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Langley City January 18, 2023

Catching up with Ken Nishidate of Langley’s The Raving Gamer

In the deep, dark days of March 2020, I had a candid conversation with Ken Nishidate of The Raving Gamer. Like all small businesses during this time, the Raving Gamer was experiencing the strain of uncertain times ahead. Nearly three years ago they were making the necessary switch to takeout, curbside pickup, and retail – crossing their fingers in hopes that this too shall pass. By Brittany Tiplady While the pandemic raged on longer than we all expected, The Raving Gamer forged on and continues to serve the Langley community locally sourced food, with a side of games galore. Back in 2020, Nishidate stressed that the Raving Gamer is a community hub with a goal of supporting as many local businesses as possible. “I’m trying to distill [our mandate] down to a few words. On our windows we have ‘great food, fun games, good times,’ and that’s really what we…

Festivals & Events January 16, 2023

New Year’s Reservations–The 21st Dine Out Vancouver Festival

Swap your New Year’s resolution for a reservation– the 21st Annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival is set to brighten your day (and your diet) this month. Starting January 20th and running until February 5th, 2023, Dine Out encourages you to support local restaurants across the city. After the high of the holiday parties and retail splurges in December, January is normally slow for restaurants as people kick off their new health regimens and buckle down on sticking to their budgets. This makes it the perfect time to support your favourite local restaurants, or visit one that’s been on your must-try list for the first time. With more than 350 restaurants participating, you’re guaranteed to find something to your taste. Brought to you by Destination Vancouver, Dine Out 2023 presents flavours from across the globe and invites diners to experience cuisine from the best chefs and restauranteurs in the city–whether you’re…

Shops & Markets January 9, 2023

Unglued Foods – Richmond’s 100% Gluten Free Store

Anyone with Celiac Disease would love the ease of shopping for groceries online but the hassle involved makes it nearly impossible. This new Richmond, BC-based food e-store is the answer. And they deliver. By Catherine Dunwoody Eating and drinking gluten-free is absolutely essential and non-negotiable for Celiacs like myself and a dietary choice for folks with gluten sensitivities. Either way, GF foods on the market are improving every year, thankfully, but finding delicious products of high quality is still a challenge and takes research plus time. It’s a lot of hit and miss, often with more misses than hits when it comes to grocery shopping online. It’s usually impossible to read labels on a website unless the company posts photos of them, and crucial to be able to see all listed ingredients plus read disclaimers of ‘may contain barley, rye, oats or wheat (B.R.O.W. ingredients that contain gluten) that brands…

Festivals & Events January 2, 2023

January Foodie Events in Metro Vancouver

Like most of us, you probably spent December in unabashed overindulgence. We’re here to ask: why stop now? Here’s a list of events around Metro Vancouver to keep the food party going well into the new year. The Ultimate Sunday Brunch: Unlocking Secrets of a Favourite Weekly Meal, January 8 Level up your brunch game at this cooking demonstration in the Market Kitchen at Lonsdale Quay Market. This class will demystify the fables that make preparing eggs seem such a tricky endeavor, and teach the ways of Japanese Soufflé Pancakes, Brioche French Toast, Eggs Benedict and more – the ways the pros do it. Dine Out Vancouver Festival, January 20 to February 5 Canada’s largest celebration of food and drink returns to communities all around Metro Vancouver for its 21st season. As if 350+ restaurants offering up special 3-course meals for anywhere between $20 and $65 weren’t enough, there’s also…

Dine the Line December 28, 2022

Dine the Line to Explore East and Southeast Asia

World Flavours with Local Flair Metro Vancouver is home to incredible international cuisine, with culinary traditions encompassing cultures from around the world. Here are some places to go, starting with the Dine The Line itinerary, Explore East and Southeast Asia, and to places beyond! Millennium Line Step onto the Millennium Line SkyTrain and let your compass card guide you on a voyage overseas in Dine the Line’s East and Southeast Asia Itinerary. Riding SkyTrain through Burnaby and Coquitlam, your tastebuds can travel through Vietnam to Japan at each stop. Slurp up a steaming bowl of pho, dig into Korean BBQ, or sample Singaporean street food–all under 15 minutes by foot from a Millenium Line Station. Leave the passport at home and grab your chopsticks for an international culinary adventure to East and Southeast Asia on transit. Arirang Hotdog and Croquette Hop off for a Korean hotdog. This trendy and delicious…

Holiday December 15, 2022

Where To Get A Rich Holiday Meal In Metro Vancouver

The holidays can be stressful, expensive, and challenging for a lot of folks. I’m here to make sure you’re well-nourished, without all the hooplah. By Brittany Tiplady Let’s face it: cooking a full, traditional, tried-and-true holiday meal is an exhausting feat. If you’re not up to the challenge this year – or if you’re keeping your holiday circle small and intimate – why not let the pros do the dirty work? If you’re hosting a large gathering we’ve listed a few catering companies to save the day with inventive holiday meals available for pre-order. If dining out is more your thing, I’ve found a selection of restaurants across Metro Vancouver serving up hot holiday meals at a variety of price points and ambiances. Catering The Lazy Gourmet Whether your kitchen chops need a little bit of work, or you’re simply just too busy to whip up a holiday feast, the…

Cocktails, Wines & Spirits December 6, 2022

Six Cocktails to Celebrate the Season in Metro Vancouver

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! That time when Santa’s helpers toil away around colourful flights and lots of ice, building delicious seasonal cocktails for all the good boys and girls. Here’s where to get your hands on these very toastable potables around Metro Vancouver this year. The Fall Negroni at Nightingale While it feels like Winter, it’s still technically Fall, and whatever, it’s always a good time for a Negroni. This one is infused with traditional holiday flavours of fig and rosemary. Vancouver: 1017 W. Hastings Street Night of a Thousand Eyes at Keefer Bar This one smacks of that “special” coffee you take up Robson Street to keep your hands warm while Christmas shopping, or to keep you from lashing out while Christmas shopping. Kahlua, amaro, espresso and a salted caramel sake. Vancouver: 135 Keefer Street Sweater Weather at Sons of Vancouver Distillery Cozy up to…

Festivals & Events December 2, 2022

December Foodie Events in Metro Vancouver

More than any other month, December is all about eating, drinking and being as merry as humanly possible. Here’s what’s happening around metro Vancouver this month to do all three at once. Breakfast with Santa, December 3 Get your wish list ready and head down to the City of Lougheed in Burnaby for a little one-on-one time with the Big Man, and bring along your appetite for the breakfast buffet from IHOP. There’s also storytime and crafting for the kids and all proceeds benefit Burnaby Meals on Wheels. At the Lougheed Skytrain Station Festive Canapes Cooking Class, December 7 Put back all those frozen boxes from Superstore and get set to really impress your holiday party guests. Learn to whip up with fabulous homemade finger foods like Pork and Apricot Sausage Rolls, Pita Crisps and Beet Hummus, a Brie and Cranberry Tartlet, and more at Lonsdale Quay Market. At Lonsdale…

Festivals & Events December 1, 2022

10 Christmas Food Markets In Metro Vancouver

The holidays are around the corner, so here’s a list of markets where you can buy those tasty stocking fillers and have a holly jolly ole’ time browsing stalls that’ll get you into the Christmas spirit! By Avneet Takhar Japan Market There will be 90+ Japanese vendors featured in this Downtown Market, including the oh-so-yummy True Nosh Company, Hangry Unicorn Snacks and Neko Fresh Store sweets. Bring your appetite and enough room to pack as many treats as possible- for yourself and as gifts! 3rd-4th of December, 10am – 5pm. Grab tickets here. UBC Robson Square (inside of UBC Downtown Campus). A 5 minute walk from Vancouver City Centre sky train station. Christmas Market at Lulu Island Winery Mulled wine, live music (we bet it’s Christmas carols!), and a total of 40+ stalls- including Coffee Craze Company’s ethically sourced, rich dark and medium roasted bundles, with a bunch of…

World November 30, 2022

5 Flavoursome International Food Shops In And Around Vancouver

A trip to Vancouver and the surrounding areas doesn’t just mean straight-up West Coast cuisine -it’s home to a bunch of international treats. And we’re here to tell you where they’re at! By Avneet Takhar Duso’s Italia Tucked away in Granville Market, is Duso’s Italia. Duso’s own brands of pasta are actually born in B.C, but they import a variety of foods from all over including Italy and Spain. From Sicily’s own Agostino Recca brand of famous anchovies, Ines Rosales’ olive oil tortas (Orange and Original) from Castilleja de la Cuesta, La Molisana’s numerous pastas and risottos, there’s an abundance of European cultural items to take home! And don’t forget to check out their homemade counter filled with cheeses, raviolis, arancini and desserts including tiramisu. Check it out here! Vancouver: Public Market, 1689 Johnston St Cilantro & Jalapeño Located in Lonsdale Quay’s Market, this authentic Mexican vendor has all you…

Dine the Line November 21, 2022

Dine The Line Is Back With NEW Itineraries!

Dine the Line has exciting, delicious new itineraries! Take your taste buds on a culinary tour and experience Metro Vancouver like never before. All of the new itineraries are easily accessible by TransLink – make sure to load up your compass card and enjoy these NEW amazing additions: Bring the Family, Plant Based, Bubble Tea Line, Brunch to Brews, It’s Better With Friends, and Explore East and Southeast Asia. Dine the Line and WIN Enter to win a grand prize of a 2-night stay in The Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver, dinner with Diva at the Met plus Compass Cards for two, pre-loaded with three days of unlimited transit on all SkyTrain lines, busses and the Seabus! We’ll also keep you dining around the whole time with $400 in gift cards to Dine the Line featured restaurants! Enter to win here! https://youtu.be/Ny72aGgZSy0 Follow us on Facebook Instagram and Twitter

Chef Stories November 17, 2022

Sriracha revolver’s Jordan Hocking on the Secret to Her Sauces

Sriracha revolver’s Jordan hocking on the secret to her sauces By Catherine Dunwoody Sriracha is a small town on the coast of Thailand, and where the original spicy sauce comes from. Vancouver’s Jordan Hocking, Indigenous entrepreneur and owner of Sriracha Revolver has a complete line of her own sauces made at her Commercial Drive headquarters. West Coast Food contributor Catherine Dunwoody chatted with her about her career, and the secret to her sauce. What does the revolver mean in your brand name? Revolver is a Spanish verb for stir, mix, or mess up. How did you get your start? I made sauce for gifts one year and found it’s a very creative experience. Working with fresh produce and putting together different combinations to reach particular flavour goals is really satisfying. I was at home with my small children, and it was an activity and outlet that was wholly mine! Were…

Where to Eat November 15, 2022

Michelin Vancouver, Where Should you Begin?

