Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Directly from the VSO Press Release:

NOVEMBER CONCERT LISTINGS

VANCOUVER, BC – Autumn is in full stride in November, and so is the VSO. The month is filled with many great concerts, featuring a visit by classical music’s most exciting superstar, one of the world’s great conductors, and an up-and-coming Pops conductor just appointed as Music Director of the New York Philharmonic Pops. There is also a celebration of history’s greatest musical genius, featuring music composed in the final year of his all too short life.

The month begins with a Surrey Nights concert of Mendelssohn and Bruch featuring VSO soloists Mary Sokol Brown and Andrew Brown. Up next is the highly-anticipated appearance of inimitable superstar Lang Lang who will play one of the most exciting piano concertos in the repertoire: Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2.

The VSO celebrates the 200th Anniversary of the births of Mendelssohn, Schumann and Chopin with the following November concerts: The beautiful music of Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Clara Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor is highlighted with Vancouver favourites Angela Cheng, Christopher Gaze (narrating excerpts from the famous Shakespeare play), and the Elektra Women’s Choir. Ms. Cheng sticks around for a concert of Fanny Mendelssohn’s Overture in C major, Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 1 and Schumann’s Symphony No. 4.  Up next is a very special evening of Mendelssohn and Schumann’s chamber music led by Maestro Bramwell Tovey and featuring several VSO soloists throughout.

Another season highlight is Mozart’s Requiem which will feature soprano Kathleen Brett, mezzo Elizabeth Turnbull, tenor Benjamin Butterfield, and baritone John Relyea.  This concert also includes music from Mozart’s The Magic Flute and La Clemenza di Tito. The following week, esteemed conductor Sir Andrew Davis makes his long-awaited VSO debut in a concert that also features soprano Celena Shafer performing Richard Strauss’s Brentano Lieder. Sir Andrew also conducts Elgar’s epic Symphony No. 1, a work for which he has a special love and affinity.

A Tea & Trumpets matinee of Great Russian Classics follows with Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake: Waltz, excerpts from Stravinsky’s Firebird, and Shostakovich’s Festive Overture. The month ends with a VSO Pops concert of Silver Screen Classics. Exciting young Pops conductor Steven Reineke, protégé of the late great Erich Kunzel and newly appointed director of the New York Philharmonic Pops, will lead a program of great music from classic Hollywood movies, including Gone With the Wind, Lawrence of Arabia, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Doctor Zhivago, The Magnificent Seven, The Godfather, Exodus, Titanic, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and many more.

Directly from the Zocalo Restaurant Press Release:

One of the most joyful and popular holidays in Mexico is ‘Dia de Muertos’ (Day of the Dead). The fiesta, which traces its roots back to the indigenous Aztec and Maya cultures, was originally celebrated in August. After the Spanish conquest, the Catholic Church moved it to the present date of November 2nd in an attempt to assimilate the ‘pagan’ celebration into the Christian holy days of All Hallows Eve and All Saints Day (Oct.31 and Nov.1). However, Los Muertos caught on with all strata of Mexican society and it grew into the wildly popular holiday it is today where friends and family gather to honour the dead with special meals and family shrines.

Enter Zocalo, a little restaurant tucked into Main Street near Broadway. ‘Zocalo’ is the Mexican word for the square or plaza found in every Mexican village, town and city. It’s a meeting place where friends and family gather to share a meal, indulge in gossip, check out everyone else and be entertained. In other words, it is the heart of every Mexican community. In celebration of Los Muertos, Vancouver’s Zocalo will be offering a very special three-course menu for the value price of $25 per person. It has been created in commemoration of ‘El Santo,’ Rodolfo guzman Huerta, Mexico’s most famous ‘luchador’ (masked wrestler – think Jack Black in Lucha Libre). El Santo came from the state of Hidalgo and Zocalo’s Los Muertos menu reflects dishes that he is known to have loved.

Chef Tanya Shklanka and her talented brigade of Mexican cooks have produced a menu guaranteed to put you in a festive mood and enliven your palate. For starters diners have a choice of Pozole Verde, a traditional soup served at weddings, family gatherings and fiestas, or Chile Relleno de Hongos which is a roasted poblano chile filled with portobello mushroom, onion and tequila ragout dressed with a pasilla chile sauce.

For mains there is a choice between Barbacoa de Borrego or Pollo con Mole Negro. Barbacoa de Borrego is melt-in-your mouth slow-cooked lamb accompanied by salsa verde, guacamole and homemade corn tortillas. Pollo con Mole Negro is Mexico’s answer to France’s Coq au Vin. Chicken stewed in a traditional sauce of black chiles, nuts, spices and tomatoes resulting in a flavourful dish served with rice and the ubiquitous warm corn tortillas.

Life is sweet and so is the end of this meal. The Mexicans invented chocolate and named it ‘food of the gods.’ What could be more heavenly than Hot Coochie y Pan de Muertos? Homemade Mexican hot chocolate with a bit of kick and accompanied by traditional Pan Muertos, a traditional sweet bread flavoured with orange and anise. The other choice is Capirotada – a Mexican style bread pudding chock-a-block full of goodies such as dried cranberries, blueberries roasted hazelnuts and panela cheese suffused with spiced piloncillo (raw brown sugar) syrup. Yum.

El Santo’s favourite libation was a cold Negra Modelo and that is the recommended pairing with the Los Muertos menu. If cerveza is not your drink of choice, Zocalo Los Muertos Menu also offers a special tequila pairing to accompany each course for an additional $20. The restaurant stocks Vancouver’s largest selection of tequilas; or you may prefer sangria, a Latino-inspired cocktail or a selection from their Carta de Vinos available by the glass, half litre and bottle.

