White Rock Archives - West Coast Food

Vegetarian & Vegan July 31, 2023

Vegan Ice Cream You Need to Try in Metro Vancouver

By Sonu Purhar Nothing beats a creamy cold treat on a hot summer day – but unfortunately for us vegan and non-dairy folks, options are often limited. Sure, we can wander into an ice cream parlour with a hypnotizing array of flavours, but something in us dies a little when we spot the sad collection of ice crystal-studded sorbets in the corner. So, we’ve uncovered seven spots all around Metro Vancouver that churn genuinely delicious, adventurously flavoured vegan ice cream – nary a sad sorbet in sight. Enjoy! Earnest Ice Cream 127 West 1st Street, North Vancouver and other locations Earnest’s popular small-batch ice cream holds distinction for selling out at farmers’ markets even in the dead of winter. The shops feature a dazzling array of vegan flavours that will fool even the stoutest dairy fan. Try the Strawberry Toasted Coconut, a tropical delight incorporating organic strawberry puree and crunchy…

Summer Patios August 8, 2022

Patio Season: White Rock + South Surrey

Looking for your next patio conquest? Heading South to Surrey and White Rock is a surefire way to discover your next favourite spot for equal parts sun and shade. With South Surrey famous for its international cuisine, and White Rock within a stone’s skipping distance to the ocean, there are more than a few reliable options for summer seekers. White Rock Zapoteca Located on East Beach along White Rock’s Marine Drive, this little Mexican spot is prime territory for sunset watching. Stop by for their superb happy hour on weekdays between 2-5 and indulge in our favourite margaritas in town, and a plate of delicious nachos. Five Kitchen and Raw Oyster Bar Moving right along to West Beach, Five has quickly become our go-to for freshly shucked oysters and bubbly at golden hour. Their patio has a fantastic view of the White Tock pier (one of the longest in…

Adult Beverages June 13, 2022

Beer and Spent Grain Baked Goods in White Rock

By Ariane Fleischmann Hillcrest Bakery is serving up something a little different these days. Owner David Moyer had to think outside the box when the 45-year-old bakery relocated due to construction in the burgeoning uptown White Rock area. What started as casual conversations with local breweries White Rock Beach Beer Company and 3 Dogs Brewing soon became a new business model: using spent grain from the brewing process at the bakery to create unique and tasty eats. Canada’s West Coast is known for many things: scenic ocean and mountain views, hiking, biking, kayaking–pretty much every outdoorsy activity you can imagine–and craft beer. Yes, after a day on the water or in the woods, people love to grab a bite to eat and a craft beer to wash it all down with. So, is it really a surprise that a bakery would team up with some breweries to combine the two?…

Craft Beer June 6, 2022

Space Flight: Trying the Most “Out There” Beers at Galaxie Brewing

The Galaxie Craft Brewhouse in White Rock sits tucked just away from the hustle of Marine Drive, steps from the promenade, pier and the beaches. A perfect place to escape the world for an afternoon and try on some beers that take classic North American brewing methods and boost them with some unique experimentation. By Wade Kinley We arrived on a warm Sunday and got a nice spot in the sun on their large patio right off the sidewalk on Vidal Street, under a graffiti-style mural that is just one of the many galactic references you’ll find decorating the airy 60-seat establishment that has served a number of purposes over its almost 75-year history, including a recording studio and yoga center. Spaced out vibes, for sure. White Rock was bustling that day and it truly felt like summer was nearly here. Fitting then, that brewmaster Doug Card’s menu of eight…

Vegetarian & Vegan May 18, 2022

Where to Go for Vegan and Vegetarian Eats in White Rock

By Lenée Son Wondering where to go for the best vegan and vegetarian friendly eats in White Rock? Finding meat-free options can be difficult when you’re not sure where to start, but we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking to eat veggie to save the planet, improve your health, protect the animals, or all of the above, one thing is for sure – these plant-based meals located in this beach-side city are guaranteed to make your taste buds happy. Grounds & Greens Café Vegetarians, vegans, no need to look for a little symbol or scan the ingredients, you can eat everything on this menu! Grounds & Greens boasts healthy bowls, toasties and treats just a 15-minute stroll from the pier. Thirsty? We recommend the Purple Reign smoothie with coconut milk, spinach, blueberries, chia seeds, hemp hearts, almond butter and collagen. A different kind of thirsty? Yes, they’ve got beer and…