With Michelin Stars, Bib Gourmand and Recommended restaurants, where should you start in Vancouver? Ever since the Lower Mainland food scene got some international love, things have been pretty hectic around town! The Michelin guide recognized 60 fantastic local spots. Eight with one star, 12 with Bib Gourmand designations, and 40 placed on the ‘Recommended’ list. It has definitely shaken things up in a wonderful way, but chefs, staff and, of course, diners are bracing themselves for the big push in traffic that comes with the announcements. So for people looking to try everything that made the list (good luck!), where do you even begin? Well, we don’t claim to have tried every spot, but we have visited a fair amount and thought we’d shout out one restaurant in each recognized category. Of course, you could always just pick a place on the list and explore things that way. You…

Chef Stories November 9, 2022

Dine In-Person with the Big Hearted Dragon Himself, Vikram Vij

Chew on This Tasty Tours offers a unique, personal dinner experience with celebrity chef, Vikram Vij. Here’s how it started and how it’s going. By Lise Hines, Owner of Chew on This Tasty Tours In 2014, Globe and Mail writer Marsha Lederman was interviewing Season Nine’s newest Dragon, Chef Vikram Vij, who stated, “I am going to give that person that love and that attention and see how much fire that person has in their eyes, how much passion they have and if that is [the case], then I’m going to let them be the ruler of their own fate. I’m just going to give them that helpful hand.” Lederman went on to observe that, “Chef Vikram’s positioning himself as the “Dragon with heart” is a bit of show business in itself, [but] it is completely consistent with his personality – and jibes with his own story.” Chew On This…

Wineries November 7, 2022

4 New Local Autumn Wines in Metro Vancouver

Try these new wine releases! By Catherine Dunwoody The fall harvest season also means our wineries introduce much-awaited releases to their wine store collections. Visit one of these four hyper-local, BC wineries today and start sipping autumn’s best. Visit Langley to try Township 7 Seven Stars Vega Sparkling Wine, perfect to enjoy now or tuck away for the upcoming festive season. Pairs beautifully with crabcakes, prosciutto or creamy cheeses. In Fort Langley, try this crisp Valley Commons Pinot Gris with its notes of apples, peach, and pineapple, refreshing and perfect with brunch at home. Backyard Vineyards Simply Social Syrah is the perfect wine to transition into autumn, with its notes of peppercorn, lavender cherry and plum. Bragging rights? This wine claimed the silver medal at the All-Canadian Wine Championships. Visit the Langley winery to snap it up. Pacific Breeze Winery in New Westminster released their 2020 Reserve Fifty /…

Chef Stories November 3, 2022

Food Network Canada: Project Bakeover Features Lyra Lou Cakes

Food Network Canada’s Project Bakeover Features Surrey’s Lyra Lou Cakes By Catherine Dunwoody In Project Bakeover renowned pastry chef, master chocolatier and entrepreneur Steve Hodge saves struggling bakeries on the brink of losing it all. His expert advice, combined with interior designer Tiffany Pratt’s talents turning ho-hum spaces into stunning showcases really are the recipe for success. North Shore’s Steve Hodge of Temper Chocolate and Pastry and design guru Tiffany Pratt sprinkled their magic all over a Filipino bakery with a much-deserved makeover. West Coast Food’s regular contributor Catherine Dunwoody chatted with the Surrey-based husband and wife team, Lyra and Abe, about their epic experience on the show. Lyra Lou Cakes owners Abe and Lyra appeared in Project Bakeover Season 2, Episode 5 “Cake it to the Limit”. Lyra and Abe! How did you get involved in the show? Did you apply or did Food Network invite you? Somebody from…

Festivals & Events November 2, 2022

November Foodie Events in Metro Vancouver

As the weather around here has finally turned seasonally-appropriate, there’s plenty of food and beverage events around Vancouver to keep us nourished in November. November 3 – 14: Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Week One of the province’s premiere celebrations of all things malty, hoppy and good, this week-plus long party will see 11 North Shore breweries host a different special event each night featuring music, games, giveaways, food pop-ups and of course delicious limited edition beers. Highlights include a Brazilian Jazz night at Beere Brewing on November 4 and the Shaketown Hoedown Country Music Night on the 11th. November 5: Vancouver Cheese and Meat Artisan Food and Beverage Festival “Long live local” is the theme of this, the only festival dedicated to artisan food in the Pacific Northwest. Vancouver’s stop is at the Pipe Shop on Vancouver’s North Shore where you can explore the smells, tastes and textures of…

Where to Eat November 1, 2022

6 Healthy Spots To Bounce Back From Your Halloween Binge

Author’s Note: Before I start this article with the impression that I’m any authority on healthy living, let me first say that I’m currently writing this from atop a pile of fun-sized Snickers wrappers. Consider this list as more of a self-affirmation that I will one day escape from the frosted-coated clutches of sugar and finally kick the habit… At least until eggnog goes on sale, of course. As we’re currently in between feasting holidays on the calendar, it’s a good time as any to finally make some progress on that new year’s resolution from 10 months ago! You’ve still got a chance to turn things around on some of those healthy promises you made. Here’s an entry-level guide for healthy spots to visit, seeing as time, much like the waistband in my sweatpants, is fading away. Turf Turf is a meeting space, a sweat studio, and home to…

Chef Stories October 27, 2022

Sustainable Cuisine With Two Of Vancouver’s Top Chefs

Sustainable Cuisine with Burdock & Co’s Andrea Carlson and Ono Vancouver’s TJ Conwi By Avneet Takhar We were lucky enough to sit down with two of Vancouver’s heavy hitters and well-known chefs! Andrea Carlon of Burdock & Co – named Vancouver Magazine’s Chef of the Year (2020) and whose vegetable-focused, creative cuisine has earned her recognition as a food artisan. And TJ Conwi, Founder of community-driven collective, Ono Vancouver who supports non-profits for meal programs and provides private dining experiences. They gave their insider advice from vast experience and growth, on how to maintain a sustainable structure in the food industry. For both customers and suppliers, they gave their expertise- an eye-opener to shutting down food myths and identifying opportunities where a few small changes can go a long way. Burdock & Co’s menu seems to focus on plant-based options. What led you to this decision? Andrea Carlson: We try…

Craft Beer October 24, 2022

Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Week is Back

Attention craft beer lovers, head over to Vancouver’s North Shore in November! Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Week is back November 4 to 14 with exciting events at a different brewery, every night. Here’s a roundup of four fun ways to explore one of BC’s most eclectic craft beer scenes and celebrate a little while you’re at it. Launch Party, November 4 Kick the week off right at the Pipe Shop in The Shipyards District, at the gala event of the festival. In one amazing evening by the water, you can get a taste of the North Shore’s finest craft breweries, all the while revelling in live music from local artists Jimi and the Antonio Larosa Trio, plus games and prizes galore. Be sure to pre-purchase your tickets for exclusive early entry and first access to tokens and vendors! What we’re ordering: A very special 2022 Collaboration Brew unveiled that…

Sweets October 20, 2022

Up Your Candy Game Ahead of Halloween

You’re an adult now, and while you may not still be trick or treating (hopefully), it’s time to have a serious talk about candy. If you’re one to commit to cheat days, then it’s worth doing it right. If you’re going to cheat, then cheat well. With Halloween looming, it’s a fitting time to up our candy game, instead of waiting until Nov 1, to pillage the dollar stores for discounted leftovers. If nothing else, these options will introduce you to a whole new world of snacking that is worth circling a few more days on your calendar. *Cover image care of Karameller Candy Shop Steveston Sweet Shoppe What better way to cap a zenned-out stroll by the water than with a mouth full of Pop Rocks? Come crashing back down to Earth and speed towards its sugary core with all manner of extreme sweets on offer. Crack…

Craft Beer October 17, 2022

Tap Into Your Brewing Skills At The BC Beer Conference

Crack a bottle and tap the keg, the BC Beer Conference is about to start pouring! On Nov 8+9, you can join over 220 BC craft breweries in celebrating all the delicious brews of the Lower Mainland. If you’re interested in brewing beer, or are a part of a brewery already, this is a fantastic event to network, learn about new techniques and sample the wares of fellow brewmasters. If you’re more of a beer enthusiast, it’s a great way to discover new breweries, sample seasonal offerings and meet the people behind your favourite taps. Held at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster, both days will feature keynote speakers from the industry, educational seminars, and a trade show floor with over 50 vendors. For beer enthusiasts like us, this is a great way to follow your curiosity about something you love. Whether you’re there to meet people, learn about the…

Adult Beverages October 14, 2022

Braggot Brewery & The Oldest Alcoholic Beverage in the World

It’s not quite mead; it’s not quite beer. By Avneet Takhar Located on the North Shore and having opened recently in May 2022, Braggot Brewery holds an impressive title as “the oldest alcoholic beverage in the world”! Creating a unique blend that’s not quite mead, but not quite beer it’s not like anything you’ve ever tasted before. This primeval liquid refreshment dates back to the 12th century and used to be enjoyed by the Vikings and Celtics! The word “Braggot” is where the Norse (Viking language) verb “Brugga” comes from. Brugga means “to brew”, indicating that even for them it was the original brewed beverage. It’s a staple drink for a Sunday meal with the Welsh even to this day and is deemed a snug-like drink for cold nights. As fall is upon us, that couldn’t be more welcoming! At the brewery, they make up the braggot with fermented organic…

