Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

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

Super Roast Brisket from the New Food Processor Bible Cookbook.

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

Directly from the Rocky Mountaineer Press Release:

Rocky Mountaineer Debuts Seattle Departures on 2011 Rail & Cruise Vacations with Holland America Line Cruises.

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (March 29, 2011) - In May 2011, Vancouver-based rail service Rocky Mountaineer will debut Rail & Cruise itineraries departing Seattle. This marks the first time the award-winning rail service has offered Seattle departures in addition to its Vancouver departures.

In partnership with Holland America Line Cruises, these new 12 to 17 day itineraries provide the ideal land and sea experience.

Departing Seattle for coastal British Columbia and Alaska, the trip begins with a seven-night Holland America cruise. The sea voyage makes stops in Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan, then travels southward to Victoria and Vancouver. From Vancouver, guests board Rocky Mountaineer’s award-winning train and take a two-night rail trip through the Canadian Rockies, passing Hell’s Gate, the Coast Mountains and Pyramid Falls en route to Jasper National Park. The itinerary includes four additional overnights in destinations along the route, such as Victoria, Vancouver, Kamloops and Jasper.

The new Rail & Cruise itineraries will debut on May 8, 2011, and are available through September 11, 2011.  Rates start at $2,599 Cdn per person, based on double occupancy, and include:

Two days onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train

Seven-night Glacier Bay Inside Passage Cruise

Four nights’ hotel accommodation in destinations along the route

Victoria Clipper from Seattle to Victoria

Victoria to Vancouver tour, including Butchart Gardens and BC Ferries

Rail station transfers in Vancouver, Kamloops and Jasper

Luggage handling and National Parks Pass

Nine breakfasts, eight lunches and seven dinners

These new Seattle departures mark the latest in Rocky Mountaineer’s demonstrated commitment to rail and cruise vacations. In 2011, Rocky Mountaineer will offer more than 12 different itineraries with Holland America, as well as a new partnership with Disney Cruise Lines, offering a pre-cruise rail trip to Whistler as a part of an Alaska cruise on board Disney’s Wonder.

Directly from the St Regis Hotel Press Release:

The St. Regis Hotel Announces Gastown Dining Experience Package VIP treatment in Canada’s hottest culinary destination

Vancouver, BC (March 29, 2011): Over the past five years, the neighbourhoods of Vancouver’s Downtown East Side (DTES) — Gastown, East Hastings, Railtown, Chinatown — have emerged as the heart and soul of the city’s food and cocktail culture. Starting with the arrival of a few brave pioneers who took the leap by choosing to locate to the historic neighbourhood others had abandoned, the Downtown Eastside has been energized by a flood of new restaurants, many opened by first time owners drawn by accessible, interesting heritage commercial spaces and the growing community of restaurateurs.

Just far enough off the beaten track to be hidden from all but the most adventurous visitors, the culinary excitement of Gastown has so far been a locals’ phenomenon. The St. Regis Hotel is setting out to help change that with the city’s first Gastown Dining Package that combines a stay at the Vancouver premiere downtown boutique hotel with VIP treatment at a group of restaurants personally reviewed and selected by St Regis GM Jeremy Roncoroni.

When booking the Gastown Dining Experience, guests make their dining selections from the list of restaurants and the St. Regis Hotel makes the reservations and books a complimentary taxi ride to dinner. Once at the restaurant, guests will receive VIP treatment from some of the finest hosts in the city as they enjoy these exceptional dining experiences.

The three restaurants included in the inaugural Gastown Dining Experience are: Boneta, Two Chefs and a Table, and Cork & Fin, each of which shines a light on a different facet of the neighbourhood’s culinary excellence.

While it wasn’t the first new opening in Gastown, many credit Boneta as Gastown’s first destination fine dining restaurant. Like their airy space at the Corner of Cordova and Carrall, their menu effortlessly combined the contemporary and the classic to establish the Gastown model of superb food and drink without pretence. Their upcoming move around the corner to a new space in Blood Alley will be an exciting moment for their staff and customers.

Over 2 1/2 years ago, Two Chefs and a Table brought classic French technique and a focus on local ingredients to the still-developing East end of Gastown. They’ve built a superb reputation and a loyal local clientele for their menu that balances complex multi-course tasting menus and hearty favourites made from scratch. Their country kitchen-like space transforms from bright brunch and lunch space to candlelit intimacy at dinner.