Where to Eat January 24, 2022

5 Delicious Greek Spots in Metro Vancouver

Science has shown that the surest way to brighten one’s outlook is through the palate. This is why we like to have a few go-to options in our back pocket, seeing as Metro Vancouver is full of them. For particularly dreary days, taking a culinary journey to Greece never fails. So have a scroll down, and let’s take a tour through our favourite local spots that have us salivating for souvlaki and pita. Burnaby Sfinaki Greek Taverna Often voted as one of Burnaby’s best places for Greek, Sfinaki has been delighting Metro Vancouver diners for over 25 years with their homestyle recipes. A family business, each member of the flock helps out whether in the kitchen or front of the house, and that sense of tradition and ownership shows. With a menu that could be described as street food meets comfort food, this is a delicious gem to try. 4061 Hastings St,…

Where to Eat August 19, 2021

What to Eat Outside with an Ocean View in White Rock

By Kristi Alexandra It’s no secret that this little coastal city by the sea sees several more visitors during the summer. Chalk it up to a vibrant dining scene set among breathtaking views of the ocean. Here are just a few summer diet staples and the landmarks to enjoy them at. Fish & Chips (and more) at White Rock Pier Is there anything more iconic than fish and chips by the sea? Marine Drive’s Moby Dick has been a kitschy beachfront family eatery serving up burgers, fried seafood and more since 1975, so you won’t want to miss out on this legendary spot. Their staple fish and chips boasts fresh Alaskan cod and Yukon Gold fries. Grab a takeout order, and then pop across the street toward the equally iconic White Rock Pier. Get here: Ride the Millennium Line to its end in Surrey: King George Station, and take the…

Where to Eat July 15, 2021

Three Must-Try Ice Cream Spots in White Rock

By Lenée Son Under the sweltering summer heat, there’s nothing better than cooling down with a walk on the White Rock pier and an ice cold treat. Whether it’s gelato, frozen yogurt, or traditional ice cream you’re craving, this beachside city is a haven for icy desserts. Here are four must-try places. Sandcastle Sea Shoppe Located at the east beach in White Rock, Sandcastle Sea Shoppe has the largest selection of ice cream in the city. They carry fifty flavours at all times and nearly seventy during the peak season in the summer. Take your pick from gelato, ice cream, milk shakes, smoothies, or old fashioned frozen yogurt. The Sandcastle Sea Shoppe is home to the twin cone, a cone with a platform for two ice cream flavours side-by-side rather than on top of each other, which you won’t find anywhere else on the beach. They also carry an assortment…

Where to Eat March 20, 2020

Delicious Take-Out in Eastern Metro Vancouver

By Jenni Sheppard As we adjust to the social distancing and self-isolation required due to COVID-19, many of us are no longer able to venture out to our favourite restaurants. For local restaurant owners, this drop in custom can be tough, but thankfully, there is a way you can help—by ordering takeout or delivery! Happily, many great restaurants in the region have been able to pivot to takeout and delivery services, instead of opening to the public. So to help you show your support for your local restaurants, we’ve put together this list of the best takeout and delivery options across Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Langley City and White Rock. Enjoy! [For take-out in Burnaby, New Westminster and Richmond, click here.] [For take-out in Vancouver and the North Shore, click here.] Surrey Dominion Bar + Kitchen (13475 Central Avenue | 604 330 0229) This downtown hub’s mash-up menu aims to reflect…

Holiday December 5, 2019

Recipe: Awesome Eggnog

By Chef Janet Wait, Jan’s on the Beach Jan’s on the Beach, named for Chef and Owner Janet Wait, is a popular eatery on the iconic White Rock strip, overlooking the San Juan Islands. The menu is described as “seafood and more,” offering fresh and unique dishes often lovingly made by Wait herself. This recipe for Awesome Eggnog is one of their most requested holiday recipes. Makes 12 servings INGREDIENTS Eggs (6 large, separated) Salt (1/4 tsp) Sugar (2/3 cup, divided in 1/2) Light Cream (1-1/4 cup) Whipping Cream (1 cup) Milk (2 cups) Spiced rum (optional) Nutmeg to taste INSTRUCTIONS Beat egg whites and salt until frothy. Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. In another bowl (the largest), beat the egg yolks until light, gradually add remaining sugar (1/3 cup), beating until thick and lemon coloured. Very slowly add light cream and milk, beating constantly. In another bowl…