Farms October 13, 2022

Pumpkin Patches in Metro Vancouver

For kids, maintaining composure in the lead-up to Halloween can be just as unbearable as trying not to eat the whole advent calendar on December first. I say “for kids” mainly as a misdirect to hide the fact that, as I’m a grown man, with no kids, I’m finding it hard to maintain my composure in the lead-up to Halloween. Thankfully these spooky, fresh-air activities are like a ghostly balm on my impatience as I wait for the calendar to run down. Hazelmere Pumpkin Patch A mainstay of the best autumn events in Surrey, the Hazelmere patch returns with a you-pick pumpkin area, a mini corn maze, a playground area and a wagon ride. Oh, and not to be outdone, there’s plenty of opportunity to interact with the friendly locals of the farm (goats, pigs, peacocks). Food trucks will be on the scene, so stay for lunch and make a…

Chef Stories October 11, 2022

Steveston’s Baan Lao’s Chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng

Thai fine dining near the waterfront in Steveston Village By Catherine Dunwoody Recently awarded number 14 in the Best New Restaurants division on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list; Chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng is delighted that her fine dining Thai restaurant is being recognized nationally. Chef Nutcha’s multi-course set menus are exceptional, with earthy, highest quality Thai flavours doing a delicate dance around locally sourced produce and proteins. I sat down with Chef Nutcha to chat about the restaurant she opened just a couple of years ago, which has everyone intrigued and has changed the way most of us see Thai cuisine. Chef, how would you describe your health and wellness vision, in general? And how would you say that applies to your cooking at Baan Lao? Growing up in rural Thailand with no electricity, no running water and no refrigeration taught me a lot about the power of fresh, organic food…

Where to Eat October 4, 2022

Dine Out for your Thanksgiving Feast

With Thanksgiving around the corner (October 10 to be exact!), the fall season calls for all the comfort food with trimmings to enjoy with the family! Here are our picks of where to make a reservation and show up! Not a moment in the kitchen is required. By Avneet Takhar The Lobby Restaurant + Lounge Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier, Vancouver’s North Shore A bang-up three-course meal awaits with Okanagan wine pairings (fancy, huh!) at The Lobby, and it’s a rich menu that doesn’t hold back in the least. From lobster bisque to Fraser Valley turkey and slow-roasted prime rib, it’s certainly a feast. And topped off with a pumpkin pie is the cherry on top! P2B Bistro & Bar Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver A traditional turkey dinner or sandwich, take your pick at P2B Bistro! For vegetarians, there’s roasted mushroom ravioli and a deep dish apple pie to…

Producers September 28, 2022

Where to Enjoy Cranberry Season in Langley

By Brittany Tiplady What comes to mind when you think about the fall season? Changing leaves, crisp air, shorter days, lots of rain, and of course…cranberries. Cranberry desserts, cranberry sauce, cranberry scented candles, oh my! We’re lucky in Metro Vancouver to have access to some of the best cranberry products, harvested right from the source. Here’s a list of where you can enjoy cranberry season in the Fraser Valley. Fort Wine Co. 26151 84 Ave, Langley, BC Run, don’t walk! Fort Wine Co.’s Cranberry Wine varietals are a fan favourite for cranberry lovers–their stock sells out quickly. Still available is their flagship Cranberry Wine: “With its beautiful blush colour and tart taste, Cranberry Wine is the perfect wine to accompany festive meals include turkey, duck, pork or lamb.” Fort Langley Cranberry Festival Glover Road, Fort Langley Get your full seasonal cranberry fix, all in one place. The Fort Langley Cranberry…

Festivals & Events September 26, 2022

Events for Foodies in October

October is right around the corner, bringing with it the season of comfort food. Here is the schedule of food and beverage events in Metro Vancouver to keep you cozy and warm. Vancouver Croissant Crawl October 1 – 7 Grab your berets and your bicyclettes and head out on the Vancouver Croissant Crawl where 10 vendors at 14 locations around the city are offering up limited-time versions of this buttery, flaky gift from heaven. Some flavours to track down are the Double Baked Pistachio at Davie Village Bakery, the Churro at Bel Cafe and the Mash n’ Stuffin from Cadeaux Bakery for those who want to get a little head start on Thanksgiving. Check out the interactive map on their website. Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards October 4 Hobnob with a real who’s-who of the Vancouver culinary scene, and find out first-hand where you should be going for dinner…

Vancouver September 16, 2022

Sporty and Scrumptious: Vancouver’s New Mini Golf Pub

There’s a new golf experience that’s been unleashed in the heart of Vancouver- and it’s “definitely not your Grandpa’s golf club” as the team behind it is candidly stating. By Avneet Takhar Partee-Putt is an explosion of nostalgic fun, based around “themed holes” that are a nod to the city’s favourite hotspots such as Lions Gate Bridge and cult classic movies, including “Jaws”. A kitschy venue that also houses arcade games, pool tables and weekend DJ nights, it’s an entertainment extravaganza. And, lest we forget- the food! Happy hours and a menu that speaks to good ‘ole grub that hits the spot. This, along with tantalizing cocktails with not only creative flavours but also names (Jenny’s Apple Bottom, anyone?!). We had a chat with MRG’s Sales & Development Manager, Adam Vickers to give us the hole lowdown! What can putters expect from this mini-golf, foodie haven, that’s just opened? Guests…

Guided Tours September 12, 2022

Here’s Your Chance to Dine Like a Critic in Richmond

Everyone’s a critic! If you’ve ever heard someone say it, and thought, “Well, actually, no, I’m not,” then this is your moment to live up to that old figure of speech. You can now channel your inner Aton Ego (the villain hero from Ratatouille) with this tour through one of the Lower Mainland’s most celebrated foodie destinations: Richmond. Now, a curated tour through the area’s famous Chinese cuisine would already be enough to warrant a ticket. However, the fact that this one is led by Globe and Mail food critic, Alexandra Gill, makes it a must for anyone remotely interested in food, food culture, or food criticism. In a private dining experience, your party will join Gill on a tour through her favourite restaurants, enjoying eight to ten courses, plus dessert. For those in the know, it’s one thing to read her famous reviews, but listening to her stories and…

South American September 6, 2022

Where to Eat South American Cuisine in and around Vancouver

Growing up with a Peruvian family I am definitely biased, but I stand firm in my beliefs that Peruvian cuisine is as delicious, robust, and complex as the critics acclaim. Of course, renowned cuisine can be found all over South America – it is a region that produces rich, hearty food meant to be shared and adored. By Brittany Tiplady Latin and South American food can be enjoyed at the Michelin Star level, or just as well from a tiny takeout spot. In the Metro Vancouver area, the options for South American cuisine are limited but not impossible to find. To help you on your gastronomic journey, I’ve compiled a list of South American restaurants and bakeries for you to try. Vancouver Ancora Waterfront Dining and Patio (Two locations: False Creek, Vancouver & Ambleside, Vancouver’s North Shore) Ancora is a high-end occasion spot, but if your wallet is up…

Festivals & Events August 30, 2022

Events for Foodies in September

As we slip into slightly shorter days, the West Coast is long on events and festivals for foodies to celebrate outside while we still can. Here is just a sampler of some of the tastes on offer. September 3: Sip Shop Snack Richmond’s Lulu Island Winery opens up its 15-acre property to local businesses and artisan vendors and invites the public to come and enjoy a glass of wine from the pop-up bar just steps from the outdoor market. Then you can grab lunch from Kyu Grill, an award-winning Japanese Hawaiian-style food truck, and picnic underneath the beautiful Grapevine Tunnel. September 4: Italian Summer Festival & Mercato Vancouver’s Italian Cultural Centre presents an open-air food festival in their parking lot off Slocan Street featuring plenty of food from around Italy, a market of local vendors and their specialty goods, food, drinks and treasures. There’s also a chance to show…

Burnaby August 24, 2022

Summer Beers You Need to Try on Canada’s West Coast

The sun is shining, the beaches are calling, and couldn’t you just go for a beer? It’s still summer out there, folks – though not for long – so don’t sleep on these get-em-while-it’s-hot-out limited-run flavours from some of our favourite West Coast breweries. By Wade Kinley Mimosa Summer Ale at Russell Brewing Company Summer is also the season of long lazy brunches, so a beer modelled after a day-drinking staple is a no-brainer. A splash of OJ is added to a light, citrusy blend of hops and London Ale and Saison yeasts for a perfect buddy to your benny. Hula Hula at Main Street Brewing A hit from summers past sashays back to Mount Pleasant with flavours of passionfruit, orange and guava with hints of vanilla and hibiscus in a Berlin-Weisse-styled quaff. And now you can enjoy one with the boys of summer as part of the…

Recipes August 23, 2022

Recipe: Blueberry Galette

By Kathy Mak Savour fresh and juicy blueberries in this tasty and easy summer dessert that is rustic, yet elegant! It’s blueberry season! Check out a BC Farmers Market to load up on this native BC berry and get some galettes in the oven! INGREDIENTS Fresh BC blueberries (4 cups) Cornstarch (3 tbsp) Brown sugar (1/2 cup) Salt (1/8 tsp) Lemon juice (1 tbsp) Granulated sugar for sprinkling (1 tsp) Puff pastry (1 homemade or 1 package – 200 g store-bought) DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, combine cornstarch with brown sugar and salt. Mix well. Add fresh blueberries and lemon juice to the bowl. Combine until all the berries are coated. Roll puff pastry dough on a flour dusted surface to form a 12 inch wide circle. Uneven edges are fine. Transfer rolled dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon fruit mixture onto the centre of dough,…

Summer Patios August 22, 2022

Patio Season: Vancouver’s North Shore

The North Shore is rich with spots to catch the sunset over a round of beverages, you’re certain to stumble across a few no matter which direction you wander. But for those who like to plan ahead, these are a few of our favourite spots in North and West Vancouver to while away the summer days. Beach House Head west along the shore towards Dundarave, and you’ll find a delightful spot to enjoy fresh oysters and watch the waves roll in. We adore Beach House for its delicious West Coast menu and wine list as much as for the stunning views off their waterside patio. A must-visit if you’re considering exploring the area’s beachside communities. Arms Reach Bistro Head in the opposite direction, and of course, you’ll hit a community embedded in natural beauty, Deep Cove. Arms Reach Bistro is just a walk up from the beach, where…