As the name implies, the focus of Cork & Fin is squarely on fresh seafood and great wine selections. The bounty of local seafood options makes up the majority of the menu including a world-class oyster bar with selections pulled from the nearby waters of the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. The warm, exposed brick walls of Cork & Fin have stood for 125 years since the Alahambra Hotel was built immediately after the great fire of 1886.

“We’re extremely excited to launch this program,” said St. Regis Hotel general manager Jeremy Roncoroni. “We have been huge fans of the restaurants in Gastown and we’re looking forward to sharing them with our guests through the St. Regis Gastown Dining Experience. So often, it can be difficult for visitors to choose places to go but we have taken the work and risk out of the process by selecting restaurants that we love and where we can send our guests with complete confidence that they’ll have superb dining experiences.”

To book a St. Regis Gastown Dining Experience, email info@stregishotel.com.

Directly from the Chefs’ Table Society Press Release:

Wild BC Spot Prawns Spawn around BC

This spring Wild BC Spot Prawns travel from their coastal habitat inland to the Okanagan.

Vancouver, BC… Wild BC Spot Prawn Festivals have been proven to be a crowd favourite with the success of the Chefs’ Table Society’s Annual Spot Prawn Festival. This year, the Pacific Prawn Fisherman’s Association, in conjunction with the Chefs’ Table Society, will host Wild BC Spot Prawn Festivals in Kelowna, Saturday June 4th from 1 – 4pm at the Manteo Resort, 3762 Lakeshore Road and Sunday, June 5th at the Watermark Beach Resort, 15 Park Place, Osoyoos, BC, again from 1 – 4pm. Entrance to the Festivals is free; there will be a small fee for tickets to purchase samples. The original Spot Prawn Festival, now in its 5th year, takes place at False Creek Fisherman’s Wharf in Vancouver on Saturday, May 7, 2011.

The Okanagan festivals are community driven and will feature chefs preparing Wild BC Spot Prawns samples to taste. The Kelowna Festival will feature Junior Chefs vying for the best prawn recipe, voted on by media, guest chefs and consumers alike. Ocean Wise from the Vancouver Aquarium will be on hand to educate Festival participants about the sustainability of this delectable seafood. Live Wild BC Spot Prawns will be available on site for sale from Codfather’s, and recipe cards from some of Canada’s top chefs will guide consumers through preparation of the prawns.

Directly from the Cravings Restaurant and Lounge Website:

Starting April 1st, 2011 Every Friday and Saturday Live Music from 8:00pm to 11:00pm.

Drink Specials: Draft Beer 16oz ($3.50), Martini 2oz ($4.50)

Food Specials for April/May: Tray of Sliders $7.95, Seafood Linguine $10.95

Directly from the Pink Elephant Thai Press Release:

Pink Elephant Thai Set to Open on Alberni mid-April

(Vancouver, BC) March 29, 2011, – Desmond Chen, president of Charm Modern Thai, Urban Thai Bistro, and Chilli House Thai Bistro, is pleased to announce that his newest restaurant, Pink Elephant Thai, will open at 1152 Alberni Street by mid April 2011.  Pink Elephant Thai will be open seven days a week, from 11:30am through midnight, serving lunch, dinner, cocktails, plus everything in between.

Desmond secured the prime location on Alberni between Thurlow and Bute streets in late 2010 and quickly began executing his latest concept.

“Alberni Street has undergone an amazing transformation over the past few years,” says Desmond. “It has morphed from being Robson Street’s little sister to an attraction in its own right with the right mix of high-end fashion boutiques and destination restaurants.”

Although located in one of the trendiest culinary hotspots in the city, Desmond chose a restaurant name that honors old world Thai culture and tradition.  In Thailand the white elephant is a symbol of divine and royal power, featured in Buddhist art and architecture, and loved by Thai people.  In contrast, the pink part represents all that is fun, sexy and hot.  Hot pink that is.

Pink Elephant Thai will offer an innovative Thai menu utilizing authentic ingredients and techniques in new ways.  The dishes are designed to be enjoyed tapas style and paired with Pink Elephant’s signature cocktails.

“I like to think of it as an Iza-THAI-ya,” says Desmond. “Don’t get me wrong, Pink Elephant is not fusion of Thai and Japanese food, but we will offer a casual vibe and tapas style menu that is similar to that of a Japanese izakaya, and a low price point too.  Only in Vancouver, eh!”