Cocktails, Wines & Spirits September 11, 2019

Go Retro with these Classic Cocktails in Metro Vancouver

By Sonu Purhar Wild and wacky cocktails have their place, but sometimes an old-fashioned (or Old Fashioned) classic is all you need. Among the dearth of eateries and bars pouring Manhattans, Martinis and other historic drinks for every Tom Collins, Dick and Harry, it can be hard to find a place marrying well-made libations with an atmosphere conducive to memory lane wanderings. We’ve rounded up a selection of venues across Metro Vancouver that don’t disappoint – so what are you waiting for? Step into your Sidecar, and let’s go! Notch8 900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver In celebration of Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s 80th anniversary in 2019, the luxe property’s stylish lounge has introduced a nostalgic lineup of nine popular cocktails from each decade. If you’re feeling rakish, we recommend starting in the ’30s and working your way to the present. Our pick: The Cable Car, first shaken up in 1999 at…

Sweets August 6, 2019

10 Places to Get Your Ice Cream Fix in Metro Vancouver

By Sonu Purhar Summer is in full swing, and that means more hours of sunshine in which to enjoy ice cream! Though we love a solid chocolate or cookies-and-cream scoop, there are plenty of next-level variations of our favourite warm-weather treat served at dessert cafés, parlours, farms and eateries across Metro Vancouver. Read on for 10 suggestions that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you screaming for more ice cream. Mister 1141 Mainland Street, Vancouver It sounds like an Insta-bait science experiment, but liquid nitrogen plays an important role in producing creamy, flavour-packed ice cream: because nitrogen freezes the cream so rapidly, fewer ice crystals are formed and less air is allowed into the final product (science lesson over). Situated in trendy Yaletown, Mister is converting ice cream aficionados to the liquid nitrogen way one made-to-order cup at a time. Try the Marshmallow Crème Brûlée for a nostalgic treat…

Brunch July 26, 2019

Brunching Al Fresco in Metro Vancouver

Bu Sonu Purhar Summer is here, and that means even longer days to fill with… well, food! To maximize your warm-weather enjoyment, we’ve rounded up eateries across Metro Vancouver where patios meet palate-popping brunches. Slap on your sunscreen, slip on your sunnies and let’s go! The Boathouse 900 Quayside Drive, New Westminster Lazy Sundays were made for brunching alongside a shimmering river. Situated along the New Westminster Quay, the Boathouse is best known for a traditionally West Coast menu starring locally sourced seafood, and brunch is no different. Try the Dungeness crab cake benny, topped with eggs, greens and creamy hollandaise; it pairs nicely with a sunny mango mojito. MARKET by Jean-Georges 1115 Alberni Street, Vancouver MARKET’s sun-washed patio is an idyllic spot for warm-weather brunching – especially with an innovative menu that raises the bar for morning meals. Start with avocado bruschetta for the table, topped with heirloom tomatoes,…

Cheap Eats May 21, 2019

The Happiest Hours in White Rock

By Wade Kinley Stretched along the shore of glittering Semiahmoo Bay, White Rock is a seaside gem, seemingly made for lazy afternoons of sunbathing and people-watching – with a cocktail in hand for both. Book your next mini-vacation at one of these four happiest hours in White Rock. Charlie Don’t Surf A venerable institution around these parts, Charlie Don’t Surf has been serving hungry beachcombers along the White Rock strip and watching amazing sunset after amazing sunset for over 30 years. Grab a seat as close to the street as you can and enjoy one of the prettiest happy hours in the province. From Monday to Friday, 3 to 6 PM, post up with a Charlie Lager for $3.50. Highballs are $3 and a glass of the house wine is $5. When the fresh sea air stirs up your hunger, go for their signature house-made clam chowder – New England…

Canadian/American May 9, 2019

The Not-So-Secret Burger Menu at Uli’s Restaurant in White Rock

By Brittany Tiplady “We love making people happy through food,” says Uli’s Restaurant owner Tyson Blume. “So any way that we can do that, we certainly try to and that’s what our burger program is all about.” If you’ve had the privilege of biting into one of Uli’s famous burgers, there’s a high possibility that you’re now an Uli’s burger fanatic. At least I know I am. I waltzed into the Uli’s stunning patio overlooking the White Rock strip and ordered the 4.0 burger off of their secret-not-so-secret menu (we’ll get into that later). Spicy BBQ sauce, goat cheese, pickled jalapenos, crispy shallots, garlic aioli, arugula, ordered medium rare, with a necessary addition of thick bacon, perched on top of the most perfect, pillowy bun. I pride myself in being a burger connoisseur, so trust that when I say that burger was one of the best I’ve had in all…