Tours August 17, 2022

Tour the Wine Region Right Next Door to Vancouver

By Brittany Tiplady Wine touring in B.C. isn’t just reserved for the Okanagan. If you’re a wine lover, consider sipping your way through Langley! Located just one hour outside of Vancouver, Langley is booming with lush wineries and tours aplenty. Book a tour and tasting at one of the wineries listed below, or try a bunch of them one go with a tour. Wineries of Langley Backyard Wines 3033 232 St, Langley, BC Vancouver’s backyard has a blossoming wine industry and Backyard Wines offers tours of their full-production winery. Guests will learn about what goes on in their vineyard, visit the barrel room, and gain some valuable wine knowledge. Of course, the tour is followed by a wine tasting in the Backyard Wine Tasting Room. Reservations are required, so book your tour in advance! Chaberton Estate Winery 1064 216 St, Langley, BC The folks at Chaberton Estate Winery are veterans…

Festivals & Events August 11, 2022

Fork & Finger is Back in Langley City

For impatient foodies like us, we’re relieved to announce that one of Langley City’s best culinary events has returned! On August 27, hungry folks will gather at McBurney Plaza for an unrivalled food experience. Live cooking demonstrations from local chefs, will have you salivating to sample each dish, while a full schedule of musicians and performers will have you taking dance breaks between tastings. Watch in awe as Chef Spencer Watts makes Creole Lobster Bisque with Louisiana succotash, then savour every bite afterwards. Take in the exquisite aroma of award-winning BBQ as renowned Pitmaster Kevin Legge shows off the art of slow cooking. With 14 restaurants from around Downtown Langley participating, you can have a different cuisine for every course. Start with modern Thai from Ban Chok Dee, then move on to Hawaiian delicacies at Dal’s Poke- let your palate be your guide! Just be sure to bring your Fork &…

Street Food August 9, 2022

Burger & Barbecue Food Trucks to Try this Summer

Some of the best BBQ this summer comes from a truck. By Catherine Dunwoody Salads are fine. Wraps will do. But what we really want to sink our teeth in this summer are burgers. And barbecue. There’s nothing like a food truck for the ultimate grab-and-go experience, especially those that make their way around metro Vancouver during the entire season. Here’s what to check out. Rosie’s BBQ & Smokehouse is well-loved for its down-south authenticity and makes appearances all over Vancouver, the North Shore, Surrey, and Coquitlam. This summer watch for the truck in Port Moody on Brewery Row, as well as at Nat Bailey Stadium, the River District Block Party, Strange Fellows Brewing, and more. Think real-deal brisket, sizzling sausage, sticky-saucy ribs, plus classic sides like cornbread and beans. Sirius Craving does smash burgers like no one else, and it’s hard to miss this space-themed food truck with…

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…

Summer Patios August 5, 2022

Patio Season: Vancouver

So you didn’t get the memo that air conditioners would be sold out by this point. And you’ve been caught one too many times sneaking into the neighbour’s pool. Thankfully there are still plenty of spots you can remain chilled at in Vancouver, without breaking any trespassing laws. These are just a handful of our favourite spots in the city that you can visit on your day in town, or if you’re just on a neighbourhood crawl in search of shade. Burdock and Co. Nestled in the garden of this Main Street fave, Burdock’s patio is perfect for right after rain clouds part and the forecast brightens up. Accompanied by the fresh scent of the greenery around you, order a martini or a glass from their impeccable wine list while you take in one of our most eclectic communities. For added photography points, the side of the building is adorned…

Where to Eat August 3, 2022

Dumplings Fit for a Picnic

What’s the ultimate share food? Dumplings! By Brittany Tiplady Dumplings — beloved across many cultures, existing in hundreds of iterations, enjoyed for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ideal for sharing, stacked with options for vegans and vegetarians, best enjoyed with a group of fellow food lovers. And yet, dumplings are perhaps underrated as superb picnic food. Here are some spots across Metro Vancouver serving up delicious dumplings, fit for a picnic. Heritage Asian Eatery Truly, one my favourite places in the city. Best known for their hearty bowls, sumptuous Baos and generous feast combos, Heritage is also the perfect place to grab an order of their Crystal Prawn Dumpling, and Steamed Xiao Long Bao Dumpling. Pro tip: get your takeout from the Broadway location and pop over to Jonathan Rogers Park for a sweet lil’ picnic. 382 West Broadway 1108 West Pender Street, Vancouver Kozak Ukrainian Eatery Pierogies in the park,…

Summer Patios July 26, 2022

Patio Season: New Westminster

Summer along the Fraser River. Take in the sun on the water, or tuck into the shade of a green-and-brick garden oasis in a city that hasn’t lost an ounce of its charm in all its rich history. Take a tour through some of the best patio seats in New Westminster. By Wade Kinley Kelly & Carlos O’Briens Grab a seat in the sun right downtown New Westminster with your backdrop a gorgeous brick building built back at the turn of the century. Not this century, the last century. Kelly & Carlos O’Briens share their patio in front of the Canadian Pacific Railway Station styled in that company’s historic Chateau style. Fancy yourself a fancy rail traveler, sipping your Sidecar waiting for your train to whisk you away to exotic climes of the newly formed federation of Canada. Like Edmonton. The Met Bar & Grill Told you New West…

Summer Patios July 19, 2022

Patio Season: Richmond

As we continue our tour of the best patios on the West Coast, we land in Richmond where the Fraser River meets the Pacific Ocean meets epic views all around. By Wade Kinley Milltown Bar & Grill Situated on a land bar in the Fraser River, Milltown boasts not one but two amazing waterside views to sit by and enjoy plates of West Coast pub favourites and one or two of their signature cocktails. On the north side, you’ll take in the majesty of the Coastal Mountains, the backdrop to the new and bustling Milltown Marina. Southside, you’re right next to the river with the main YVR Airport runway in the background. So pick your poison: boats or planes? Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant On the busy Bayview Pier in the iconic Steveston Village, Blue Canoe serves up fresh local-as-it-can-get seafood on their patio right along the boardwalk. All…

Vancouver July 14, 2022

Vancouver Becomes a Michelin Guide Destination

The Michelin inspectors have been quietly dining around town recently, and it seems they like what they’ve found. Today it was announced that the Michelin Guide is coming to Vancouver. The announcement follows just two months after a similar announcement for Toronto. “Our inspectors are already exploring Vancouver,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides. “They are eagerly diving into its wide variety of cuisines, prepared with high-quality products and served in warm, casual atmospheres.” The Michelin Guide includes such world-class dining destinations as Japan, Iceland, Macau and France, Michelin’s country of origin. What began in 1889 as a guidebook encouraging vehicle owners to explore the open road has since become a highly sought-after rating system that evaluates some of the world’s top restaurants. “The fusion of flavours and cultures, influences from the Pacific Rim threaded through, and the abundance of the freshest ingredients from the ocean and…

Mexican July 12, 2022

A Mexican Food Crawl in White Rock

What’s a beach day without great food? White Rock is a bustling little town, filled with wonderful small businesses, bars, breweries, cafes and authentic Mexican cuisine. On Marine Drive alone you’ll find three Mexican restaurants all serving up their own unique and delicious dishes. Picking a spot may be too difficult to choose–so may I suggest a little beach day food tour? Make it a Mexican restaurant crawl, and check out the listed options below. By Brittany Tiplady Alebrijes Kitchen + Bar 15077 Marine Dr, White Rock Whether you’re dining in, or grabbing takeout for a beach picnic, Alebrijes is an excellent choice for authentic Mexican street cuisine. Alebrijes is owned by a Mexican family that came to Canada 6 years ago with a goal to bring the joys of Mexican food to their new home. On the dine-in and takeout menu you’ll find delicious classics like Tacos Al…

Where to Eat July 7, 2022

Patio Season: Coquitlam and Burnaby

It’s time for summer patios in Coquitlam and Burnaby! With summer officially open for business, we naturally start to crave the outdoors. We also might start craving burgers. Or craft brews. Or anything – just let us have it under big open skies. When the pang hits, here are some of the best patios to hit up this summer in Coquitlam and Burnaby. Coquitlam Fairways Grill & Patio Something about golf courses, it seems. They just know how to do it outside. Built into the mountainside high above Coquitlam for spectacular and ultra-long-distance views, Fairways at Westwood Plateau offers a diverse menu for lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends and holidays. Even if you had a terrible day on the links, favourites like the Canadian elk burger and extensive pizza menu will make things right. Mariner Brewing The only thing better than dining outside is dining outside with your…

Festivals & Events July 4, 2022

9 Summer Food Festivals Happening in July

Oh yes, the sun is shining, the weather is sweet – in the words of Mr Bob Marley! It took a while to get there this year (global warming, much?!) but we are finally here. And there’s nothing that screams summer more than a food festival, so here are our top picks of where to go to get your fill! By Avneet Takhar VCBW Craft Beer and Music Festival When: July 9-10 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver A total of 150+ cider and beer stalls will be located at the PNE Fairgrounds. We predict a riot! JK, but seriously sounds like a tipsy good time and there’s enough food to soak up the liquids alright. Rosie’s BBQ Smokehouse with their slow–cooked brisket will be there, as well as The Real Patty Co with spicy Jamaican patties – we spy the Jerk Poutine which looks delicious! Music bands such as…

Summer Patios June 30, 2022

Patio Season: Langley and Langley City

Patio season is upon us! Do you know where you’ll next be enjoying a cool beverage with friends? If you’re visiting the Fraser Valley area for a lake day, a hike, a winery hop, or just to see where the summer day takes you, then there are plenty of reliable options. Here are just a handful of our favourite spots in Langley and Langley City. Langley City Egg Bomb If you’re getting up early to start your patio crawl, then this brunching staple should be your first stop. Home to area-famous Korean egg drop sandwiches, you can have an AM feast while taking in the fresh morning air. Add an iced honey bee latte, and you’ve surely started your day on the right foot. Mr. A’s Patio Restaurant With the rolling greenery of the Newlands Golf and Country Club as a backdrop, it’s no wonder this patio is…

