Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

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

Food Vancouver Select Guide: September Sojourns in Richmond

Directly from the Donnelly Club Press Release:

BIZ MARKIE -  SUN, SEPT 12TH

Biz Markie is making his return to Van City, except this time he is leaving his records at home and packing his microphone. He’s rocked dancefloors with his unforgettable DJ sets but for the first time ever Biz is giving the people of Vancouver a live performance that only the Diabolical Biz Markie can deliver! As an original member of the Juice Crew, Biz’ humorous anthems such as “Just A Friend”, “Pickin’ Boogers”, “The Vapors” and “Make The Music With Your Mouth Biz” have cemented his status as one of the most beloved entertainers of our time. Simply put, Biz Markie is a legend and when he hits the Republic stage Biz is going to remind us all why NOBODY BEATS THE BIZ!

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

THE GRADUATE - EVERY THURS

Thursdays at Republic just got academic!

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

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

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

CALVERTRON - FRI, AUG 27TH

Following a string of speaker rattling productions and highly acclaimed remixes, Alex Calver aka Calvertron has found himself the subject of attention of some of the most credible artists and record labels in the business. His tracks are consistently featured on the UK’s national radio stations and are spreading like a pandemic into the sets of the world’s most influential DJ’s.

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

DIMITRI - FRI, SEPT 3RD

DIMITRI VEGAS & LIKE MIKE (Belgium)

www.myspace.com/dimivegas
www.myspace.com/mclikemike

Tracks supported by:
Swedish House Mafia - Tiesto - Benny Benassi -
Dirty South - Laidback Luke - Roger Sanchez - Afrojack - David Guetta
- Erick Morillo - Chuckie - Bob Sinclar

Plus
Kissed with a Noise (Dim Mak, Paranoiak)
and
MSH Residents Markus
Montesano & Vendisco

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

LEE MORTIMER - FRI, SEPT 10TH

Lee Mortimer (AKA Sawtooth Sucka) has been steadily making waves with his productions and DJ sets by taking every opportunity to supply ears with exciting, sleaze-filled fidget house. Lee’s DJ-ing roots are in the underground, sweaty clubs, late nights, Stella Artois and Sambuca. This motto has followed him wherever he has played including as far a field and San Francisco (EndUp), Chicago (Smart Bar) and Lithuania, plus all of the UK’s top spots- Ministry Of Sound, Turnmills, 333, The Egg, Back To Basics, and The Custard Factory. Now concentrating his efforts into his own label, Wearhouse Music, Lee has come into his own with his production creativity and A&R skills with all tracks getting majorly caned!

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

SOUL STREAM - WEDS, SEPT 1ST

Vancouver’s legendary band returns home for another special reunion performance - the full band at their original club home playing all the hits you know and love along with DJ Jay Swing.

9:00PM - 2:00AM
Bar None - 1222 Hamilton Street

COLLIE BUDDZ - THURS, SEPT 23RD

Growing up in Bermuda, Collie Buddz was influence by the sounds of his island home. Hip-Hop and Soca music were important to him but his music has a rock solid foundation in Reggae. Collie Buddz exploded onto the the Dancehall scene with his infectious smash “Come Around”. The marijuana anthem first topped the charts in the U.K. before it made it’s way to the #1 spot in Jamaica. Soon after collaborations with Busta Rhymes, Lil Flip and Beyonce helped Collie Buddz establish himself in North America which seen “Come Around” become the #1 Reggae song in Canada. His music career has seen him tour the world including Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Dubai, England, Germany, Italy, Jamaica, France, Japan, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Trinidad, USA and of course Canada!

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

BAR NONE SATURDAYS - EVERY SAT

Biggest and best dance tunes by DJ Matty C & Guests

Saturday join DJ Matty C and guests on the dance floor for a mix of any and everything that is hot!

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

YOUNG, RICH & FAMOUS - EVERY FRIDAY

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

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

LA DISCOTHEQUE - EVERY SAT

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

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

Directly from the Opus Hotel Press Release:

100 Days of OPUS Hotel Vancouver

Vancouver, BC (August 25, 2010) – OPUS Hotel Vancouver has closed the doors of Longtime Yaletown establishment, Elixir Bistro. After a brief 6 day renovation, an exciting and unique pop-up style restaurant will appear in its place! This pop-up restaurant will be open for an exhilarating 100 days and then undergo a spectacular metamorphosis into what will be OPUS Hotel Vancouver’s new awe-inspiring world class restaurant concept in early 2011.

