Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Toronto:

Directly from the Harbourfront Centre Press Release:

Fortune Cooking Food Festival Aug. 20-22, 2010

FOOD

Best Night Market Cuisine Revealed

Friday, Aug. 20, 8-9 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

Vote for your favorite night market treat online and the winner will be invited to demonstrate their tasty night market cuisine on opening night of the festival! Will it be Smelly Tofu or Takoyaki (Japanese octopus balls)? Also, learn about Chinese food etiquette in partnership with Power Unit Youth Organization, organizers of the night market, Night It Up!

Just Desserts Market

Saturday, Aug. 21, 1–12p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 22, 12– 6p.m. (Ann Tindal Lawn/Sculpture Court)

Created specifically for the Fortune Cooking Food Festival, Just Desserts Market is where visitors can buy and sample an eclectic variety of Pan-Asian sweets, treats and desserts. With vendors representing Asian desserts in all their varieties, audiences are offered a taste of what the city has to offer from Canadian culinary artisans of Asian heritage.

Longo’s Fortune Cooking Iron Chef

Semi Finals: Saturday, Aug. 21, 1:30-2:30 p.m. & 4:30- 5:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)
Finals: Sunday, Aug. 22, 2-3:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

Experience the high-stakes reality of modern gourmet cooking in this two-day competition as Toronto chefs of contemporary Asian cuisine compete against each other for Longo’s Fortune Cooking Iron Chef supremacy. The chefs competing are: Chef Sasi Meechai-Lim of Mengrai Thai Restaurant vs. Chef Winlai Wong of Spice Route Asian Bistro and Bar and Chef Manh Nguyen of Supermarket Restaurant vs. Chef Leemo Han of Swish by Han. Judges confirmed thus far are: Andrew Chase (Food Editor, Homemaker Magazine; Contributing Food Editor, Canadian Living Magazine), Matt Galloway (host of CBC Radio’s “Metro Morning”) and Susur Lee (chef and owner of Toronto’s Lee Restaurant, among others).

Dumplings to Desire: Mother’s Dumplings & Pork/Chives and Pork/Bok Choy Dumplings

Saturday, Aug. 21, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

This food series will explore dumplings and their various incarnations across provinces, countries and regions. Critically acclaimed Mother’s Dumplings teams up with the Chinese Canadian National Council Toronto Chapter to not only demonstrate how to create their favorite Chinese dumplings but also to tell fascinating stories about owning a dumpling restaurant in Toronto.

The Art of Hand-pulled Noodles

Saturday, Aug. 21, 3:30-4:15 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Noodle specialist Chef Ken Sun demonstrates the fine art of “La Mian” (hand-pulled) and “Dao Xiao Mian” (hand-shaved) noodles along with musical accompaniment. Families are invited to take part in a handmade noodle-making workshop after the demonstration. Performance includes drumming and martial arts demonstration by Apex Shaolin Kung Fu Academy.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Jong Beom Park & Kimchi and Beef Dumplings

Saturday, Aug. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Jong Beom Park, of North York Man Doo Hyang, uses his traditional Korean culinary skills to demonstrate how to create Kimchi and Beef Dumplings.

Noodle Walk: Chef Marietta Murillo & Pancit Noodles

Saturday, Aug. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Marietta Murillo, of Mayette’s International Cuisine in Toronto, uses her Filipina cooking skills to create Pancit Noodles.

Noodle Walk: Chef Anthony Lin & Hakka Chow Mein

Saturday, Aug. 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Anthony Lin, of Danforth Dragon in Toronto’s Greek town, creates his famous Hakka cuisine, Hakka Chow Mein.

Healthy Contemporary Chinese Cuisine with Martin Yan

Saturday, Aug. 21, 7 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

The celebrated host of over 3,000 cooking shows broadcast worldwide, Martin Yan is a certified Master Chef, highly respected food consultant, cooking instructor and prolific author (over 30 cookbooks). Since his television debut in 1978 with the now classic Yan Can Cook, he has worked to

dispel the mysteries of Asian cooking by sharing his extensive knowledge of these excellent cuisines and the cultures that created them, accompanied by his trademark wit and sense of fun. In this intimate food demo, Yan uses a whole chicken to create three dishes: Chinese Chicken Salad, Refreshing Lettuce Cups and Three-Cup Chicken.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Tenzin Yewong & Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos

Sunday, Aug. 22, 1-2 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Tenzin Yewong of Tibet Café & Bar, located in Kensington Market, demonstrates how to create Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos.

Noodle Walk: Chef Minh La & Tasty Good Burritos

Sunday, Aug. 22, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

In this series exploring the noodle and all its incarnations, Chef Minh La of Chino Locos fuses Tex-Mex with the Far East to create his house specialty, a burrito stuffed with Chow Mein noodles and fresh, traditional burrito toppings.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Mina Makimine & Lotus Root Dumplings

Sunday, Aug. 22, 4-5 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

As chef at the Official Residence of the Consul-General of Japan in Toronto, Chef Mina Makimine demonstrates her culinary skills while making the Lotus Root Dumpling. She has showcased her culinary artistry for various esteemed guests of the Consul-General of Japan including their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of Japan. With generous support from the Japan Information Centre and Consul-General of Japan in Toronto.

Noodle Walk: Chef Nuit Regular & Sukhothai Pad Thai

Sunday, Aug. 22, 5-6 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Nuit Regular, of the critically acclaimed Sukho Thai Restaurant in Toronto, uses culinary skills learned in Thailand to create Sukhothai Pad Thai.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Robin Pradham & Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos

Saturday, Aug. 21, 6-7 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Robin Pradham of Rocky Raccoon Café, located in Owen Sound, demonstrates how to create his brand of Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos featuring local Greenbelt and international ingredients.

Greenbelt Farmers. Tasting Market

Saturday, Aug. 21 & Sunday, Aug. 22, 1-6 p.m. (Brigantine Tent)

Tables are set up featuring fresh produce from all over the Greenbelt. Produce is not for sale, but patrons can enjoy a wide array of samples.