When you have a holiday as fun and flavourful as Los Muertos, it’s a pity it lasts a day or two. The good news is that at Zocalo Restaurant, the Los Muertos menu will be available for 15 days starting November 1st straight through to November 15th. In addition to the special menu, Zocalo Restaurant will feature a traditional Shrine and to get things off to a festive start on November 1st, there will be a Mariachi band to entertain. Bring a little Mexican warmth to dreary November and live it up at Zocalo Restaurant with Los Muertos, November 1st through 15th. Reservations recommended 604-677-3521.

Directly from the Le Gavroche Press Release:

As cooler weather prevails, so too does classic cuisine at Le Gavroche. But classic takes on new meaning as Manuel Ferreira and Chef Rob Guest introduce their newest menu. Suckling pig has made its way to Le Gavroche Thursday evenings and Cassoulet is featured on Sundays; both at $35.00 for 3 courses. And take the decisions out of ordering wine by letting the well educated staff at “Le Gav” select the wine pairings for you.  For more information or to make a reservation call 604-685-3924.

Diners at Le Gavroche return time and again for favourites such as Rack of Lamb  and the famous Soufflé. For the adventurous palate dishes such as Escargots & Goat Cheese Parcel with Seared Frog Legs and Garlic cream or Venison Chop with Strawberry Ketchup and Chocolate Infused Demi have already become “must haves”. And though the menu may have changed the same casually elegant service and table side hospitality of Ferreira and his team remains the same.

Opened in 1978, Le Gavroche is one of Vancouver’s longest standing fine dining establishments, offering classical French cuisine in a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The gently refurbished Victorian house (circa 1910’s) features views of the Coastal Mountains and Coal Harbour from the upstairs terrace and a cozy fireplace for those cold winter evenings.  For more information, check out the website at www.legavroche.ca or call 604-685-3924.  Le Gavroche is located at 1616 Alberni Street in Vancouver, BC.

Dine Around Seattle Returns this November!

Seattle’s Premier Dining Event, now in its eighth year, is just a few weeks away!  Don’t miss your chance to dine at Seattle’s top restaurants at a divine price!

Enjoy 3-course prix fixe meals for just $30, with many restaurants offering lunch for just $15!*

November 1st-30th (excluding Thursday, November 26th)

Get all the delicious details, including restaurants, menus and cook-at-home recipes at www.dinearoundseattle.org

*beverages, tax and gratuity are additional.  Reservations recommended.

American Lamb Jam

….and don’t miss American Lamb Jam Seattle!

Dine Around Seattle Chefs ewe-nite for the first annual American Lamb Jam Seattle. This ultimate taste-off features top chefs and
their creative preparations of lusty lamb dishes paired with 15 award-winning Washington wineries. Vote for your favorite dishes in Best of Show, Most Creative, Best Wine Pairing, and 1st Place Awards for Shoulder, Leg, Shank and Loin Tastes.

Any way you cut it, American Lamb is delicious!

Sunday, October 25th 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Bell Harbor Conference Center - International Promenade

Tickets $30 at Brown Paper Tickets
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/15770
Full details at www.dinearoundseattle.org

BIG GUNS WINEMAKER’S DINNER
Cornucopia, Whistler
Friday, November 13th @ 6:30 pm
$195, all inclusive

Exclusive winemaker’s dinner at Araxi celebrates a unique collection of wines

Whistler, B.C. - On Friday, November 13th, Whistler’s acclaimed Araxi restaurant will celebrate one of the wine world’s most compelling stories, Long Shadows Vintners, in an exclusive winemaker’s dinner during Cornucopia: Whistler’s Celebration of Wine and Food.

Long Shadows Vintners (LSV) is an elite cadre of some of the world’s most accomplished winemakers who continue to shape the wine industry with their benchmark wines. Exporting their expertise to Washington State’s dramatic Columbia Valley, the convivium of internationally-acclaimed vintners have collaborated with wine pioneer and LSV owner Allen Shoup, and LSV winemaker Gilles Nicault, to create seven ‘best of’ varietals.

Araxi Executive Chef James Walt has created a distinctive five course menu that highlights the excellence of the Pemberton Valley autumn harvest–alongside globally-sourced ingredients–with each plate married to the internationally-influenced styles of LSV wines drawn mostly from the 2006 vintage, considered Long Shadows’ finest to date:

Poet’s Leap Riesling 2008 by Armin Diel
94 Points Wine Enthusiast

Chester-Kidder 2006 by Allen Shoup and Gilles Nicault
2006 not yet rated. 2004: 93 Points Robert Parker

Sequel Syrah 2006 by John Duval
92 Points Wine Spectator

Pedestal Merlot 2006 by Michel Rolland
96 Points Connoisseurs Guide

Feather Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 by Randy Dunn
2006 not yet rated. 2005: 92 Points Robert Parker

Poet’s Leap Botrytis Riesling 2005 by Armin Diel
Only 56 cases produced and available exclusively at the winery

LSV’s Allen Shoup will introduce the wines for each course, providing provocative commentary about this unique collection, as well as the terroir of the Columbia Valley.

For tickets, visit whistlercornucopia.com. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

BUBBLES + OCEANS AFTERPARTY
Cornucopia, Whistler
Saturday, November 14th @ 10:30 pm
$150, all inclusive

After Crush! complete your evening at Araxi’s BUBBLES + OCEANS, a chance to let your hair down in the heart of Whistler Village. A DJ will set the stage for an unforgettable night of sensational music, seductive seafood and luxe 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 fabled seafood platters offering the finest fresh shucked oysters, sushi and Tofino Dungeness crab. This not-to-be-missed party at Whistler’s premier restaurant is one of the festival’s hottest tickets!