Elixir Bistro is closing up show. Following 8 years as a beloved Yaletown stronghold, it is hanging up it’s fine dining apron and passing the space on to a younger, fresher more energetic contemporary.

In true OPUS style, the change will be dramatic! The new inhabitants of 100 Days will be stripping the space back to its raw industrial bare bones. The menu style will offer affordable plates with a food quality parallel to that of Elixir. John deC. Evans, President & CEO of OPUS Hotels, was inspired by many pop-up concepts in London and New York City. “The OPUS Hotels brand has been successful by doing the unexpected and that was another perfect example of keeping the brand fresh, exciting and progressive. I am also pleased to announce a co-management relationship with RocksGlass Concepts Ltd. for both 100 Days and OPUS Bar with no changes in ownership for either establishment”. OPUS Hotel Vancouver will continue to exclusively manage and operate OPUS Catering, all banquet services of the hotel, as well a Café O. To reinforce the unique style and design of 100 Days, genius duo, renowned interior designer Robert Bailey and energetic graffiti artist Vince Dumoulin will create an edgy urban and constantly changing environment.

The excitingly avant-garde, anti-establishment pop-up restaurant will be called 100 Days … and for good reason. In 100 Days it too will close its doors and a new entity will emerge from its legacy.

On Friday August 27th, 2010, 100 Days will open its doors for the first of 100 remarkable nights.

Directly from the Smoking Dog Bistro Newsletter:
Labour Day Long Weekend

The Smoking Dog will keep their doors open all of Labour Day long weekend, welcoming our patrons for al fresco dining.

Join the Newsletter to be able to print the free dessert deal that will be available with purchase of entree or appetizer

The above offer valid Saturday September 4 to Monday September 6 2010 and you have to print a coupon from the newsletter.

Directly from the Saturna Island Winery Press Release:

Saturna Island Family Estate Vineyards Woof White Donates $2 from EVERY BOTTLE to Mosaic Dog Rescue

Saturna Island Family Estate Winery has partnered with Mosaic Dog Rescue to donate $2 from every bottle of their new Woof White to this Saturna Island-based animal rescue fund.  Mosaic Dog Rescue saves dogs at risk at high kill facilities and adopts them into homes in the Victoria area.

Woof White is hand crafted by winemaker Danny Hattingh from 100% Estate grown Pinot Gris.  The label was commissioned by Mosaic Dog Rescue founder, Janet Land, and painted by Jack Campbell, a Saturna Island artist.  A closer look reveals that the painting is actually a mosaic of many breeds of dogs within one larger dog.

About Saturna Island Family Estate Winery

The Saturna Island Vineyards are situated on a bench of land nestled between the waters of the Pacific, and a magnificent soaring sandstone and granite cliff face on the south side of the island. There are sixty acres of vines under cultivation in four designated vineyards, which make Saturna Island Family Estate Winery one of the largest estate vineyard and winery operations in coastal British Columbia.

Saturna Island Family Estate Winery winemaker, Danny Hattingh, crafts wines from 100% Estate fruit.  The winery produces Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Rose, Blanc de Noir, Sparkling and a Port-style wine, named Vinsera. www.saturnavineyards.com

About Mosaic Rescue

Mosaic Rescue is a registered non profit society dedicated to the rescue and adoption of small and medium sized mixed breed dogs (Mosaics) who are at risk in high kill facilities.

In 2008 Little Rock Animal Services euthanized 2,800 dogs, 70% of the more than 4,000 dogs that ended up in the pound that year. These numbers are especially shocking to those of us who consider our dogs members of the family.

Many of the dogs at that shelter are wonderful, friendly, adoptable pets who deserve not only to live but to have a loving family of their own. Mosaic Rescue is committed to working with rescue partners on both sides of the border to save as many of these dogs as we can and place them in loving forever homes in the Victoria BC area.

www.mosaicrescue.ca

Saturna Island Family Estate Wines available through

BC Mainland Cassandra Anderton 604 617 2205 casssandrajane10@shaw.ca,

Vancouver and Gulf Islands Shane Miller 250 818 3918 sivwineshop@hotmail.com

www.saturnavineyards.com  Tel: (250) 539-5139 Toll Free: 1-877-918-3388

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

A Week to Indulge at Sun Peaks Resort

September 15th to 30th: Eat and Drink! BC

September 17th to 19th: Eat! Fraser Valley Food and Cooking Festival

October 7th: Taste Chile 2010

October 13th to 31st: Taste of Yaletown

Directly from the Whistler Blackcomb Newsletter:

It’s Wildflower Season at Whistler Blackcomb

The wildflowers are blooming at Whistler Blackcomb and the spectacular Decker Loop trail is now open. This beautiful wildflower season only lasts a couple of weeks so take a gondola up the mountain now and get out into the stunning alpine. 100% of hiking trails on Blackcomb Mountain and most trails on Whistler Mountain are now open, with more opening up soon. Sightseeing is open daily until September 26, and then open weekends only until October 11. See you on the mountains!