The 80-seat restaurant has an intimate bar with seating for 10, plus a chef’s table for larger groups.  The decor is ultra sleek with gleaming whites and polished blacks, offset by plush banquette booth seating, and punches of silver and the restaurant’s signature pink.

Although the atmosphere at Pink Elephant Thai aims to be “sanook”, that’s Thai for fun and vibrant with lots of energy; there’s also room to “sabai sabai” or relax and chill. With two levels, there’s enough space to accommodate everyone’s mood.

Directly from the Variety BC Press Release:

2nd ANNUAL FOOD FIGHT! THE BATTLE FOR BRUNCH

Feast and Fundraise for Variety – The Children’s Charity

Burnaby, BC (March 28, 2011) – Calling all Foodies! Only two weeks left to get your tickets to Food Fight! The Battle for Brunch, presented by Variety – The Children’s Charity and MarketPlace IGA! This fun and unique fundraising event will bring together some of BC’s finest Chefs in a battle for your taste buds. Mingle with friends as you sample each delicious brunch offering and cast your ballot to declare one Chef the Food Fight champ!

This year, Food Fight competitors include: Market by Jean-Georges, O’Doul’s Restaurant & Bar, Terminal City Club, Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort, YEW restaurant + bar, Ebo Restaurant and Abercorn Inn. The silent auction will feature items donated by LIFT Bar & Grill, Cobs Bread, Skoah, Cookworks, Mink Chocolates, Winners, Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, and many more. The incredible live auction features return airfare for two, anywhere WestJet flies, winery tours, a luxury boat cruise and more!

Emceed once again by fabulous Vancouver personality, Fred Lee, this stellar lineup is sure to please foodies of all ages and palate predilections so make sure to get your tickets! A cash bar will be offering a variety of wines, champagne and other liquid libations.

Tickets are $45 and available online at www.variety.bc.ca/foodfight.htm or by calling the Variety office at 604.320.0505.

What:    Food Fight! The Battle for Brunch

Where:  Terminal City Club, 837 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC
When:   Sunday, April 10th from 11am – 2pm

Directly from the Vancouver Symphony Press Release:

Violinist Sarah Chang with the VSO

Vancouver, BC – The VSO is pleased to present superstar violinist Sarah Chang with the VSO on Saturday and Monday, April 2nd and 4th, 8pm at the Orpheum Theatre. Maestro Bramwell Tovey conducts.

Violinist Sarah Chang is recognized as one of classical music’s most captivating and gifted performers. One of the most remarkable prodigies of any generation, she has matured into a young artist whose musical insight, technical virtuosity, and emotional range continue to astonish. Ms. Chang has performed in the music capitals of Asia, Europe and the Americas, and has collaborated with most major orchestras. Born in Philadelphia to Korean parents, Ms. Chang began her violin studies at age 4 and promptly enrolled in the Juilliard School of Music. Within a year she had already performed with several orchestras in the Philadelphia area. Her early auditions, at age 8, for Zubin Mehta and Riccardo Muti led to immediate engagements with the New York Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Ms. Chang will perform the monumental Brahms violin concerto, one of the greatest concertos of any kind. Brahms conducted the concerto’s premiere in Leipzig on New Year’s Day, 1879, with famed musician Joseph Joachim. The opening movement begins with a warm, expansive introduction. An especially dramatic passage sets up the violinist’s solo cadenza, which as expected is substantial rather than showy. The heartfelt slow movement begins sweetly and quietly with a spotlight on the wind section. The solo oboe emerges with the lovely, expressive main theme, which the soloist takes up and elaborates. The finale is also reserved, at least in comparison with contemporary concertos such as Tchaikovsky’s. The recurring refrain is a jovial, heavy-footed peasant dance in the Hungarian/gypsy that Brahms loved so dearly.

Also on the program is the spectacular tone poem Death and Transfiguration by Richard Strauss, one of the most complex and rewarding works in the orchestral repertoire. Describing the last hours of a man’s life who has striven for the highest ideals, Death and Transfiguration is a purely imaginary work, Strauss not having undergone any life-threatening experiences by this point in his life. It displays remarkable maturity for one so young, in terms of philosophical ambition, leading listeners on a Beethoven-like journey from darkness to light; in the vivid evocation of atmosphere (dramatic and uplifting alike); and the masterful deployment of a large, post-Wagnerian orchestra.