For tickets, visit whistlercornucopia.com.

Directly from the Honibe Press Release
Montague, PE – October 6, 2009 – Island Abbey Foods Ltd., specialty food producer and creator of the award winning Honey Drop™ - the world’s first alternative to the sugar cube, today introduced the world’s first 100% pure honey candy: Honey Delights.

Honey Delights are made from 100% pure Honibe™ brand honey with no sugar added.  Honey Delights™ are only 14 calories per 3.5 gram piece.  Made from only honey with no additives of any kind, Honey Delights™ are the tastiest candy on the planet.  All of the natural honey taste you love in a candy!

“We are very pleased to introduce Honey Delights™ the world’s first 100% pure honey candy,” stated John Rowe, President of Island Abbey Foods Ltd. “Honey Delights™ are a truly delicious treat made from one natural ingredient: honey.  Other honey candies are simply honey flavored because sugar is the main ingredient.  Honey Delights™ contain only honey and nothing else!  This makes them, in our opinion, the best tasting candies in the world.”

Honey Delights are available for food service and retailers in bulk cases of 250, 500 and 1,000 pieces or in packages of 20 (bag: 70g) and 300 (candy jar: 1Kg) pieces.  Honey Delights are only 14 calories each (per 3.5g piece) and do not contain any added sugar, artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives.  Honey Delights are available in two flavors: pure honey and pure honey with a hint of lemon.  Honey Delights are a product of Prince Edward Island, Canada.

For more information please visit us on the web at www.Honibe.com.

GK Media Inc is pleased to be presenting an ongoing collection of recipes from various cookbooks.
The recipe that will be featured today is Roasted Rack of Lamb with Spaetzle and Parsley Roots from the Araxi 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 a copy of the Araxi cookbook, please enter our October 29th, 2009 newsletter draw.

GK Media Inc is pleased to be presenting an ongoing collection of recipes from various cookbooks.
The recipe that will be featured today is English Pea Soup from the new Araxi 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 a copy of the Araxi cookbook, please enter our October 29th, 2009 newsletter draw.

Directly from the Eat! & Drink BC Press Release

Eat & Drink BC! launches October 1st - Bring Your Appetite for the Best of British Columbia

September 21, 2009 - Vancouver, BC

The fourth annual Eat & Drink BC! program launches October 1, 2009, and promises to deliver some of  BC’s best dishes. With over 150 establishments across the Province serving up BC’s best bounty, there is certain to be something for everyone.

This year’s program encompasses a wide spectrum of restaurants at a variety of price points throughout the Province.  Restaurants will be providing either a 3 course menu at varying price points (under $20, under $30, under $40 or $40) or a BC Bundle - consisting of one or two uniquely BC items.

Eat & Drink BC! program now is in its fourth year, found itself in the  unique position of having to decide to continue this program or not.  Funding that had been provided by the government in past years was no longer available.  When asked why the BCRFA felt it was crucial to continue this program despite the lack of support,  Ian Tostenson, President and CEO had this to say ” The buy local initiative behind this program has multiple effects for the Province’s economy.  Dining programs with consumer value drives much needed restaurant sales, chefs and restaurateurs support our local growers when they buy their product, and marketing encourages consumers to buy local whenever and wherever they can.”  to not continue the program was not really an option.

The program was also extremely fortunate to have the support of previous presenting sponsor BCAA return, along with our gold sponsor BC fresh, and new sponsors this year Vincor and Pure Blue.  “Without the generous support of our sponsors, none of this would be possible” says Sharron Tulk, Director of Marketing.  “In this economy, we are so grateful that these companies see the value that this program has to offer.  Supporting this program shows their commitment to being business leaders in the Province.”

To kick off the program and drive awareness, the Eat & Drink BC team will be hosting  booths at BC farmer’s markets in North Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria on Saturday, September 26th.  .

Vancouver

Day :               Saturday, September 26
Time:               10am-3pm
Location:          East Plaza at Lonsdale Quay, North Vancouver, 123 Carrie Cates Court

Kelowna

Day :               Saturday, September 26
Time:               8am-1pm
Location:          Corner of Dilworth drive and Springfield Road

Victoria

Day :               Saturday, September 26
Time:               10am-2pm
Location:          1330 Fairfield Road, Victoria

Directly from the Mission Hill Press Release:

Mission Hill Family Estate to host BC’s Premier Celebrity Chefs Okanagan Book Launch & Charity Dinner: Chefs’ Table Society, Vancouver Cooks 2

West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia (September 22, 2009) - WEST KELOWNA, OKANGAN VALLEY, BC - SEPTEMBER 22, 2009 - Forget what you’ve heard about too many cooks in the kitchen, Mission Hill Family Estate will host the official launch of the Chefs’ Table Society of British Columbia cookbook, Vancouver Cooks 2, with an exclusive reception and five-course dinner, October 9. Sharing the evening’s spotlight with Mission Hill’s Winery Chef Matthew Batey are four of British Columbia’s premier chefs, including: Pino Posteraro of Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill, Vikram Vij of Vij’s and Rangoli, Ned Bell of Cabana Bar and Grille, and Rob Feenie of Cactus Club Restaurants.

A reception in the Wine Shop will kick off the festivities, with an optional tour for guests of the underground Barrel Cellar. A sumptuous five-course wine and food pairing will follow in Mission Hill’s Chagall Room, named for the exquisite tapestry by Russian-born painter Marc Chagall that adorns the room - one of only 29 Chagall tapestries ever made.

Guests will enjoy a culinary homage to British Columbia with delicious selections prepared by the all-star chef line-up. The menu features cookbook-inspired dishes by the chefs paired with Mission Hill’s premium wines a sampling includes fennel marinated sablefish with Reserve Riesling, seared Qualicum scallops and squash ravioli with Perpetua, and south Okanagan Valley venison with Quatrain.

