Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Directly from the Provence Restaurants Press Release:

Meatless Mardi, A Healthy Dining Choice

(Vancouver, BC) – Starting Tuesday, October 19th and for every Tuesday from then on, Provence Restaurants (Marinaside in Yaletown and Mediterranean Grill in Pt. Grey) will be offering a special vegetarian three-course table d’hôte menu for $25. Dubbed Meatless Mardi the special menu is aimed at the growing number of people who are trying to cut down on their meat consumption.

The reasons for doing so are as varied as the people involved – some espouse environmental reasons having been influenced by authors and films such as Michael Pollan and Food Inc. Others are looking at the personal health benefits of a more vegetarian way of eating as exemplified by the famed Mediterranean Diet or the influence of Chinese culinary culture on Vancouver diners. Whatever the reason, vegetarianism is now recognized as a healthy life-style choice. “I’ve recently been inspired by friends making the switch,” says Provence Chef and Proprietor Alessandra Quaglia. “Vegetarians have been saying it for so long and I think its time we really listen. I’m actually making it my own personal challenge to cut out meat starting two days a week, working up to five days. I’ll still need my meat fix on the other two days! Meatless Mardi is our way of providing those who want to go meatless with a tasty, interesting alternative.”

The three-course menu will change every Tuesday to reflect ingredients at their seasonal peak. In addition, each Meatless Mardi menu will also be accompanied by an optional Wine Sampler for an additional $15. These are small 2oz. pours of organic and/or bio-dynamic wines chosen to complement the flavours of the menu.

All this is not to say you can’t dine meatless at Provence Restaurants on any other day of the week. Both locations offer a wide range of vegetarian appetizers and mains. There is also a great selection of vegetarian dishes to be found in the Antipasti Case. “Lots of people are already making a meal by selecting a number of vegetarian antipasti. It’s one of the things that Provence is known for.”

Whether vegetarianism is your chosen way of life or a sometimes addition to your regular diet, Meatless Mardi at Provence Restaurants offers plenty of choice for a healthy way to dine.

Provence Mediterranean Grill (Point Grey) 4473 West 10th Ave., 604.222.1980

Provence Marinaside (Yaletown) 1177 Marinaside Crescent at the foot of Davie St., 604.681.4144

Directly from The Smoking Dog Bistro Newsletter:

Starting Monday October 4th October Feast

Join us in October for our $5 Drink & Food Menu
$5 house Red & White Wine
$5 Draft Pints
$5 Food Specials

It is the time of year to start thinking about  booking your Office Christmas Party or Luncheon.   We can accommodate parties of any size up to 80 people for a sit down dinner or 110 for a cocktail style party.  The following menus are available for Christmas parties 2010 Holiday Menus. To book your party today please email your questions and date request to jean@thesmokingdog.com or call 604-732-8811

Coming soon is our New Winter Menu.
You can look forward to us bringing back our classic French winter dishes to enjoy in our cozy Bistro!

Directly from the Dundarave Fish Market Press Release:

Seasonal Change at Dundarave Fish Market!

The season is slowly changing over and at Dundarave Fish Market we’re following suit! We have some exciting news to share from the introduction of our new oyster bar, new restaurant and catering menu, to feature magazine and newspaper articles right down to some exciting website changes…

After a long day, everyone deserves a break! Sitting back, relaxing and catching up with friends in an exclusive atmosphere is truly one way to “unwind from the day!” At Dundarave Fish Market, we have the remedy to completely relax and watch the world go by! Take a seat at our brilliant oyster bar and watch our expert chef shuck oysters. Every day from 4 – 6, our oysters are 2 for 1 and served with our very own, made with natural ingredients, Simply West Coast Sauces. Try some with Sun-Soaked Ceviche, Swingin’ Cocktail Sauce or Lemon Champagne Vinaigrette. Guaranteed to simply wash the day’s stress away!

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, this is a great occasion to spend quality time with family and friends. We have a fantastic new catering menu to suit all your entertaining needs. Or, if you prefer to dine in and try our new menu, we have the perfect place! From our inviting dining room to our semi private dining room to our heated outdoor patio, we have the right ingredients to make any occasion a memorable one!

When you dine at Dundarave Fish Market, you are truly dining with the stars! We are proud to announce that we were voted by you, as being the #1 North Shore Seafood Restaurant, also the home of the all natural gourmet sauce line up – Simply West Coast Sauces. Our head chef, Octo Chef, has also been featured in the October issue of the North Shore Outlook and Vancouver magazine!

Keeping in tempo with all of our exciting changes, we’ve also updated our website. We now have our very own Dundarave Fish Market blog to keep you posted with up to the minute exciting news and promotions. Our website also show cases our new restaurant and catering menu, newspaper and magazine featured articles and we’ve added a brilliant picture gallery to name a few.

At Dundarave Fish Market, we truly believe in supporting our community. For the second year in a row, we’re partnering up with the Kay Meek Centre to offer you an exciting discount program for valued customers. Here’s how it works:

1. Buy your tickets to any event presented at Kay Meek Centre.  http://kaymeekcentre.weebly.com/theatre-dine-out.html     

2. When you arrive at the restaurant for lunch or dinner, let your server know that you will be attending a performance at Kay Meek Centre. (We suggest that you arrive at the restaurant an hour and a half to
two hours before the performance start time. To make dinner reservations, please call 922-1155 or visit us on line.)

3. Present your event ticket and you will receive a 15% discount on your meal! (Discount not valid on alcohol.)

For more information about exciting performances held at Kay Meek Centre, please see their season brochure or visit their website at www.kaymeekcentre.com or call 604-913-3634. Enjoy!

Mark your calendars! Taking place October 18, at the West Vancouver Ice Arena, Canada Ice Dance Theatre is putting on a fabulous show. Canada Ice Dance Theatre is a small company that has produced some very fine skaters and given many people a lot of fulfillment. For more information on show time and tickets, please visit their website at www.canadaicedancetheatre.com or call Gila at 604-926-4879.

Have you checked out our Simply West Coast website recently? Due to popular demand, we have added something very new and very exciting to our website….the addition of our on-line store! This month, we’ve extended our “Sassy Promotion” until the end of October. Receive 1 FREE bottle of Simply West Coast Sassy Sesame Sauce when you purchase any of our sauces on-line.

Sustainability has been a key factor in our growth. Made with all natural ingredients, our sauces are produced, bottled, stored and shipped from the lower mainland. We owe much of our success to our local communities – thank you for your loyalty and on-going support!

Directly from the Araxi Restaurant Press Release:

Big Guns: Small Producers

Exclusive winemakers’ dinner celebrates a unique collection of wines

Whistler, B.C. – On Friday, November 12th, Whistler’s premier restaurant, Araxi, will celebrate a compelling collection of wines in an exclusive winemakers’ dinner during Cornucopia: Whistler’s Celebration of Wine and Food.

These five extraordinary wineries—four from the Napa Valley and one from Walla Walla—are all small, family-owned properties engaged in sustainable farming practices. Each of the wineries has achieved critical acclaim and international followings, and through the course of the evening, introductions to each wine will be led by winery principals, including discussion on technique and terroir. This insider’s tour of excellence in winemaking promises to be Cornucopia’s tour de force.

