Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Directly from the CinCin Ristorante Press Release:

Driftwood Brewmaster Dinner at CinCin

Wednesday, May 11th  •  6:30PM

Vancouver, B.C. (April 29, 2011) – In conjunction with Vancouver Craft Beer Week, CinCin Ristorante is pleased to present a special five-course dinner by Executive Chef Todd Howard, paired with an extraordinary line-up of beers from Victoria’s Driftwood Brewery, one of the top artisanal breweries in Western Canada.

Beginning with a reception featuring a seasonal beer cocktail created by CinCin’s bar manager, Colin Turner, Driftwood’s head brewmaster, Jason Meyer will lead guests through a selection of their flagship beers.

MENU

antipasti
side stripe prawns with mint and spring onions
crispy oyster, celery hearts and fennel
swordfish escabeche, preserved watermelon radish
white bark ale

gnocchi
stinging nettle dumplings, guanciale, pickled red chili
ramps and fried quail egg
farmhand ale

pesce
chorizo wrapped haida gwaii halibut
roasted artichokes, clam vinaigrette
driftwood ale

manzo
coffee braised beef short rib
wood grilled vegetables, morels and pine nut oil
fat tug ipa

zeppole
fried ricotta doughnut, milk chocolate centre
caramelized banana, warm chocolate sauce
crooked coast amber ale

HOW TO PURCHASE

Tickets are $68.45 per person ($89.00 including tax & gratuity). Seating is limited.

To reserve your place at the table: http://vancouvercraftbeerweek.com/

Directly from the Bistrot Bistro Newsletter:

Playoffs and the sun are starting to show up from time to time - this tells us that we will be celebrating all the mothers around us next week. For this we will open at noon on Sunday the 8th of May. The regular menu and prix fixe will be offered all day! It’s a popular day and tables are gone before we can expand the walls, so don’t disappoint your mother - she told us who she wants to cook her special meal.

No you will not find TV at Bistrot bistro, so if you wish to escape the mania or you become a hockey widow we are here for you. Evidently we make the best comfort food this side of Rogers Arena.

Last month we had a surprise, having been recognized at the 2011 Vancouver magazine restaurant awards in the Casual French category. The frame is on the wall….but we believe that every night is a new show and you play a large role in it. That is what we like, and we try every night to deliver to our patrons the best we can.

May will bring us a few new items on the menu and we will try to reproduce the success of our new roasted tomato soup.

Directly from the CCFCC Press Release:

Tastes of CCFCC Canada: Sunday, June 12, 2011 from 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (PT)

Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside
1133 West Hastings Street
Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3T3
Canada

15 Chefs, 15 Chefs Stations, 15 Paired Beverages. Meet Canada’s up and coming Junior Chefs and their Mentors. Taste the bounty of Canada! Join the BC Chefs’ Association as they welcome chefs from around the world, host an ice carving competition, and award the BC Chef of the Year.

Early Bird Ticket Prices end April 30. Only $90.00 includes all food and beverages, taxes and gratuities. For the complete menu email us – Komo Gway Oyster Station, Aboriginal Chefs Station, Okanagan Venison Bresola  and Spirit Bear Gin, PEI Lobster Mac and Cheese, Nova Scotia Arctic Char, Ontario Perogies, Quebec Quail with Fiddleheads and Boar Bacon; Manitoba Smoked Goldeye Terrine; Saskatchewan Mustard Cured Duck Bacon; Alberta Pulled Pork in a Pinto Bean Cornmeal Muffin; Canadian Cheese Station, and the BC Hazelnut S’Mores, Ales, Lagers, Spirits, Wines, Tea, Coffee and the XFour Martini Station, – the place to be June 12.

Buy Tickets:  http://tastesccfcc.eventbrite.com

Directly from the Hamilton Street Grill Press Release:

On Monday, VOTE BEFORE OR VOTE AFTER, but don’t miss out on our May Wine Tasting from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

Join us for Hamilton Street Grill’s Monthly Wine Tasting Series
This month we present 8th Generation. A premier wine of the Okanagan, by an 8th generation winemaker, from vineyards in Summerland, BC

Monday, May 2nd and/or Tuesday, May 3rd

Reserve by credit card at: 604-331-1511 or hamiltonstreetgrill@telus.net

Directly from the Provence Mediterranean Grill Press Release:

Here’s the fifth and final episode in Provence Mediterranean Grill’s make-over video series. The transformation is complete:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anUxAbVLyMo

Directly from The Smoking Dog Bistro Press Release:

The Smoking Dog Bistro will now be open 7 days a week as of May 1st with the launch of our new brunch menu.