FILM

The Killing of a Chinese Cookie

***Canadian Premiere***

Friday, Aug. 20, 7:30–9 p.m. (Studio Theatre)
In a film that takes a comical look at the origins of the Chinese fortune cookie, director Derek Shimoda examines the heated debate over the true origin of the treat, the mixing of eastern and western cultures that produced it, and the cookie’s rise from a simple pastry to a pop culture phenomenon. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Chinese Restaurants: Beyond Frontiers

Saturday, Aug. 21, 5–7 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

This film is a part of a 15-part documentary series that tells the story of the Chinese Diaspora through its most recognizable icon – the family-run Chinese restaurant. Filmmaker Cheuk Kwan travels to the cities of India and into the jungles of Brazilian Amazon to interview Chinese restaurant owners and learn about their experiences and the differences between foods from different regions. The screening is followed by an interview with associate professor Lily Cho of the University of Western Ontario, author of the upcoming book Eating Chinese: Culture on the Menu in Small Town Canada, and a question and answer session with Cheuk Kwan. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Kung Fu Chefs

***Canadian Premiere***

Saturday, Aug. 21, 8-10 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Directed by Wing Kin Yip, this film follows the story of Wong Ping Yee (legendary Sammo Hung) as he is ousted from his village and finds his way to sisters in need of help with their restaurant. Here he finds a young chef, whom he trains to compete at the Imperial Palace for the title of top chef. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Agrarian Utopia

Sunday, Aug. 22, 3:30-5:30 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Directed by Uruphong Raksasad, this award-winning film tells the story of two families facing seizure of their lands. They find themselves farming together on the same field, hoping to get through another rice-farming season, all while trying to grasp the ideology of happiness. Winner of the 2009 UNESCO Award at the Asia-Pacific Screen Awards. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Seattle:

Directly from the Blackboard Bistro Press Release:

Blackboard Bistro coming to West Seattle

Jacob Wiegner to open nostalgic “American bistro” August 13th

For Immediate Release:

Seattle, Wash., July 29, 2010: Jacob Wiegner, a chef who trained at Le Cordon-Bleu London,  worked in top kitchens in London and Florida, and has spent the past two years as sous-chef at Olivar on Capitol Hill, will open his own 40-seat restaurant, Blackboard Bistro, in West Seattle next month. The emphasis, Wiegner says, will be a nostalgic nod to the chef’s past, prepared with Northwest ingredients.

Superstitious? Not Wiegner. He is opening on Friday the 13th in a space that’s been a virtual graveyard for restaurants: Ovio Bistro, 02, Beato and Eness have all come and gone.  “Blackboard Bistro is here to stay”.

Wiegner’s philosophy is to focus on simplicity, technique and fresh ingredients. “I have worked in a variety of restaurants from French and English to Mediterranean, and I want to bring all this cuisine together,” he says. “This is where the idea of an American Bistro comes alive, a melting pot in all senses of the word.”

Blackboard Bistro will avoid a formal menu. All dishes will be listed on blackboards throughout the restaurant. The atmosphere will be casual and prices will be moderate so guests can return often.  While Blackboard is not setting out to be a “family restaurant,” Wiegner does want families with children to feel welcome. “We’ll have a three-course children’s tasting menu so families can share an entire mealtime,” he says.

Among the menu items Wiegner expects to offer:

Tomato and horseradish sorbet, warm goat cheese, arugula, confit tomato and garlic ($12)

Pork chili verde with cast iron corn bread ($12)

A classic Frogmore stew ($20)

Cherry upside down cake, cherry, white chocolate and ginger ice cream ($7)

The Frogmore stew (whole prawns, spicy house-made sausage, clams, fingerling potatoes, and corn on the cob), a South Carolina specialty, represents one of the American regional influences on Wiegner’s culinary personality. Other influences include his Pennsylvania-Dutch origins, his classical French training, and his formative years in England, New Zealand, Australia and the many parts of the United States.

He found his calling as a chef while working in restaurants in London. He worked his way up to Chef de Partie and Sous Chef at the famous oyster bar Bibendum, Sir Terrance Conran’s famous restaurant in Chelsea.

In addition to the blackboard items, Blackboard Bistro will offer a “name your price” tasting menu. Guests will name a per person amount (for example, $30), and Chef Wiegner will send out plates until the budget is reached.

Blackboard Bistro will have a full liquor license and offer a selection of Chef Wiegner’s favorite liquors, microbrews and wines. The bar will not offer complex cocktails; rather, a small cocktail list featuring half a dozen house drinks will be available.

Blackboard Bistro 206 257 4832, 3247 California Avenue SW. 98116. Open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, and until 11 PM on Friday & Saturday.
More information at  http://blackboardbistroseattle.com/

Blackboard Bistro Opening Menu

watermelon salad with feta, fresno oil and pumpkin seeds

8

slow roasted pork belly with frisee and deviled red beet egg

10

tomato and horseradish sorbet,  warm goat cheese, arugula, confit tomato and garlic

12

scallop ceviche with grilled corn and poblano, fry bread

15

beer battered okra with watermelon rind ketchup

6

roasted cauliflower, pine nuts and currants

6

pork chili verde with cast iron corn bread

12

gnocchi, house smoked trout, peas and mint

14

braised eggplant, oven roasted tomato and yoghurt

13

four sliders.  red wine and shallot, foie gras, truffle and blue cheese. shallot rings

12

pan fried halibut with sweet potato, brown butter, capers and oregano

18

Chicken and wild mushroom pie

16

frogmore stew. whole prawns, spicy house made sausage, clams, fingerling potato,

and corn served on the cob

20

tasting menu- name your price

Sweets

chocolate and peanut pasty, peanut butter ice cream and grape jelly

8

oatmeal cookie sandwich with rum raisin parfait

6

cream cheese flan, lavender cream and fresh berries

6

cherry upside down cake; cherry, white chocolate and ginger ice cream

7

cheeseboard with house made chutney and crackers

12

Directly from the Glowbal Group Press Release:

A Gourmet BBQ for the Downtown Eastside: The GLOWBAL COLLECTION partners with Union Gospel Mission

On Tuesday, August 10, Union Gospel Mission will partner with The GLOWBAL COLLECTION to serve thousands of free gourmet BBQ meals to the people of the Downtown Eastside. The newly renovated Oppenheimer Park will be packed with guests enjoying a mouth-watering menu of BBQ chicken, beef brisket, ribs, potato salad, coleslaw, corn bread, baked beans, iced tea and butter tart bars for dessert, all prepared by six chefs - one from each GLOWBAL restaurant.