Chef Stories April 16, 2019

Family Inspiration Guided Chef Janet Wait of Jan’s on the Beach in White Rock

By Brittany Tiplady If there’s one thing you can expect from Jan’s on the Beach it truly is great food, made from scratch. Janet Wait, owner and operator of her namesake restaurant, may be a bustling chef and business woman but her story is as heartwarming as it gets and she’s never too busy to sit and have a chat. In 2006, Wait said goodbye to her 20-year career as a real estate agent in the Delta and went after her longtime dream of becoming a chef. “I was a realtor for 20 years. Our son was doing career planning in grade nine, and he asked me what I wanted to be growing up. I told him that I always wanted to be a chef but life happens. I got married and put my [husband] through university and then started as a realtor after we bought our first house. And…

Craft Food Products April 2, 2019

Get Fresh with Bees Knees Microgreens in Surrey and White Rock

By Kristi Alexandra Fine diners, ethical eaters, and locavores alike can find common ground in Bees Knees Microgreens. While many revere the farm-to-table culinary trend, South Surrey-based entrepreneur and grower Samantha Stewart does one better by providing local chefs with fresh microgreens grown in their own backyard. Literally. “My house in White Rock has a small greenhouse,” Stewart tells WestCoastFood. “It’s an old glass greenhouse from the sixties, so, for [my] first season, I was able to grow out of that greenhouse for the market.” Talk about homegrown. Bees Knees Microgreens sprouted at the White Rock Farmer’s Market just a couple years ago where Stewart retailed microgreen varieties and mixes. Now, the small business supplies select local eateries with microgreens, along with catering and events. Sunflower and pea shoots, along with arugula, radish, and broccoli microgreens were among Bees Knees’ regular offerings at the market. “From there, I made some…

Chef Stories February 19, 2019

No Need for a Menu When You Trust the Chef at Barrique Kitchen in White Rock

By Brittany Tiplady Barrique Kitchen and Wine Bar is only one year old, and yet, it’s impression on Metro Vancouver is already long-lasting. Owner, operator, and chef, Josiah Tam, has created a generous, warm, and delicious environment at Barrique that lends to an unforgettable meal and a truly memorable experience. Tam, (previously the sous chef at UBC’s the Nest), trained Le Cordon Bleu and tucked nearly a decade of industry experience under his belt before taking the plunge and opening Barrique last winter. After dining out frequently in Vancouver while living in the suburbs, Tam realized it was time to open something more his style right at home in White Rock. Thus began the journey of Barrique, an upscale casual modern French bistro and Tam’s first foray as a chef/owner. The food menu pays homage to Tam’s training in classic French cuisine with a contemporary flare. The wine menu is…

White Rock September 5, 2018

Dine Outside: Al Fresco Feasts in White Rock

By Lenee Son While the temperatures are still warm, take your dining experience outdoors. And what better place to dine al fresco than White Rock? Bordering the Semiahmoo Bay, White Rock is a stunning seaside city with a sandy beach that stretches eight kilometres across the city. From the oceanfront promenade to the grassy open spaces, there are plenty of places on White Rock beach to enjoy a bite to eat and the fresh, open air. For a Romantic Stroll: Cool off from the summer heat by dipping your toes in the water and walking along the shore. Away from the crowds, the shoreline is the perfect place to share an intimate conversation with a partner. Enjoy your peaceful walk and appreciate the slower pace of life with light eats like a flaky Jamaican patty or savoury Johnny cakes from PG’s Jamaican Takeout. Take your pick from chicken, beef, or…

Sweets August 3, 2018

Beer and Spent Grain Food Unite in White Rock

By Ariane Fleischmann Hillcrest Bakery is serving up something a little different these days. Owner David Moyer had to think outside the box when the 45-year-old bakery relocated due to construction in the burgeoning uptown White Rock area. What started as casual conversations with local breweries White Rock Beach Beer Company and 3 Dogs Brewing soon became a new business model: using spent grain from the brewing process at the bakery to create unique and tasty eats. Canada’s West Coast is known for many things: scenic ocean and mountain views, hiking, biking, kayaking–pretty much every outdoorsy activity you can imagine–and craft beer. Yes, after a day on the water or in the woods, people love to grab a bite to eat and a craft beer to wash it all down with. So, is it really a surprise that a bakery would team up with some breweries to combine the two?…