Executive Chef James Walt has created a distinctive five-course menu that highlights the excellence of the Pemberton Valley’s autumn harvest—alongside globally-sourced ingredients—with each plate married to these prized wines:

Ehlers Estate Sauvignon Blanc, St. Helena, Napa Valley, 2009

Ehlers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon “1886″, St. Helena, Napa Valley, 2006
‘Top-Rated’ Gayot

Miner Family Vineyards “Wild Yeast” Chardonnay, Oakville, Napa Valley, 2007
91 Points, Connoisseurs’ Guide

Miner Family Vineyards “The Oracle”, Oakville, Napa Valley, 2006
93 Points, Wine & Spirits Magazine

Pahlmeyer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 2007
95 Points, Robert Parker

Pahlmeyer Merlot Napa Valley, 2007
96 Points, Robert Parker

Pepper Bridge Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, 2007
92 Points, Robert Parker

Pepper Bridge Winery ‘Reserve’, Walla Walla Valley, 2006
93 Points, Robert Parker

Merryvale “Profile”, St. Helena, Napa Valley, 1999
93 Points, Wine Spectator

Merryvale “Antigua” NV (Dessert Wine)
91 Points, San Francisco Chronicle
Gold Medal, Wine Enthusiast
For tickets, visit whistlercornucopia.com. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Whistler Health Care Foundation.

Bubbles + Oceans Afterparty
Araxi, Whistler
Saturday, November 13th @ 10:30pm
$155, all inclusive

After Crush! complete your evening at Araxi’s famed BUBBLES + OCEANS afterparty, a chance to let go in the heart of Whistler Village. Join us for an unforgettable night of brilliant seafood and deluxe bubbles from 20 of the world’s top Champagne and sparkling wine houses. Executive Chef James Walt will showcase an impressive selection of finely-crafted canapés and his plateaux de mer, offering the finest freshly shucked oysters, sushi and Tofino Dungeness crab. And yes, the best music in town. This don’t miss party at Whistler’s premier restaurant is one of the festival hottest tickets!

For tickets, visit whistlercornucopia.com.

The culinary cornerstone in the heart of Whistler Village, Araxi is recognized worldwide for its excellence in food, wine and hospitality. One of Canada’s leading chefs, James Walt continues to inspire both his contemporaries and his guests, creating compelling regional cuisine based on local, sustainable ingredients. Already, Araxi’s cookbook—available at the restaurant and all fine booksellers—has won multiple international awards, as well as a prestigious nomination from New York’s James Beard Awards. Whistler, B.C. 604-932-4540, www.araxi.com.

Directly from the Donnelly Hospitality Press Release:

NBA Stars Raise Funds for Charity

Donnelly Nightclubs partners with the Steve Nash Foundation for All-Star Charity Jam

Donnelly Nightclubs and the Donnelly Fund are proud to partner with the Steven Nash Foundation to host the All-Star Charity Jam fundraiser. On Wednesday, October 6th at Bar None, this exclusive charity event will feature NBA stars and celebrity athletes, and special guest DJ Bamboozle.

Donnelly Nightclubs, the Donnelly Fund and the Steve Nash Foundation hope to raise upwards of $10,000. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Steve Nash Foundation. Tickets for the event are $25.00 and can be purchased at Bar None or www.clubzone.com. VIP table service packages are available, plus prizes for guests include NBA memorabilia and Donnelly Nightclub VIP packages.

The Steve Nash Foundation All-Star Charity Jam takes place on Wednesday October 6th, 2010 at 9pm. The epicentre of nightlife in Yaletown, Bar None’s reputation as Vancouver’s only true New York style nightclub is well deserved. For 18 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. 1222 Hamilton Street, Vancouver BC.

Donnelly Group is a creative and diverse management company that owns and operates award-winning nightclubs: Republic, Bar None, and the Post Modern; popular pubs: The Bimini, The Calling, The Library Square Public House, Smiley’s Pub, the Lamplighter, the Academic, and Cinema Public House; the popular cocktail lounge The Granville Room, and the Metropole Community Pub. The company’s attention to detail, impressive entertainment calendars, modern designs, community and charity support, and strict policies on patron safety have earned them a reputation as an industry leader in Vancouver. For more information please visit: www.donnellygroup.ca.

The Steve Nash Foundation is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to assisting underserved children in their health, personal development, education and enjoyment of life. Since 2005, the Foundation has provided more than $100,000 annually through BC Grants.  Other programs include Support Hope Paraguay (delivering critical needs healthcare resources to children around the country); Support Hope Uganda; and Steve Nash Youth Basketball, the national grassroots development model of Canada Basketball.  For more information about the Steve Nash Foundation, please visit www.stevenash.org.

Directly from the Chinese Restaurants Awards Press Release:

2011 CHINESE RESTAURANT AWARDS LAUNCHED

(Vancouver, BC) – Craig Stowe, Director of the Chinese Restaurant Awards, unveiled earlier today at a Launch Lunch the judging categories and introduced the judges and sponsors for the third annual HSBC Chinese Restaurant Awards. The Launch Lunch, co-hosted by HSBC Bank Canada and Tourism Richmond, was held at the award-winning Red Star Seafood Restaurant in Richmond.

“Last February, the world’s most prestigious travel publication, Condé Nast Traveler, proclaimed what many residents already knew, that Metro Vancouver has the best Chinese food in the world. These Awards celebrate that excellence,” states Mr. Stowe. ” In an era when the words ‘local’ and ‘seasonal’ have started to spring up on menus all over Metro, we are reminded that the Chinese have always eaten this way. Chinese cooks, professionals and home cooks alike, look for the freshest possible ingredients at the peak of their seasonal best. Chinese cuisine, its flavours as well as techniques, have come to influence many of Metro’s top Mainstream chefs. That’s why it is important to shine the spotlight on some of the Chinese food scene’s culinary stars who are contributing so much to Metro’s vibrant restaurant culture.”

As in the previous two years, the 2011 HSBC Chinese Restaurant Awards are divided into two components: The Diners’ Choice Awards and The Critics’ Choice Signature Dish Awards.

More than 9,300 people cast their votes for the 2010 Diners’ Choice Awards. The dining public, both Mainstream and Asian, discussed the merits of the restaurants and preparation of various dishes. Food blogs and e-zines were jammed with comments and recommendations. Given the level of last year’s interest, and with HSBC Bank Canada and Tourism Richmond returning as sponsors, it is expected that the 2011 awards will attract even more public interest and participation.

The Diners’ Choice Awards allows the public to participate in all the fun. This year, for the first time, members of the public can play an important part by nominating restaurants. From September 28 through October 5, the public is invited to nominate their favourites on the Diners’ Choice web site
. The top 20 restaurants nominated by the public will form the list that will be voted on to receive Diners’ Choice Awards. Voting will take place, also on-line, from October 6 through November 12 at www.votedinerschoice.com .

For the Critics’ Choice Signature Dish component, the judging panel is comprised of 11 restaurant professionals and journalists who possess a strong knowledge of Chinese cuisine. “They have to understand the cooking methods, history and traditions of Chinese food,” says Judging Panel Chair, Stephan Wong. “This is really important. It creates a level judging field where they all share the same criteria.” Upon joining the panel, each judge receives a directory of the more than 400 Chinese restaurants in Metro Vancouver. By mid September, they have submitted three to five nominees for each category. Then all the judges go out and taste each other’s recommendations. This goes on through November and December, when they meet to vote on the 24 Gold Signature Dish winners as well as name a Chinese Chef of the Year and a Best Wine and Spirit Service Award. The Chef of the Year will be awarded for the first time this year.

With more than 600 Chinese chefs in Metro Vancouver, how is one chosen for Chinese Chef of the Year? This year the HSBC Chinese Restaurant Awards is pleased to welcome three professional organizations to the judging panel: Canadian Dim Sum Chefs Association, Chinese Canadian Chefs Association and Hong Kong Canadian Chinese Chefs Club. These three organizations will spearhead the search for Chinese Chef of the Year through a series of competitions - the final competition taking place on the same day as the Awards Ceremony. Watch the CRA web site for more details as they are announced.

All winners will be announced at an Awards Ceremony to be held on January 18, 2011.

The public is encouraged to start dining and cast their votes.