DEALS & OFFERS

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre - 30% OFF
Master carver Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) is carving a Salish Welcome Figure to be placed near the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola Station as a continuation of the Cultural Journey Sea to Sky. Meet the carver at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler’s Upper Village. Bring your PEAK 2 PEAK Alpine Experience ticket and receive 30% off admission.

Summer Lodging Rates from $89/night
This summer, you can soak up the sun and fun of Whistler and save. With this amazing nightly rate, there’s nothing stopping you from booking the perfect summer escape today!

WHISTLER MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK

Red Bull 5000 Down. September 11-12, 2010
For a second year, Red Bull 5000 Down hits Whistler Blackcomb with a mass start downhill mountain bike race. Mountain bikers will gather at the peak of Whistler Mountain and will descend more than 2,182 metres and a vertical of 1,530 metres in order to cross the finish line in Whistler Village.

Buy a 2010 Mountain Bike at Garbanzo Bike & Bean - Get a $100 Reward Card Back*
Buy a bike over $800 and receive a $100 American Express® - branded Reward Card to be used on anything at Garbanzo Bike & Bean. *See in store for details. GBB is located at the base of Whistler mountain with clothing and accessories from brands like Fox, Sombrio, Oakley, Race Face and bikes from Kona and Santa Cruz.

CHECK THIS OUT

The North Face Store expanding in Whistler

This September The North Face Store will move into a 4,500 sq ft location in Deer Lodge and grow its product line to include outdoor equipment, tents, sleeping bags and packs. The Store will also feature an expanded Kid’s section carrying outerwear and footwear. The North Face Whistler - home of technically advanced, innovative apparel, footwear and gear that inspires athletes to Never Stop Exploring.

Mountain-Top BBQ Series - Last BBQ September 5
The perfect end to a perfect day. Extend your alpine experience with an incredible BBQ dinner with live music at the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening. Don’t miss out - last Mountain-Top BBQ is September 5!

Directly from the Hart House Press Release:

Hart House Raises a Glass to Spain with Culinary Fiesta

August 17, 2010 (Vancouver, BC) – Summer is drawing to a close, but Burnaby’s Hart House Restaurant is determined to send it off in style with a Spanish Fiesta Garden Party.  On Wednesday, September 1 2010 guests enjoy a tasting of Spanish wines and a three-course dinner with live music for $48.

Spain is the world’s third-largest wine producer, and its wines are in hot demand right now, as knowledgeable consumers around the globe focus on finding quality bottles at reasonable prices.  The evening at Hart House will open with a casual tasting of top-quality Spanish wines on the elegant estate grounds, which offer an unrivalled view of Deer Lake.  Guests may choose to purchase a bottle or two from the night’s specially-selected wine list to pair with their dinner.  The menu for the event will include local seafood prepared in the Spanish culinary style.  Dinner will be served al fresco and accompanied by live music.

Reservations available by phone only at 604-298-4278.

Directly from the Sinclair Centre Press Release:

Sinclair Centre to offer FREE lunchtime cooking classes from Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks

Vancouver, BC – Get ready foodies! From August 23rd to 27th, the Sinclair Centre (757 West Hastings St.) will be offering a series of free lunchtime cooking courses, taught by Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks. Geared towards the home cook, each class will showcase three different dishes that are fresh, easy and fast.

The 45-minute classes will be offered twice daily, and will be taught demonstration-style in the Sinclair Centre Atrium (adjacent to Sinclair Centre food court, so attendees are encouraged to grab lunch and enjoy the show).

And yes … there will be samples!

Class Schedule

August 23:
11:45 a.m. - French Food Fast
1:00 p.m. – Sea’s Bounty

August 24:
11:45 a.m. - Savouring the Harvest
1:00 p.m. - College Cooking

August 25:
11:45 a.m. - Easy Vegetarian
1:00 p.m. – Sea’s Bounty

August 26:
11:45 a.m. - French Food Fast
1:00 p.m. - Savouring the Harvest

August 27:
11:45 a.m. - Easy Vegetarian
1:00 p.m. - College Cooking

Pre-registration is not required, and seating will be available on a first-come first-served basis.