Brunch

Fruit Plate 8
Sliced watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew
Fresh summer berries

Summer Berry Parfait 8
Fresh berries, granola, vanilla yogurt
Strawberry compote and honey

Omelette Provencale 12
Herbed tomato, Gruyere cheese
Roasted potatoes or mixed green salad

Quiche Chevre 12
Tomato, spinach and goat cheese quiche
Roasted potatoes or mixed green salad

Stuffed French Toast 11
Banana and brie stuffed French toast
Raspberry coulis and maple syrup

Eggs Benedict 14
Two free range poached eggs, toasted English muffin, hollandaise sauce
Roasted potatoes or mixed green salad

Choice of:

Smoked Bacon
Hollandaise sauce
- OR -
Sauteed spinach and goat cheese
Pesto hollandaise
- OR -
Smoked Salmon
Dill cream cheese, citrus hollandaise

Seafood Crepe Mornay 14
Halibut, salmon and prawn crepe. Mornay sauce
Roasted potatoes or mixed green salad

‘Croque Monsieur’ 13
Ham and Gruyere gratin on toasted ciabatta
Served open faced with Bechamel sauce and poached egg, pomme frites

Chilled tomato soup 8
‘Gazpacho’ style soup
Crab fritter and creme fraiche

Moules Frites 16
White wine steamed mussels, garlic, lemon herb butter
Pomme frites

Steak Frites 16
6 oz. AAA Striploin, bordelaise sauce
Cabbage and celeriac slaw, pomme frites

Vegetarian Lasagna 14
Grilled vegetables, Ricotta cheese, garlic bread

Directly from the Pink Elephant Press Release:

Pink Elephant Thai opens on Friday, April 29 at 1152 Alberni Street

(Vancouver, BC) April 28, 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 be open for business at 1152 Alberni Street on Friday, April 29.  Starting tomorrow, Pink Elephant Thai will be open seven days a week, from 11:30am through midnight, serving lunch, dinner, cocktails, plus everything in between.

The restaurant is comprised of 88 seats, including 8 at the bar, with a large communal table running the length of the restaurant.  The over sized booths are sure to become coveted tables, while a chef’s table, ideal for larger groups, has a view of all the action in the kitchen and below from up above on the mezzanine.   Overall, the look is ultra sleek with gleaming white, cool grey, polished black, and lots of the restaurant’s signature pink.  The name, Pink Elephant Thai, marries old world Thai culture and tradition with all that is fun, sexy and hot - hot pink that is.

Pink Elephant Thai’s menu is inspired by all of the regions in Thailand as well as popular Thai street food faves, with a $5 to $17 price range to match.  Guests seeking classic dishes such as Pad Thai with soft shell crab won’t be disappointed, while oxtail curry with pumpkin will delight more adventurous palates.  Bring one friend or many, dishes like Floating Market - spinach tempura and prawns served with a spicy Thai applesauce - Double Spice Sukiyaki Beef, or the pomfret fish with mango shallot sauce are all perfect for sharing.

Executive chef Parichat Poomkajorn’s exceptional broths are the base of Pink Elephant’s Thai noodle soups such as Keaw Teaw Moo with ground pork, prawns, crispy bacon and ground peanuts; or guests may create their own combination by choosing from four types of noodles, five soup bases, 10 meat and seafood choices, plus crispy toppings.

Creative cocktails, imported beers including Thailand’s Singha, along with a varied and well priced wine list, all pair nicely with the menu that ranges from just a touch to totally spicy.

At the front of house, the restaurant group’s general manger Panee Mesri and manager Sunisa Keawpradit, formerly of Urban Thai Bistro in Yaletown, set the tone for service that caters to guests looking for a “sanook” dining experience, that’s Thai for fun with tons of energy; or those who prefer to “sabai sabai,” or relax and chill.

For more information please visit PinkElephantThai.com

Directly from the Rocky Mountaineer Press Release:

All Aboard! Rocky Mountaineer Kicks Off 2011 Season. Highlights include SilverLeaf Service, new packages and a revamped website

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (April 26, 2011) –The first train of Rocky Mountaineer’s 22nd season departs Vancouver, BC today for a spectacular rail journey through British Columbia and the majestic Canadian Rockies.