Where to Eat May 8, 2018

Add Live Music to your Dinner with These Lively Spots in White Rock

By Brittany Tiplady Hello, spring, goodbye winter hibernation! If you’re planning your next night out with a date, a loved one, or a group of friends, consider heading to a local haunt that offers live music in-house. There’s something exciting about a meal or drinks paired with the live performance of a band; it feels somewhat nostalgic, interactive, and like a true night out on the town. Stay over in relaxed, beach-side White Rock for a late night out and then a rejuvenating morning stroll by the water. Here are some of our suggestions in White Rock: West Beach Bar & Grill 1101 Elm St. White Rock Known as White Rock’s number one live music venue, West Beach is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Live music is scheduled five night per week, including jams on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. With everything from pub food to share to…

Where to Eat February 21, 2018

5 Comfort Food Stews in Metro Vancouver to Warm You Through the Rest of Winter

By Brittany Tiplady Perhaps the groundhogs were mistaken this year. As temperatures are proving winter is here to stay for now, hunkering down with a bowl of comfort food is essential. If you’re looking for some warmth, check out this list of five restaurants in Metro Vancouver that serve up delightful, warm, and nourishing stews, curries, and chilies to hit the spot. Forkhill House 1616 Alberni St, Vancouver Forkhill House has a bevy of options for traditional Irish cuisine, but in the spirit of all things warm and comforting check out the Irish stew: braised lamb, russet and sweet potatoes, carrot, parsnip, with a red wine demi ($26). Calabash Bistro 428 Carrall St, Vancouver Pop into this eclectic Gastown haunt for Caribbean food, rum drinks and late-night music. Try the jerk beef stew: slow cooked with butternut squash in Calabash jerk sauce, served with rice and peas, seasonal veg and…

Craft Beer January 17, 2018

Wintery Seasonal Craft Beer in Surrey and Coquitlam

By Brittany Tiplady Beer can be romanticized in so many ways but the great Charles Bukowski nailed it: “stay with the beer,” he penned “beer is continuous blood. A continuous lover.” The holidays have come and gone, but Metro Vancouver’s mild winter weather is here to stay, at least for a few months. Curl up with these seasonal winter brews found in Surrey, White Rock and Coquitlam. Russell Brewing Company 13018 80 Ave, Surrey Winter Stout, 6.5% The name says it all. Available now in 650ml at private liquor stores, Russell Brewing’s Winter Stout is chock-full of chocolate and black malts and roasted barley. Black Death Porter, 6.5% Buckle up for this one! The Black Death Porter, part of Russell Brewing’s Brewmaster Seasonal Series, is a heavy porter brewed with Canadian and Scottish malted barley. Find it on tap or on the shelves at private liquor stores but buyer beware:…

Where to Eat August 17, 2017

Where to Get Vegan and Gluten-Free Ice Cream Treats in and Around Vancouver

By Catherine Dunwoody Ice Cream has blown up on Canada’s West Coast and charming new shops and parlours are popping up all over. But what about the folks who have allergies, sensitivities or make choices not to eat gluten or dairy? And who doesn’t like a cooling, sweet, creamy treat? Fret not folks, I did the research for you! Here’s my list of the best, where to go for it, and what to taste. La Glace Try: Most ice creams here are gluten-free so, if you are as well, skip the cone and get a cup. Top your treat with a marshmallow or meringue (also gluten-free). Vegans and the lactose-intolerant will love the Chocohuete, which is made with peanut butter and dark chocolate. It’s dairy-free and made with their own made-in-house cashew milk base. Vancouver Kokomo Try: This is the only place in Canada that serves Cocowhip, a vegan and…

Shops & Markets July 26, 2017

Four Easy Steps to Plan your BC Farmers Market Road Trip

By BC Association of Farmers Markets The BC growing season is in full swing, and you can experience the palette of summer with a trip to some of the 145+ BC farmers’ markets. Whether you’re headed here on a weekend with family or friends, or taking the summer to explore Canada’s West Coast, here’s everything you need to build a farmers’ market visit into your summer travels across the province. Step 1: Know your BC farmers’ markets With over 145 BC farmers’ markets across the province, you’re sure to discover more than a few that you’ll love to return to year after year. This helpful BC Farmers’ Market Finder tool will help you make the tough choices (popsicles in White Rock, or honey in Richmond?) and you might be surprised to see how easy it is to access more than one farmers’ market closer to home. Here’s a tip: BC…