CONCERT INFO

Goldcorp Masterworks Gold

SATURDAY & MONDAY, APRIL 2 & 4, 8 PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE

Bramwell Tovey conductor

Sarah Chang violin

Wagner            Die Meistersinger: Prelude

Brahms            Violin Concerto

Strauss           Death and Transfiguration

TICKET INFORMATION

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

Saturday, April 2 Concert Sponsor: Canadian Western Bank

Monday, April 4 Concert Sponsor: HSBC

Series Sponsor: Goldcorp Inc.

Directly from the Sanafir Press Release:

Olé! Sanafir Raises a Glass to the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival with an Exotic Wine Fest Tapas Menu Featuring Spanish Flavours

With the 33rd Annual Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival just around the corner (March 28-April 3), many people are deciding which events, wines, and restaurants they will take in while enjoying this year’s regional theme of “Wines from Spain.”

In line with the fiesta, Sanafir Restaurant & Lounge has created a Spanish-style tapas menu, on offer now through April 3. From Serrano & Quince Crostinis to Wine Cured Pork Belly and Sautéed Honey Mussels with grilled Chorizo, all dishes can be paired seamlessly with Sanafir’s Spanish wine offerings. By the glass or bottle, choose from labels such as the delicate Prado Rey ‘2009 BL8 Birlocho,’ or the more robust Sabor Real Toro ‘Viñas Centenarias’ Tempranillo.

With its central location on Granville Street, Sanafir is the perfect place to wind up or wind down an evening of wine tasting. The restaurant’s exotic vibe and sultry ambiance will set the mood for tasting, sharing, and learning about wines from all over the world.

Directly from the Brix Restaurant Press Release:

Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar. Presents a perfect pairing of BC Cheese and Wine

BC is not only known for the superb selection of home grown wine, but is blessed with a very impressive array of farm-fresh, often organic BC artisan cheeses that are every bit as expressive of their origin as our wines.

Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar was Vancouver’s original wine bar and 12 years later their commitment to serving one of the city’s best by-the-glass selections, over 60, and some of the city’s best Pacific Northwest cuisine, has not faltered. With a new chef at the helm, former Sous Chef Chris Bisaro, the Brix kitchen is still heavily invested in local, regional ingredients and most importantly, palate pleasing wine and food pairings.

This spring, and just in time for the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival (March 28-April 3), Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar features local artisan cheeses throughout their menus.  Selections include a Pemberton Farms goat cheese crème brule with smoked Wentzel duck carpaccio and mission fig compote or Little Qualicum Cheeseworks ‘Bleu Claire’ and braised pork cheek waldorf salad with pears, grapes, celery, candied walnuts and butter lettuce, both on their small plates menu. Entrée selections include bacon wrapped 7oz tenderloin topped with Poplar Grove ‘Tiger Blue’, grilled asparagus spears, wild mushroom-yukon gold potato hash, ruby port demi glace or  Olive oil and savoury herb marinated free range chicken breast topped with Moonstruck ‘Savoury Moon’, salsa verde spaghetinni and oven roasted roma tomatoes.

For those who like a cheese plate to finish their meal, a lighter bite in the lounge or a late night nibble, Brix is offering a Cheese Plate with grilled toast points & house made crackers ($16). This week’s selection includes your choice of 3 of the following,

Moonstruck Tomme d’or, celery gelee; Moonstruck Ash camembert, roast garlic honey; Hillary’s Red Dawn, lingonberry jam a or Little Qualicum Bleu Claire, onion & apple jam.

That BC wine and cheese is a perfect partnership is great news for both local BC food and wine lovers, as well as visitors who have yet to experience the amazing tastes from our terroir. In BC, wines are made from over sixty grape varieties - red wines, white wines, sparkling wines; bone dry wines and intensely sweet wines and with cheese, there are just as many variables with cheeses classified according to type of milk (goat, cow, sheep), texture, fat content, method of production, or age.

Co-owner and Sommelier David Hannay is pairing  both little known and well loved BC wines with the cheese selection with wines such as the 2006 Poplar Grove Cabernet Franc and 2009 Meyer Family Vineyards Pinot Noir.

One of the best late night dining spots in the city, Brix kitchen is open late, 1 am weekdays and 2 am weekends. The table-set courtyard, highly reminiscent of the outdoor breakfast rooms of small French and Italian hotels, is heated and open year round.