Completing the evening will be a special take-home gift — each guest will receive a copy of the Chefs’ Table Society cookbook, Vancouver Cooks 2 with the authors available for personalized book signings.

Later this autumn, Mission Hill will also be offering a special Chefs Table Society culinary workshop at the winery based on recipes from the new cookbook.

Details:
Chefs’ Table Society Book Launch
Reception and Dinner
Mission Hill Family Estate, Chagall Room

Date: Friday, October 9, 2009
Time: 6:30 - 11:00 pm
Cost: $175 plus taxes (per person)

Directly from the Tourism Whistler Press Release:

Whistler Spa Escapes - relax, unwind and rejuvenate in a picture perfect mountain setting

Whistler, B.C. - Relax and rejuvenate mind, body, and soul during Whistler Spa Escapes this fall. Ten participating spas in Whistler are offering visitors the ability to unwind and revitalize - and save up to 50 per cent on spa services and wellness products from now through November 2, 2009.

Combine these heavenly spa specials with exceptional accommodation rates, fresh mountain air, award-winning restaurants, a spectrum of shops and limitless activities - and you’ll want to get here fast, and then slow down.

Leave the stress of a busy summer behind and indulge in a variety of treatments and specials, including manicures, pedicures, facials, massage treatments, body scrubs and more.

Participating spas are:
Avello Spa & Health Club (at the Westin Resort & Spa)
Beauty of Whistler Esthetic Services
Blue Highways Shiatsu and Massage
Eco Chic Spa Whistler
Loka Wellness & Yoga (at Nita Lake Lodge)
Solarice Spa
Spa at Four Seasons Resort Whistler
Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa
Vida Wellness Spa (at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler)
Vital Spirit Spa

A full list of specials and promotions is available by visiting www.whistler.com/spa_escapes/.

Spa Escapes has teamed up with VISA to offer a special promotion. Use your VISA to purchase a Spa Escapes service at one of the participating spas and you will automatically be entered to a chance to win the ultimate Whistler pamper package**. One grand prize consists of a half day spa treatment for two, a $150 CAD dinner certificate plus accommodation in Whistler.

Directly from the Press Release

OUTSTANDING IN THE FIELD

Chef James Walt @ North Arm Farm, Pemberton, BC
Saturday, July 18th, 4:00 pm
Tickets: $200.

Whistler, B.C. - A limited number of seats are still available for Pemberton’s first Outstanding in the Field event on Saturday, July 18th at the majestic North Arm Farm. Outstanding in the Field is the wildly successful roving culinary adventure that travels North America during the harvest season, celebrating food at the source.

Following a welcome reception and guided tour hosted by North Arm Farm’s Jordan Sturdy, Araxi’s executive chef James Walt will present a five course menu exemplifying fine seasonal ingredients–from the terroir of the Pemberton Valley and the meroir of the Pacific Ocean–each paired with wines provided by leading British Columbia producers, LaStella and Paradise Ranch.

Rasoul Salehi, Director of LaStella and Le Vieux Pin wineries, will be in attendance to introduce the wines for each course, providing commentary about the wines, vineyards and winemaking processes.

MENU

Moonstruck White Grace Cheese Stuffed Squash Blossoms
gazpacho vinaigrette and basil
LaStella Vivace Pinot Grigio 2008

Roasted Baby Beets, Cured Skeena Sockeye Salmon
assorted greens, jade radish and garlic scapes
LaStella LaStellina Merlot Rosato 2008

Arugula and Spinach Crusted Free Spirit Halibut
grilled summer squash and roasted tomatoes and salsify
LaStella Leggiero Un-oaked Chardonnay 2008

Two Preparations of Pemberton Meadows Beef
baby white turnips, sunchokes, crosnes and roasted carrots
LaStella Allegretto Merlot 2006

Assorted North Arm Farm Berries and Lavender Pavlova
minted cream and raspberry coulis
Paradise Ranch Late Harvest Chardonnay/Riesling

Directly from the Whistler Tasting Tours Press Release

Explore Whistler’s best dining in one enjoyable evening on a guided walk-about culinary tour.  We visit several gourmet restaurants for a fantastic multi-course menu paired with fine BC wines.  To make things fun, guests collect a playing card at each venue and prizes are awarded to the best poker hands at the end.

Choose from two fantastic tours featuring different Whistler restaurants.

Après-disiac Tour

Mallard Lounge (Fairmont)

Bearfoot Bistro

Hy’s Steakhouse

Quattro

The Mountain Club

Privileged Palate Tour

Elements

Quattro

Kypriaki Norte

The FireRock Lounge

Furthermore, everyone receives a Perks card that offers a number of great deals around the village and allows them to dine at discount upon any return visit to our partner restaurants.

It’s a fabulous evening of flavour and fun starting from only $79.99!

Notes

We can accommodate most dietary requests (ie. vegetarian or food allergies).

Gratuities included for all servers and drivers (guide excluded).

Group size is 2-15 people.

Directly from the Players Chophouse Press Release:

Players Chophouse joins the global Slow Food movement, and commits to reducing its environmental impact, supporting local producers and continuing to provide guests with flavorful selections.

(Whistler, B.C., July 2nd, 2009) – “Foodies today know what they want: delicious food at attractive pricing that’s good for them and good for the planet”, asserts Executive Chef Jon Campbell. “Our new menus allow people to feel good because the food is clean and wholesome. The restaurant uses fresh, high quality ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. We also seek out sustainable foods in efforts to provide our guests with a healthy culinary experience.”