About the Sinclair Centre

The Sinclair Centre is a historic upscale shopping mall located in downtown Vancouver at 757 West Hastings Street between Granville and Howe. The centre is comprised of four buildings that were restored by Henriquez Partners Architects and joined together by a glass atrium roof in 1986. While known best for its Government of Canada offices, the Sinclair Centre is also a destination for luxury shopping, including fashion (Leone, L2 and Escada), pens and stationary (Charals), perfumes (The Perfume Shoppe) and fine linens (Terra Nova).

For more information please visit www.sinclaircentre.com.

Directly from the White Spot Press Release:

White Spot gives grownups a chance to walk the plank in support of Zajac Ranch for Children

On August 18, $2 from the sale of each kids and adult Pirate Pak will help send deserving children to summer camp

VANCOUVER – For every White Spot fan over the age of 10, the day you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. Since the legendary Pirate Pak first sailed onto the dining table in 1968, millions of kids from across B.C. and Alberta have enjoyed a tasty meal that created hours of entertainment and lasting memories. To celebrate the third annual Pirate Pak Day and for the first time in history, everyone from older sisters and aunts to dads and grandparents can re-live childhood for a day by ordering a special edition ‘Adult Pak’ on August 18.

“Every year we receive an overwhelming number of requests from adults that have craved a Pirate Pak meal since their youth!” said Warren Erhart, president of White Spot. “White Spot launched Pirate Pak Day to reminisce about the joys of childhood and keep the magic of the Pirate Pak alive, so we created an opportunity for adults to be kids again and enjoy the beloved ‘Pak’ alongside their families.”

To commemorate Pirate Pak Day 2010 on August 18, $2 from the sale of each Pirate Pak and contributions received in lieu of Pirate Paks will be donated to the Zajac Ranch for Children – a longtime B.C. charity dedicated to giving children with life-threatening illnesses and chronic disabilities an unforgettable summer camp experience.

“Pirate Pak Day was a huge success last year and we had the privilege of sending many deserving kids to White Spot Week at Zajac Ranch where they rode horses, kayaked, played water sports and participated in arts and crafts,” said Erhart. “This year, we’re hosting our camp from August 23 to 27, and can’t wait to see more kids benefit from an incredible four days of fun summer activities.”

A traditional White Spot menu favourite for more than four decades, the Pirate Pak was first created by Nat Bailey to provide an exclusive dining experience for kids age 10 and under. The children’s Pirate Pak costs $5.99 and is available in a range of delicious options including the Legendary Burger, grilled cheese sandwich, Pirate Pals crispy-coated chicken, macaroni and cheese and lightly battered Pacific Cod. White Spot’s special edition ‘Adult Pak’ will be available August 18 only, and starting at $9.99, features a choice of Legendary Burger, Bacon Cheddar Chicken Burger or Chargrilled Veggie Burger. Each mouth-watering choice comes complete with fresh-cut fries, a beverage, a scoop of ice cream and a chocolate “gold” coin.

Pirate Pak Facts

Exactly 814,700 Pirate Paks were sold last year
Since 1968, nearly 22 million Pirate Paks have been sold
With the option of substituting salad, juice, feature sundaes and shakes for the standard favourites, there are nearly 675 different Pirate Pak combinations, including vegetarian options!
The Pirate Pak ship is 100 per cent recyclable
The most popular Pirate Pak item is the Pirate Pak Hamburger made with 100 per cent fresh Canadian beef and famous Triple O sauce

About White Spot

Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, White Spot is a B.C. legend. Founded in 1928, when Nat Bailey launched Canada’s first drive-in restaurant at Granville and 67th, the 82-year-old chain now sees more than 17 million guests annually at 118 White Spot and Triple O’s locations throughout B.C. and Alberta. Bailey’s original vision was to build a restaurant that served the highest quality, unique tasting food and White Spot remains committed to continuing this tradition in each and every meal.