To launch the 2011 season, Rocky Mountaineer is rolling out some exciting initiatives including: SilverLeaf Service, a new class of service onboard the internationally acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train; the debut of Rail and Cruise packages with Holland America departures out of Seattle, WA and a new user friendly website. The revamped site offers a first glimpse into the premium Rocky Mountaineer rail experience and provides guests with the tools they require to make the most of their travels to Western Canada.

Highlights of the 2011 season:

SilverLeaf Service

For the first time, Rocky Mountaineer guests will have the option to upgrade from traditional RedLeaf Service and travel in a single level dome coach, boasting panoramic views, entertaining onboard commentary, and a delicious hot meal service at their seat. Travelling onboard Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West rail trip between Vancouver, BC and Banff, Alberta, guests will tour through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world including the Canadian Rocky Mountains, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. SilverLeaf Service is available on select departure dates between May and October, 2011.

Rail and Cruise

In partnership with Holland America, Rocky Mountaineer will offer 12 to 17 day Rail and Cruise vacations with departures out of Seattle, WA. These new offerings include a seven night Glacier Bay Inside Passage Cruise beginning in Seattle and two days onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train between British Columbia and Alberta. In 2011, Rocky Mountaineer will offer more than 12 different itineraries with Holland America, departing out of Vancouver, BC and Seattle, WA. The company has also entered into a partnership with Disney Cruise Lines for 2011, offering a pre-cruise rail trip to Whistler as a part of an Alaskan cruise onboard Disney’s Wonder. The new Rail & Cruise itineraries debut on May 8, 2011, and are available through September 11, 2011.

Newly Launched Website

Rocky Mountaineer’s new website showcases the company’s award-winning rail journeys, different levels of service and array of vacation offerings with easier navigation and better visibility for prospective travellers. With the understanding that guests want to know exactly what they are getting, the new site illustrates all levels of service and rail routes with numerous pictures, capturing every element of the trip. New products and offers are easily found right on the home page and there is better accessibility to Rocky Mountaineer’s social media channels which includes a brand new guest blog, where travellers can connect about their travels.

The Rocky Mountaineer season runs from April 26 until October 6, 2011. For more information about Rocky Mountaineer, please contact your local travel professional or visit rockymountaineer.com.

Directly from the Electric Owl Press Release:

Electric Owl to Become Vancouver’s Newest Nightlife Destination

Electric Owl, a new entertainment venue will ignite Vancouver nightlife when it opens its doors this May in the legendary American Hotel on Main Street. The Izakaya-themed social club’s live music venue and restaurant spans 8,000 square feet and two floors. Nestled on the edge of Strathcona on Main near Prior, Electric Owl will set the stage for this community to become Vancouver’s next destination entertainment hub.  “I’m very excited to see Electric Owl flourish in Vancouver, knowing that they’ve purposely built this venue with the artist and audience experience firmly in mind,” praised Rob Wright of S.L. Feldman & Associates.  Co-owners, Adam Levine and Alex Russell wanted Electric Owl to encapsulate everything that makes Vancouver special: the people, the food, the music, and the creativity. The concept combines an Izakaya restaurant, an infused sake bar and lounge, a cold beer and wine market, and a live music venue. Patrons will also be able to enjoy a 34-seat patio just in time for summer.

“It’s really unlike anything the city has to offer,” says Dani Vachon, Director of Marketing & Entertainment.  “Where else can you eat dinner, see a show, and leave with a six pack or bottle of wine?” Dani Vachon, a veteran of the Vancouver live music scene, will lead the entertainment program and curate everything from emerging artists and renowned music acts to sumo wrestling and Japanese fan dancing. Dance-punk act,!!! is set to take the stage May 28.

The renovations to the heritage building were designed with entertainment and performance in mind, as this premium mid-size venue boasts the best sight lines in the city, and features a world-class sound system for touring international and local acts.  While maintaining the playful sensibilities that Main Street has come to be known for, Electric Owl will feed Vancouver’s appetite for a new social scene.