Rob Ward, President of Points West Hospitality Group says that the Slow Food philosophy is just common sense. “We have a lot of professional athletes as partners in our restaurants (i.e. Pittsburgh Steeler, Mitch Berger and Olympic Skeleton Racer, Jeff Pain). They demand food that is more than just calories – they insist it is healthy and nutritious.”

With initiatives like Green Table, Whistler 2020 and the Whistler Food Task Force, the local foodservice industry is adopting more sustainable business models. “As much as we sincerely believe in the Slow Food movement of good, clean, fair food; there is a financial incentive to going green.”, admits Director of Operations Travis Talbot. “We are examining all aspects of our business to institute practices that are
environmentally and financially sound. Less waste, less energy consumption and lessening our footprint is also about dollars,’ sense’ and economic vitality.”

With the Slow Food and Going Green concepts in mind, the Chophouse is extending the popular Dine-In program through the month of July. The menu is a bounty of seasonal seafood, produce picked from local fields and farmers markets, and of course - Prime beef.

Players Chophouse is located at 201-2075 Lake Placid Rd. in Creekside. Hours of operation are Sunday thru Wed from 11:30am to 10:00pm and Thursday thru Saturday from 11:30 am to 12:00 am. There are two patios, a casually smart dining room and an upstairs lounge with 5 HDTV’s and a 120 inch big screen.

For reservations call 604-938-1270

Directly from the Foodportunity Press Release

The inaugural “Foodportunity,” a networking event for Seattle food professionals, will take place July 22, 2009, from 6-9 pm at Palace Ballroom in downtown Seattle.

Tom Douglas, awarded National Restaurant of theYear by Bon Appetit magazine & James Beard-award nominee, will provide his Palace Ballroom facilities to host the event, organized by Seattle food blogger Keren Brown. It will feature appetizers from Seattle’s most talked about restaurants, the chance to network with food company representatives, a panel discussion on the topic of new media, as well as a “speed networking” event for the first 40 people to sign up.

The Q&A session on new media will be lead by editor Mina Williams (Northwest Stir) and will feature several of Seattle’s best-known writers and bloggers:  Nancy Leson (Seattle Times), Rebekeh Denn (formerly of the Seattle PI), Matthew Amster-Burton (Hungry Monkey) and Ronald Holden (Cornichon).

Appetizers will come from several sources, including Tom Douglas’ restaurants along with a line up of Seattle gems such as Rovers, Andaluca, Olivar, Art of the Table, Dinette, Maximus Minimus and Serafina. Columbia Crest and Vin Du Lac wineries will pour their wines and other beverages will be available for purchase. A range of food products will be on display.

Foodportunity is open to food journalists, bloggers, public relations professionals, restaurateurs, farmers and all food-passionate people. Admission is $25 which includes bites and two glasses of wine (plus tax and fees). Tickets are available at brownpapertickets.com. Space is limited.  Palace Ballroom is located at 2100 5th Avenue in downtown Seattle. More information at http://www.foodportunity.com.

Directly from the Sun Peaks Press Release

July 3, 2009 – Sun Peaks, BC – In a place where adrenaline meets elegance and alpine adventure mixes with urban sophistication, Wine and Culture Festival at Sun Peaks, July 17-19, is a perfect blend. Hike in the alpine as the natural and rugged peaks are filled with the sweet sounds of classical music from the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra. Head to the Sun Peaks Bike Park to hammer the single track and hit some features, then cruise into the village for an art show and wine tasting. After a successful day on the golf course, sample fresh, gourmet cuisine paired with a selection from one of BC’s boutique wineries. It’s all happening during Alpine Blossom Season at Sun Peaks.

To book event tickets and accommodation, please call

1-800-807-3257 or email info@sunpeaksresort.com.

Symphony of Flavours - $55.00 plus tax
Friday, July 17, 6:30pm-8:30pm
A celebration of fine wine and exquisite food set to the rhythm of orchestral sounds from the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra (KSO) on the Delta Health Club Terrace. Guests will sample tapas, prepared with products from local farmers and ranchers located in the Thompson Valley, and spectacular wines from BC’s Boutique wineries including Misconduct Wine Co., Twisted Tree Vineyards and Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery.

Wine Seminar: BC Varietal Showdown - $30.00 plus tax
Saturday, July 18, 12:30pm-2:00pm
Compare and contrast varietals from BC’s Boutique wineries, exploring different wine making styles and understanding what makes each varietal distinct.

Art Walk - $39.00 plus tax
Saturday, July 18, 2:00pm-4:00pm
In partnership with Tree Line Studios and Lone Wolf Gallery, artists will have their work on display at various Sun Peaks restaurants. At each venue, guests sample wine from BC Boutique wineries and tapas from Sun Peaks’ chefs, while learning from the artist about their inspiration and techniques. Artists in attendance include Pavel Barta, Joanne Hastie, Kendra Smith and Bill Jeffrey.

Sunburst Salmon BBQ  – $49.00 plus tax
Saturday, July 18, 5:00pm-7:00pm
Sunday, July 19, 12:00pm-2:00pm
Ensembles from the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra will perform at both Sunburst Salmon Barbeques. A truly unique BC experience in the mountains, the evening begins with a chairlift ride up to the mid-mountain Sunburst Restaurant, where a mouth-watering meal awaits you. Highlighted by a Citrus Grilled Wild Salmon, dinner also includes local organic greens from Thistle Farm topped with edible flowers, roasted new potatoes and steamed asparagus with chervil butter. Finish off your evening with Cherries Jubilee served over Vanilla Bean Ice Cream.