“With this event, we are strengthening our partnership with the Union Gospel Mission,” says GLOWBAL COLLECTION Proprietor, Emad Yacoub. “A Texas BBQ is a high-spirited way to support outreach workers and connect with Vancouver’s people in difficulty and need.” 

Union Gospel Mission president Bill Mollard says, “For UGM, the process of helping someone off the street often starts with a meal. So when the GLOWBAL COLLECTION approached us about hosting a gourmet BBQ this summer, it was a natural fit. What impresses me about the GLOWBAL team is that they’re taking what they’re passionate about - which is really good food - and sharing that passion with those who may never otherwise experience a meal like this.”

Where: 
Oppenheimer Park (Cordova Street between Dunlevy and Jackson)

When:
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thanks to our sponsors:
A & B Rentals, Albion Fisheries, Beedie Group, Bosa Foods, Gordon Food Services, Trimpac.

Directly from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts Newsletter:

Wine & Spirit Education Trust

Whether you are new to wine or an industry pro, the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certificate classes at Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts have something to offer for everyone.  Obtain certification, as well as an in-depth understanding of wine and wine service at a Foundation, Intermediate or Advanced level in these engaging and interactive programs.  Taught by Certified Sommelier and Chef-de-Cuisine, Tim Ellison, our WSET classes include interactive tastings and relevant food pairings.  For more information or to register in our upcoming sessions visit http://www.wineprograms.ca/register.html.

Summer Teen Camps

Send the kids back to school early this summer!  Our popular (and always a sell out) Teen cooking camps return in August.  This year campers will explore the international cuisines of Mexico, France, Spain and Japan in addition to enjoying a dining etiquette seminar and tours of Granville Island’s Public Market and Fisherman’s Wharf.  For pricing, dates and registration information click here http://picachef.com/Teen_Classes.html

Got Beer?

We do!  It’s all about the beer at our Summer Heat Beer Dinner with Certified Cicerone, Chester Carey, on Wednesday August 18th.  Enjoy a five-course menu of local summer fare paired with some of Chester’s top picks for summer suds while learning more about this much loved bevy.  View our menu or reserve online.  http://www.bistro101.com/special_events.html

Want to take your enjoyment of this frosty beverage even further?  Chester’s Serious Beer program starts this fall on September 15th.  For more information, including dates, pricing and registration details click here http://picachef.com/Beer_Classes.html

The Mystery Chef Kitchen Tour Returns!

What happens when you get eight of BC’s top Chefs together and open up the kitchens to a group of fun-loving foodies?  The best kitchen party this town has seen this year!  On August 22nd taste, sip and mingle your way through the kitchens at Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts and see who you’ll find behind the stove.  Proceeds from this event benefit the 2010 Canadian Chefs Congress.  With only 100 tickets available this buzz worthy event is sure to be a sell out.  For more information or to purchase tickets visit http://mysterykitchentourencore.eventbrite.com/?ref=ebtn-pica.

Giving You Something Special to WINE About

Need something to get you over the hump of Wednesdays?  Join us for lunch or dinner at Bistro 101 on Wednesdays starting August 2010 and enjoy any bottle of wine from our list at 50% off.  Wine Wednesday will provide guests the opportunity to enjoy even more great dining value and the opportunity to try some of BC’s best (and hard to find!) vino.  Reservations highly recommended, visit http://www.bistro101.com/reservation.html

Directly from the Les Amis du Fromage Press Release:

les amis du FROMAGE SALE

Swiss Cheese Sale

In honor of the upcoming Swiss National Day on August 1st, les amis du FROMAGE is offering you 10% OFF of any Swiss cheese purchases. Present this coupon at your nearest store location to receive the discount.  Sale price in effect Sat July 31 & Sun Aug 01 2010

Also, if you phone in any fondue orders for pick up this weekend only, we’re offering you 15% OFF your fondue cheese purchase.  Fondue cheese orders must be placed by Saturday July 31 @ 11:00am, and must be picked up this weekend.

We appreciate your business, and hope you will shop with us again.

Directly from the Opus Press Release:

OPUS 8th Annual 2010 Summer Street Party After Party Dinner at Elixir Bistro

Vancouver – B.C., 2010 marks the eighth year of the annual summer street party for the city’s world-renowned OPUS Hotel Vancouver. This eagerly anticipated event is one of Vancouver’s largest private outdoor parties, drawing over 300 invite-only VIPs, OPUS’ friends and supporters into the streets. Following the outdoor summer party celebration, guests will continue this exclusive evening indoors at the After Party Dinner in Elixir Bistro, with a special four-course menu of authentic Moroccan delicacies.

WHAT: Arabian Nights, OPUS Bar 8th Annual Summer Street After Party Dinner at Elixir Bistro
WHEN:Friday, July 30th from 7:30pm onwards
WHERE: Elixir Bistro at the Opus Hotel (350 Davie Street)
WHY: Following the outdoor summer party celebration, guests will continue this exclusive evening indoors, with a special dinner menu in Elixir Bistro and renowned DJs throughout the night in OPUS Bar. Chef Felix Turianskyj has created a sumptuous four-course menu of authentic Moroccan delicacies served sharing style.
HOW: The After Party Dinner Menu at Elixir Bistro costs $55 per person and seating is available from 7:30pm. For reservations please contact Kristin Pavich at kpavich@opushotel.com or call 604.694.2121.