About Electric Owl

Electric Owl is a social club located in the legendary American Hotel at 928 Main Street. Renovations have transformed the landmark building into Vancouver’s newest modern arts space for emerging artists, international music acts, and a wide variety of the city’s best creative talent. The mid-size entertainment venue hosts an engaged eating experience by uniting inventive Izakaya restaurant fare with live music, a cold beer and wine market, and an outdoor patio.

Directly from the Hapa Izakaya Press Release:

Bon Appetite Magazine hails Hapa Izakaya as one of its top five favourite Izakayas in North America

Hapa Izakaya is thrilled to be hailed by Bon Appetite as one of its top five favorite izakayas in all of North America.  Hapa was the only one in Canada to make the list.

In its May 2011 issue Bon Appetite acknowledges the recent explosion of izakaya and explains their appeal.  In addition to Hapa Izakaya, the magazine lists Biwa in Portland; Kushi in Washington, D.C.; Miso Izakaya in Atlanta; Aburiya in LA; and Nombre in San Francisco as top spots.

About Hapa Restaurants

When Lea and Justin Ault introduced Hapa in 2003 they exploded the izakaya concept in Vancouver.  Hapa Izakaya’s combination of a sexy room, well-priced Japanese tapas, cocktails and premium sake set the bar high for the host of contenders that followed.  There are now three Hapa Izakaya locations.  Last year, Hapa was the first izakaya to join the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise™ seafood conservation program and is one of only a handful of Japanese restaurant partners in the program to-date.  Earlier this year the Aults opened Hapa Umi in downtown’s Coal Harbour.  The upscale Hapa Umi offers the next level of Japanese dining.  Visit www.hapaizakaya.com for more information.

Directly from the Cibo Trattoria Press Release:

A Candlelight Escape to Italy - 8660 Kilometers Closer Cibo Trattoria Commemorates Venice’s Food and Culture for an Evening

Cibo Trattoria plays tribute to Venice, Italy for a special Venezia (Venice) Dinner on Wednesday, May 4th, 2011, from 5pm into the night. This special and fun-filled evening is one of Vancouver’s “must attend” events for those who love Italian food, wine and history.  Guests will enjoy an evening of romance where violin musicians will set a lovely mood with the entire room solely lit by candles and Cibo’s inviting staff appropriately dressed in attire from the 1600’s.

Cibo’s Executive Chef Neil Taylor has crafted a menu to embrace the distinctive characteristics of Venetian cooking such as the use of spices, fish and seafood such as prawns, clams, mussels, crabs, fresh and salt water fish, along with fruits and vegetables such as the prized raddichio.

The Venezia Dinner debuts with a beef carpaccio “Harry’s Bar” followed by Antipasti, with local sole “en soar” with capers, raisins and pine nuts.  Next, the Primi (first plate) features a whole wheat bigoli with sweet onions, anchovy and black pepper. Guests will be able to choose their Secondi (main course) of either Franca’s salt cod with crispy white polenta or perfectly grilled calves liver, slow cooked peas, pancetta and aged balsamic. Then to end the evening, Dolce (dessert) for the evening is traditional tiramisu or piave vecchio, quince paste and sourdough crisps. This evening will have guests feeling like they’re truly dining in Veneto’s Po Valley, between the Adriatic Sea in the south, the Dolomites to the north, and will be a night to truly remember.

This special 5-course tasting menu for $48 also features an optional $49 in wine pairings, specific to the region of Veneto, Italy.

About Cibo Trattoria

Cibo Trattoria specializes in authentic Italian cuisine made with same-day fresh, organic and local ingredients. Cibo’s unique list of rustic dishes has been created by celebrated Executive Chef Neil Taylor to provide Vancouverites and visitors to Downtown Vancouver with a truly distinctive, yet casual dining experience. With handpicked wine collections of varied and unique vintages by the well-respected and popular General Manager, David Fert, guests are ensured an exquisite wine pairings to complement their wonderful meals. Cibo was voted best new restaurant in Canada in 2009 by enRoute and Where magazines.

Cibo Trattoria is open for dinner nightly from 5:00 pm Monday to Saturday and is located off the Moda Hotel Vancouver lobby at 900 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC. For more information please call 604.602.9570 or visit www.cibotrattoria.ca

Don’t miss the May 19th, 2011 newsletter.  There will be 1 giveaway prize.

One winner will receive a copy of the New Food Processor Bible Cookbook.

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

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

Pumpkin-Date Spice Cookies from the Healthy Starts Here! Cookbook.