More information

Web site (Information and nominations)
www.chineserestaurantawards.com

To Vote for Diners’ Choice Awards (Oct.6 - Nov.12):
www.votedinerschoice.com

Updates: visit HSBC Chinese Restaurant Awards’ Facebook page or follow us on Twitter

http://twitter.com/CRADiningGuide

Photos:

images for download are posted on:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/cra2011launch/

The HSBC Chinese Restaurant Awards wishes to thank title sponsor HSBC Bank Canada and the following sponsors who help to make these awards possible:

Tourism Richmond, Remy Martin, Mercedes Benz, Quintessentially Canada, Amoy Food limited, Tsit Wing Group, Underwater Harvesters’ Association, Wingtat Game Bird Packers, CityTV, OMNI TV, CHMB AM 1320, Fairchild Radio AM1470 & FM96.1, Global Chinese Press, Gcpnews.com, World Journal, Canadian Dim Sum Chefs Association, Chinese Canadian Chefs Association, Hong Kong Canadian Chinese Chefs Club.

Directly from the Gold Medal Plates Press Release:

ALEXANDRE BILODEAU CONFIRMED AS HONOURARY AMBASSADOR AND KEYNOTE FOR THIS YEAR’S GOLD MEDAL PLATES VANCOUVER ‘CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE’
BARNEY BENTALL AND COLIN JAMES JUST ANNOUNCED AS HEADLINE ENTERTAINERS!

Alexandre Bilodeau, Canada’s first 2010 Olympic Gold medallist will be thehonourary ambassador at Vancouver’s Gold Medal Plates event on Friday,October 29th, at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. 11of the Region’s most feted and talented chefs will battle it out to see who will be named the area’s best chef. After tasting the chef’s amazing creations, Alexandre may even be found up on stage with headline entertainers – Barney Bentall and ColinJames!

A celebration of Canadian excellence, Gold Medal Plates brings together the finest chefs, wines and athletes. Olympic and Paralympic athletes are paired with each competing chef as they serve their signature dish and wine pairing to over 700 guests. 2009 Gold medallist, Chef Rob Feenie, will create the dish for the A panel of culinary judges selects the gold, silver and bronze winners; the gold medal winning chef from Vancouver will go on to compete at the Canadian Culinary Championships held February 18-19, 2011 in Kelowna, British Columbia.

Competing chefs are:
Darren Brown, Coast
Robert Clarke, C Restaurant
Quang Dang, Diva at the Met
Stuart Klassen, Delta Grand, Kelowna
Dale MacKay, Lumière
Nicholas Nutting, The Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino
Nico Schuermans, Chambar
Roger Sleiman, Quails’ Gate Winery, Kelowna
Cam Smith & Sana Ewart, Joy Road, Penticton
Neil Taylor, Cibo Trattoria

Date: Friday, October 29, 2010
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, 1088 Burrard St.
Timing:
5:15 - 6:00 p.m. VIP Reception – Interviews with chefs and athletes
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Culinary competition
7:45 – 9:00 p.m. Dessert, hot stove interview with Alexandre Bilodeau, live auction and Vancouver’s gold, silver and bronze medal culinary winners announced
9:00 - 9:30 p.m. Show featuring Canadian icons, Barney Bentall and Colin James

Gold Medal Plates’ regional competitions begin in October with Edmonton kicking off the cross-country events. It will be Vancouver’s chance to shine and support the athletes in their quest to Own the Podium! Other cities to follow include Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, St. John’s, Edmonton, Toronto and an inaugural event in Saskatoon! Since its inception, Gold Medal Plates has donated more than $4.1 million to support Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes and has elevated the profile of Canadian cuisine and wine. For more information: www.goldmedalplates.com

Canadian Olympic Foundation – The Beneficiary of the events: The Canadian Olympic Foundation is a national charitable organization created by the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) supporting high performance athletes across all winter and summer sports. The Foundation’s mission is to generate support to meet the technical, scientific, medical and coaching needs of Canada’s high performance sport system and assist Canada’s athletes in becoming ambassadors for sport, healthy living and the pursuit of excellence across the nation. Net proceeds from Gold Medal Plates are given to the Canadian Olympic Foundation to support high performance programs such as Own the Podium. To learn more about the Foundation and the programs it funds, please visit www.olympicfoundation.ca

Directly from the Boathouse Restaurants Newsletter:

CRABFEST

The delicacy of the deep is here at your local Boathouse. All time favorite recipes and new creations from the Boathouse Chefs. Try our 3 Course Crab Fest Menu for just $34.99 includes choice of starter, entree and dessert or a glass of BC VQA wine.

PLAN YOUR PARTY NOW

Tis the Season to be jolly - well almost. With the holidays around the corner one of our seven waterfront locations is the perfect place to host a Christmas party or corporate event. We also have private catered rooms available at our Port Moody and New West locations.

WEEKEND BRUNCH

Weekend Brunch at The Boathouse is a special way to celebrate with friends or family. Featuring Bennys, Scrambles, Omelettes and more.

Directly from the Blue Eyed Marys Press Release:

We will be Open for Thanksgiving Sunday for the first time!

Call  604 947 2583 for reservation

Sunday October 10

Corn Soufflé with a Warm Ale and Cheese Sauce

Roasted Brussels Sprout, Currant and Blue Cheese Salad with Hazelnut Vinaigrette

Half a Cornish Game Hen, Sage Gravy,
Caraway Rye Prosciutto Stuffing, Sweet Potato Mash, Roasted Autumn Vegetables, & Cranberry-Orange Compote

Pumpkin Ginger Cheesecake with Pecan Rum Caramel

$40

Directly from the Bistro Pastis Press Release:

Paris at Pastis

Cooking for Me, You and Barbara-jo

(Vancouver, BC) – Earlier this past summer, Books to Cooks’ very own Barbara-jo McIntosh published an elegant little volume entitled Cooking for Me and Sometimes You, A Parisienne Romance with Recipes. In it she tells the tale of a month spent in Paris - a month spent dining, shopping at the local marchés and cooking in her rented flat. Along the way she encountered romance – of both the palate and the heart.

Inspired by Barbara-jo’s book, resident French romantic John Blakely, who just happens to be the proprietor of the very French Bistro Pastis, is launching a month long celebration of Parisian cuisine. The month of menus kicks off with a very special event – an evening with Barbara-jo on Wednesday, October 13th. The $115 ticket includes a four-course dinner, wine pairings, tax, gratuity plus a copy of Cooking for Me and Sometimes You (which Barbara-jo with autograph for you). Reservations for this dinner should be made by calling Books to Cooks at 604-688-6755.

Starting on October 17 for four weeks and ending November 13, Bistro Pastis will feature a special Paris at Pastis weekly three-course menu for only $45. Each menu focuses on a particular seasonal ingredient that can be found in the local street marchés that spring up all over the City of Light’s arrondisements. Barbara-jo’s book is based on cooking fresh, seasonal and simple food. Bistro Pastis’ four weekly menus pay tribute to this ethos and present seasonal fare redolent of autumnal comfort

Week One (October 17 – 23) features Charcuterie and includes starters such as Assiette de Charcuterie or traditional Cabbage Salad with Lardons, Red Wine and Shallots Vinaigrette. Mains include: Saucisse de Toulouse, Lentils and Bacon, Red Wine Jus, Choucroutte Garnie and, Sautéed Trout with Bacon and Button Mushrooms in a Pinot Noir Sauce. The autumnal sweetness of maple syrup provides the perfect complement to the end of the meal with two options: Maple Walnut Tart or Maple Bacon Ice Cream with Biscotti for the adventuresome bacon addict.

Week Two (October 24 – 30) focuses on squash. Butternut Squash Soup with Roasted Apple or Roasted Acorn Squash with Brie are two of the first course options. All three mains are so tempting – Oven-roasted Pork Tenderloin with glazed Butternut Squash and Almond Sauté or Grilled Snapper served with Lemon Herb Spaghetti Squash or Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Ravioli napped with Tomato Confit. End with either an Acorn Squash Tart or Pumpkin White Chocolate Mousse.