Directly from the Blue Eyed Marys Press Release:

GET AWAY VACATION MENU

March 25 – April 3

Tomato, Lime and Black Bean Soup with Shrimp Salsa
or
Greens with a Spicy Papaya Vinaigrette, Dried Mangoes and Macadamia Nuts
—–
Vegetable Tortilla, Citrus Tequila Vinaigrette and House Made Fresh Cheese
or
Tuna Hawaiian Poke Style with Coconut Rice Pilaf
or
Caribbean Curried Chicken with Roasted Plantains
or
Grilled Bison with Mole Sauce and Potato Empanada
(add $10)
——
™Coconut Rum Cake with Pineapple Sorbet
or
Key Lime Pie

Three Courses $ 30

Drink Specials:

Corona $6

Red Stripe $6

Margarita $7

Hurricane $7

Loco Tia $7

Mexican or Hawaiian Coffee $8

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

Mom’s Vegetable Soup from the New Food Processor Bible Cookbook.

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

Directly from the Top Table Press Release:

Embracing The Land, and Our Community Top Table’s Spring Events Speak To Where We Live

Vancouver, B.C. — Top Table restaurants and our chefs will be leading a number of exciting upcoming events that speak to our involvement with local farmers, ranchers, purveyors, wineries and breweries. And through other events, such as Dining Out For Life and the Red Cross Red Carpet Soiree, we’re also deeply engaged in our community. We invite you to join with us as we celebrate where we live.

Dining Out For Life  ~  Thursday, March 24th
CinCin and West are proud to participate in the 17th Annual Dining Out For Life benefitting A Loving Spoonful and Friends For Life by donating 25% of all food sales from this evening. To reserve your table in support of Dining Out For Life, visit CinCin or West.

Paris, in Love Gala at The Cultch  ~  Monday, April 4th
West’s Pastry Chef Rhonda Viani will be providing desserts in support of The Cultch’s fundraising gala event: Paris, in Love. The Cultch is one of Vancouver’s most diverse and innovative arts and cultural institutions. For tickets, visit thecultch.com.

Naramata Bench Spring Release  ~  Thursday, April 21st
CinCin’s Chef Todd Howard and Wine Director Sarah McCauley are excited to partner with Laughing Stock Vineyards in this annual event at The Westin Bayshore, showcasing barrel tastings from the wineries of the Okanagan’s Naramata Bench. For tickets, call 1-800-663-1900 or visit naramatabench.com.

Guest Chef Dinner at Mission Hill  ~  Friday, May 6th
Chefs Frank Pabst (Blue Water Cafe) and Todd Howard (CinCin) join Mission Hill Family Estate Winery Chef Matt Batey during the Spring Okanagan Wine Festival to present an exclusive multi-course menu expertly paired with a compelling selection of wines drawn from the Mission Hill Family Estate portfolio. For tickets, call 250-768-6483.

Driftwood Brewery Dinner  ~  Wednesday, May 11th
CinCin and Victoria’s Driftwood Brewery are collaborating to present a multi-course dinner and beer pairing during the Vancouver Craft Beer Week. Tickets and further details will be released on April 8th. For information about VCBW, visit vancouvercraftbeerweek.com.

Red Cross Red Carpet Soiree  ~  Thursday, May 12th
Blue Water Cafe is proud to continue its role as the Presenting Sponsor of the fourth annual Red Cross Red Carpet Soiree, which raises funds for the Red Cross of the Lower Mainland and promotes awareness of the countless Red Cross programs benefitting local, national and international communities. For tickets, visit rcsoiree.com.

Night at the Aquarium  ~  Friday, June 10th
As long-time Ocean Wise members, our three Vancouver restaurants—Blue Water Cafe, CinCin, and West—are proud to participate in this signature gala fundraiser of the Vancouver Aquarium, with all proceeds directed to the Aquarium’s education and conservation activities. For further information, visit vanaqua.org/nightattheaquarium.

Top Chefs for Mental Health  ~  Wednesday, June 15th
Our four executive chefs—James Walt (Araxi), Frank Pabst (Blue Water Cafe), Todd Howard (CinCin) and David Gunawan (West)—are proud to participate in this important event benefitting the BC Mental Health Foundation. For further information, visit bcmhf.ca/top-chefs-for-mental-health.