Brunch June 24, 2022

Decadent Breakfasts in Metro Vancouver You Can Get to On SkyTrain

The best part about eating in such a transit-friendly area? Not having to worry about hoofing it or driving home after you’ve no doubt eaten like royalty. With the SkyTrain, these breakfast/brunch spots are on your route, and make a great start to exploring the Vancouver area. Just hop on, dig in, and ride anywhere! Vancouver Chambar Just a scone’s throw from Stadium Chinatown Station, Chambar has been a mainstay of the Vancouver brunch scene for a long time. With a cozy and modern ambiance, this Belgian-inspired cuisine is always reliable for a day-date, or just a round of morning-after mimosas. MVP of the menu: The paella skillet with two fried eggs, curried orzo, chorizo sausage, charred tomato salsa, cucumber and cilantro. Get there on transit: Take the Expo Line to Stadium Station, exit from the North side, and hang a right. You’re there! New West Piva Modern…

Guided Tours June 21, 2022

Vancouver Foodie Tours Knows Where the Locals Eat

As a lifelong Vancouver foodie, I like to think that I know the local food scene somewhat well. But sometimes, even when you think you’re the big fish in False Creek, you’ll cross paths with an even BIGGER foodie who cordially will serve you a hearty serving of perspective about what you THOUGHT you were an expert in. Without feeling like I’ve fallen from grace, I can say that partaking in Vancouver Foodie Tours recently, was a deliciously humbling experience. Touring around Granville Island, I was led by my guide Manuela into some outstanding tastes that I wasn’t even aware of. Of course, we stopped by Lee’s donuts, for a glazed honey dip, and JJ Bean for a freshly pressed coffee pairing, but I am ashamed to say it was the first time I had tried a lobster sandwich from The Lobster Man, and candied salmon courtesy of Longliner Seafoods.…

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…

Wineries June 1, 2022

3 Metro Vancouver Wines to Celebrate Spring and Summer

At last! The weather is warming up, patio season is just around the corner, and local wineries are releasing new vintages. Perfect for sipping right at the source, at nearby restaurants, or taking a bottle home with you. By Catherine Dunwoody Here are three of our current favourites you need to try, and where to find them whether you go right to the source in Langley or are elsewhere in Metro Vancouver. Backyard Vineyards’ Reserve Sparkling Rosé This Langley winery’s estate-grown pinot noir grapes are what this traditional method sparkler is produced with. With notes of cherry, strawberry, pomegranate, and citrus, this is available at the winery for $40. Try a bottle with your next dinner at Milltown Bar & Grill in Richmond or purchase a bottle at Everything Wine stores. Township 7’s Seven Stars Polaris The sparkling wine star in this Langley winery’s lineup is an award-winning blanc…

Where to Eat May 26, 2022

6 Burgers You NEED to Try This Summer

Hungry? Here are some of Metro Vancouver’s most coveted hamburgers. By Mark Shelling You gotta love a good burger. There’s no tastier staple of warm weather. While some may say the crown of summer snacks belongs to ice cream, or to a lesser degree, popsicles, we ask you: what memories do you have of catching the wafting allure of these things around your neighbourhood while out on your 10-speed? So with that argument now won, allow us to take a victory lap. These are 6 delicious items from the grill that you need to try ASAP (or at least before summer ends). Hundy This one may seem like an obvious pick for burger lovers in the know. However, if it’s not, and you’re only hearing of Hundy now, where have you been?? A straightforward approach with just the essentials (lettuce, tangy pickle, Hundyu sauce, cheese melted just right,) Hundy’s…

Cafés May 24, 2022

Cafés Where Work Gets Done in Richmond

Why make your own coffee and lunch when you can work from one of these delicious spots? By Winnie Tam Richmond is a foodie’s paradise with a diverse range of restaurants and cafes. Here are three worthy places to check out if you’d like to get some work done while enjoying delicious treats and beverages. Rocanini Coffee Roasters With a passion for the art of living, Rocanini Coffee Roasters has a keen understanding of the delicate balance of coffee. They’re not only in pursuit of the arts, but also dedicated to the scientific side of coffee roasting and preparation. There are lots of unique drinks and treats you can enjoy at Rocanini. Special mentions include their Matcha Basque Cheesecake, Ice Teddy Bear Latte, and Rose Caffe Latte. With large tables, plenty of seating, and free wifi, it’s a great spot to meet and work. You can even make…

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…

Wineries May 16, 2022

4 BC Wineries to Try This Spring

Wineries to Try In Metro Vancouver By Catherine Dunwoody You don’t have to travel far to experience some of the best wineries in BC. Right here in the Vancouver area, many are situated so close you can do a wine tasting at a few of these destinations in one day, or explore each in more depth, one at a time, by shopping at their wine stores and having a lovely meal while visiting. Here, 4 wineries worth checking out. Glass House Estate Winery Langley This family-owned boutique winery is situated along the Campbell Valley Wine Route. The de Jongs immigrated from the Netherlands to Langley where they purchased five acres to build their first home and greenhouse development. Then in 2004, they sold their last project, bought an overgrown Christmas tree farm which eventually became Glass House Estate Winery. The tasting room also has seating as a restaurant with carefully…

Seafood May 9, 2022

Be at the Docks in Vancouver for the First Haul of BC Spot Prawns

By Joyce Chua, Vancouver Foodie Tours Sweet, delicate, light and delicious, British Columbia’s spot prawns are highly coveted by chefs and foodies from around the world. With their unique taste and spotted markings, fresh spot prawns, bred and harvested off the coast of British Columbia, are one of the most sustainable seafood choices on the market. On May 15, 2022, foodies and seafood lovers will gather together to greet the fishing boats and indulge in the season’s harvest. While the festival may be a one-day event, anyone is welcome to partake in the daily spot prawn spectacle at Fisherman’s Wharf. Just two minutes from Granville Island, anyone can walk down to the dock, chat with the fishermen, and buy a few pounds of live spot prawns caught just hours prior. The experience is so nonchalant, but that’s exactly the thrill. The exchange from fisherman to foodie is strikingly simple. Peter,…

Family Friendly May 5, 2022

Get Ready for Grillin’ with the Canadian Festival of Chili and BBQ

This Family-Friendly Festival of Food is in Langley City, May 13th-15th, 2022 You know it’s summer when the tempting scent of the grill starts wafting through the neighbourhood, and we are ready for it! Set your tastebud bar high, because this is not just any festival, it’s a full-on chili and BBQ cook-off. For a $5 minimum entrance donation, you’ll directly support the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association Burn Fund, as well as get delicious and spicy samples across the weekend. On Saturday, May 14th, guests will get a complimentary taste of Firehouse Chili, while those visiting on Sunday, May 15th, will get a Pumper Pulled Pork bunwich. You’ll also get a firefighters wristband, which will give you access to sampling the wares of various competitors. With local live music, a beer garden, and lots of great food, bring the whole family to this charity event, with all proceeds going to…

Cocktails, Wines & Spirits May 4, 2022

5 Ways to Pair the Vancouver International Wine Festival with Cuisine

The Vancouver International Wine Festival is May 16th – 27th By Wade Kinley What is wine without food? What is food without wine? Thankfully you can leave these impossibly existential questions at home and just revel in the way food and wine combine to create magic at this month’s Vancouver International Wine Festival. Here’s how the city’s top chefs are teaming up with the world’s best winemakers for once-in-a-lifetime culinary experiences. Bodega Garzón Uruguay Dinner at Hydra Estiatoria Join Enologist Mele Sosa and dive deep into what some are calling “the Southern Hemisphere’s best kept secret,” the wines of Bodega Garzón, where 2500 million-year-old soil called Ballast combines with the winds of the Atlantic Ocean 18 km away to produce beautifully distinct wines. Taste them alongside plates of traditional Mediterranean flavours from Hydra, including Scallop and Watermelon Ceviche, Braised Short Rib Dolmades and more. Sonoma Strong: Rodney Strong at The…

Mexican May 2, 2022

Mexican Hidden Gems to Try for Cinco de Mayo

5 Mexican Spots in Metro Vancouver You Need to Try By Avneet Takhar When I think of Mexican food, what comes to mind is fiery flavours, homestyle portions and colourful concoctions. Basically everything you could ever want for a pleasing palette and visual la comida experience. Dive into the culture and fun this Cinco De Mayo with these following foodie spots that’ll leave a tingle on your tongue! Alimentaria Mexicana A restaurant under the umbrella of culinary big shot, Ernesto Gomez (also the founder of Chancho Tortilleria), Alimentaria Mexicana cannot be missed on Granville Island with its vibrant design and straw-covered patio. The menu carefully curated by Martín Vargas is like a la fiesta on a plate. Tinted crispy tortillas, meaty mains; Beef Cheeks In Dried Mexican Chillies and 8-hour braised Lamb Shank Barbacoa and cheerful bebidas (drinks), Niña Piña and Mezcalita amongst the many cocktail options. If you’re wanting…

Street Food April 28, 2022

Food Trucks to Visit for Mothers Day in Metro Vancouver

Take Mom on a Mother’s Day Food Crawl With These Food Truck Stops By Mark Shelling Mother’s Day is soon approaching (May 8), and with it, one of the busiest days of the restaurant industry. If securing a reservation at a local eatery is proving a little tougher than you were expecting, it’s time that you got a little crafty with the occasion. The warmer May weather is an excuse to get mom into the fresh air, and if she’s a foodie, she will love the opportunity to sample a few options rather than being cooped up at a table for the duration of the outing. These food trucks are the perfect way to give mom a delicious twist on what she might be expecting on Mother’s Day, plus they’re the ideal way to segway into a picnic, which in our extensive foodie research, we’ve seen that moms adore. …

Family Friendly April 25, 2022

National Every Kid Eat Healthy Week

April 25-29 is Every Kid Eat Healthy Week By Wade Kinley April 25 to 29 is this years’ National Every Kid Eat Healthy Week which encourages schools and families to improve the health and wellness of their kids and celebrates the link between nutrition, physical activity, mental health and learning. And while healthy eating habits begin at home, it’s nice to know that out there on-the-go on the West Coast there are plenty of options to not only eat healthy at local restaurants, but do so in a way that makes kids as happy as the adults in their lives. Goodbowl Goodbowl’s belief is that everyone deserves to have the best healthy-food eating experience. And that’s especially true for kids. At Goodbowl you can customize your own bowl of meat, veggies and sauce (often gluten and sugar free) on a bed of rice or noodles – and they have a…