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

Directly from the West End Business Association Press Release:

The  West  End  BIA  presents:  WEST  END  ART  KRALL  2011

WHERE:  Vancouver’s  West  End
WHEN:  Friday,  May  6  –  Sunday,  May  8,  2011

Vancouver, B.C. – The West End BIA is excited to announce the 1st Annual West End Art Krall, a dynamic celebration of art and community, featuring over 50 diverse art exhibits within its boundaries. From May 6 – 8, the heart of Vancouver’s West End transforms into an art gallery! Unique venues in the West End BIA including the Denman Place Mall, the West End Community Centre, several hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops and beauty salons will feature brilliant works from artists, sculptors, photographers, textile artists and more. We are delighted to profile many established artists, along with emerging artists
and talent from art institutions including Emily Carr, Vancouver Institute of Digital Arts, Blanche Macdonald and John Casablanca, and, as well, youth artwork displays from Lord Roberts Elementary and King George Secondary Schools. Enjoy inspirational artworks and enter to win fantastic prizes to the West End at participating art venues!

Event Area:

The West End Art Krall includes venues within the geographical boundaries of the West End BIA. (Davie Street from Burrard to Denman, Robson Street from Jervis to Denman, and Denman Street form Georgia to Pacific). During the West End Art Krall, be sure to visit the 6th Annual Art in the City event at the West End Community Centre at 870 Denman Street. We hope you can join us for this artful celebration in one of Vancouver’s scenic canvasses. Come and experience Vancouver’s West End!

For more detailed information, please visit: www.westendartkrall.com

Directly from the Vancouver Aquarium Press Release:

Vancouver Aquarium prepares to begin revitalization projects this fall:

VANCOUVER, BC – The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre is preparing for a significant expansion and revitalization of its facilities including new galleries and exhibits. Along with exciting additions and changes to the Aquarium’s facility, the updated revitalization project plans include new public services and features that will be a benefit to everyone visiting Stanley Park. The first revitalization project begins this fall.

“With the approval of our revised plans, and with funding from both the federal and provincial governments in place, the Vancouver Aquarium is moving forward with its largest expansion ever,” said Dr. John Nightingale, president, Vancouver Aquarium. “The first set of expansion and revitalization projects includes creating an impactful new entrance pavilion and outdoor plaza—featuring the highest standards of sustainable design—which will serve our visitors and students for decades to come. We’ll have much more to share as we complete our designs over the spring and summer, and begin construction in the early fall.”

As the largest expansion undertaken at the Aquarium, visitors will experience new and exciting additions, including:

The feeling of entering a whole new world upon arrival in the form of a new entrance pavilion
Development of an outdoor plaza featuring:
New entry canopy providing covered access points
New public bistro
New public washrooms
Enhanced public interpretive and learning opportunities for all Park visitors
Prominent new home for Bill Reid’s Lord of the Undersea World installation
New and expanded B.C. Wild Coast and Canada’s Arctic exhibits resulting in enhanced animal environments, greater open spaces for exploring and learning within inviting, spacious galleries and public circulation spaces
Variety of public interpretative and learning opportunities, including graphic and interactive exhibits from the Park
Addition of a gallery featuring changing exhibits
Flexible holding and display pools between B.C. Wild Coast and Canada’s Arctic for even more spacious animal habitats
Increased indoor seating areas
Increased green space and upgraded public walkways

Visitors will appreciate the increased facility space, which will provide more room to explore and learn about the complex issues and activities taking place in British Columbia, Canada and Canada’s Arctic,” adds Dr. Nightingale. “There will also be new, changing exhibits, opportunities for indoor and outdoor cultural events and greater family activities.”

The Vancouver Aquarium will remain open and vibrant throughout its revitalization process. As a self-sustaining, non-profit organization, the Aquarium relies on revenue generated by visitors to operate its conservation, education and research programs. Each visitor to the Aquarium makes a direct contribution to its mission-based programming.

In August 2010, the Vancouver Aquarium announced its long-awaited revitalization plans and received $25 million from provincial and federal governments to begin the process. The Vancouver Aquarium will use the funds to revitalize some of the facility’s aging physical infrastructure in need of repair or replacement, and provide enhanced, expanded spaces and experiences for Aquarium visitors.