Music in the Mountains
Saturday & Sunday
The natural and rugged mountains of Sun Peaks will be filled with the sounds of classical music throughout the weekend. Ensembles from the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra will be performing in the village, including a String Orchestra and the Vancouver Chamber Brass. During two of the musical sets on Saturday, artist David Oram will be painting a mural along with the melodies from the KSO ensembles.

Quilting in the Mountains
Quilt Class – Saturday & Sunday
Quilters can participate in a two-day class by Dianne Jansson of Diversity Quilting, using Mary Ellen Hopkins machine piecing Level II techniques.

Directly from the VanDusen Press Release:

Registration Information can be found under the Children and Families Section of VanDusen’s web site (www.vandusengarden.org ) or by calling 604-718-5898 or emailing summercamps@vandusen.org

July: three Saturdays - July 4,11 & 18  10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Over the Rainbow
A fusion of food, cooking art and nature - put the fun back into fruits and the verve back into veggies with a hands-on program that will encourage children to enjoy healthy snacks made with local, seasonal produce. Kids will create salads, sushi, sorbets, smoothies and more. Time will also be spent out in the Garden discovering the Heirloom Vegetable Garden, exploring nature and creating artwork inspired by their explorations.  This three-session program is for children 6 - 11 years of age. Children attend unaccompanied by an adult. Program fee covers admission to the Garden, the cost of food and art supplies. Cost: $ 110 per participant

August: Saturday, August 15 one-day camp 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
En Plein Air
Art ‘en plein air’ epitomized the techniques of Impressionist artists Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Cezanne. Looking at the artists of the period, participants will try their hand at Impressionistic painting styles out in the Garden. At the same time, they will experience fresh new flavours as they prepare and share a picnic lunch using local, seasonal ingredients.  This one-day program is for children ages 6 - 11 years of age. Children attend unaccompanied by an adult. Program fee covers admission to the Garden as well as food and art supplies. Cost: $45 per participant

Instructor for both courses - Karen Myskiw
Ms. Myskiw’s background combines experience in landscape design and home economics. Karen engages the potential of children through hands-on learning. Her passions fuse areas of cooking, art-making, gardening, writing and travel.

Directly from the Tourism Whistler Press Release:

Food Events:

Outstanding in the Field July 18, 2009

Join Araxi’s executive chef James Walt and North Arm Farm’s Jordan Sturdy for Outstanding in the Field’s first event in Pemberton, 35 kilometres north of Whistler. A long, linen-draped table beckons adventurous diners to celebrate food at the source. Beginning with a tour of North Arm Farm, guests will enjoy a five-course dinner and wine pairings set between the soil and the sky. To make a reservation visit www.outstandinginthefield.com .

Whistler Farmers’ Market June 21 - October 11, 2009

The Whistler Farmers’ Market takes over the pedestrian streets of the Upper Village (near The Fairmont Chateau Whistler) every Sunday during summer, featuring local produce from the Pemberton Valley and beyond, tasty artisan foods, live cooking demos by Whistler chefs and live music. Choose from a selection of crafts, organic and local produce, jams, honey, baked goods, jewellery and much more on offer. The market runs every Sunday from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. until October 11, 2009. www.whistlerfarmersmarket.org

Mountain Top Dining June 27 - September 7, 2009

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening, from June 27 until September 7, Whistler Blackcomb hosts an incredible alpine dining experience at the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain. Simply ride up on the Gondola and enjoy mouth-watering food while taking in famous Whistler views at 4,000 feet above the Village. Choose from Whole Hog Friday, the Saturday Night BBQ or the Sunday Salmon Bake. Live music plays on all nights. Tickets are available by calling 1.800.766.0449 or to find our more information visit www.whistlerblackcomb.com/todo/summer/dine.

Directly from the Taste of Victoria Press Release:

Victoria’s first annual Taste festival opens on July 16 with The Main Event, an evening devoted to BC wines and Island cuisine.  More than 150 BC wines will be featured and paired with delicious nibbles from Vancouver Island’s top chefs. Meet the characters from the kitchens and vineyards while you swirl, sniff, sip and savour to the tunes of jazz vocalist Emily Braden and the funky vibe of Greenlaw.

Taste Festival’s The Main Event is from 6:30pm to 9:30pm, July 16, at the Victoria Conference Centre’s Crystal Garden, Douglas Street, Victoria.  A limited number of $75 Early-Bird Tickets are available.  Contact the McPherson Box Office, 250-386-6121 or www.rmts.bc.ca, or visit the festival website at www.VictoriaTaste.com.  As of July 1, tickets are $100 and available through the same outlets.

Directly from the Dundarave Fish Market Newsletter:

The beginning of this season has also brought some new and exciting changes to DUNDARAVE FISH MARKET.  Many of you have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Kim Jones over the last year. She has decided to pursue her career as a Veterinary Technician and has therefore relinquished her position as General Manager however staying on with us as a server/manager on a part time basis.  A big thank you Kim - we all wish you much success in your future endeavor!

I’d like to introduce our new General Manager, Molly Kiefer – welcome!

Make this Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21 a particularly special one.  Showcasing only the finest and freshest of seafood, our expert chefs will prepare your desired delicacy in the sauce or seasoning of your choice.  Treat your dad or that special person in your life to lunch or dinner at our exquisite restaurant.  As an added bonus, every dad will receive a free gift…a bottle of our very own SIMPLY WEST COAST SAUCE!  To book your reservation, let Molly know at molly@dundaravefishmarket.com.  Or visit us at www.dundaravefishmarket.com to book either a table or our semi private room upstairs.  Just click the “Reserve” tab.