Directly from the Sun Peaks Resort Press Release:

Celebrate the Harvest at Sun Peaks – October 8-10, 2010

A showcase of fine food, wine and beer, Autumn Bounty at Sun Peaks Resort celebrates the best in the Thompson-Okanagan Valley. Enjoy breakfast at a local ranch, watch an Iron Chef competition at the indoor Farmers’ Market, or experience a multi-course Gala dinner highlighting top producers from the region. The celebration of fare allows guests to sample some incredible cuisine prepared from the fantastic product available right here in our region, paired with phenomenal wines. From the Okanagan Springs House Party with beer samples and complementary appetizers, to the perennial sell out The Winemaker and The Farmer, a lunch featuring exclusively organic products, the events all highlight the importance of supporting local and regional farmers and producers.

Massaging the Needs of the Sun Peaks Community

It was 2002 when the Sun Peaks Spa opened as a one room clinic in the village. After several expansions through the seasons, the spa has moved to a new location…the brand new Kookaburra Lodge at Sun Peaks Resort. A quaint and tranquil mountain spa, the facility is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind for hikers, mountain bikers and other guests enjoying the many outdoor activities available every summer at the resort. Breathe in fresh alpine air as you soak your feet in the sunshine on the creekside spa terrace. Large French doors bring in natural light and views of forest green trees as your cares melt away on the massage table. Couples can enjoy side-by-side hot stone massages, while others can sink into leather, reclining massage chairs for a signature pedicure. www.sunpeaksspa.com.

Top 5 Reasons to Ride the Sun Peaks Bike Park

1.    No shuttle and getting lots of runs.

2.    The feeling of being in the middle of nowhere while out on the trails.

3.    Taking a break in the shade of the trees at the base of the lift. You’ll always bump into someone for another run.

4.    Parking lot après every Saturday.

5.    No shuttle and getting lots of runs.

Directly from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts Press Release:

Mystery Chef Kitchen Tour Fundraiser  - Limited Tickets Remain -

Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts is playing host once again for the Canadian Chefs’ Congress Mystery Chef Kitchen Tour fundraiser this Sunday.

Date:  Sunday, August 22nd
Start Time:  6:30 PM (sharp)
Cost:  $75 per person.

Event registration and further details available online at:   http://mysterykitchentourencore.eventbrite.com/?ref=ebtn

Some of Vancouver’s top Chefs (we would tell you, but then it wouldn’t be a mystery…) take over PICA’s eight professional kitchens to host the ultimate kitchen party.  Tour from kitchen to kitchen where you can taste each Chefs creation and sip on specially paired wines.  All proceeds go towards the 2010 Canadian Chefs’ Congress hosted on Vancouver Island this Fall, where 500 Chefs, students and apprentices will convene to discuss the future health of our oceans.

Directly from the Jackson Triggs Press Release

Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate Winery is pleased to present the 2nd annual

The Best of Canadian Food, Wine and Song
Featuring Host Steven Page with Sarah Slean, Joel Plaskett & Hawksley Workman

In short:
On Friday, August 27, 2010, The Amphitheatre at Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate Winery, Niagara on the Lake, will host the second annual ROOTSTOCK. The evening will feature four of Canada’s top musical artists - Steven Page, Sarah Slean, Joel Plaskett and Hawksley Workman and will truly be a celebration of fine Canadian music and wine.

More detail:
ROOTSTOCK is a unique gathering that will feature four of Canada’s most revered singer-songwriters in performance at The Jackson Triggs Amphitheatre, one of Canada’s most intimate and unique venues. The entertaining and talented Steven Page, a founding member of Barenaked Ladies, will serve as host and will guide these three unique musicians through this special evening.

Rootstock concert tickets are on sale now ($61.00 p.p. plus tax). The evening will begin at 8:00 p.m. For tickets call 1-905-468-4637 x 2, or for further information please visit www.jacksontriggswinery.com.

Steven Page
For twenty years, Steven Page was the lead singer and songwriter with Barenaked Ladies, the Toronto-based band he formed in 1988 with Ed Robertson. Known for his dynamic, physically exuberant performances, his powerful tenor, quick wit, and an arsenal of songs that span the gamut between humor and pathos, Steven and the band toured the world, selling out venues ranging from Madison Square Garden to the Royal Albert Hall. Steven left the band in 2009 to pursue a solo and theatrical career. On his own, Steven released an album written and produced with Stephen Duffy, called The Vanity Project in 2005. He has composed music for Shakespeare’s As You Like It, (2005) Coriolanus, (2006) and Ben Jonson’s Bartholomew Fair (2009) for Canada’s Stratford Shakespeare Festival. In 2007, he hosted his own national radio documentary series, All The Rage on Canada’s CBC Radio One. Singer Must Die, an album of songs recorded with the Art of Time Ensemble, was released in February 2010 and followed by a critically acclaimed tour. Steven Page’s solo album Page One will be released on September 28th, 2010 and the first single “Indecision” is currently gracing the airwaves.