Seafood July 13, 2017

Here’s Where to Get Canadian Atlantic Lobster on the Pacific Coast this Summer

By Catherine Dunwoody Sure. We have salmon, spot prawns and Dungeness crab aplenty here on the west coast, but that doesn’t mean we don’t crave fresh lobster every summer as well, like our neighbours out east who get to feast on it regularly. Loving fresh lobster is easy right now on Canada’s west coast. Here’s a hot list of restaurants serving it up in a variety of ways. Lobster. The love is real, people. Vancouver Lobster Fest is an annual thing at Provence Marinaside, returning every July and on now ‘til month end. Executive Chef Jean-Francis Quaglia created a three-course menu for a sweet deal at $62 with optional wine pairings for an additional charge. Choices of starters like lobster salad with fresh peas and puree or classic lobster Thermidor whet your palate for even more, with main options offered x3. The whole Atlantic lobster done Provençal style is ridiculously…

Sweets June 30, 2017

National Creative Ice Cream Flavours Day is July 1

By Catherine Dunwoody How cool is it (literally) that this most delicious and special day happens to fall on our very own Canada Day, July 1st? Vancouver and its diverse surrounding communities certainly know how to celebrate two things at once, and the proof is in the cone. Celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday by toasting with one of these super special flavours, and some for a very limited time only. Here’s what they are and where to find them. Flavour: Canadian Maple Bacon Where to get it: Welcome Parlour Ice Cream, Vancouver’s North Shore The scoop: This shop just opened this past spring in a 1909 heritage building, and this special flavour is only available for 1 day. Made with caramelized bacon and real maple syrup. Patriotic and proud! Flavour: Roasted Strawberry Where to get it: Rain or Shine, Vancouver The scoop: Brought back for another summer, this fave 4th Avenue…

Festivals & Events January 19, 2017

Eat to Your Hearts Delight at the 2nd Annual Taste White Rock Festival

By Anna Black If you’re planning on taking in the sights of the seaside peninsula of White Rock over the next few weeks, make sure you come on an empty stomach, especially if you’re in the mood for eclectic and affordable dining options. January 18th marks the start of the annual 18 day Taste White Rock festival. A wide variety of restaurants and cafes will be offering foodies unique 3-course, prix-fix menus, many complemented by the wines of British Columbia, craft beer, and special cocktails. Menus start at $10 a person. Among the many mouth-watering options being offered up to diners are grilled beef, asparagus crepes, chicken cordon bleu, oven baked herb snapper, seafood chowder, and more. In addition to amazing local cuisine there will also be French, Greek, and Vietnamese options available to those wanting a true ethnic experience. And then there are the absolutely amazing desserts… Bittersweet chocolate…

Shops & Markets August 11, 2016

Meet the Kidpreneur Behind Rebel Pops – Sold at BC Farmers Markets

By Kathy Mak When most kids are playing and vacationing during their summer break, Jonah Daniels is pursuing his dream of building and running his artisan food business. He is the precocious 13-year-old founder and kidpreneur behind Rebel Pops which are 100% all natural, healthy, homemade, whole fruit popsicles or ice pops made from the finest organic and wild ingredients that are mostly harvested by Jonah and his family. His Rebel team of five family members, based in the Lower Mainland, includes his mom, Roxayn, (ice pops designer) and dad, Jamey. Now in his 3rd year of business, Jonah’s company produces and sells over 80 licklicious handcrafted popsicle flavours. They are primarily sold at the White Rock Farmers Market, Granville Island Farmers Market, and a few other markets from early spring to fall, and are also available for special or custom orders. Rebel Pops are $3.50 for individual ice pops…

Shops & Markets August 4, 2016

White Rock Farmers Market: A Hub for Lower Mainland Growers and Vendors

By Nikki Hillman According to the BC Farmers Market Association, White Rock Farmers Market is the “best large market in B.C.” and once you visit, it’s pretty clear the title is well deserved. While there are the regular items on display such as fresh fruit and vegetables from local farms, artisanal treats, and jewelry, this farmers market offers something a little different. We parked the car on a quiet side street, just a block down from Johnston Ave, and wandered up to the market. As we walked we were serenaded by live music broadcast from an area we couldn’t see and yet it was like the sirens of the ocean calling us. I decided to check out the “T” part of the layout of the market and in the process, my husband went off on his own. At first, it was overwhelming to step into the hub bub, but as…