Chefs Across the Water  ~  Monday, June 27th
Blue Water Cafe’s Chef Frank Pabst joins other returning chefs from the 2010 Chefs Across The Water Series to present a collaborative seven-course dinner in the Hastings House Dining Room incorporating the best of Salt Spring Island seafood and livestock, as well as the freshest fruits and vegetables from Hastings House’s own country gardens. For further information, visit hastingshouse.com.

Outstanding in the Field  ~  Saturday, July 9th + Sunday, July 10th
Outstanding in the Field is the wildly successful roving culinary adventure that travels across North America during the harvest season, celebrating food at the source. Our restaurants will be hosting both of British Columbia’s only events, with tickets just released on Sunday, March 20th.

Saturday, July 9th
Araxi - Chef James Walt @ North Arm Farm, Pemberton, BC
For tickets, visit outstandinginthefield.com (Araxi)

Sunday, July 10th
West - Chef David Gunawan @ Glorious Organics, Aldergrove, BC
For tickets, visit outstandinginthefield.com (West)

For a full calendar of upcoming Top Table events, please visit toptable.ca/events.

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’ (Spring 2011). 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 Provence Marinaside Press Release:

FINNY FUN RETURNS TO PROVENCE IN APRIL

(Vancouver, BC) — From April 1st through 30th, join Provence Marinaside in Yaletown for some finny fun and fine food at its third annual Poisson d’Avril. In France, ‘Poisson d’Avril’ (April’s Fish) is a one day affair corresponding to our April Fool’s Day. The good folks at Provence Marinaside believe you can never have too much of a good thing and have extended the fun to encompass a month-long celebration of all things fishy.

The celebration comes with its own ‘fish forward’ three-course menu offering a ‘school’ of choices for only $45. On it you’ll find fish of every description prepared in a myriad of ways. From sardines to salmon, sablefish to bouillabaisse there is something to please every fish and seafood lover (for non-fish folk there are plenty of choices on Marinaside’s regular menu). Then end on a sweet note with a choice of something decadent from Provence’s menu of hand-crafted desserts. For instance, Provence’s signature French Lemon Tarte is considered the perfect end to a fishy feast.

“Poisson d’Avril is an opportunity to welcome spring with a bit of fun. Our regular guests have already started to ask if we’ll be doing it again this year,” says Provence’s Executive Chef and Owner, Jean-Francis Quaglia. Every one gets involved, including the children of staff who have created the hand-drawn fish what whimsically adorn the restaurant and menus during the promotion.

In France, Poisson d’Avril is an ‘excuse’ to poke a little fun and play a practical joke or two. People attach fish (usually paper cut-outs) to the back of their friends and family, who, unaware of the addition to their wardrobe, continue about the day with the new accessory until someone shouts ‘Poisson d’Avril!’ and the jinx is up.

During April, some Provence patrons will find a lucky Poisson on their back. These Poissons are no joke though – be sure to check the back for valuable rewards. Diners ordering the full three-course Poisson Menu will receive a ballot to enter a draw to receive one of two signed bottles of Joie Rosé (2007 or 2009 vintage).

Sommelier Rod Morrison has brought in a special stock of yummy rosés to complement the menu and they will be featured by the glass, half litre or bottle.

As an inaugural member of Ocean Wise, Provence Marinaside serves fish that has been harvested in a sustainable and responsible manner whenever possible.

While there is something very fishy happening at Provence Marinaside in April, diners will agree that the Poisson d’Avril menu is no laughing matter!

Provence Marinaside: 1177 Marinaside Crescent (Yaletown), Vancouver 604-681-4144  www.provencevancouver.com

Directly from the Foodportunity Press Release:

Seattle, Wash., March 24, 2011: The next “Foodportunity” expression event will take place in Bellevue on Monday, April 25th, 2011, at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue Hotel.

The guest speaker, Amy Treadwell of Chronicle Books http://www.chroniclebooks.com/, will offer insights into the world of publishing: a process that begins with writing a convincing book proposal. Attendees will have the opportunity for a question & answer period. The event will end with a networking session, giving participants the opportunity to mingle with other participants.

Amy Treadwell started her publishing career as a sales assistant at Chronicle Books and moved to the editorial side in 2000, where she has been editing cookbooks ever since. She recently co-authored a cookbook called “Whoopie Pies”.

She has worked on titles such as “Cake Pops” by Bakerella which hit the New York Times Bestseller List, “Cooking Up A Storm: Recipes Lost and Found from the New Orleans Times-Picayune Newspaper,” and the upcoming “Top Pot Hand-Forged Doughnuts” cookbook.