About the Vancouver Aquarium

The Vancouver Aquarium is a global leader in connecting people to our natural world, and a self-supporting, non-profit association dedicated to effecting the conservation of aquatic life through display and interpretation, conservation practices, education, research, and direct action. Learn more at www.vanaqua.org.

Directly from the Italian Cultural Centre Press Release:

The Italian Cultural Centre Society Presents: ITALIAN HERITAGE MONTH

WHERE: Italian Cultural Centre, 3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver

WHEN: JUNE 2 - 29, 2011

Vancouver, B.C. – June 2011 has been proclaimed Italian Heritage Month by the City of Vancouver – get ready to eat, drink and enjoy all things Italian at the Italian Cultural Centre!

We’re celebrating the best of Italian culture each week with different events – there is something for everyone of all ages and appetites! Experience delicious food, wine, performances, exhibits and an Italian Market day with entertainment, activities and of course more food!

June 2011 will be an unforgettable month of the tastes, sounds and touch of Italian culture!  Let your senses guide you to the Italian Cultural Centre!

Event Details:

Week 1 – Opening Celebrations & Italian National Day

Week 2 – Art, Architecture and Design

Week 3 – Food and Wine

Week 4 – Performing Arts and Entertainment

Week 5 – Indoor and outdoor cinema

Thank you to our community partners and event sponsors for supporting Italian Heritage Month.

We’re excited to partner with the Consulate General of Italy, the Italian Chamber of Commerce, the Istituto Italiano di Cultura, Slow Food Vancouver, Friends of Ferrari and many very talented and passionate Italians and Italophiles!

For more information: www.italianculturalcentre.ca

Directly from the Foodportunity Press Release:

“Foodportunity” series to unite local experts and chefs to welcome the summer. Food networking event to be held June 13 and connect Seattle’s vibrant food community

Sponsored By Metropolitan Market
Palace Ballroom
6-9 p.m

Seattle, Wash., Apr 21, 2011— The next Foodportunity, a series of networking events for Seattle food professionals, will take place on Monday, June 13, 2011, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom, 2100 5th Ave, 98121.

A group of experts in the field of gardening, foraging, cheese making and beekeeping will be available for questions and conversation in the lounge of the Palace Ballroom between 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Amy Pennington, creator and owner of Gogogreengarden.com, www.UrbanGardenShare.org and author of recently released “Apartment Gardening: Plants, Projects, and Recipes for Growing Food in Your Urban Home” and “Urban Pantry” (published 2010).
Kurt Timmermeister, author of recently released “Growing a Farmer: How I Learned to Live Off the Land;” professional cheese maker and the mastermind behind Kurtwood Farms www.kurtwoodfarms.com.
Corky Luster, AMD Visionary of the Year 2011 nominee, bee keeper and founder of Ballard Bee Company at www.BallardBeeCompany.com.
Langdon Cook, foraging expert and author of “Fat of the Land: Adventures of a 21st Century Forager,”(published 2009) www.fat-of-the-land.blogspot.com, and columnist for Seattle Magazine.

Northwest restaurateur Tom Douglas will provide his Palace Ballroom facilities to host the event and serve a selection of appetizers. Additional participating restaurants showcasing and serving bites at the event will include Book Bindery, Chez Shea, Trellis , Nettletown, Tilikum Place Cafe, Urbane  and  BuiltBurger.

Foodportunity, created by Seattle event planner and food blogger Keren Brown, is open to food journalists, bloggers, public relations professionals, restaurateurs, farmers, companies and all food-passionate people.

The event will be sponsored by Metropolitan Market, the area’s premiere independent grocer, which will be celebrating its 40th birthday starting in June. Its six locations in Seattle, Kirkland and Tacoma provide one-stop shops for fresh, local, organic and hard-to find items, as well as 40th birthday festivities and specials the entire month of June.

Early admission is $25 (including booking fees; $30 at a later date), which includes bites from restaurants and companies. Tickets can be purchased through BrownPaperTickets.com http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/172892

The first 40 Foodportunity ticket-holders to send an email to info@foodportunity.com will get a seat at the 8:30 p.m. “speed networking” session led by Rachel Belle reporter on KIRO FM’s Ron & Don Show, where she does a daily segment called “Ring My Belle”.  For showcasing information, contact: kerenlovestocook@gmail.com.