Pears take the spotlight in Week Three (October 31 – November 6). Start with a classic Salade of Pears, Roquefort, Belgian Endive and Candied Walnuts or perhaps allow the Pear and Brie Tart to tempt you. Roasted Pear Soup is sure to provide comforting warmth on a damp day. Then move on to either Over-roasted Chicken Breast, Pear and Onion Tarte Tatin with Sage Jus or Sautéed Prawns, Fennel Risotto, Asian Pear Beurre Blanc or perhaps the classic pairing (sorry, we couldn’t resist) of Grilled Pork Chop with Pear and Brown Butter Purée. Dessert choices include Spiced Red Wine Poached Pear Crème Brulée or Poire Belle Hélène with Chocolate Sauce.

Is there an ingredient that screams ‘autumn!” more than the mushroom? The final menu (November 7 – 13) pays homage to the lowly fungus in all its myriad incarnations. For starters there are three delicious options: Mushroom and Fennel Salad (Oyster, Shitake and Button Mushrooms), Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarte with Mesclun Salade White Truffle Vinaigrette and Wild Mushroom Soup with Bacon Froth. Grilled Flank Steak with a lovely mushroomy Sauce Forestière, Pan-Seared Ling Cod with Mushroom Risotto and Mushroom Gnocchi with Roasted Root Vegetables take centre stage while Candy Cap Crème Caramel and Cherry Mousse Crèpe with Mushroom Meringue provide the sweet finish.

Known for its extensive wine cellar, Bistro Pastis will be offering a 25 per cent discount off its wine list for those who wish to enjoy un verre de vin with their ‘Parisian repas.’

From October 17 through November 13, join us at Bistro Pastis for a little Parisian romance and comforting autumn fare. At only $45 per person, it’s a très bon marché and more economical than a plane ticket to Paris.

Reservations are always a good idea and can be made by calling 604-731-5020. To reserve for the special evening with Barbara-jo McIntosh, please call Books to Cooks at 604-688-6755.

Directly from the Tourism Whistler Press Release:

Win a dream wedding package at Wishes, Whistler’s Wedding and Celebration Showcase

Whistler, B.C. – The second annual Wishes Whistler Wedding and Event Show promises to unveil all the secrets to a sensational Whistler wedding. And one lucky attendee will win a grand prize that will help make their dream Whistler wedding a reality.

Destination weddings is a growing niche market and Whistler Resort, with its majestic mountain landscape and endless activity and accommodation options, provides a marvelous backdrop for the perfect wedding … and a comprehensive wedding show.

The Wishes Whistler Wedding and Event Show takes place over two days at the Whistler Conference Centre and features exhibits from a variety of wedding-related industries.

Wishes gives couples everything they need to know about planning an unforgettable Whistler wedding including:

Bridal and cocktail fashion sample sales

Bridal and cocktail fashion shows featuring the latest in bridal and cocktail fashions

A guys’ lounge featuring gaming and a Whistler brewery tour

Exhibits featuring hotels and venues, décor, floral experts, beauty, photography, jewelry, spa and activity operators

Planning workshops with some of the top creative minds in the Whistler and Vancouver wedding and event planning industry

Draw prizes

Attendees at Wishes will be entered to win a Whistler wedding (valued at $15,000) complete with wedding planning assistance, ceremony and reception venues, décor, cake, photographer, caterer, music and transportation.

This year’s event takes place over the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday weekend and coincides with Whistler’s annual Turkey Sale, a highlight of the pre-winter season.

The Wishes Whistler Wedding and Event Show runs Saturday, October 9 from 1-5:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 10 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Whistler Conference Centre.

Admission is valid for both days and is $20 at the door or $15 in advance at www.wisheswhistler.com.  A complete schedule of weekend events is available at www.whistler.com/wishes_whistler

Special weekend accommodations packages are offered; go to www.whistler.com/wishes_whistler for more information. The first 300 people to book accommodation for stays between October 8, 2010 and October 11, 2010 through whistler.com will receive one free event ticket per accommodation booking.

Directly from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Press Release:

The VSO and Maestro Bramwell Tovey are set to dish out the delightful music of Gilbert and Sullivan!

Vancouver, BC – In a winning combination of classical and comical, the VSO takes a turn from serious orchestral music to the supremely entertaining  musicals of Gilbert & Sullivan, conducted by Bramwell Tovey. The first performance kicks-off this season’s Pacific Arbour Tea and Trumpets series, Thursday, October 7th, 2010 at 2 pm. The London Drugs VSO Pops series then takes over with performances on Friday, October 8th, 2010 and Saturday, October 9th, 2010, both at 8 pm. All performances are at the Orpheum.

The UBC Opera Ensemble and a brilliant vocal cast will join the VSO for the VSO Pops production, including Gilbert and Sullivan veteran, baritone Richard Suart. He has appeared at the BBC Proms as the Duke of Plaza-Toro‚ The Lord Chancellor and Sir Joseph Porter, and has made many other appearances at Gala Concerts both in the UK and North America.  He is a regular visitor to the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival‚ held in Buxton each summer‚ and is a Vice President of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society.  Another Gilbert and Sullivan great is Mezzo-Soprano, Jill Pert.  She is known for her interpretation of the Gilbert and Sullivan major contralto roles, originally for the D’Oyly Carte company, with whom she has also recorded them. Ms. Pert has performed an amazing eleven out of the thirteen contralto roles in the G&S canon.

Maestro Tovey also has his own particular affinity for the music of Gilbert & Sullivan, having conducted many times at the D’oyly Carte himself. The music of Gilbert and Sullivan is close to Tovey’s heart, and, treating the music with great respect, his interpretations of their iconic musicals are always charming and often hilarious. On the program will be excerpts from The Mikado, H.M.S. Pinafore, and Pirates of Penzance.

Librettist W.S. Gilbert and composer Arthur Sullivan were the masters of comic opera, collaborating on fourteen works throughout the years of their partnership. They created enduring works that defined the genre and heavily influenced the development of musical theatre through the twentieth century. Put together by producer Richard D’oyly Carte, who founded the Savoy Theatre and the D’oyly Carte Opera Company to present these comic opera, Gilbert and Sullivan enjoyed unprecedented success creating fantastic worlds where things were ever “topsy turvy,” where nobody was who they seemed, and where the unexpected was the only thing that could truly be expected – no matter how absurd or ridiculous. Their irreverence, keen political insights, and, of course, great music and stories, made them the most popular of English composers in their time. And their message and music still resonate today, filling concert halls in England and around the world.

CONCERT INFO

Pacific Arbour Tea & Trumpets

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2 PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE

Gilbert & Sullivan

Bramwell Tovey conductor

Christopher Gaze host

Jill Pert mezzo-soprano

Richard Suart baritone

Maestro Tovey presents a delightful afternoon of Gilbert & Sullivan, including excerpts from The Mikado, Pirates of Penzance, and more!

Tickets: $38 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

Series Sponsor: Pacific Arbour

London Drugs VSO Pops

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 & 9, 8 PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE

An Evening of Gilbert & Sullivan

Bramwell Tovey conductor

Tracy Dahl soprano

Jill Pert mezzo-soprano

Philippe Castagner tenor

Richard Suart baritone

UBC Opera Ensemble

Join Bramwell Tovey and a brilliant vocal cast for a celebration of the famous music of Gilbert & Sullivan. Maestro Tovey’s interpretations of Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Mikado and other favourites are often hilarious and always supremely entertaining!

Visit UBC Opera Ensemble at www.music.ubc.ca

Tickets: $26.75 - $84 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

Tickets available online at www.vancouversymphony.ca or by calling VSO customer service at 604.876.3434

Series Sponsor: London Drugs

Radio Sponsor: QM/FM

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

Chocolate Wontons from Bob Blumer’s Glutton for Pleasure Cookbook.