Where to Eat July 15, 2016

5 Patios in White Rock You Need to Be At this Summer

By Lenée Son The outdoor dining season is upon us! Soak up the sun, sip on an ice cold drink, and enjoy the view at these beautiful beachfront patios in White Rock. The Hemingway Public House Sit back and relax with a pitcher of cold beer, pub comfort food, and good company on the patio at The Hemingway Public House. The large patio space makes it the perfect place on the strip to take in the ocean view with a group of friends. Then when the sun sets, put on your dancing shoes and show off your best dance moves on the dance floor. 14995 Marine Drive, White Rock 604.385.0672 Charlie Don’t Surf This large waterfront eatery has been a local favourite for nearly 30 years. Especially in the summer, locals hit the patio at Charlie Don’t Surf to enjoy fresh, wild, organic and sustainable seafood, gluten-free and vegetarian eats,…

Cafés November 6, 2015

All Roads Lead to Great Coffee in Metro Vancouver and Beyond

By Kathy Mak Coffee, served hot or cold, is arguably the world’s most popular beverage. In the ranking of best coffee cities in the world, Vancouver has become one of the undisputed top ten leaders. The obsession with coffee, particularly independent coffee shops/roasters, is a big part of what defines the city’s foodie culture, as much as craft breweries, food trucks, farmers markets, boutique eateries, etc. And, the love affair with java extends throughout the Fraser Valley. To truly appreciate the local coffee scene, grab your travel mug and follow this itinerary to sip on some of the best coffee, and special accompaniments, at a batch of unique micro-roasters in Greater Vancouver. As the saying goes, “life is too short to drink bad coffee.” If you crave unique coffee flavours that are ethically sourced, then you may be part of a growing trend of coffee connoisseurs that support indie-owned coffee…

Shops & Markets September 9, 2015

Fresh and Friendly Local Farmers Markets

By Kathy Mak To truly experience an authentic slice of local life, you can’t get more local than the neighbourhood farmers markets. Whether you’re shopping or browsing, each of the numerous markets showcases genuinely local products and proprietors from all over the Valley. Immerse yourself in sampling seasonal and fresh fare, gourmet treats, and artisanal delights that have been prepared or produced with a regional spin. Half the fun is being part of the market’s social scene and friendly atmosphere. Chat with other food enthusiasts and meet small-scale but passionate food artisans. You’re certain to enjoy the stories or inspirations behind their unique products. Without a doubt, you’ll be glad you sampled and supported local flavours! On any given Wednesday to Sunday (May to October), there are numerous outdoor farmers markets in and around Vancouver communities. With so many choices, you may want to explore a market a day or…

Canadian/American September 9, 2015

White Rock’s Marine Cuisine

By Tim Pawsey Header photo by Tyler Ingram Way back, when it was still a sleepy little resort, decades before the George Massey Tunnel was opened (in 1959), the best way to reach White Rock from Vancouver was by rail. The reminders are still all there, from the vintage train station (now restored as White Rock Museum & Archives), to the freights that regularly trundle along the tracks that separate the expansive, sandy shore and promenade from the view cafés and patios of the main street. East Beach Cod is God at East Beach (closest to Highway 99 and Peace Arch border crossing), which may well have the highest concentration of fish n’ chip shops anywhere in the land. Take your pick, from ling cod and clam strips at The Fishboat or fresh cod and chips at Coney Island (15487 Marine Dr) to fish and oyster burgers plus specialties like…

Chef Stories August 19, 2015

Vikram Vij’s Delectable Delights in and around Surrey

Just an hour’s drive from Vancouver lies one of the region’s most delicious culinary destinations: from wineries and cheese makers, to one of the country’s most exciting Indian restaurants, the area surrounding Langley and Surrey has it all. Celebrity chef and famed restaurateur, Vikram Vij is one of the region’s most ardent fans, “It’s like being in the countryside without having to go far from the city,” he enthuses. “You can rent a car and drive through the mountains and past the ocean, you don’t have to take a plane or a ferry, it’s right here and the best of the best foods come from this area. We’re so lucky to have everything to make a great culinary destination right in our backyard.” It’s an area that many visitors might miss out on, but Vikram says they’ll be missing a treat if they do– and he has a few recommendations…