Directly from the Rocky Mountaineer Press Release:

Rocky Mountaineer Offers BC and Alberta Guests a Free Whistler Getaway Adventure

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (April 20, 2011) – Award-winning Rocky Mountaineer is offering its BC and Alberta guests the opportunity to take in another epic mountain range free of charge when they book a qualifying Rocky Mountaineer rail journey between Vancouver and the majestic Canadian Rockies.  Now for a limited time, guests booking a qualifying Rocky Mountaineer vacation of six nights or more will enjoy a free Whistler Getaway Adventure with all the perks including a Whistler Sea to Sky Climb rail trip between Whistler and Vancouver, one hotel night in Whistler and a pass for Whistler’s PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, the world’s highest lift and longest unsupported span.

“This offer gives our guests another opportunity to enjoy one of our award-winning routes and experience a truly distinctive west coast journey through the amazing coastal range of British Columbia,” says Hub Wat, Vice President of Global Marketing.  “It’s an ideal vacation package and the ultimate way to see some of the most spectacular scenery in North America.”

Rocky Mountaineer’s Whistler Sea to Sky Climb route is a three and a half hour journey between the world-class destinations of Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia.  Operating northbound and southbound departures it provides an exclusive look at some of the most spectacular views in the region, including cascading waterfalls, old-growth forests, snow-capped mountain peaks and brilliant Pacific waters from a unique train perspective. Whistler Dome Service has guests travelling in a single-level, glass-domed coach, boasting panoramic views of the passing scenery, in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Travellers enjoy a hot breakfast or afternoon tea service at their seats. Guests enjoy the freedom to move around the train at their leisure and access to the open-air Heritage Observation Car.

The Whistler Getaway Adventure is applicable on a Rocky Mountaineer vacation with a land tour portion of six nights or more during the 2011 season for a limited time only and is only valid on new international (outside of Canada and USA) bookings.  Select dates may apply.  The offer is not available in conjunction with any other offer and cannot be deferred to another date or refunded. Additional restrictions may apply.

For more information or to book the Whistler Getaway Adventure offer please contact your local travel professional, Rocky Mountaineer directly at 1 (800) 665-7245 or visit rockymountaineer.com.

Directly from the Vancouver Symphony Press Release:

The VSO debut of violinist Augustin Hadelich, performing Sibelius with Conductor Laureate Kazuyoshi Akiyama

Vancouver, BC - The inspiring young violinist Augustin Hadelich, will make his VSO debut performing the lyrical, brooding and beautiful Sibelius Violin Concerto on Saturday and Monday, April 30th and May 2nd, 8pm, and Sunday, May 1st, 2pm, at the Orpheum Theatre. VSO Conductor Laureate Kazuyoshi Akiyama conducts.

Augustin Hadelich has established himself as a rising star among the new generation of violinists, performing with Orchestras around the world. Winner of the 2009 Avery Fisher Career Grant and gold medalist of the 2006 International Violin Competition of Indianapolis, it is hard to believe that at the age of 15, some doctors said he would never play again after surviving a fire at his family’s farm that severely burned his upper body, face and bow arm.

Kazuyoshi Akiyama was recently named Conductor Laureate of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra after serving as Music Director for nearly 40 years. He is also music Director of the Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra, and Principal Conductor and Music Advisor of the Kyushu Symphony Orchestra, and Conductor Laureate of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

Augustin Hadelich will perform Sibelius’ Violin Concerto. His only large-scale work for violin and orchestra, the Violin Concerto is very Scandinavian in feeling. The work is characterised by brooding melodies interrupted by flashes of brightness; feelings of yearning and longing, entwined with deeply felt Romantic moments; and a stark though complex and beautiful orchestral landscape.

This concert also features the magnificent First Symphony of Johannes Brahms. A bold, original, and brilliant work, it has drawn many comparisons to Beethoven’s Ninth in terms of pushing the symphonic form forward. In fact, Brahms was intimidated by the imposing ghost of Beethoven and his ninth symphony, to the extent that the first one he wrote came twenty years into his compositional career. Apparently Brahms had nothing to worry about, though, as he created a gem that straddles the Romantic and Classical styles, and was called at the time “Beethoven’s Tenth.”