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

To have a chance to win Bob’s new cookbook join the October 7th, 2010 newsletter.

Directly from the Vancouver Playhouse Wine Festival Press Release:

PLAYHOUSE WINE FESTIVAL WILL OFFER A WEEK OF SPANISH SIPPING IN 2011
Wines from Spain and a Global Focus on Fortified Wine will bring plenty of varietals to the 33rd annual event

The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival will mark its 33rd year with Wines from Spain and a Global Focus on Fortified Wine. The Festival, which runs from March 28th to April 3rd, 2011, will bring 176 participating wineries to the Vancouver Convention Centre and top Vancouver restaurants and hotels for a total of seven days of tastings, seminars, and wine focused events. A full list of participating wineries is now available online at http://playhousewinefest.com/page287.htm

“Every vintage at the Wine Festival offers a fresh journey of discovery,” says Festival Executive Director Harry Hertscheg. “Whether it’s wines from across Spain, Fortified examples from around the globe or selections from unfamiliar wine regions, each Festival attendee gets their own unique tasting experience while trying new wines and connecting directly with their producers.”

“The great quality, value and versatility of Spanish wines continues to win fans around the world and to elicit high praise from the international wine and food media,” says Pilar Randolph, Director of Wines from Spain, “we are thrilled to have the opportunity to shine the spotlight on these wines at Canada’s premier wine festival this coming spring.” With a total of 33 participating Spanish wineries, visitors to the 2011 Festival will have the opportunity to sip wines from indigenous varietals such as Albariño, Cariñena, Garnacha, Godello, Macabeo, Mencía, Monastrell, Palomino, Pedro Ximénez, Tempranillo, Verdejo and Viura, as well as Spanish versions of more international grapes such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz. All of this will be complemented by events that will highlight not only the Wines from Spain but also the delicious food, diverse culture and rich history of the country.

A number of Spain’s most notable and impressive principals will be on hand at this year’s Festival, including Miguel A. Torres, President and Managing Director of Miguel Torres Winery. Named European Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2006, Miguel A. Torres is the fourth generation of Torres to preside over this acclaimed winery in the Penedès region. Decanter magazine named Miguel A. Torres Man of the Year in 2002.

Also attending will be Alvaro Palacios of Alvaro Palacios Winery. Palacios founded his namesake winery at the young age of 25 and is often credited for resurrecting the region of Priorat. His L’Ermita is widely regarded as one of the most important Spanish wines in a generation.

Other notable names scheduled to attend this year’s Festival include:

·       Alex Giesen, Director and Owner, Giesen Wine Estate – New Zealand

·       Ann Sperling, Winemaker, Sperling Vineyards – Canada (BC)

·       Aurelio Montes Sr., Winemaker, Montes – Chile

·       Christophe Hedges, Winemaker, Hedges Family Estates and Snoqualmie Vineyards. – USA (WASH)

·       Craig McDonald, General Manager, Wine Gretzky Estate Winery - Canada (ON)

·       Fernando Alvear, President and CEO, Bodegas Alvear – Spain

·       Felipe González-Gordon, President, González Byass – Spain

·       Javier Hidalgo, Proprietor, Bodegas Hidalgo – Spain

·       Joel Peterson, Founder, Ravenswood – USA (CA)

·       Louis Moreau, Proprietor and Winemaker, Domaine Louis Moreau – France

·       Marc Kent, Winemaker and Co-owner, Boekenhoutskloof – South Africa

·       Nik Weis, Owner, St. Urbans-Hof – Germany

·       Riccardo Tedeschi, Owner and Winemaker, Tedeschi – Italy

·       Rupert Symington, Joint Executive Director, Symington Graham’s Port - Portugal

·       Stuart Blackwell, Senior Winemaker, St Hallett – Australia

·       Susana Balbo, Winemaker, Dominio del Plata – Argentina

·       Telmo Rodriguez, Proprietor, Telmo Rodríguez Wines - Spain

·       Udi Kadim, CEO, Galil Mountain Winery and Yarden – Israel

The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival will open on Monday, March 28th, 2011 and will feature 176 wineries participating in 63 events to a projected 25,000 attendees. Early tickets to the Festival will be on sale November 30. For more information visit the newly revamped www.playhousewinefest.com.

About the Playhouse Wine Festival

The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, Canada’s premier wine show, runs from March 28th to April 3rd, 2011. The Playhouse Wine Festival is one of the biggest and oldest wine festival events in the world. In 2011, the theme region will be Spain and the global focus Fortified Wine. The Festival features a week of special events including the Bacchanalia Gala Dinner + Auction, wine seminars, wine minglers, winery dinners, and lunches and brunches at fine restaurants and hotels. The Playhouse Wine Festival is produced by the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Society, which has three mandates: provide an informative, educational and entertaining wine experience for public and trade; be a premier marketing opportunity for the wine industry and Festival partners; and raise funds for the Playhouse Theatre Company. Since its inception in 1979, the Festival has raised over $7.2 million to enable Western Canada’s leading theatre company to mount 223 productions and develop extensive community outreach and educational programs.

The Shore Club generously presents the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival.

Directly from the Mission Hill Family Estate Press Release:

Mission Hill Family Estate Celebrates Ten Years of Oculus Signature Wine Festivities Commemorate 10th Vintage

This autumn Mission Hill Family Estate celebrates the tenth vintage of its signature internationally acclaimed wine, Oculus, with a series of special events across Western Canada. The commemorative occasions include rare magnums of Oculus “Buy the Glass” at top restaurants in British Columbia and Alberta and a selection of intimate activities in the winery’s exclusive Oculus Salon: from vintage library and barrel tastings to “Message on a Bottle” Oculus signings by Chief Winemaker John Simes and Proprietor Anthony von Mandl. Members of the Okanagan Symphony will hold special performances in the piazza of this breathtaking winery. Mission Hill’s iconic Bordeaux-inspired wine, Oculus, is elegant, complex and represents the pinnacle of everything Mission Hill does from viticulture to winemaking. More details on the celebrations are at missionhillwinery.com/101010.

We consider the 2006 vintage of Oculus to be the best yet, having benefited from remarkable effort and investment that goes into every vine and cask that produces it. Since 2005, Michel Rolland the world’s leading master wine blender and winemaker with numerous 100 point wines to his name, has collaborated with Proprietor Anthony von Mandl and Winemaker John Simes on all aspects of Oculus’ production. Their uncompromising approach to quality and persistent striving for perfection throughout the viticulture and winemaking process makes Oculus the ultimate expression of its region.

Oculus is both a Roman-inspired architectural feature and Mission Hill winery’s equivalent of a First Growth wine. Like its namesake in Rome’s Pantheon, the Oculus (Latin for ‘eye’) at Mission Hill is the only source of natural light into the winery’s famed underground barrel cellar.

The 1997 debut vintage of Oculus epitomized a fusion of Old World and new World winemaking traditions rooted in the soils of the South Okanagan. Today Oculus is a rich, elegant and refined Merlot dominant blend that has captured the attention of sommeliers, collectors and consumers worldwide. Described by noted British wine critic Jancis Robinson as one of the best red wines in Canada, Oculus set the stage for premium Canadian wine and over the years has rated highly with the press garnering a 99 by Natalie MacLean, 91 by Anthony Gismondi, 92 by David Lawrason and 94 by John Schreiner, to name a few.

In Natalie MacLean’s words, the current 2006 vintage is a “Bordeaux-inspired red from one of B.C.’s top producers, which blends Old World finesse with New World power. The winery hand-picks and sorts grapes from the best blocks in its’ Oliver and Osoyoos estate vineyards. The wine is aged in French barrels for 14.5 months before bottling. All of this coddling results in a wine that delivers hedonistic ripples of pleasure on the palate. A core of blackcurrant and cassis is enclosed in a cigar box. Perfect for when you cash in your Google stock. Pair with: beef wellington, rib roast with coffee rub, venison, pork tenderloin. 96 points. Drink: 2009-2018.”