Cheese & Meat April 13, 2022

Where to Fill Your Charcuterie Board in Metro Vancouver

Meat. The hero of the charcuterie board. By Catherine Dunwoody Create your own spectacular board at home to really wow your guests at home or just load up on deli meats to elevate your weekday sandwiches. Either way, these local spots are where to find the most delicious house-made and imported charcuterie meats. Arc Iberico Imports carries Iberico ham, known as Jamón, which is a type of cured ham produced in Spain. Try the Serrano ham as well, dry-cured for months, sliced thin by the master artisans behind the counter of the tasting room and wine bar. Stock up on chorizos and other Spanish delicacies while visiting Richmond. Puccini’s, located on Vancouver’s North Shore is owned and operated by a brother and sister team. This bustling Italian and Mediterranean deli offer cured meats both imported and locally sourced, as well as cheeses, pastas and other imported pantry staples. Bosa Foods…

Festivals & Events April 8, 2022

Our Fave Foodie Events For Easter 2022

By Sonu Purhar & Mark Shelling When we think Easter, we think vibrantly-hued jellybeans, gigantic chocolate bunnies and sprawling buffets. Yes, egg hunts and bunnies are fun too, but, before we commit to an event, we want to be sure food is involved! If that sounds like you, read on: we’ve found eleven Easter experiences in Metro Vancouver (and a little beyond) whose holiday festivities feature plenty of tasty fare. Let’s hop to it! Township 7 Easter Festival Adults and children alike will adore this picturesque vineyard egg hunt with prizing for every participant. In addition to the main event, Township 7’s festive affair also features a petting zoo, face painting and live entertainment. Afterward, follow your nose to the onsite Melt City Grilled Cheese and Hugs Mini Donuts by Mollie for delicious treats while you sample the vineyard’s award-winning wines. Grownups can even participate in an adults Easter egg hunt…

Where to Eat April 7, 2022

What to Eat this Easter in Metro Vancouver

By Avneet Takhar Spring has sprung and not only does that mean cherry blossoms blooming, mild weather and clear skies but it also equals copious amounts of chocolate eggs, hearty dinners with friends and family, and the long weekend to recover from a food coma. Haha, we jest but seriously, it’s a resurrection of all things edible and indulgent so we’re excited to share with you the Easter and Passover menus that you’ll surely not want to pass up! The Bench Bakehouse Ready to take your order is The Bench Bakehouse, with their Easter shop open online and various yummy things to take home and enjoy. I did exactly that with their bomb Quiche Lorraine, a buttery yet crunchy pastry packed with spinach, caramelized onions and asiago which I customized to add spice! And I nabbed their 4 pack of classic hot cross buns, filled with raisins, apricots and housemade…

Recipes April 5, 2022

Recipe: el Santo Prawn Ceviche

By: El Santo in New Westminster Enjoy El Santo’s classic prawn ceviche. Ingredients: Whole prawns, (400g) Limes, (1) Red onion, (1 Small) Roma tomato, (1) Jalapeño, (1) Orange, (1) Lemon, (1) Bay leaf, (1) Cilantro, (1 bunch) Avocado, (1) Shallot, (1) Cloves of garlic, (2) Salt and pepper Peel and devein the prawns, keeping the shells to make prawn salt. Peel the limes, lemon, and orange, and place the citrus skins on a baking sheet with the prawn shells. Set aside the citrus fruit for juicing. Finely slice shallots and garlic and add those to the baking sheet along with bay leaf and the stems of the cilantro. Season heavily with salt and bake in the oven at 220 for 15 minutes. Once dried, blend in a food processor until it becomes a powder. Set aside, as this will be used to garnish the ceviche. For the ceviche, roughly chop…

Brunch March 31, 2022

OEB Breakfast Co. Rises and Shines in North Vancouver, Burnaby and Yaletown

By Wade Kinley A Michelin Star restaurant at a breakfast joint? Not as crazy as it sounds. Not crazy at all, according to OEB Breakfast Co. founder and chef Mauro Martina, whose lofty ambitions have helped turn this Calgary upstart into one of the fastest-growing chains in the country. That star has eluded them – so far – but that hasn’t stopped them from taking their elevated breakfast concepts as far east as Toronto and south into Arizona, and now their latest ‘hatchling’ comes to the restaurant-rich Lonsdale Ave and 15th St area of Vancouver’s North Shore. The bright, airy space with bold, sleek lines and contrasting pastel colours opened its doors in January of 2022, hot off the heels of a Burnaby location in 2021 and Yaletown in 2019. Opening not one but two restaurants in the midst of a pandemic is a feat unto itself and should speak…

Sweets March 28, 2022

Gluten-Free Cakes that Taste Fantastic

By Catherine Dunwoody The secret to delicious GF baked goods? Products that don’t have the unfortunate and often typical texture (read: sand or Styrofoam) associated with the term ‘gluten-free’. As a card-carrying Celiac (ok, there is no ‘card’, but you get the idea) I was diagnosed with the auto-immune disorder a few years ago, long after I’d been eating gluten for a lifetime. Always on the hunt for gluten-free options (and sharing ‘cause I’m nice that way), I’m as picky a food-writer as ever; because I know what the gluten-full versions taste like. Sure, it’s tough to measure up, but not impossible. Julia Child once said, “a party without cake is just a meeting.” We literally can have our cake and eat it too, especially at these bakeries who do special-occasion or any-day cakes, throughout the Vancouver area. Helpful hint? It’s best to pre-order these cakes by visiting their websites…

Festivals & Events March 24, 2022

Coquitlam’s Festival du Bois is Back with French Canadian Treats

by Catherine Dunwoody Poutine enthusiasts rejoice! From April 1- 3, our favourite Francophone festival returns with musical artists, cultural activities, and of course fabulous food. It’s all happening at Mackin Park in Maillardville, Coquitlam in celebration of the 33rd annual Festival du Bois. The festival is the largest of its kind in BC, bringing a little bit of Québécois culture to the west coast. The official kick-off on the first evening begins with the Friday Night Contra Dance featuring live music from The Sybaritic String Band with Maureen Collier. What exactly is Contra Dance? It’s a social dance done in lines of couples usually done accompanied by live traditional music. There’s a dance caller who teaches easy “figures” on the spot, like in square dancing, and prompts you during the dance. A great way to work up your appetite we’d say! Speaking of which, we are already salivating in anticipation…

Self-guided Tours March 19, 2022

Start Spring with a Kick! Join The Surrey Spice Trail

So… you’re ready to start shedding your layers and reawakening your senses again? While we’re all for the seasonal foods of winter, once you get to the tail end of it, you’re ready for something with a bit more of a flavourful edge to it. That’s where the Surrey Spice Trail comes in. Naturally, Surrey is the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates a diverse roster of flavours. From a smoky Caribbean kick, to plates finished with freshly grated wasabi root, there are delicious discoveries for every spice level. Spread across 6 neighbourhoods and over 60 restaurants, this celebration of world cuisine is a fantastic escape from any bland food routine. Try authentic Jamaican fare at Stanley Market (North Surrey), home-style Japanese comfort food at Mr. Tonkatsu (Guildford) or the well-guarded family recipes at Afghan Kitchen (South Surrey). There are just about as many flavour possibilities here as…

Family Friendly March 17, 2022

Kids Cooking Workshops Around Vancouver for Young Foodies

By Ariane Fleishmann We all have one: that friend who posts pictures of every meal on Instagram; who hosts immaculate dinner parties and amps up the carefully curated cheese board with homemade sourdough and prosciutto cured in their own garage; who frequently visits farmer’s markets or forages for fiddleheads. They’re a foodie. But whoever said foodies were exclusively adults? With the ubiquity of cooking shows, YouTube tutorials, and wherever else kids get their information these days, Gen Z is ready to make something delicious. And what responsible parent wants to ignore their child’s desire to be in the kitchen? (So long as they learn to clean, anyways.) Indulge your kid with one of these top-notch cooking classes whether you live in BC or are just visiting; after all, the best way to experience regional cuisine is to make it yourself. Your kids will learn to appreciate different kinds of food…

Coquitlam March 16, 2022

Video: Taste Something New this Spring Break in Coquitlam

By Tourism Coquitlam Want to try some global flavours in Coquitlam? Let their new video inspire you, and then plan your tasting tour – links to all the featured restaurants in the video are below! Phở Phú Thịnh Coquitlam Grill Singapore Hawker John B Neighbourhood Pub Mercado Mexican Market & Taqueria Pasargad Restaurant Looking for more spring break adventures? Check out this Tourism Coquitlam blog post.

Festivals & Events March 14, 2022

Explore One of BC’s Top Foodie Towns with Bite of Burnaby

If you’ve visited our site before, you know we never really NEED an excuse to dine out or try a new restaurant. However, when a GREAT excuse for doing both of those things happens, you can bet we’ll be ready to hit the road. Bite of Burnaby has given us the perfect opportunity to stand by that foodie mantra, with over thirty local restaurants offering exclusive menu options. Throughout March, you can choose from $15, $30 and $60 set menus at some of the finest eateries in BBY. Not only that, but you’ll also have the chance to nab weekly vouchers to Burnaby businesses as well as be entered to win the grand prize of a Burnaby shop, stay, and dine package. It’s really the perfect set up- eat delicious food, be rewarded with delicious food. First, we’ll have the heavenly pancakes from Gram Cafe in Brentwood. A semi-sweet Japanese-style…

Self-guided Tours March 10, 2022

Trip Your Taste Buds Through Langley

By Wade Kinley How much do you miss travelling? When the longing gets too much, take the International Taste Bud Tour on now in Langley City. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a few solid additions to your Instagram feed or just a rejuvenating break from your everyday, Langley City has an itinerary to satisfy your travel bug as well as your taste buds. It’s a great thing to support restaurants in your own neighbourhood, but if you’re feeling like you could just use a little change, get to Langley City for the Reset, Refresh and Reconnect Tour. No matter what time your day actually “starts,” kick it off with brunch like you’ve never quite seen it at Egg Bomb. After a stroll through Langley’s Downtown Mural Walk, grab an authentic smoked meat sandwich and a side of poutine from Estrella’s Montreal Deli. Then whisk yourself away to…