Arabian Nights – After Party Dinner at Elixir Bistro, $55 per person
Hendrick’s Gin mint iced tea
Moroccan mezze platter – selection of fresh and cooked salads
Red snapper tajine scented with saffron and preserved lemons
Traditional Moroccan style lamb and vegetable couscous
Fresh fruit and Maghrebi pastries
Berber mint tea

Directly from the Donnelly Group Press Release:

FUNKMASTER FLEX - THURS, JULY 29TH

Without exaggeration, Funkmaster Flex is literally Hip-Hop’s most influential DJ. Not only is he the #1 radio DJ on New York’s Hot 97, but Flex also single handedly reinvented car culture as the host of Spike TV’s wildly popular Ride with Funkmaster Flex as well as his new show Full Throttle on MTV2. He has attained the kind of popularity few others have, harking back to the early days of Hip-Hop when the DJ overshadowed the MC. When Flex plays a record it becomes a hit. When he plays a party it becomes legendary. On July 29th at Bar None, “America’s Number One DJ” Funkmaster Flex will be making his first Vancouver appearance EVER. Do not miss this one.

10:00PM - 2:00AM
Bar None - 1222 Hamilton Street

SMIF N WESSUN - THURS, AUGUST 12TH

Representing the Boot Camp Click, Smif N Wessun (aka Cocoa Brovas) exploded onto the scene in the mid 90’s with their song stealing cameos on Black Moon’s Enta Da Stage LP. The powerful duo of Tek and Steele soon had an underground hit of their own with “Bucktown”, an ode to their Brooklyn stomping ground and “home of the original gun clappas.” Although their name implies violence, the weaponry Smif N Wessun deploy is of the verbal variety and it’s their signature flows combined with neck-snapping beats that have Smif-N-Wessun revered around the world as Hip-Hop royalty.

10:00PM - 2:00AM
Bar None - 1222 Hamilton Street

PULSE LONG WEEKEND - SUN, AUGUST 1ST

Pulse is the newest and only Yaletown premier long weekend party destination.pulse [ pulss ] - a throb of life, emotion.

Bar None’s reputation as Vancouver’s only true New York style nightclub is well deserved. For 15 years the hotspot has maintained its Soho attitude and feel, from the brick and wood interior to the impressive lineup of international and local DJ and live talent. Surrounded by the city’s finest restaurants and hotels, Bar None is the official after spot for the hip dinner crowd and a favorite among Vancouver’s downtown-living elite.

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Bar None - 1222 Hamilton Street

NAUGHTY BY NATURE - SUN, AUGUST 1ST

They’ve created infectious chart topping party anthems and dominated the Hip-Hop, Pop and R&B charts. Their celebrity status has seen them tour all around the world reigning as true Hip-Hop icons. From “O.P.P.”, to “Hip-Hop Hooray”, to “Uptown Anthem” to “Feel Me Flow” to “Jamboree”, Naughty By Nature have redefined what Hip-Hop could be. The Grammy Award winning trio is unquestionably one of Hip-Hop’s most beloved groups and on August 1st Naughty By Nature will be bringing their platinum live show to Pop Opera for a special edition of The Good Life Long Weekend Party.

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Pop Opera - 686 West Hastings St

SEAN TYAS - FRI, AUGUST 6TH

New York native, Switzerland based DJ/Producer Sean Tyas is something of a leading light in European trance. Having cut out his niche in the highly competitive production arena to create countless hit tracks, remixes and bootlegs, Sean brings to the dancefloor a mix of melodic harmony, driving groove and cutting edge production techniques. The distinctive Sean Tyas sound has captured the imagination of the trance community with the highest echelons of the trance elite such as Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Judge Jules, Ferry Corsten, Sander van Doorn and Above & Beyond amongst the heavyweight playlist support. Undeniably a genius behind the controls in a studio, Sean Tyas has also translated his technical talents and popular sounds into one of the most in demand DJ sets in trance today. Demand for Sean Tyas the DJ has soared on the back of both his production success and show stopping performances.

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Pop Opera - 686 West Hastings Street

SKEET SKEET - FRI, AUGUST 13TH

DJ Skeet Skeet rolled into LA known simply as Trevor McFedries. A country kid from Iowa, Trevor had a successful run playing high school football, shredding in hardcore bands, and being awkward around girls. He had a less than successful run in college lasting a solid two semesters. Like most college dropouts, he moved back in with his mom and started throwing his life away by frequenting the LA party scene. A few too many nights out on the town paired with an affinity for Lil Jon and DJ Skeet Skeet was born. He started doing DIY parties in Hollywood and before you knew it “Skeet” was spinnin’ all over the the place; celebrity hot spots like Hyde, hipster hang-outs like Studio B, and big baller clubs in the Vegas, Atlantic City scene. In 2007 he teamed up with Shwayze and Cisco Adler to complete the Shwayze outfit. In the last year or so Skeet has played for crowds of more than 20,000 at festivals like Bacardi B-live, Bud Bowl, and Street Scene while simultaneously pumping out remixes for acts like Katy Perry, Danger Radio, Fergie, Boys Like Girls, Shop Boyz, and Shwayze. This last summer Skeet was the first DJ ever to play the entire Vans Warped Tour; a traveling festival usually reserved for punk and indie rock bands.

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Pop Opera - 686 West Hastings Street

RAKIM - TUES, AUGUST 17TH

As one half of the duo Eric B & Rakim, he instantly set the bar with the release of their debut single “Eric B Is President” and built on that reputation with the release of classic record after classic record. “Paid In Full”, “I Ain’t No Joke”, “I Know You Got Soul”, “Microphone Fiend”, “Let The Rhythm Hit Em”, “Don’t Sweat The Technique”, “Know The Ledge” and the list goes on. After four classic albums the legendary duo parted ways and Rakim embarked on his solo career. Eventually signing with Dr. Dre’s Aftermath label, The R enjoyed the success of yet another hit with the smash “Addictive” along side R&B artist Truth Hurts. Even after his innovations have been studied and borrowed by countless MCs who followed, Rakim’s early work still sounds startlingly fresh and everything since has only added to his legacy. On August 17th, Rakim, the legend, will be making his first Vancouver appearance ever as the “Microphone Fiend” blesses the Pop Opera stage and gets Paid In Full!