Sarah Slean
Over the course of her twelve-year career Sarah Slean has made six albums, starred in short films and a movie musical, published two volumes of poetry, held exhibitions of her paintings, and shared the stage with four of the country’s leading orchestras. She has been nominated for two Gemini Awards and three Junos, and her records have been released in multiple countries world wide. Her latest album is called the The Baroness. An EP of its outtakes entitled The Baroness Redecorates showcases her remarkable talent as a string arranger. She has just completed a degree in music and philosophy at the University of Toronto. Her current project is a double album entitled Land & Sea that will capture the two most prominent sides of Slean’s musical personality: the clever, infectious pop reminiscent of Sweet Ones, her first major radio hit in 2002, (Land, produced by Joel Plaskett) and dreamy, dark, string-soaked cabaret balladry (Sea, produced by film composer Jonathan Goldsmith).

Joel Plaskett
Canada has produced some of the world’s most enduring songwriters and Joel Plaskett is being hailed as one of the best. Over the last three years, Joel has toured extensively both solo and with The Emergency, to sold-out clubs, theatres and headlining festivals throughout Canada, the United States and Australia - all on the heels of great Canadian success with his Make A Little Noise DVD & EP (2006) and concept record, Ashtray Rock (2007). Topping that off was Joel’s Juno Award nomination for Songwriter of the Year and his placement as First Place Winner in the 2008 Great American Song Contest and the Billboard World Song Contest for his single Fashionable People (in the Pop Category). Joel’s latest release, triple album Three, is his most ambitious work to date and features a stellar line up of guest musicians including his father Bill Plaskett, Rose Cousins, Ana Egge and his band, The Emergency (Chris Pennell, Dave Marsh and Peter Elkas). Received with overwhelming response from media and radio programmers across the country, the reviews were stellar for lead single, “Through & Through & Through”. Joel and his latest effort, Three won the 2010 Juno for Best Alternative Album and received a nomination for the prestigious 2009 Polaris Music Award. Without a doubt, another personal career highlight for Joel and his band was sharing the stage opening for the legendary Paul McCartney (in Halifax, Nova Scotia) performing to an audience of over 50,000.

Hawksley Workman
A musician of incredible velocity, Hawksley Workman is at the top of his game when he has the solitude and serenity to write and record his music in atomic bursts, focused into monastic postures, accessing grace and brilliance in fluid, sweeping motions. With his increasing rock triumphs, growing fan communities and formidable body mass, Workman has evolved from the slight, pin-striped oddball with a critically-acclaimed diamond voice, to the panoramic, guitar-punishing superstar with no performance limits.

There are many exciting ways to enjoy ROOTSTOCK along with our Wine Bar featuring fine Jackson-Triggs, Le Clos Jordanne and Inniskillin VQA wines.

CULINARY OPTIONS PRIOR TO THE CONCERT:

ROOTSTOCK offers a unique and relaxed way to enjoy wine country at its best - catching some of Canada’s premiere musical artists while savouring Niagara’s outstanding wine and local fare. To enhance the ROOTSTOCK experience we are pleased to offer a variety of culinary options under the direction of Chef David Penny.

BARREL CELLAR DINNER
A four-course locally sourced menu paired with VQA wines in the underground barrel cellar. ($84.96 plus tax & gratuity) Wine included.
Must be pre-ordered at time of ticket purchase

VINEYARD DINING (food prices only)
The Vineyard Escarpment Package: Seared flat iron steak on Soba noodle salad, heirloom tomato panzanella salad, local charcuterie and Artisan cheese, vegetables and humus dip - $25.00 plus tax. Vegetarian option available. Must be pre-ordered at time of ticket purchase.

VINEYARD TERROIR PACKAGE
Rustic sandwich with local Pingue Prosciutto, Niagara Gold local cheese and arugula pesto, quinoa salad with Rick’s beets and fresh herbs, baby  vegetables and hummus dip - $15.00 plus tax (Vegetarian option available). Must be pre-ordered at time of ticket purchase.

For those guests looking for a more casual experience we will have available the following options:

UNDER THE HOSPITALITY MARQUEE
Starting at 5:30 p.m. enjoy delicious concession snacks ranging from gourmet popcorn, house-made spiced nuts and house made potato chips.($2.50-$5.00 including tax).