“The purpose of this Foodportunity,” says series organizer Keren Brown, “ is to help aspiring book authors to get a more clear outline of the publishing world and how it works”. Attendees are expected to include local food writers, bloggers, restaurateurs, food producers, PR professionals, companies and anyone interested in learning more about publishing books.

Previous Foodportunity events have covered food-related topics such as food styling (Delores Custer), and food writing (“Foodportunity Expression” series with Rebekah Denn and Diane Jacob).

The event will take place at the recently expanded Hyatt Regency Bellevue. The 733-room property, located in the heart of Downtown Bellevue, is known as a dynamic and versatile venue and for its luxurious accommodations.  Onsite parking , will be free for 3 hours with a validation for registered Foodportunity guests.

Food bites will be provided courtesy of Twisted Cork. Located on the premises of the Hyatt Bellevue, Twisted Cork offers a twist on classic dishes focusing on seasonal Northwest flavors and ingredients. Wine will be provided by Vin Du Lac winery.

The event will be sponsored by the Seattle based Foodcaching Movement powered by a cloud based real-time marketing system and a free social shopping application already available for iPhone and Android smartphones. The Foodcaching Movement’s restaurant members offer consumers great value, high quality food and a fun dining experience, not just discounts. The best restaurants in Seattle stay connected with their customers by providing real-time information about special offers, new seasonal dishes, specials and promotional events.

Tickets available via BrownPaperTickets.com, www.brownpapertickets.com/event/166072

Directly from the Rocky Mountaineer Press Release:

Rocky Mountaineer Introduces French Language Onboard Servicing

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (March 23, 2011) – Award-winning Rocky Mountaineer is pleased to announce it will offer French language onboard servicing on select departure dates throughout 2011.  Bilingual Onboard Attendants will be available to communicate with French-speaking guests and offer onboard commentary in French in both GoldLeaf and RedLeaf Service.

“We are thrilled to offer the addition of French language onboard servicing to our guests,” says Hubert Wat, Vice President of Global Marketing, Rocky Mountaineer. “This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to continually enhance our award-winning guest service experience onboard the train.”

Rocky Mountaineer will also introduce the option for guests to receive their travel documents in French.  This new service augments the French onboard materials that were introduced in 2010, including menus, newspapers and the frequently asked questions manual.

French language onboard services are available on eight select departure dates in 2011 and are only available on Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West route between Vancouver, Banff and Calgary.  The service will operate between June and September 2011.

For more information about Rocky Mountaineer’s French bilingual onboard servicing, please contact Rocky Mountaineer directly at 1-800-665-7245 or visit rockymountaineer.com.

Directly from the Rosewood Hotel Georgia Press Release:

Kurtis Kolt to direct Wine Program at Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Talented consultant oversees all dining ventures at legendary hotel

Vancouver, BC (March 24, 2011) - A name synonymous with the thriving Vancouver wine scene, Kurtis Kolt joins the growing Rosewood Hotel Georgia talent pool as Wine Consultant. Highly respected by both his peers and by the Vancouver public, Kolt’s wine program will lead with varietals from celebrated BC wineries along with many unique and interesting bottles from around the world, his responsibilities also include incorporating an in-depth staff-training program.

The development and production of the wine program for Rosewood Hotel Georgia will be tailored to the hotel’s specific venues; from its elegant, underground vaulted cocktail lounge Prohibition to its distinguished lobby bar “1927” and the extensive gala and event catering facilities, guests can expect quality, value and unique regional selections. Kolt’s responsibilities include creative development of a custom wine program and leveraging creative opportunities to highlight the hotel’s history and local significance.

A contributing writer to Wine Access Magazine and a judge to numerous wine competitions, Kurtis Kolt’s enthusiasm and unique approach to wine has earned him recognition and accolades among colleagues and peers alike, receiving “Sommelier of the Year” from both the 2010 Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival and Vancouver Magazine; and recently named one of Western Living Magazine’s “Top 40 Foodies Under 40”.

“Kurtis’ undeniable influence in Vancouver’s wine culture and his complete professionalism make him a natural fit for Rosewood Hotel Georgia,” states Steve Halliday, Managing Director at Rosewood Hotel Georgia. “His respect and understanding of the unique history of the hotel will no doubt reflect in his wine program and elevate the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts brand in Vancouver.”