Directly from the Tinhorn Creek Press Release:

Tinhorn Creek Toasts Canada with Red and White

Oliver, BC… This Canada Day, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards celebrates red and white, wine that is. Join Tinhorn Creek on July 1st for an afternoon of family fun as they toast Canada and release their 2007 Pinot Noir and 2008 Chardonnay.  The day kicks off at 11:00am with a guided hike to Stamp Mill on the “Golden Mile” trail (optional), followed by games and a wild salmon BBQ, complete with patriotic red and white wine at 12:30pm. Tickets are $35 or $30 for Crush Club members (children 12 and under are free) and can be purchased through the winery (1.888.484.6467). Advance ticket purchase is required.

If you aren’t in the South Okanagan on July 1st, pick up a bottle or two of the new releases and host your own celebration.  There is something special about Chardonnay grown in the South Okanagan: its buttery richness is beautifully counterbalanced by crisp, juicy green apple acidity.  Tinhorn Creek’s 2008 is a super-refreshing take on Chardonnay, combining classic Okanagan aromas of flowers and herbs, peaches, apples, and citrus fruits. The complex flavours include vanilla and nutty, leesy, mineral notes.  Enjoy it this Canada Day with Dungeness crab, grilled halibut, rotisserie chicken, or shellfish. The 2007 Tinhorn Creek Pinot Noir is all about bright, fresh, juicy fruit. It boasts aromas of raspberries, strawberries, cherries and plums, with a delicate savoury herbal note that is the signature of the South Okanagan.  Supple and well balanced, this is the ultimate summer red – easygoing, adaptable, and perfect for picnics. Give it a few minutes in an ice bucket and bring on the turkey burgers, grilled sausages, or BBQ chicken.

On the hillside overlooking vineyard, sagebrush, and the old gold mining creek that gave the winery its name, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards is located just south of Oliver B.C., in the famed Golden Mile wine growing district. As the number one winery destination, evoking classic south Okanagan terroir, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards offers an unrivalled visitor experience and wines that rank among the best in the world. For more information about Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, call 1.888.484.6467

Directly from the Tourism Whistler Press Release:

Whistler has starring role in ABC’s hit romance reality series The Bachelorette - Episode featuring Whistler to air June 15, 2009

Whistler, B.C. - Whistler may soon be able to add the title of “best resort in a reality series” to its list of accolades when the Resort takes centre stage on the small screen in next week’s episode of ABC’s hit reality series The Bachelorette, from Warner Horizon Television.

This season’s leading lady is Vancouverite Jillian Harris, 29, who was named The Bachelorette after being a contestant on the most recent season of The Bachelor. In that role, Jillian became a fan favourite, finishing the season as one of the three final women in the competition.

Tourism Whistler, working in partnership with Tourism Vancouver, Tourism British Columbia and the Canadian Tourism Commission, secured the project earlier this year which saw the television crew and cast in-resort for several days of filming in April. As the official accommodation partner, all accommodation support was provided by The Fairmont Chateau Whistler.

Support was also generously provided by the following activity operators: the Callaghan Country Wilderness Adventures, Bearfoot Bistro, Outdoor Adventures at Whistler, Whistler Air, Whistler Blackcomb and Ziptrek Ecotours.

“Without the ongoing Member support of our media services program, we would not be able to secure these types of visits which result in a tremendous amount of media exposure for the Resort,” said Casey Vanden Heuvel, Tourism Whistler’s Director of Communications. “Tourism Whistler is extremely grateful for the ongoing commitment and support of our many Members and partners,” he said.

This season of The Bachelorette premiered on May 18, 2009. Episode 4 brought Jillian and 13 suitors to Vancouver for group and individual hometown dates. The hometown fun continues in Whistler with Jillian and the 10 remaining suitors; one group date and two individual dates will be featured in the two-hour Whistler episode.

On the group date, Jillian and the men competing for her affection were treated to an adventurous snowmobile tour guided by Outdoor Adventures at Whistler to the remote Callaghan Lodge. The group experienced the true remote B.C. wilderness in the Callaghan Valley surrounded by rugged alpine terrain and pristine natural beauty. The Callaghan Valley, located south of Whistler Village, is home to the Whistler Olympic/ Paralympic Park - site of the cross-country, biathlon, Nordic combined and ski jumping events for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

On individual dates, Jillian and one lucky suitor enjoyed a bird’s eye view flying through the air above snow-covered valleys at incredible speeds on a Ziptrek tour, followed by a romantic dining experience at the Bearfoot Bistro in the renowned private wine cellar. Another date involved a breathtakingly scenic flightseeing tour over Whistler, provincial parks and glacier icefields, eventually landing the ski plane on the Champagne Glacier near the giant Pemberton icecap.

The one-on-one dates included the exquisite elegance of The Fairmont Chateau Whistler with champagne beside the hot tub and Fairmont’s poutine served by the firepit on the Mallard Terrace and the rose ceremony taking place in the intimate setting of the Wine Room.

The Whistler visit wrapped up with Jillian enjoying Whistler’s high alpine via Whistler Blackcomb’s new PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. The iconic PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, launched in December 2008, travels across the valley between the two mountains, transporting winter skiers and snowboarders and summer hikers and sightseers between Whistler Mountain’s Roundhouse Lodge to the Rendezvous Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain. While the two mountains have been connected at their bases for years and it was possible to ski both in a day, the gondola makes it easy by travelling the 4.4 kilometres (2.73 miles) between the two mountains in just 11 minutes. It’s an engineering feat and a world record-breaker: the unsupported cable span between the two middle towers is the world’s longest at 3.024 kilometres (1.88 miles). This summer, the PEAK 2 PEAK opens for sightseeing on June 6, delivering Whistler’s summer alpine experience like never before. With the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, hikers now have access to more than 50 kilometres of hiking trails including six new trails on Blackcomb Mountain.