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Pop Opera - 686 Hastings Street

THE FRESHEST - WEDS, JULY 28TH

The Freshest are those dudes! Comprised of DJs Seko, Marvel, Kutcorners, and Rico Uno they are quickly becoming the most versatile DJ collective in Canada. You’ve seen them rocking clubs and concert halls solo all around the city but on July 28th they are coming together at Republic for a rare 4 turntable performance. Expect the best in Hip-Hop, Reggae, Disco, Dance, Motown and more in their eclectic winning formula that has solidified The Freshest as Vancouver’s most exciting party rockers!

9:00PM - 3:00AM
Republic - 958 Granville Street

THE GRADUATE - EVERY THURSDAY

Thursdays at Republic just got academic!

Join DJs C-Stylez, P-Luvin the main room and DJ Eclectik & Tanner on the Patio  spinning Top 40 party rockin mash-ups at the best student night in town.

Do the math - $4 Hiballs and $4 shots plus Grade A music equals the best excuse to skip Friday class ever!

9:00PM - 3:00AM
Republic - 958 Granville Street

YOUNG, RICH & FAMOUS - EVERY FRIDAY

Rap, remixes and indie dance with Sam Demoe and guests.

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Post Modern - 7 Alexander Street

LA DISCOTHEQUE - EVERY SATURDAY

Saturdays -  LA DISCOTHEQUE, Gastown’s #1 dance party.  Each week resident DJs Trevor Risk, Group Hug, Ethnic Friends, Mike Lake, Slow DJs Paige Manzie and DJ Arroghanz take you there with the most upfront house electro and disco tunes to keep you moving til dawn.

10:00PM - 3:00AM
Post Modern - 7 Alexander Street

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature cocktail recipe:

Muskoka Sunset from Gibson’s Finest Canadian Whisky.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.

Directly from the Ocean Resort Press Release:

Fresh Start for health at Ocean Resort on Vancouver Island

Oyster Bay, BC, July 26, 2010—Abundant Life Wellness Retreat, formerly of Lavoy, Alberta, gets a Fresh Start at Ocean Resort on Vancouver Island

Abundant Life Health Retreats are rebranding as Fresh Start, but will continue to offer health restoration retreats to aid weight loss and wellness at a new location: the eco-friendly Ocean Resort, Vancouver Island’s Spiritual and Wellness Retreat Centre, easily accessible by air, ferry or car.

“We are very excited about this move, both for our clients and for the future of Fresh Start. The Ocean Resort is the perfect healing venue to offer retreats that require a relaxing, private environment, with excellent facilities for spa treatments,” says Ania Kastashchuk, Program Manager for Fresh Start, with the first retreat in the new location to be offered August 31, 2010.

Ania and Vasili Kastashchuk had been hosting the retreats in Alberta since 2005, completing over 125 retreats serving over 650 clients and are making the move to Ocean Resort because of the preferred facility and location.

Fresh Start is a health restoration retreat focusing on advanced whole body detoxification, weight loss and rejuvenation, during five, ten and 14-day residential programs.

Catharine Hyldgaard of Beaumont, Alberta recently attended a retreat and said that she experienced profound changes.

“I lost seven and a half pounds while there and another six since then. My asthma, which I have suffered from for 17 years, improved so much that I was able to stop taking medication with my doctor’s approval.”

Hyldgaard says that the whole family is on a healthier track due to the life changing experience of the health retreat.

“My partner Philip has lost weight and my son’s skin has cleared up. We all have more energy and enjoy life more.”

The new Fresh Start team consists of a Naturopathic Doctor for onsite consultations, massage therapy, Reiki, reflexology and other spa services. The Fresh Start team uses the highest quality products available and organic or all-natural ingredients.

Ocean Resort on Oyster Bay

Ocean Resort, located on Vancouver Island’s Oyster Bay, overlooks Desolation Sound and the Coastal Mountain range. The resort, established in 2008, boasts 28 well-appointed rooms and is uniquely positioned to host the Fresh Start wellness experience, with direct flights to the Comox Valley airport with major airlines.

Ocean Resort offers spa treatment rooms and group facilities in an environment committed to the transformation of the whole being. Guests can enjoy an environment that is both welcoming and supportive. Experience long walks on the beach; watch the resident eagle and other wildlife from the comfort of a beach chair.

“Fresh Start staff is serious about helping to improve well-being. This new setting will inspire wellness to a new level,” says Ania Kastashchuk.

The first Fresh Start retreat at Ocean Resort is offered August 31, 2010.

For Fresh Start Retreat Inquiries or to book a program please visit: Free Consultation or Pre-Register form at www.HealthRetreat.ca

Directly from the Granville Island Brewing Press Release:

Granville Island Brewing’s Limited Release Raspberry Wheat Ale Returns!
Because We Know: Summer is the perfect time for a refreshing change of pace

Vancouver, BC – Summer is finally here and so too is GIB’s annual summer release of the ever-popular Raspberry Wheat Ale. This year’s batch will offer more than just refreshment as the local craft brewer is committing 50 cents from every bottle sold to the Weekend to End Women’s Cancers. This one weekend, August 14-15, 2010, invites people to join together to battle all types of cancers effecting women.

“Our Raspberry Wheat Ale is definitely a summer favourite, and it has one of the strongest female followings of any of our Limited Release beers. It’s a great fit for showing our support for such a worthy cause,” says Vern Lambourne, brewmaster, Granville Island Brewing. “This unique and flavourful limited release is the perfect complement to a fruit-filled dessert, or perhaps a grilled chicken salad.”

This crisp Raspberry Wheat Ale was created with the flawless combination of malt, water, hops, yeast, and the perfect amount of Fraser Valley raspberries. With a refreshingly light, fruity taste, this craft-brewed ale provides  unique summertime refreshment.

Raspberry Wheat Ale is available in individual bottles for a 6-week limited time period, in select lower mainland government liquor stores and in our retail store on Granville Island, for $5.75/650ml bottle. Visit bcliquorstores.com for stores and availability.