“This rare and limited wine embodies the relentless pursuit of excellence at Mission Hill Family Estate and reflects the depth and complexity possible from the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley,” says von Mandl. “We first envisioned the potential to craft international caliber wine almost three decades ago, when I purchased Mission Hill in 1981. In that short span, we’ve grown from just a handful of wineries to almost 200 and matured as a community with the BC VQA celebrating a successful 20th anniversary this year. Similarly, a decade since Oculus’ debut, we invite you to join John and myself as we celebrate at the winery and in the finest restaurants across Western Canada.”

“Oculus was one of the first ultra-premium wines from the Okanagan Valley. This wine has helped not only Mission Hill but British Columbia be recognised as a serious wine producer and a quality wine region internationally. I am proud to share the quality that BC has to offer and the story of Mission Hill and this iconic brand with my customers,” said Robert Byford, Managing Partner, Glowbal Group.

October is Oculus Month - Mission Hill Family Estate announces a series of celebratory activities across British Columbia and Alberta including:

Winery Celebrations - Noon to 4 pm | Saturday, October 9

Message on a Bottle
At Mission Hill Family Estate, Winemaker John Simes and Proprietor Anthony von Mandl respectively will be on hand to personalize bottles of Oculus in the Oculus Salon.

Tasting Notes
Mission Hill Sommeliers Jesse Harden and Mike Lee enlighten guests through Oculus barrel samples, library and vertical tastings, and magnum tastings in the luxurious Oculus Salon. Live music performances by members of the Okanagan Symphony. Proceeds from the Oculus tastings will be donated to the Okanagan Symphony.

Vintage Vantage
Be among the first to obtain the coveted 2007 Oculus vintage prior to its scheduled spring 2011 release. A winery cellar-door exclusive of our premium wine, which is available by allocation only in handcrafted, white pine crates!

Buy the Glass Destinations - October 8-11
For the past decade fine dining establishments across the west have been early supporters of premium Okanagan Valley wine. We thank them for their ongoing support and encourage patrons to enjoy this debut opportunity to savour Oculus by the glass at:

• Bear Mountain, Victoria
• Bearfoot Bistro, Whistler
• Blue Water Café, Vancouver
• Characters Restaurant, Edmonton
• Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill & Enoteca, Vancouver
• COAST Restaurant, Vancouver
• Hardware Grill, Edmonton
• Hotel Eldorado, Kelowna
• Hotel Grand Pacific, Victoria
• Lupo, Vancouver - newly installed enomatic with Oculus by the glass for the month of October!
• Post Hotel & Spa, Lake Louise
• Quattro, Whistler
• Seasons in the Park, Vancouver
• Teahouse, Vancouver
• The Wickanninish Inn, Tofino

“Oculus is the hard work, artistry and passion of a winemaker and its owner to show the world that Canada can make some of the best red wines in the world,” said André Saint-Jacques, proprietor, Bearfoot Bistro.

ABOUT MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE
Mission Hill Family Estate is world renowned for its award-winning wines, stunning setting and architecture, and its Cuisine du Terroir-based Terrace Restaurant. The winery’s vineyards are located in five distinct growing regions of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. Reflective of the origin and unique character of the Valley and of the careful ‘Vine to Bottle’ program, Oculus, our signature Bordeaux-inspired wine, represents the pinnacle in premium winemaking. Proprietor Anthony von Mandl and winemaker John Simes produce elegant internationally acclaimed wines with New World flavours and Old World refinement from this incomparable wine valley. Visit missionhillwinery.com for more information.

Directly from the Chambar Press Release:

CROSSTOWN CUISINE REIGNS SUPREME

The people have spoken. For the 15th Annual Best of Vancouver issue, Georgia Straight readers have voted Beatty Street’s culinary row as their favourite stop, day and night, for all things food and drink.  

Evening hotspot Chambar Restaurant took first place as the city’s Best Independent Restaurant, with daytime counterpart Café Medina awarded as the definitive destination for Best Brunch, and neighbouring culinary playground, The Dirty Apron lauded as Vancouver’s Best Cooking School.
Karri and Nico Schuermans have been entertaining a packed house since opening the doors to Chambar back in 2004. Three years later, their casual approach to offering the finer points of food, wine and service translated into Chambar’s daytime counterpart, Café Medina. Partnering with long time employee, Robbie Kane, the stylish cafe became renowned citywide for its eclectic menus, incredible coffee and tempting Belgian waffles. Never content to rest on their laurels, the Schuermans opened The Dirty Apron Cooking School in 2009 with Chambar’s then sous chef, David Robertson. An instant hit, the culinary playground continues to teach gourmets and toast burners alike the tricks of the trade. And set to open in October, The Dirty Apron Delicatessen will cater to those wishing to align convenience with at-home gourmet.

About
Chambar serves a unique Belgian and North African influenced menu alongside award winning cocktail, beer and wine programs. Located at 562 Beatty Street, Chambar serves dinner nightly from 5:30pm - midnight. For more information: www.chambar.com

Nestled at 556 Beatty Street, Medina is a quaint café serving connoisseur-savvy coffee, Belgian waffles for sweet sustenance and an eclectic alternative for breakfast, lunch, and brunch. For more information: www.medinacafe.com

The Dirty Apron Cooking School offers a selection of hands-on classes that vary from creating regional classics to understanding ingredient-driven basics and executing essential knife skills. The School and adjacent Delicatessen are located at 540 Beatty Street. For more information: www.dirtyapron.com

Directly from The Fishhouse in Stanley Park Press Release:

Join the celebrations: November 5th 2010 – May 5th, 2011
In 1990, Cannery General Manager Robert Lassince was preparing to move back to Montreal. Cannery owner Bud Kanke, asked him if being on the opening team of a new restaurant would persuade him to stay in Vancouver. Two locations were available, “The Beach House” in Stanley Park and the other location on Granville Island. The Beach House was the preferred venue and Robert stayed in Vancouver.

The restaurant was purchased on November 1st, 1990. On November 5, the Board approved the assignment of the Beach House Restaurant lease to Kanke Investments Ltd. for ten years and the restaurant’s name was changed to “The Fish House in Stanley Park”.

The opening team of Cannery chef Regis Chung, Robert and Bud traveled to California for concepts that would work in Vancouver. During their whirlwind tour they visited Hollywood, San Francisco, and San Diego. The Fish Market Restaurant in San Diego impressed them the most and was what the early Fish House was modeled upon. Returning with fresh ideas they worked on the concept, while restaurant designer David Vance began the extensive renovations that would take 5 months to complete. The soft opening was in April of 1991, with the media launch during the first week of May.

Early in 1995, Chef Karen Barnaby took over the reigns in the kitchen. Twenty years does bring about change but The Fish House has always stayed true to its fresh and casual roots by offering great fish and seafood in a beautiful park setting.

Starting Wednesday October 6th, 2010 and throughout the coming winter months, join us for great pre-anniversary kick off yummy promotions! To reserve, call 604-681-7675 or book online at www.fishhousestanleypark.com

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MAINS :
20 YEARS / $20*

On Wednesday evenings, we’re celebrating our 20th anniversary by offering our six most popular fish and seafood entrees for $20 each to thank you for your 20 years of patronage. Served from 5:00 pm.

salmon bake 20
pink salmon on a bed of potatoes, spinach & cheddar cheese
topped with sour cream & bacon

cedar planked arctic char & sockeye salmon 20
butter pecan sauce, caramelized pecans

sticky chili sablefish 20
pan roasted local sablefish, sweet soy & chili glaze, crispy lemon risotto cake

Fish House mixed grill 20
sockeye salmon filet, prawn & scallop skewer lemon herb butter

seafood bowl 20
clams, mussels, fresh fish & grilled prawns, tomato saffron broth & aioli

ahi tuna “Diane” 20
thick cut steak, grilled to rare, green peppercorn sauce

* Not available with coupons or any other promotional offer. Does not include HST or gratuities.