To celebrate Whistler’s featured role in The Bachelorette, members of the community are encouraged to visit the Mallard Lounge at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler to watch the episode as it airs on Monday, June 15 at 8 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Check your local listings for the station and time in your region.

Whistler continues to grow its reputation as a popular destination for television producers. Recent programs filmed here include NBC’s The Today Show (2009), Gene Simmons Family Jewels (2008) and The Bachelor (2004). In addition, several major international, national and regional broadcast news outlets were in-resort in February, 2009 to feature the one-year countdown to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, of which Whistler is the Host Mountain Resort.

Visitors inspired by The Bachelorette and wishing to create their own romantic Whistler holiday experience need look no further than www.whistler.com/romance to build their own unique vacation package, experiencing the many attractions that Whistler has to offer.

Directly from The Eat! Vancouver Press Release:

The 7th Annual EAT! Vancouver Food + Cooking Festival™ - Canada’s largest consumer food, cooking and kitchen show will take place May 22-24, 2009 at BC Place Stadium.

The Bite of Vancouver Pavilion, one of the many specialty areas of the huge food festival, will feature 15 restaurants from the Vancouver area. These eateries will be serving up appetizer portions from their restaurant menus and visitors will be able to purchase appy-size menu items.

For $1 to $4 visitors can taste Chicken Gumbo from Big Al’s Soul Food, delicious butter chicken from Ashiana Tandoori, a burger in miniature size from the Shark Club, or Jerk Chicken from the Jamaican Pizza Jerk.

Award winning Dona Cata Mexican Foods will be cooking pork, lamb, and chicken served in soft corn tortillas. The Sweet Chili Cafe will be serving up Satay Chicken and Delawa (Cantaloupe) beverages.

For cooling refreshment, visitors can experience a Mango Lemonade from Atithi Indian Cuisine, and Mama Mia will be offering a Mango shake in addition to scoops of gelato.

Whatever your taste desires, you’ll find it all at EAT! Vancouver; butter chicken, prawn kebab, chicken gumbo, samosas, Jamaican patties, vegetarian gyozas, tacos, fancy desserts, chocolates, gelato, exotic drinks, it’s all here at the Bite of Vancouver Restaurant Pavilion at EAT! Vancouver.

Directly from the Whistler Mountaineer Press Release:

Vancouver, British Columbia (May 7, 2009) – When guests arrive to board the first Whistler Mountaineer of the year on May 12, they may be surprised to see “Rail Royalty” waiting on the platform.  The historic Royal Hudson steam locomotive along with two of its passenger cars will travel with the Whistler Mountaineer all the way to Squamish, BC. The Whistler Mountaineer will continue on as scheduled to its destination of Whistler, BC.  Along the way, travellers will experience the stunning beauty of the Sea to Sky corridor from a unique train perspective.

“The Royal Hudson is a big part of Canada’s rail history and we couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off our Whistler Mountaineer’s fourth season,” says Hubert Wat, Vice President, Marketing of Rocky Mountaineer.  “We are delighted to partner with the West Coast Railway Association (WCRA), which has made it possible for our guests to have an unforgettable experience onboard the train.”

This special Whistler Mountaineer departure will be the first time in a decade that the Royal Hudson will be carrying guests between North Vancouver and Squamish, a route the iconic steam train offered to tourists in BC for 25 years. The Royal Hudson will disembark at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park in Squamish, where it is stored throughout the year and between appearances.

“We are thrilled to be a part of the Whistler Mountaineer’s season launch and have our classic first lady of steam make a rare public appearance on the North Vancouver to Squamish line,” says Don Evans, President & CEO of West Coast Railway Association. “There is nothing like a live steam locomotive to add drama and true heritage for visitors from around the world.”

The Whistler Mountaineer is a three-hour train trip and provides a scenic journey between the world-class destinations of Vancouver and Whistler, BC, hosts of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. The train offers northbound and southbound departures, seven days a week and a choice between two experiences – Glacier Dome and Coast Classic. And from now until May 29, 2009, BC residents are offered the special rate of $109 per adult roundtrip in Coast Classic experience for groups of four or more. For parties of three or less, prices begin at $129 per person roundtrip. This exclusive online offer is available for travel on May 12 when the Royal Hudson steam locomotive makes its special appearance as well as throughout the 2009 season.

For more details on the BC Residents Special or to reserve seats for the Royal Hudson departure on May 12, visit www.whistlermountaineer.com.

Directly from the Giffard Press Release:

May 7, 2009 (Vancouver, BC) – Mixologists from around the world will take their craft to new heights as they strive to win this year’s Giffard Challenge.  The competition will take place in Angers, France on Monday, May 25 2009.  Two of BC’s best, Shaun Layton of George Ultra Lounge and Wendy McGuinness of Chambar Belgian Restaurant, will be in the thick of the competition after proving their mettle in last September’s Iron Mixologist Competition in Vancouver.  They will join professional mixologists from France, Germany, Russia, Sweden, Denmark, and Italy in their quest to win the prestigious event.

Giffard is known internationally as a supplier of premium liqueurs and syrups.  The Giffard Challenge shows the tremendous range of delicious uses for their products.  The Challenge is also an exciting test of competitors’ creativity, as it requires innovation and improvisational skills.

This year for the first time participating mixologists will be presented with a “surprise basket” one hour prior to the competition, which will contain the mandatory liqueur for their drink as well as fruits or plants which may be used either in the drink or as a garnish.  Mixologists will have an hour to create a short drink cocktail recipe.  They will then have seven minutes to prepare their cocktail in front of the judges.  The cocktails will be judged both on cocktail presentation and realization and on taste.

Good luck to BC’s intrepid mixologists as they compete on the world stage at this event!