About Granville Island Brewing (GIB)
Established is 1984, Granville Island Brewing (GIB) is Canada’s first microbrewery offering a variety of award-winning beers which are brewed and sold here in BC. GIB is dedicated to handcrafting only the finest premium beers that are 100 per cent all-natural and brewed in small batches to provide consumers with the ultimate tasting experience. In celebration of their West Coast heritage GIB names each beer after iconic Vancouver locations that embody the local lifestyle. From the original Island Lager and English Bay Pale Ale, to Cypress Honey Lager, and now their latest innovation; Brockton IPA, GIB continues to produce a diverse portfolio of beers inspired by life on the West Coast. For more information, visit www.gib.ca.

Don’t miss the August 5th, 2010 newsletter.  There will be 1 giveaway prize.

The winner will receive a copy of the: 250 Home Preserving Favorites.

In order to have a chance to win you have to sign up. Sign up here.

Directly from The Fish House in Stanley Park:

Special Klahowya Table D’hôte Menu

Available from July 9th to September 6th 2010 from 5:00pm

COLD SMOKED BISON CARPACCIO
mountain cranberry compote, pickled milkweed pods

CEDAR PLANKED WILD SOCKEYE SALMON
cedar scented beurre blanc

ELDERBERRY SWIRL CHEESE CAKE
hazelnut crust

Coffee or tea
-
$48 per person

Courses also available individually (a la carte)

Featured Wines

WINEMAKERS SERIES PINOT BLANC 2008
Bright and lively with citrus, hints of tropical
fruit and a crisp and racy finish.
Glass $9 Bottle $45

WINEMAKERS SERIES RIESLING 2008
A dry Riesling with classic granny smith
apple and citrus followed by hints of orchard fruit and melon.
Glass $9 Bottle $45

WINEMAKERS SERIES PINOT NOIR 2008
An elegant wine with rich strawberry,
rhubarb and hints of spice.
Glass $12 Bottle $60

Directly from the Provence Restaurants Press Release: 

YOU SAY TOMATO AND I SAY TOMAHTO,

BOTH ARE TASTY AT PROVENCE

(Vancouver, BC) – Ahhh tomatoes – the ultimate summer food - ripe, juicy and brimming with sunshine goodness. Tomatoes are a passion for many people; including Provence Chef/Proprietors Alessandra and Jean-Francis Quaglia. “There isn’t any flavour that says ‘summer’ more to me than tomato,” says Chef Alessandra. “We are fortunate to have local producers supplying us with heirloom varieties. The flavours are so intense; each variety is different and they are all so tasty.”

This August (from 1 - 31), Provence Restaurants celebrates all things tomato with special three-course Tomato Festival Menus that will satisfy even the most addicted tomato-holic. Menus differ slightly at each restaurant and are also priced differently – $45 at Mediterranean Grill in Point Grey and $48 at Marinaside in Yaletown.

Chef Alessandra’s famed Heirloom Tomato Tart makes an appearance on both menus as a starter as does a refreshing Chilled Yellow Campari Tomato Soup with poached wild prawn and cucumber relish. There is also an Heirloom Tomato and Fennel Salad.

For main course you’ll find Berkshire Pork Tenderloin Medallions served with plum tomato marmalade, tomato and lavender jus on both menus as well as Sun-dried Tomato and Caper-Crusted Sablefish and Tomato Gnocchi (served with crab at Marinaside and with lobster at Mediterranean Grill). Desserts include a Candied Cherry Short Cake with strawberries and wild-flower honey at both locations and at Point Grey only – a Trio of Tomato Sorbets.

As an added incentive (as if you needed one) both Provence locations will donate $3 from every Tomato Festival Menu sold to support Growing Chefs, an organization that teaches school children about growing and preparing food.

Whether you go balmy for Black Krims, crazy about Green Zebra’s or just adore Moneymakers – you’ll find them all and more on the menu at Provence’s First Annual Tomato Festival this August.

Directly from the Red Card Sports Bar Press Release:

Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery celebrates the spirit of summer with its Summer Beer Series, a showcase of distinctive brews from around the world. Every Friday from August 6th to September 10th, Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery will showcase a feature beer paired with a specialty pizza crafted by Executive Chef, Andreas Wechselberger.

Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery’s Summer Beer Series kicks off on Friday, August 6th with Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, a new Belgian Witbier brewed in Alsace, France. Crafted from a century-old recipe that utilizes oranges and spices, 1664 Blanc is a refreshing white fruit beer that possesses vibrant citrus notes.

Executive Chef Andreas Wechselberger has created a feature pizza to pair with the 1664 Blanc. Cooked to perfection in Red Card’s world-class Marana Forni brick oven, the Olive E Caprino pizza feature accentuates the nuances of the beer by with its combination of San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella, orange scented olive tapenade, soft goat’s milk cheese and fresh arugula dressed with limoncella.

To celebrate the arrival of Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc to British Columbia, Red Card will be featuring it as the first beer in its Summer Beer Series. On Friday August 6th at Red Card, the Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc will be on special for $5.00 per pint or $17.00 for the beer and Olive E Caprino pizza pairing. Guests that visit Red Card for the Summer Beer Series will enjoy select beers on special for the day paired with a delicious complementing pizza and a variety of prize give-a-ways from the featured brew company. Upcoming events will highlight exclusive beers from R&B Brewing Co., Rogue Dead Guy Ale and Whistler Brewing Company.

About Red Card Sports Bar
With authentic Italian cuisine and a beautifully-restored heritage building, Red Card Sports Bar offers a dramatic and elegant environment in which to enjoy your favourite sports game. Using the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques, Executive Chef Andreas Wechselberger has created an inspired menu, executed to the highest standards.

Red Card Sports Bar is located at 900 Seymour Street, adjacent to Moda Hotel, on the corner of Seymour and Smythe Streets, in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. For more information on Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery visit:

www.redcardsportsbar.ca

Directly from the Top Table Press Release:

NOTES OF SUMMER
Recent Honours, Al Fresco Dining, Upcoming Events and Anniversaries
British Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame

Fresh on the heels of an unprecedented 17 awards garnered at the recent Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards, Top Table team members will be recognized with two more accolades.