Where to Eat March 6, 2022

Food for Power on International Women’s Day

By Avneet Takhar In honour of International Women’s Day (IWD), we pay homage to those who are women-identifying that serve up some mean meals in and around Metro Vancouver. From bakers to caterers and servers of ancestral cuisine, these ladies are showing how it’s done and running the show with other supportive women and allies to keep the “girl power” realness intact. Here are our recommendations on where to dine, knowing that your dime is going towards equality-driven enterprises. Sweet Thea Bakery Named after the owner, Thea, this bakery is a welcome addition to the Main Street location and a long-time favourite in Langley. The trademark red packaging makes their infamous fruitcake even more luxurious, containing brandied sour cherries from Okanagan and just the right amount of rum and spices to pack a punch. And if going savoury is more to your taste, they have focaccia and sourdough all week…

White Rock February 28, 2022

The Best cafes to Get Work Done in White Rock

By Winnie Tam White Rock isn’t just known for its beaches and picturesque scenery, it also has its fair share of charming cafes. Each one offers delicious treats and a cozy environment where you can get some work done. Next time you’re in town, check these out. Laura’s Coffee Corner In business since 2010, Laura’s Coffee Corner offers breakfast and lunch with made-to-order, homemade soups, salads, paninis, and freshly-baked treats. The café also offers a few gluten-free and vegan options. It’s a busy cafe with plenty of seating, including a heated, covered patio – great for these cooler months. With their free wifi, you can easily spend the morning there and work to your heart’s content! Enjoy their popular English Muffin Breakfast Sandwich for only $4.95, which comes with a free 12oz coffee between 8 and 9am. 2-15259 Pacific Ave, White Rock Get there on transit: From Bridgeport Station take…

Surrey February 24, 2022

The Best Cafes to Get Work Done in Surrey

by Winnie Tam Whether you’re wanting a midday break while working from home, or you’re looking for a spot to work and reward yourself with a delicious treat at the same time, these gems in Surrey have got you covered. West Village Café West Village Café is a family-owned, community-based cafe, led by Jas Bhangoo. The café’s vision is to bring people together through nourishing, made-from-scratch food in a warm and inviting environment where everyone belongs, “like a village.” #160-5620 152nd Street, Surrey Get there on transit: Take the Expo Line Skytrain to King George Station, Board the 345 Bus heading East, get off at the Highway 10 stop, and it’s about a five-minute walk from there! *Photos care of West Village Cafe Kaffina Coffee Kaffina Coffee is a quality espresso and pour-over bar tucked away in South Surrey. It combines high-quality coffee and food that one would find…

Where to Eat February 22, 2022

Celebrate Black History Month with Food

By Avneet Takhar Show your support for Black businesses this month and beyond and prepare to savour the flavour with some lip-smacking, traditional and modern fare. These are some of our top picks of Black-owned and operated foodie hotspots in Metro Vancouver: Van Suya Nigerian cuisine that’ll “spice up ya life”, alright! I have eaten here on numerous occasions and owner, Ekaose Nwadiani hits all the right notes every damn time. So, a moment of confession here, I usually go for the chicken suya or jollof rice and for the first time I tried the Egusi soup (thickened soup with smoked fish, eggplant and goat meat), with Poundo Yam. I was mildly dubious of the Poundo Yam as I’d not encountered anything like it before and was seriously about to whack on a saucepan of rice, but thankfully refrained as I remembered myself- it just isn’t right to taste test…

Recipes February 17, 2022

Recipe: Garlic Prawns

By Dominion Bar + Kitchen These Garlic Prawns are a customer and staff favourite. Great for dipping some warm bread to soak up the creamy garlic sauce! Tiger Prawns, (10 pieces 225g) Butter Unsalted, (1 oz 30g) Heavy Cream, (1 fl oz 30ml) Lemon Juice, (1 half 15ml) Shallots, Minced (1 half 15ml) Garlic, Minced (2 cloves 15ml) Basil, (Chopped 1 leaf) Arugula (6-8 leaves 2g) Jalapeno, (sliced 1/2 oz 5g) Canola Oil, (2 tsp 15ml) Salt & Pepper Place a medium-sized pan on medium-high heat. Add Canola Oil. Place shallots and garlic and saute for 10 seconds. Add Tiger Prawns, season with salt and pepper, and saute for about a minute or until prawns change color to bright red. Add lemon juice. Add cream and bring to a boil. Add in the butter and turn off the heat. Stir until butter has melted and sauce is thickened. Place basil…

World February 8, 2022

Where to Eat French Food in Metro Vancouver

By Wade Kinley No matter where you live on the West Coast, we could all use a little more French in our lives. Now that’s especially true when it comes to our stomachs. Luckily for us in this part of the world, we’re never too far away from the rich taste and satisfying muah of a proper French dining experience. Here are five places in Metro Vancouver to find un repas magnifique! Tour de Feast Vancouver’s North Shore This unassuming little cafe tucked away on an industrial block next to the on-ramps to the Second Narrows Bridge offers up no-nonsense, authentic French fare to those who seek it out. Chef Dhurev Jhanjee and his wife Nupur Jhanjee who runs the front have earned a reputation for attention and consistency to everything French, from the cornichons on the house foie gras plate to the etiquette of service that will make…

Guides February 4, 2022

Your Failsafe Plan for the Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Imaginable—No Reservations Needed

By Destination Vancouver There are three stages to a blissful Valentine’s Day at home. Here they are. You’ve got to celebrate love. We like what Mark Twain said: “To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.” Are you dividing your joy with someone you love this Valentine’s Day? If you feel all that joy, but you’re uncertain about how to express it on this special day, we have a plan for you. And best of all: you don’t have to leave home to execute it! Did you know that 39% of people prefer celebrating Valentine’s Day with an experience? And did you also know that Valentine’s Day is the second-busiest day of the year for restaurants? The “restaurant experience” is probably the first one that comes to mind when you think about how to celebrate, but as the day approaches reservations can be…

Where to Eat February 2, 2022

8 Dishes in Richmond for Good Fortune During the Year of the Tiger

The ushering in of the Year of the Tiger was on February 1, and was a joyous and festive time for the Chinese community in the Lower Mainland characterized by time spent with family and friends and, of course, by copious delicious feasting. Who doesn’t love a good hearty meal? Chinese New Year is an opportunity for everyone to partake in holiday eating, most especially dishes that will, hopefully, improve success in the coming lunar year. Richmond, as a confluence of various Chinese cuisines, offers many culinary opportunities for celebrating Year of the Tiger well into 2022. Here are 8 luck-magnet dishes that will appeal to your palate and your fortunes throughout the year: Whole Fish A particularly significant dish for Chinese New Year consists of a whole fish; its associations with unity and good fortune make it a centrepiece item. A whole steamed rock cod at Shiang Garden Seafood…

Where to Eat January 31, 2022

Where to Eat for Lunar New Year in Metro Vancouver

By Avneet Takhar They say all good things come at once, and we couldn’t agree more. In celebration of Lunar New Year there are a slew of Chinese-owned and operated places to eat, with specials on. And if you’re opting to stay at home, then HBO’s timely new series: Take Out with Lisa Ling is the ultimate experience to pair your chopsticks with! So, here are our suggestions of where to eat: Chinatown BBQ Not only is Chinatown BBQ putting on take-home feasts to ring in the Year of the Tiger, but they have also teamed up with Beaucoup Bakery for a competition to win some yummy peking duck croissants, see here. Going back to the topic of feasts, you bet I tried one and almost broke out in meat sweats-no JK, but I savoured every juicy bite! I went for the “Good Luck Feast” for 2, a selection…

Where to Eat January 27, 2022

Après Ski, Snowboard or Snowshoe on Vancouver’s North Shore

By Brittany Tiplady Mount Seymour Scratch Kitchen Did you transit to Seymour Mountain, taking the shuttle from Parkgate Community Centre in North Vancouver? Scratch Kitchen is accessible from Parkgate Community Centre, with a trip on the 211 Seymour bus. Fancy a post-mountain date night? Scratch Kitchen is your place. Quaint, cozy, and just a short 20 minute drive from Seymour Mountain, Scratch Kitchen is the loveliest candle lit après spot, ready to serve you artisan pizzas, craft beer, local wines (and so much more!). All of the share plates on Scratch Kitchen’s menu sound delicious (we were torn between the Cauliflower Wings and the Chill Beets), but the Chill Beets hit the spot – fresh, vibrant, and punctuated by the perfect amount of crunch, courtesy of the candied walnuts. The pizza menu is also a doozy, but if you’re a pineapple-on-pizza-person I cannot recommend The Perfect Storm enough. Red sauce,…

Chef Stories January 26, 2022

Chinatown’s Fiorino: Diary of an Opening, Chapter 3, The Menu

By Wade Kinley One can’t cover the opening of a restaurant without discussing the food that is imagined, tried, tested, tweaked and finally served with ever-loving care. Fiorino started as a dream to bring authentic Italian sandwiches to Vancouver but has since blossomed into a pretty happening spot for dinner as well. We spoke with Chef Mario Ruiz about some of the inspiration and endeavour that has gone into some of his favourite menu items. Coccoli and Prosciutto “You’ll find this particular dish on the menu at every trattoria or osteria in Florence. So it was a no-brainer when we were putting together a menu for Fiorino. In fact, it was probably the first thing to go on it. But, it wasn’t actually there for the first few weeks we were open because we import the stracchino cheese direct from Italy and it proved to be more difficult than…

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,…

Vegetarian & Vegan January 19, 2022

Hearty Vegetarian Comfort Foods

By Avneet Takhar Vegetarians rejoice, we’ve got some hearty dishes for you to try during these chilly months! Stock your stomachs with homestyle foods that are warm and satisfying; there are plenty to choose from. Zarak by Afghan Kitchen Recently opened restaurant with “mum’s recipes” on the menu, Zarak takes Afghan cuisine to an elevated level in intimate surroundings with servers clad in charming traditional waistcoats. There are many veggie plates to try, but I’ll let you in on the ones I tasted and still savour as I write! Having never been to an Afghan restaurant before, this place is making me want to discover more of the food. I went for the leek, scallion and spinach dumplings, topped with chive sprigs and a tomato bean sauce, a great starter to get going. Then for the main: bandejan (Farsi for eggplant), Qabuli palow (rice) and grilled bread. A myriad of…