THURSDAY NIGHT FONDUE starting at $20*
Enjoy a convivial evening over a traditional cheese fondue
with your favourite micro-brew or glass of wine in hand.

Up for fondue times two? Finish your evening with us by
dipping strawberries & buttery pound cake into a silky
Belgian chocolate fondue. Served from 5:00 pm.

Gruyere & Swiss Cheese 20 small / 40 large
Smooth & savoury melted cheese served with cornichons & bread cubes
garlic prawns     4/ 6.95     grilled chorizo sausage     6.95
French fries     3.95     mixed green salad     6.95
yam fries     4.95     extra bread     4.95

Chocolate Fondue 20 small / 40

Large Rich & creamy Belgian chocolate served with fresh strawberries,
pound cake &frozen bananas
extra pound cake     4.95     extra strawberries     (6) 4.95
extra bananas     3.95     vanilla ice cream     4.95

Add to your chocolate fondue:

Rum, brandy or Jack Daniels     5.75
cherry brandy, alize gold, crème de menthe, frangelico,
amaretto,cointreau, Irish mist, Carolina’s Irish cream     5.95
MacCallan 12 year Old Scotch     16.95
centennaire limited edition grand marnier     16.95

* Not available with coupons or any other promotional offer.
Does not include HST or gratuities

SUNDAY NIGHT ROAST $22*
Imagine savouring the wonderful aroma and feasting
on a Sunday roast without having to do the work.
Every Sunday evening we’ll be offering sumptuous

roast pork with crackling
roasted potatoes
baked apple
cornbread & seasonal vegetables.

* Not available with coupons or any other promotional offer.
THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS AT LUNCH

3- COURSE LUNCH FOR $30*!
Weekdays from December 3-23 (closed Mondays)

Looking for a great place to enjoy a festive lunch?
Celebrate with family, friends and co-workers in our
beautifully decorated dining rooms. Our seasonal
3-course lunch has 6 great appetizers and main courses

to choose from. And for dessert? Our special festive season dessert buffet is included in the price.

Menu will be available on line in October
Reserve your table early! Call 604-681-7275

* Not available with coupons or any other promotional offer.
Does not include HST or gratuities

Looking at a venue for your corporate holiday dinner event? Have a look at our dinner holiday group menu option, or choose from an array of fabulous group dinner and reception menus. For booking requests, call the sales office at 604-681-7275

Directly from the Commercial Drive Business Association Press Release:

Unplugged on The Drive!

WHERE: Restaurants & Cafes, Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
WHEN: Wednesday evenings, starting at 7pm, October 2010

VANCOUVER – The Drive merchants are showing support for electricity conservation ‐ over 40 restaurants and cafes along Vancouver’s Commercial Drive will dim their lights and dial up the ambiance with acoustic
music every Wednesday evening during Power Smart month this October.  A new initiative by the Commercial Drive Business Society, in partnership with BC Hydro Power Smart, will see restaurants like Commercial Drive’s Reef Restaurant serving dinner by candlelight accompanied by acoustic music.    Patrons can also enter to win a Commercial Drive prize pack including an accoustic guitar and gift certificates to The Drive! “To help us meet the goals of the new clean energy act and BC Hydro’s own conservation targets BC Hydro Power Smart has developed a number of strategic partnerships with community organizations,” said Ben Gardiner, BC Hydro Power Smart specialist. “We are pleased to co‐host this initiative with the Commercial Drive Business Society and its member restaurants and cafes to demonstrate working together to use electricity more efficiently can make a big difference.” Michelle Barile, Executive Director of the CDBS  “We hope the business community can lead the way in showing how important small changes are in making a big difference for the environment, and patrons can join us in conserving energy and enjoy a fun evening on The Drive!” Claudine Santos, General Manager of Commercial Drive’s Reef Restaurant, also believes energy efficiency to be a critical aspect of her business. “It’s important for the business community to lead by example,” said Santos. “Participating in this initiative is a great way to showcase conservation behaviour is just as suitable in the workplace as it is at home.”

For British Columbians looking to make the switch to energy efficient lighting, BC Hydro is reminding the public that October is Power Smart month and customers can get rebates on energy efficient lighting
products. The Commercial Drive Business Society first partnered with BC Hydro earlier this year to elevate green practices within the association’s membership of more than 500 businesses. The focus of the partnership is to help businesses demonstrate leadership in energy conservation and encourage all member organizations to participate in Power Smart programs.
Unplugged on The Drive participating restaurants and cafes include:

Arriva Restaurant
Bandidas Taqueria
Belgian Fries
Bouzyos Greek Taverna
Café Amici
Cafe De Soleil
Cafe Deux Soleil
Carthage Cafe
Deserts
Di Vino
Falconetti’s East Side Grill
Federico’s Supper Club
Fet’s Bar & Grill
Giancarlos
Havana Restaurant, Gallery &
Theatre
Isshin Sushi
Japanese Kitchen
JJ Bean
La Rocca Vancouver
Libra Room
Lombardo’s Pizzeria & Ristorante
Me & Julio Modern Mexican Kitchen & Cantina
Memphis Blues
Palki
Rinconcito Salvadoreno Restaurant
Sake Maki
St Augustine’s
Starbucks Coffee
Stella’s Tap and Tapas Bar
Stix Restaurant
Sunrise Pizza & Steak House
Sunrise Pizza & Steak House
Sweet Cherubim
Tandoori Palace
The Charlatan
The Pond
The Reef Caribbean Restaurant
Toby’s Pub
Urban Grain Pizza
Waazubee Cafe and Bar
Zawa Restaurant

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature article:

Food Vancouver Select Guide: Top 5 Things to do in the Thompson Okanagan with 5 food pairings

Directly from the Eat! Fraser Valley Food and Cooking Festival Press Release:

EAT! Fraser Valley Draws Huge Enthusiastic Crowds for Food and Cooking Extravaganza

Local food, restaurants and celebrity chefs brought a record number of visitors to enjoy the 3rd Annual EAT! Fraser Valley Food + Cooking Festival, which took place this past weekend at the Tradex in Abbotsford.

Nearly thirteen thousand people flocked indoors to enjoy a bite of the Fraser Valley through local food, wines, cheeses and more. Celebrity chefs, beer and wine experts and cheese seminars provided countless tips and tastes to visitors to the show. Visitors were also able to explore the numerous exhibits and eat, shop, discover, and watch short films at the Food for Thought Pavilion.

Over 125 exhibitors showcased their fresh local products ranging from fresh produce from Windset Farms to delicious baked goods from Cobs Breads. Other delicious treats at the festival included fresh seafood, local farm fresh produce, organic coffee, gourmet sauces and vinegars, scrumptious desserts and chocolates, and more. Cooking enthusiasts found cookware, knives, garlic graters and more for their at-home cooking and entertaining needs.

The Food Network Stage proved to be the highlight at EAT! Fraser Valley, where Lynn Crawford, host of Food Network’s “Pitchin’ In,” was given a standing ovation by an appreciative crowd for her cooking demonstrations throughout the weekend. Chef Crawford, along with some lucky visitors invited from the audience, cooked up delicious Ricotta Gnocchi and Pumpkin Patch Risotto with Wild Mushrooms.

Chef Rob Feenie also made his inaugural appearance at EAT! Fraser Valley. The Cactus Club Food Concept Architect and Vancouver’s Own Iron Chef winner, Chef Feenie was greeted by capacity audiences for all his presentations. Chef Feenie re-created some of his favourite recipes including a Red Kuri Squash Soup offering samples to his loyal fans.

