first time here." to which we both nodded in unison. She then proceeded to demonstrate on the Moomin machine, noting that small toys could be obtained more easily by quickly wrapping the rubber-lined tips of the claw around the body or head.
Without a doubt, Claw & Kitty was the best claw machine outpost to land in the GTA. For starters, service was impeccable. The establishment was an absolute playground for all ages, heaven for plushie lovers and collectors, and a stellar destination for those that thrive off games and thrill.
Unsurprisingly, the tables and bathroom stalls were filthy at the late hour. All dispensers ran low on soap; one stall was utterly devoid of toilet paper. When the issue was brought to the attention of one of the staff members, she nodded in acknowledgement and tended to the scene following cleanup of the handwashing station.
Flaky, warm, and delectable, Bingz had never once failed to provide a gratifying, budget-friendly meal. The Wonton Soup was also better than expected, with hearty bits of mini shrimp wonton, egg threads, nori, scallions, and goji berries. Its base was an MSG-based broth, yet a rendition far superior to that of Good Luck HK Cafe. The Fries weren't bad either, albeit adopting slight sogginess. Having omitted the "Smokin' Hot" seasoning, I can't comment on the spice level, nor desire to enravel myself in potentially disastrous throat pain.
The corners of my lips curled up into a smile. "Indeed." I thought. The concept was similar, in that the franchise offered Chinese hamburgers paired with either soft drinks or more traditional picks of Plum Cold Brew and Soy Milk.