Where to Eat January 17, 2022

Cafés to Get Work Done on Vancouver’s North Shore

By Avneet Takhar While WFH (working from home) is still the norm in 2022, having a break from working remotely in the makeshift office in your apartment is a great way to get both a change of scenery and some good eats if you pick a local cafe with wifi. These 4 fit the bill: Wild Trails Coffee Mother-daughter-owned, Wild Trails is a 100% plant-based cafe that Hungarian native Katalin Zambo opened with the mission to encourage healthy living through wholesome nutrition. Serving up delectable hot drinks such as hazelnut and cinnamon lattes, with the option of coconut whipped cream and yummy bites like banana walnut muffins and vegan “ham”, “turkey” garlic and pesto, you’ll feel awake and ready for the day of work ahead! 134 14th St E, North Vancouver Transit: 230 or 229 bus, get off at Lonsdale Ave @ E 13th St Shipyard’s Coffee Located in the…

Where to Eat January 10, 2022

6 Date Night Spots For Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2022

By Mark Shelling The new year has arrived, and while it’s sad to look into the rearview mirror, say goodbye to the year that was and reminisce about all the fantastic food we had, it’s important to face forward… towards NEW food. Thankfully we have DineOut Vancouver on the horizon this month to help maintain a high standard of foodie memories. Now in its 20th year, DineOut has been present through more food trends than you can shake a cakepop at. From gourmet sliders, to acai bowls, and who could forget those hors d’oeuvres with the little plastic squeeze bottle thing, where you have to fire a garnish into your mouth… Actually, that’s one memory we’re glad we’ve moved on from. Throughout all these stepping stones though, one thing has remained constant across 20 years: DineOut is the pinnacle opportunity for date nights. Why? Because for two solid weeks a…

Where to Eat January 5, 2022

It’s Soup Season in Metro Vancouver

By Avneet Takhar As the snowy weather continues and temperatures drop; winter’s in full flow and it’s time to revel in “hygge”. The Nordic term for coziness and contentment, whereby hot cups of soup are a must! Here are our top 5 snug spots to cop a cup: Boiling Point 4148 Main St, Vancouver Transit: 3 bus, get off at E 26th Ave on Main With locations in Canada, USA and Japan, Boiling Point is a Tawainese-inspired concept known as the original #wokinabox, and goes against the grain in providing an atypical mix of ingredients in their hot soups. Having personally taste-tested the “House Special”, at a medium spice level containing tofu, pork blood, pork intestine, mushrooms and a sophisticated quail egg my tastebuds were overwhelmed- in the best possible way! The best thing is, it also comes as a trio with a green/black tea and either vermicelli or rice…

Richmond December 22, 2021

What to Eat on Christmas Eve in Richmond

By VisitRichmondBC.com Most restaurants tend to shut their doors on Christmas and we can’t really blame them. It is, after all, a time to celebrate with friends and family! Even so, Christmas remains a busy day for the few restaurants that are open during the holidays. Here are our top five restaurant picks in Richmond that’ll keep their lights on for Santa. HK BBQ Master If you’re looking to get a fill of Cantonese-style barbecue, HK BBQ Master (4651 No. 3 Road) is hands down one of the best places to get your fill of char siu, crispy skin roast pork, BBQ duck or BBQ chicken. It’s a tiny hole-in-the-wall type eatery with just 14 seats and they accept cash only for payment. So be warned: come early to snag seats, or buy the meats by the pound with a side of rice and take it to go for an…

Recipes December 22, 2021

Recipe: Butterscotch Caramel Blondies

By Flourist Bakery This recipe involves a simple homemade caramel which makes enough for two batches of blondies. Alternatively, you can freeze the leftover caramel pieces and add them to your favorite cookie, brownie or bar recipe. Ingredients Caramel Sugar (3/4 cup 162g) Water (2 tbsp) Blondie Batter Unsalted butter (1 cup plus 1 tablespoon 250g) Eggs (2 large) Brown sugar (1 3/4 cups 300g) Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp) Sifted Red Fife flour (1 3/4 cups 240g) baking powder (1 1/4 tsp) Salt (1 tsp) Semisweet or milk chocolate, chopped (4 1/2 ounces 125g) To make the caramel, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Put the water in a light-colored saucepan (so that you can see the color of the caramel as it changes). Add sugar and place over medium-low heat. Watch as the sugar starts to dissolve and resist the urge to stir the pan,…

Chocolate, Sweets, and Baking December 21, 2021

Shop Local! 5 Metro Vancouver Foodie Gifts

By Avneet Takhar If you’re looking to spread some Christmas cheer, look no further than these foodie holiday baskets which will be a sure hit with folks! Whether one has been naughty or nice, tis’ the season of giving so we strongly urge you to invest in these gifts, just to see the delighted looks on the faces of those who receive. And here are our top 5 recommendations: Coho Market Coho Market supports local businesses, with a mission to nurture the entrepreneurial pipeline and foster connections through food. Choose from their 3 different bundles: Women-Led Local Foodie Box: containing Moorish hot sauces by Kula Kitchen and Sriracha Revolver, Luv The Grub’s cozy chai apple spread and some sweet snacks from Mindfoods, The Friendly Keto and Heritage Baking. BIPoC-Led Local Foodie Box: an eclectic mix of Van Koji’s seasoning sauce, dark chocolate by Kaaj, True Nosh’s refreshing monk…

Recipes December 20, 2021

Recipe: Spiced Lentil Loaf

This recipe came to us by way of one of Flourist’s best customers, who shared the source of this tasty lentil loaf with us. The original recipe is a vegan version, which can be accessed here. We think it’s the perfect choice for vegetarian holiday menus. ~ adapted from The Silk Road Diary Ingredients French lentils (1 cup dry) Water or vegetable broth (2 1/2 cups) Egg (1) Olive oil (2 tablespoons) Yellow or red onion, finely diced (1 medium ) Carrot, grated (1 large) Red bell pepper, finely diced (1 small) Salt (1 tsp) Chili powder (1 tablespoon) Paprika (1 teaspoon) Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) Oats (3/4 cup) Sifted Red Spring Wheat Flour or any fresh flour on hand (1/2 cup) Ketchup (1/3 cup) Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons) Maple syrup (2 tablespoons) Instructions In a large pot, combine your choice of Flourist French Lentils and vegetable broth and bring to…

Holiday December 20, 2021

Experiential Christmas Gifts for the Foodie in Your Life

From tasting tours and cookery classes, to dining dates and culinary celebrations, here’s our collection of Christmas gift ideas for the foodie in your life this year.

Holiday December 15, 2021

More Christmas Markets for Last-Minute Merriment

The holidays are just around the corner, and if the wait is just too unbearable for you, Metro Vancouver has more than a few options for wassailing away the days until the 25th. So bundle up, and let’s take a tour of our favourite community Christmas markets! Burnaby Heritage Christmas Take a step into Christmases gone by with a visit to Burnaby Village’s annual glow-up event. With bright family photo opportunities around every lamppost, a wander through the village is sure to get every member of your crew feeling festive. If you’re still met with Grinch-like glares, a ride on the restored 1912 Carousel will do the trick. For extreme cases, consult the scoop artists at the old-fashioned ice cream parlour. https://bit.ly/3mb7Bg3 @BurnabyVillage Langley Christmas In the Village Fort Langley is always a good bet for feeling the warmth of the season. This annual festival returns to…

Craft Beer December 14, 2021

The Barley Merchant’s Tim LaHay Keeps His Guests Always Topped Up

By Brittany Tiplady If you love BC craft beer and culture, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve heard the name Tim LaHay once or twice. LaHay is the BC and beer enthusiast behind the moniker @crafttourist, a digital ode to all things BC craft beer, spirits, cider, and scenery. LaHay’s love of craft brews has amassed an engaged following of nearly 22,000, not including the readership on his blog. His account is dedicated to travel, hiking, and of course, BC craft beer. “I’ve been a craft beer enthusiast for over 10 years now. The BC craft beer scene has really evolved as many people are aware, and it all started [for me] with a visit to a Winter Cask Festival at the Central City Brewpub in 2012. It opened my eyes to the amazing flavours that exist in the craft beer world,” shares LaHay in a phone interview. “Working at…

Vegetarian & Vegan December 9, 2021

5 PoC Vegan Food Producers Creating a Buzz

By Avneet Takhar It’s no secret that veganism has been on the rise in the last few years, and most notably within the health-conscious West Coast. When plant-based comes to mind, media coverage tends to be dominated by food outlets and “food-fluencers” who happen to be white. But the communities of colour who have primarily always provided veggie options (Indian and Vietnamese in particular) are leading the way in showing how it’s done. Here’s the lowdown on 5 PoC (people of colour) vegan spots that are causing a stir. Cham Cham Vegan Vietnamese Chefpreneur Kim Vo decided to leave her well-established catering and food truck business in Toronto for Vancouver- amidst the pandemic! Some would say a bold choice when the world was at the brink of disaster? But she didn’t even blink before setting up in Kits with Cham Cham (meaning ‘slow-down’ in Vietnamese). The crunchy Saigon chick’n…

Recipes December 8, 2021

Recipe: Chickpea + Feta Bake

By Flourist Bakery This delicious chickpea dish is super easy and impressive to make for guests or a cozy weeknight meal on a winter night. Serve with cooked grains like quinoa or with flatbreads. It gets better as it sits, but we doubt leftovers will linger for long with this recipe! INGREDIENTS Dry chickpeas 1 cup (200g) Olive oil (1/3 cup) Red onion, chopped into 1-inch pieces (1 large) Garlic cloves, crushed (2-3) Chili paste (1-2 tbsp) Ground cumin (1.5 tsp) Smoked paprika (1 tsp) Coriander (1 tsp) Salt (1 tbsp) Red bell pepper, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces (1) Green zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces (2 medium) Strained tomatoes or passata (1 700g jar) Baby spinach (3 oz) Honey (2 tbsp) Feta, sliced into rectangular slabs (200g) Fresh basil or parsley for garnish DIRECTIONS Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof dutch oven over medium heat.…