On September 27th, executive chef Frank Pabst of Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar, and restaurant director Brian Hopkins of West, will be inducted into the British Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame. These awards signal those “who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism working in the restaurant industry by making their restaurant a special experience.”

The BC Restaurant Hall of Fame was founded six years ago by the BC Restaurant and Food Services Association, and annually honours “the greats” of the province’s culinary community. Jack Evrensel, proprietor of Top Table Group (and 2007 inductee) said, “This is a true distinction and a great honour for Frank and Brian, as well as being a real credit to the other team members in their respective restaurants.”

West’s David Wolowidnyk Wins National Cocktail Competition

We’re also delighted to announce that West’s bar manager, David Wolowidnyk, won the Ketel One-sponsored National Bar Chef Competition in Toronto on July 13th against a field of Canada’s top mixologists. His cocktail, ‘Sichuan Punch’, featured Sichuan Button-infused vodka, cardamom bitters, fresh lemon, Paris-Singapore syrup and house-made ginger beer. The delicious prize-winning cocktail will be available at West starting August 1st, following his return from Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans.

Summer + Al Fresco Dining

British Columbia’s seasonal bounty—drawn from the ranches, farms and fishboats of top quality suppliers—is amply reflected on our current summer menus. And, there is no better place to partake than by dining al fresco on the patios of Araxi, Blue Water Cafe, and CinCin; and at West, during lunch and brunch Monday to Saturday and dinner seven nights.

Upcoming Events

July 31st

Food Day

Araxi, Blue Water Cafe,
CinCin, West

August 1st

Feast in the Mountains
Rebagliati Park, Whistler, BC
Araxi, James Walt

August 9th

Chefs Across the Water
Hastings House, Salt Spring Island, BC
BWC, Frank Pabst

August 15th

Slow Food Cycle Sunday
Pemberton, BC
Araxi, James Walt

Sept. 11th-12th

Canadian Chefs’ Congress
Providence Farm, Duncan, BC
Araxi, James Walt

Sept. 19th

Passions
In support of Dr. Peter AIDS Centre
CinCin, Todd Howard

Sept. 27th
BC Restaurant Hall of Fame Gala
River Rock Show Theatre, Richmond, BC
BWC, Frank Pabst
West, Brian Hopkins

Anniversaries

This Autumn, three of our restaurants celebrate landmark anniversaries: the 10th year for Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar and West, and the 20th year for CinCin. Further details—and featured menus—to follow in the coming months.

Top Table is one of the most highly respected hospitality groups in Canada, encompassing four leading restaurants in Vancouver and Whistler: Araxi, CinCin, Blue Water Cafe and West, as well as the highly anticipated atelier, ‘thierry’ (Autumn 2010). Continuing to evolve in the pursuit of excellence, each venue has received significant critical acclaim, both locally and internationally. For more information, visit www.toptable.ca.

Directly from the Donnelly Hospitality Press Release:

SPIKE AND MIKE’S SICK AND TWISTED ANIMATION FESTIVAL - SUN, JULY 25TH -TUES, JULY 27TH

For 3 days in July the pubs you love are featuring some animated anarchy.  Think about it, combine your own pre movie ritual, experience The Sick and The Twisted, have a beer, watch more animation, have a shot, add a touch of vertigo, apply additional cocktails.  Beats a random theatre don’t it?

9:00PM - Late
Lamplighter - 92 Water Street
Academic - 1619 West Broadway
Cinema - 901 Granville Street
Library Square - 300 West Georgia Street

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAYS - THURS, JULY 22ND - SAT, JULY 24TH

July 22 - West Bound & Down (Free Pool & Foos Ball!)
July 23 - My Radio Friday (Special Guest Mystery DJ!)
July 24 - Black Label Saturday (Win Beer For A Year!)

8:00PM - 2:00AM
Metropole - 320 Abbott Street

COMEDIANS YOU SHOULD SEE - THURS, AUGUST 5TH

Comedians You Should See
W/ Simon  & Brett

9:00PM - 2:00AM
Library Square - 300 West Georgia Street

FIRST SUNDAY PATIO PARTY #3 - SUN, AUGUST 8TH

First Sunday Patio Party # 3 Take the best patio in Gastown, add complimentary blended fun, the finest DJs and live talent from Donnelly Nightclubs and Pubs and voila you have an industry and VIP patio party that’s not to be missed! Starts at 1pm and goes till late, featuring Mostly Marley, DJ Allgood & Playlist, Filthy Joe, Sam Demoe & Cherk, El DJ Loco and guests. Invite only for blender soiree 1pm-3pm. Open to the public thereafter.

3:00PM - 2:00AM
The Lamplighter - 92 Water Street

Directly from the Vovito Cafe Press Release:

Vovito Caffè & Gelato Comes to The Shops at The Bravern in Bellevue

In a region renowned for its coffee, what will take the ubiquitous drink to a new level? Java connoisseurs will find out July 30 when Vovito Caffè & Gelato officially opens in The Shops at The Bravern  in Bellevue, just off teh 110th Avenue arrival court.

Home to two of the region’s three Slayer espresso machines, the Italian-inspired specialty cafè will offer hand-crafted espresso, coffee and beans in Premium Blend and Single Origin varieties, as well as a full selection of gourmet teas and chai beverages.   Along with coffee and tea drinks, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will feature house-made gelato, sorbetto, a wide variety of paninis, salads and baked goods -– all made fresh daily.

The café will open at 6:30 am Monday through Friday (8:30 am on Saturdays and 10:00 am on Sundays) to satisfy coffee and breakfast cravings, including freshly prepared Panini breakfast sandwiches, pastries, fresh orange juice and gelato smoothies.

Vovito is a welcome addition to The Shops at The Bravern, which has been seeking a coffee purveyor.  “We’re extremely pleased to have Vovito Caffè & Gelato open at The Bravern,” said Mark Netherland, senior investment manager for project developer Schnitzer West, LLC.  “The quality of the product we can now offer visitors was worth the wait.”