THE TASTING GALLERY
Will remain open until 7:45 p.m. with its lighter fare menu of Pulled Pork Sandwich, Seasonal Soup, Salad, Cheese & Charcuterie. ($5.00 and $10.00 plus tax).

The 2010 Twilight in the Vineyard Series has been enhanced by the Celebrate Ontario Grant.

For concert tickets or booking contact 1-905-468-4637 x 2
or for further information visit: www.jacksontriggswinery.com

Directly from the Taiwanfest Press Release:

TELUS TAIWANfest: Crossover
Aug.27 – Aug. 29

Part of World Routes Summer Festivals 2010 at Harbourfront Centre

TORONTO, ON (Aug. 5, 2010) – The fifth edition of TELUS TAIWANfest: Crossover returns to Harbourfront Centre Aug. 27 - Aug. 29, 2010.  This year’s festival is organized in eight parts and includes an electrifying focus on Taiwanese indie music, a glamorous fashion show from some of Taiwan’s top designers, food demonstrations from local chefs along with traditional puppet and Hakka opera performances.

Friday night kicks off with the return of the CLASH: The Battle of Elegance fashion show that sets top Taiwanese designers against each other for runway supremacy. Designers Chiui Hsu and Jasper Huang, showcase their signature styles (which are some of edgiest in Asia) alongside Vancouver-based designer Angela Chen.

Also returning is the highly anticipated UMUSICLIVE concert series that explores the concept of ‘crossing over’ in the context of musical expression with 10 high-energy indie rock bands from Canada and Taiwan. Some of the acts representing Taiwan include Aboriginal reggae singers Matzka, Taiwan’s ambassadors of rap Kou Chou Ching and Peaches-esque rocker chicks Go Chic. Hip-hop jazz performer Leo 37 and female MC Masia One represent Canada and supply the audience with a dose of uniquely Torontonian hip hop flavours.

Taiwanese cuisine is also showcased at the Crossover Kitchen food demonstrations. Foodies will rejoice as chefs prepare signature Taiwanese dishes including an assortment of Hakka, aboriginal and local derivatives of Chinese cuisine. They will also prepare vegetarian dishes made with an innovative use of spices packed with flavour.

The big idea behind all programming in this year’s World Routes summer festivals is “globalocal”, or global to local, a theme programmed into each festival to bring together rich artistic traditions from around the corner to around the globe!

For additional information and complete event listings, the public may visit harbourfrontcentre.com/worldroutes or call the Information Hotline at 416-973-4000. Harbourfront Centre is located at 235 Queens Quay W. Toronto, ON.

Full Event Listings by Genre:

MUSIC:

Invading the Dragon Palace: Rom Shing Hakka Opera

Friday, Aug. 27, 6:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

For the past 20 years the Rom Shing Hakka Opera Troupe has actively participated in a variety of performances around Taiwan to help promote the art form of traditional Hakka opera. The troupe combines the nine styles and 18 modes of Hakka opera with comedic and humorous dialogue.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Nick Fothergill

Saturday, Aug. 28, 1 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Toronto-born musician, Nick Fothergill incorporates traditional North American folk, acoustic rock and ballad-style story telling into his performances. After moving to Taiwan in 2002, Fothergill has performed across Asia and North America.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Suming

Saturday, Aug. 28, 2 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Suming, from the Amis tribe of Taiwan, is the front man and song writer for three rock bands including the popular Taiwanese band Totem. He uses his songs to transport an audience back to a simpler time (in his indigenous language).

The Rise of Indie Nation: 1976

Saturday, Aug. 28, 3:15 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Named after the year the members were born, 1976’s work contains elements of psychedelic-folk, Brit-pop, electronic-rock, glam rock and modern rock. In 2009, the band opened for the Oasis Live Forever Tour in Taipei and was the first Taiwanese band to open for a world-class rock band.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Double X

Saturday, Aug. 28, 5 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Double X is the pioneer of Taiwanese indie music and has been singled out by Taiwan’s Government Information Office as an artist with significant international potential.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Aphasia

Saturday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Aphasia (a medical term meaning the inability to speak) use their instruments and music to speak for the voiceless. The band uses the name to poke fun at politics with their post-rock, punk and metal sound.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Go Chic

Saturday, Aug. 28, 8 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Go Chic, a Taiwanese band consisting of all girls and one male drummer, has been pumping out raw, catchy and dance-electro music since 2007. The band is known for engaging the audience with their humour and energy and encouraging them to dance and sing along!