Ned Bell, Corporate Chef of Windset Farms and Executive Chef and Owner of Cabana Bar and Grille in Kelowna, cooked up a crowd pleasing Mac N’ Cheese. Both Ned Bell and Lynn Crawford drew enthusiastic crowds and a lot of laughter during a unique and surprise joint cooking demo on Saturday night. These recipes will be posted to the EAT! Fraser Valley website in the next few days. www.eat-fraservalley.com

The Bite of The Valley Pavilion, presented local restaurants who served up their signature cuisine, including: Baron Bar & Grill, Milestones, Chez Vous, Taste Grindz Catering, Taste of Africa, & Ramada Abbotsford.

The Wine, Beer and Spirits Tasting Pavilion, gave visitors the opportunity to taste a wide range of wines, beers and spirits from around the world and the Fraser Valley. The Grapes and Hops Stage presented ongoing wine and beer seminars and allowed visitors to sit and enjoy samples of various beers and wines while gaining tips from leading experts from the world of wine, beer and spirits. The Just Here for the Beer guys Colin and Rick were a hit with beer aficionados while wine expert, Kathleen Rake, gave tips on choosing wine, and enjoying wine.

EAT! Fraser Valley Food + Cooking Festival celebrated its 3nd year in the Fraser Valley with outstanding results. The show will return September 16-18, 2011 to the Tradex to showcase even more of the bountiful harvest of the Fraser Valley.

Directly from the Rocky Mountaineer Press Release:

Early birds get it with ROCKY mountaineer’s special OFFER

Up to $1400 Cdn Early Booking Bonus per couple on any qualifying 2011 vacation package

Rocky Mountaineer is offering early birds an added bonus for booking ahead.  Guests who book a qualifying Rocky Mountaineer vacation of seven nights or more in GoldLeaf Service between now and November 30, 2010 will receive a credit worth up to $1400 Cdn per couple in added value or $600 Cdn in added value for four nights or more. The credits can be used towards any add-on experience with Rocky Mountaineer, and includes everything from Rail and Alaskan Cruise vacations, a Whistler Sea to Sky Climb rail journey, additional hotel nights, meals, sightseeing tours and more.

“We are delighted to offer more value to our guests’ experience when they travel with Rocky Mountaineer,” says Hubert Wat, vice president, marketing of Rocky Mountaineer. “With several new and our most popular vacation packages, plus exciting add-ons to choose from, the Early Booking Bonus gives travellers every reason to plan ahead.”

A great vacation option includes the Western Explorer Rail & Cruise vacation, the latest addition to Rocky Mountaineer’s vacation line-up for 2011.  A 16 night/17 day vacation that combines Rocky Mountaineer’s most popular rail journey by daylight between Vancouver, BC and Jasper, Alberta with an Alaskan cruise on Holland American’s ms Oosterdam, captures the most memorable sights and attractions of the Canadian Rockies with the luxury of an Alaskan cruise.

The Early Booking Bonus is only valid on new 2011 bookings, made between now and November 30, 2010 and paid in full by February 14, 2011.  Maximum value added travel credits of up to $1400 Cdn per couple are offered for packages of seven or more nights in GoldLeaf Service and $600 Cdn per couple for four nights or more in GoldLeaf Service. The Early Booking Bonus offer also applies RedLeaf Service with reduced value. Offers are based on availability and may be modified, withdrawn or travel dates may be substituted without prior notice. Further restrictions may apply.

For more information on the Early Booking Bonus or to receive a copy of the new 2011 Rocky Mountaineer brochure, please contact your local travel professional or Rocky Mountaineer directly at (800) 665-7245, or visit rockymountaineer.com.

Directly from the Uva Wine Bar Press Release:

UVA by Day Chic Wine Bar Now Serves Italian-Inspired Breakfast and Lunch

Award-winning UVA Wine Bar, located in the chic Moda Hotel, is pleased to announce the expansion of its menu with a range of Italian-inspired breakfast and lunch fare. Espresso bar by day, wine bar by night, UVA was named the Gold recipient in the Best Bar/Lounge category at the 2010 Vancouver magazine Restaurant Awards.

Guests are invited to savour seasonal ingredients in Chef Neil Taylor’s daily lunch features (think local fish and fresh pasta), or tuck into a three-course set lunch for $26.00. The à la carte menu showcases dishes such as agnoli stuffed with chicken and smoked pancetta, sage butter and parmesan, roast sockeye salmon, rapini and vin cotto and vanilla pannacotta with blueberries and grappa. As with the dinner menu in Cibo Trattoria, the menu changes daily with Italian inspired dishes made with same-day fresh and local ingredients. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11am - 2pm.

Along with its new lunch offerings, UVA has also introduced an Italian breakfast menu available from 7am - 11am Monday through Friday, and on Saturday and Sunday from 7am - 2pm. Dishes such as pannetone french toast with bourbon barrel aged maple syrup and prosciutto di san danielle with bio-dynamic eggs can be savoured. And because no Italian caffè would be complete without espresso, UVA is pleased to serve Caffè Umbria’s Gusto Crema Blend, a classic Italian medium roast.

Located adjacent to the lobby of the Moda Hotel and steps from the Orpheum Theatre, UVA epitomizes the spirit of its location in the heart of downtown Vancouver’s arts and cultural district. Striking-yet-inviting décor sets a bold statement. The elegant modernism of its interior design combined with the building’s historical elements, such as its delicate 1908 terrazzo floors, creates a unique-yet-vibrant setting that must be experienced.

UVA Wine Bar is located at 900 Seymour Street, Vancouver BC / Phone: 604.602.9570 / www.uvawinebar.ca

Directly from the Yogiberry Press Release:

Dear neighbour,

I am writing this letter to invite you to the Grand Opening of Yogiberry – Where Nutrish Meets Delish!

Date:  Friday, October 1, 2010

Time:  7 – 10 p.m.

Place:  306 Carrall Street (at Cordova)

Two-for-one specials will be offered all day.  Festivities in the evening will include music, free samples, and a chance to meet the nutrition experts behind some of Yogiberry’s tastiest, signature menu items.

About Yogiberry

Yogiberry offers nutritious menu items including substitutes for people with dietary restrictions.

I, am a vegetarian, and I recently discovered that I am also gluten intolerant.  As gluten is a protein found in rye, wheat, and barley, many people who are gluten intolerant must read labels very carefully and often find it next to impossible to grab a quick snack on the go.

I looked around and realized, I can’t eat at my own store.  I have since incorporated gluten free alternatives to most of the Yogiberry menu.  Items such as gluten free breads, bagels and soups are sure to bring music to the ears of the sandwich deprived!

I am also committed to efforts that save the planet.  Yogiberry’s smoothie cups are so compost-able they melt when you add hot water to them.

But it is the taste I am most proud of.  I don’t believe food or drinks have to taste terrible to be extremely healthy.  It’s about eating whole foods where each ingredient is unprocessed and familiar.  I live by the philosophy that if you can’t pronounce it, you shouldn’t eat it.

Yogiberry’s food quality is largely due to the partnerships I’ve formed with a variety of likeminded businesses.

Tricia Sedgwick of Seeds of Plenty bakes a line of fair trade chocolate brownies for us specifically that are made from sprouted grain and unspeakably divine.  We also carry the Anderssens Flax Rolls, the Truffle Pig line, and our frozen yoghurt is hand-made by one of Vancouver’s top ice cream shops, Bendick Ice Cream.

Now that I’ve introduced Yogiberry and myself to you, I hope you’ll consider attending our Grand Opening on the evening of Friday, October 1st.  I am thrilled to be a part of this community and would love the opportunity to get to know you better.

Sincerely,

Amanda Bonella

Owner and Operator, Yogiberry http://www.wix.com/myyogiberry/home

Don’t miss the October 7th, 2010 newsletter.  There will be 1 giveaway prize.

The winner will receive a copy of the New Bob Blumer Cookbook.
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