Founded by Eastside entrepreneurs Ariff and Shairose Gulamani, Vovito Caffè & Gelato represents the third start-up venture for the couple.  It was a personal passion for unique artisan products that led the two to begin development of the Vovito concept a year ago.   Bellevue seemed the perfect location to launch their flagship store.

“We see Bellevue as the new hub,” says Ariff Gulamani. “It’s vibrant, it has the right demographics, and it has become the new center of activity for the region. We were very excited when we heard about The Bravern.  Its inviting, upscale environment is the perfect setting for our concept.”

Much like vintners and sommeliers, Vovito’s baristas will further refine the art of coffee, exploring the nuance of single origin sources right down to the farms or hillsides; to blending, brewing and extracting for various flavor profiles and themes.

“Vovito will offer the very best coffee for connoisseurs,” Ariff points out. “For us, this is an opportunity to build social connections around coffee while connecting people in the café with our sustainable business relationships with direct coffee farmer co-ops where we will source the world’s best coffee beans.”

After much recipe research, consultation with Italian Master gelato chefs and menu development, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will offer flavor-rich gelato and sorbetto made fresh daily. The café will open with 24 flavors of colorful gelato and sorbetto, as well as delicious gelato cakes. The gelato offering, says Shairose Gulamani, will accommodate customer preferences with new gelato flavors featured every month.  And there is a focus on fresh, healthy ingredients:  “Most people don’t realize that gelato has fewer calories and less sugar A006Ed fat than ice cream,” she explained. “It’s a great way to treat yourself.”

Vovito Caffè & Gelato will occupy 2,444 square feet in The Shops at The Bravern and seat approximately 35 inside the shop. Vovito Caffè & Gelato plans to open its doors July 25 with grand opening festivities set for July 30. Reflecting the Italian origins and artisanship of its signature products, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will feature Italianate design throughout, from the custom-made, curved gelato cases to the stone counters and stairs to the warm colors enveloping the interior design of the space. Comfortable and contemporary bar stools and ledges line the walls, with table seating provided for small or large groups as well as lounge chairs for a relaxed alternative. The café will offer free WiFi service and will be family friendly and wheelchair accessible.

Directly from the Scotiabank Nuit Blanche Press Release:

Toronto’s annual sunset to sunrise celebration of contemporary art returns on October 2, 2010 to mark a five-year milestone.

Discover art in galleries, museums and unexpected places. From building façades and city parks to alleyways and heritage buildings, choose from more than 130 destinations and chart your own path.  This year’s event will also present a series of special events celebrating the fifth anniversary and extending Scotiabank Nuit Blanche beyond one night.

Full details are available at www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca.

Follow @sbnuitblancheTO on Twitter, or visit www.facebook.com/sbnuitblancheTO for behind the scenes information and updates as the event draws near.

Scotiabank Nuit Blanche is a signature event produced by the City of Toronto in collaboration with Toronto’s arts community.

City-produced exhibition highlights

The City-produced exhibition projects will be positioned directly on the Yonge-University TTC subway line. Yonge Street will be entirely closed to car traffic between Bloor Street and Front Street, giving pedestrians safe and easy access to the exhibitions.

Curator Gerald McMasters exhibition entitled “The Good Night” features 10 projects in and around Yorkville, from Yonge Street to St. George. Highlights include the Lower Bay Station, which will become an interactive landscape of light in Daan Roosegaarde’s installation “Interactive Landscape Dune”, while the Village of Yorkville Park will feature a billion-year-old chunk of the Canadian Shield transformed into the pulsing heart of Mother Earth by Kent Monkman’s alter-ego Miss Chief Eagle Testikle in “Iskootāo”.

Anthony Kiendl will curate seven projects along the west side of Yonge Street from Dundas Street to Queen Street West in Sound and Vision. Nathan Phillips Square will be transformed into a sensory oasis as Daniel Lanois prepares, produces and performs the soundtrack to a multi-channel, multi-screen media experience in “Later That Night at the Drive-In”. Atop the new Podium Green Roof at City Hall, Dan Graham’s “Performance Café with Perforated Sides” will feature one of the artist’s world-renowned reflective pavilions, beckoning as a space for human interaction on a grand or intimate scale.

Sarah Robayo Sheridan’s exhibition entitled “The Night of Future Past” will be located on the east side of Yonge from Carlton Street south to Queen Street. She will curate eight projects, including Ryan Ganders “Just Because You Can Feel It, Doesnt Mean It’s There”, which will set Yonge-Dundas Square ablaze in a social sculpture of ambiguous designation but of unmistakable scale and presence. In “Reunion” on the Ryerson Theatre Stage, the historic artistic convergence of the same name that occurred in 1968 will be celebrated and remounted by local and international performers influenced by the twin legacies of Marcel Duchamp and John Cage.

Christof Migone will curate 15 projects in the Financial District, straddling Yonge Street from Queen Street to Front Street. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” will feature Max Streicher’s “Endgame (Coulrophobia)”, which will either delight or frighten audiences who discover the giant inflatable clown heads wedged between two buildings in a back alley.

At Commerce Court, Davide Balula’s performance entitled “The Endless Pace” will feature 60 dancers mimicking the passage of time in a clock formed from human movement. Kim Adams’ “Auto Lamp” will become a beacon of light for night owls; a sculptural lighthouse on land at the corner of Yonge and Queen. At Brookfield Place, Martin Arnold and Micah Lexier have collaborated to present “Erik Saties Vexations” - two pianos playing a score simultaneously 840 times over 12 hours - the first time this difficult score has been played in such a way and in such short a time.

Community-produced independent project highlights

The community-produced portion of Scotiabank Nuit Blanche will feature new or existing installations created by cultural and educational institutions, neighbourhoods and individual artists that extend the boundaries of the event city-wide and showcase the diversity of Toronto’s arts community. Casa Loma, CN Tower, the Bata Shoe Museum, Ryerson University, TIFF and many more organizations are hosting important projects in their unique venues. Entire neighbourhoods like Parkdale, Liberty Village, Queen West, the Distillery District and the area in and around Trinity Bellwoods Park will feature multiple installations by local artists.

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature cocktail recipe:

Summer Nectar from Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.