“I am very excited to be a part of the historic Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Incredibly talented people have worked within the property over its 84 years and I am delighted to be part of the team which will lead it into the future,” Kolt expressed.

Don’t miss the April 14th, 2011 newsletter.  There will be 1 giveaway prize.

One winner will receive a copy of the new Bal’s Quick and Healthy Indian Cookbook.

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

Dining Out For Life Event Thursday March 24th, 2011.

The 2011 Dining Out For life event will be held on March 24th, 2011. The event will allow patrons to dine at various restaurants while providing funds to A Loving Spoonful and Friends For Life.

The following is a list of FoodVancouver.com clients that will be involved in Dining Out for Life Vancouver 2011:

One Hundred Nights
Society
Joe Fortes
Hamilton Street Grill
CinCin
Dockside Restaurant
Beyond Restaurant
Bistrot Bistro
Central Bistro
Coast
Glowbal Steaks & Satay
Goldfish Pacific
Italian Kitchen
Sanafir
The Academic
The Fish House in Stanley Park
Burgoo Lonsdale
Burgoo Main
Burgoo West 10th
Chambar
Trattoria Italian Kitchen
Mr Pickwick Fish and Chips
The Old Bavaria Haus
Provence Marinaside
Provence Mediterranean
Hidden Tasting Bar
The Calling
Boathouse English Bay
The New Oxford
The Refinery
Showcase Restaurant
Sip Resto Lounge
West Restaurant + Bar

For more information on the 2011 event and to view the complete restaurant list, please visit the Dining Out For Life website.

Directly from the Bistro Pastis Press Release:

March Madness continues at Bistro Pastis

This week is the official start to spring – at last! Longer days, milder weather, daffodils and soon, cherry blossoms. Celebrate this first week of spring with the last in our series of ‘March Madness’ menus. $35 gets you a full three-course dinner of French bistro classics as only the kitchen at Bistro Pastis can do them. The only other alternative to get a French meal this good is to hop on a plane to Paris – but that will cost you a lot more than $35.

Reservations can be made by calling 604-731-5020

La Cuisine de Chez Nous
March 22nd - 27th

Pan fried chicken livers, red grapes, bacon, toasted brioche

or

Leak and yellow potato soup, ham hock terrine

or

Smoked Brandade croquette, remoulade, baby greens

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Crispy skin duck confit
Red cabbage, roasted carrots, baby potatos and Armagnac soaked prunes

or

Pan roasted ling cod
Shellfish dumplings , sweet peas, wild mushroom broth

or

Winter squash and goat cheese torte
Black trumpet mushrooms, roasted apple, pickled walnuts

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Twice baked white chocolate souffle
Dark chocolate sauce, berry compote

or

Gateaux de crepes
Caramel apple butter, brown sugar ice cream

Directly from the Q4 Restaurants Press Release:

Q4 Restaurants Announces its Spring Sale

(VANCOUVER, BC)   March 21, 2011 — It’s still raining, the kids are home from Spring Break and you’re not on vacation, plus tax time is just around the corner.  Want some good news?  These great dining deals from Q4 Ristorante in Kitsilano and Q4 al Centro downtown are bound to put some spring in one’s step.

Prezzo Fisso Wednesday & Thursday Nights at Q4 in Kits

The original Q4 Ristorante on West 4th in Kits is pleased to introduce its Prezzo Fisso menus, available on Wednesday and Thursdays evenings.  Choice is the key word here, with three customizable menus to choose from. Two three-course menus for $25:  select soup or salad, pasta, and dessert; or soup or salad, entrée and dessert.  Or go for the $45 four course menu which offers exceptional value.  Be tempted by previewing the complete menu online.

Sunday is Neighborhood Night at Q4 al Centro

Q4 offers great deals downtown too.  Sunday night is neighborhood night at Q4 al Centro with $10 pizza and $15 pasta on offer; and remember, Q4 al Centro always offers complimentary valet parking.

Try Something New at Q4 al Centro

Q4 al Centro’s Spring menu launched last Thursday.  Nestled amongst all the Q4 classics, are newcomers such as Carne Rustica, a selection of sliced Italian cured meats perfect for sharing; Q4’s robust Cioppino, overflowing with fresh seafood; and the Sicilian Chicken pizza with spiced zucchini and Sicilian olives.  At lunch don’t miss Q4’s grilled New York steak panini with arugula, and red onion balsamic relish; and a side of broccolini Toscana to everything.