CONCERT INFO

Masterworks Diamond

Symphony Sundays

SATURDAY & MONDAY, APRIL 30 & MAY 2, 8 PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE

SUNDAY, May 1, 2 pm, ORPHEUM THEATRE

Kazuyoshi Akiyama conductor

Augustin Hadelich violin

Louie                   The Eternal Earth

Sibelius                Violin Concerto

Brahms                  Symphony No. 1

TICKET INFORMATION

April 30th & May 2nd Tickets: $26.75 - $84 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

May 1st Tickets: $21.50 - $59 (senior, student and subscriber discounts available)

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

Directly from the Hamilton Street Grill Press Release:

Join us for Hamilton Street Grill’s Monthly Wine Tasting Series
This month we present 8th Generation A premier wine of the Okanagan, by an 8th generation winemaker, from vineyards in Summerland, BC

Monday, May 2nd and/or Tuesday, May 3rd 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

In keeping with our popular format, try a sampling of three new wines and have three savoury, wine-inspired food tasters while learning from a wine expert as they take you through a sit down yet casual style tasting. Seating is at both individual tables and at shared tables. This month’s presenter is the popular Quinn Diepold of Quaff Wines and Spirits. At our May tasting we are pouring one of BC’s best with the wines from 8th Generation, an award winning Okanagan wine, alongside Hamilton Street Grill’s Executive Chef Neil Wyles’ wine-inspired appetizers. Neil makes excellent choices when pairing his appetizers with the wines and the tasting format is casula, informative and fun! For more information on the wines, vineyards and winery, visit www.8thgenerationvineyard.com

Hamilton Street Grill,
1009 Hamilton Street, Yaletown, Vancouver
Tickets $25.00 per person
Reserve by credit card at: 604-331-1511 or hamiltonstreetgrill@telus.net

UPCOMING EVENTS AT HAMILTON STREET GRILL:

“TASTE OF TUESDAY”

Hey you gotta love Telus for this, (we think that’s the idea!)

Every Tuesday in May join us at Hamilton Street Grill for a dinner entrée …and Telus will pay for an appetizer and a dessert!

That’s right, Telus is celebrating some new products and services by choosing Hamilton Street Grill as one of the restaurants offering this great promotion. No strings attached (except for the usual not valid with other promotions, no cash value, etc. etc…..) We think reservations are going to be a must!

JUNE IS STEAK MONTH!

As a Yaletown original celebrates 14 years For the month of June (including Father’s Day) enjoy an 8 oz. Certified Angus Sirloin steak grilled to order, just the way you like it, with garlic smashed potatoes and market fresh vegetables. For just $14. Fourteen years, fourteen Dollars!

Directly from the 100 Nights Press Release:

April 22 - April 25, 2011 11am – 3pm Easter Brunch all weekend long

Brunch features include:
Asparagus & Okanagan goat cheese frittata, baby spinach leaf salad
House-smoked salmon hash, poached egg & chive hollandaise sauce
Roast beef & eggs, home-style potatoes & herbs, au jus
Ricotta pancakes with lemon & honey mascarpone
Rhubarb & apple pie à la mode

Sunday, May 8, 2011 | 11am - 3pm.  We heart Mommas for Mother’s Day

Buffet Brunch $22 per person

Directly from the Hart House Press Release:

Hart House Sure to Please with Mother’s Day Brunch Options

On Sunday, May 8 2011 Burnaby’s Hart House at Deer Lake celebrates Mother’s Day by offering two special brunch menu options.  We welcome you to join us for either a three-course à la carte brunch or a deluxe brunch buffet.

Hart House is always a favourite for family celebrations:  The restaurant was voted Best Place to Take Mom for Mother’s Day in the Burnaby Now Readers’ Choice Best of Burnaby Awards and recently voted Best Service 2011 by Tourism Vancouver’s Best Bites.  The combination of exquisite food, attentive service, and charming setting makes visiting Hart House a relaxing and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Buffet Brunch – Ideal for larger groups, the buffet brunch takes place in our comfortable second floor rooms overlooking Deer Lake and the surrounding grounds.  The brunch menu includes a selection of salads, seafood and antipasto platters, frittatas, French toast, pastas, and carvery, as well as traditional bacon and sausage.  The dessert selection includes lavish pies and pastries as well as lighter options such as fresh fruits and berries.

A la Carte - The à la carte menu will be served in our main floor dining room.  It has something to tempt every palate, from house made Duck Confit terrine to classic Eggs Benedict or AAA Steak and Eggs.  The dessert selection offers a variety of options from decadent chocolate to Hart House’s famous lemon tart to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.