The Rise of Indie Nation: Matzka

Saturday, Aug. 28, 9 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Matzka are one of few indigenous bands to illustrate traditional songs infused with reggae. Together they celebrate Taiwanese aboriginal culture with a live concert full of humour and energy.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Kou Chou Ching

Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Known as Taiwan’s ambassadors of rap, Kou Chou Ching expresses the creativity and vitality of Taiwan’s independent music scene with their explosive lyrics and energetic live performances. The group won “Best Remix of the Year” and “Best Group of the Year” at the Just Plain Folks Music Awards, the world’s biggest awards show for independent music.

The Rise of Indie Nation: LEO 37

Sunday, Aug. 29, 2 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

LEO 37’s music uses influences from a number of genres including hip-hop, soul, jazz,

electronica and pop. His performance is grass roots, original and worldly.

The Rise of Indie Nation: Masia One

Sunday, Aug. 29, 4 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Masia One, a Singapore native who now resides in Toronto hits the stage with a performance showcasing her rap skills. She was the first female to be nominated for a Much Music Video Award for rap and is currently completing a project with American record label Kops & Robbers. Her most recent project features Pharrell, The Game, Talib Kweli and RZA.

FOOD:

Crossover Kitchen

Saturday, Aug. 28, 2 p.m., 5 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 1:30 p.m. & 4 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

At Crossover Kitchen, local chefs are challenged to prepare signature Taiwanese dishes using ingredients from Canada. Chefs include, David Chung, Ku Lai Wen and Elsa Chang.

DANCE:

Treasure our Mother Nature

Sunday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Tzu Chi Foundation (a volunteer-led charitable organization) hits the stage with a performance that combines sign language, martial arts and dance. Treasure our Mother Nature was created to raise awareness of the foundation’s green mandate with the help of volunteers and students.

FILM:

E Sha Age

Saturday, Aug. 28, 3:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 4 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

E Sha Age, a documentary by filmmaker Waro Hsueh, explores the history of the E. Sha Singing and Dancing Group. E Sha was an all-female musical theatre group that dominated Taiwan’s entertainment industry for 25 years. The documentary focuses on rejuvenating old memories of the group and creating new ones for the younger generation.

Viva Tonal – The Dance Age

Saturday, Aug. 28, 6 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Viva Tonal – The Dance Age blends together interviews, songs and footage from Taiwan’s ‘dance age. As a historical documentary, it aims to portray the ‘Dance Age’ of the 1920’s and 30’s when youth culture and artistic freedom started to become popular.

FAMILY:

Taiwanese Traditional Lantern Making

Saturday, Aug. 28, 2-3:30 p.m. & 5-6:30 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 2-3:30 p.m. (HarbourKIDS Zone Tent)

Kids can learn the Taiwanese tradition of lantern making, a practice that dates back to the 3rd century. An annual lantern festival is still held in Taipei County of Taiwan, where lanterns are released into the sky.

THEATRE:

Legendary Puppeteers I-Wan-Jan Puppet Troupe

Saturday, Aug. 28, 1 p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 29, 2 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

At Telus TAIWANFest the story of Monkey King is presented by the I-Wan-Jan puppet troupe which was founded by world renowned Master Puppeteer, Tien-Lu Lee. Lee is known for his innovative approach, such as incorporating martial arts sequences and acrobatic stunts into the scenes acted out by his puppets. Lee’s lively choreography results in tightly knit, action-packed stories filled with thrilling fight scenes.

LITERARY:

Remembering Teresa Teng Singing Contest

Sunday, Aug. 29, 3:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

The public is invited to a special tribute to the late Teresa Teng (Asian music icon) that includes a Teresa Teng singing contest.

VISUAL ARTS:

Formosa Mambo

Saturday, Aug. 28 & Sunday, Aug. 29, 1 p.m. (Marilyn Brewer Community Space)

The National Museum of Taiwan History presents a visual arts event that displays the ordinary lives of Taiwanese people by combining music with historical scenes from traditional times to modern day.

FASHION:

CLASH: The Battle of Elegance

Friday, Aug. 27, 9 p.m. (Sirius Stage)

Two designers from Taiwan, Chiui Hsu and Jasper Huang, battle alongside Taiwan-born, Vancouver-based designer Angela Chen for runway supremacy at CLASH: The Battle of Elegance fashion show. Each designer will showcase their signature styles which are some of edgiest in Asia.

Directly from the Glowbal Group Press Release:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Directly from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts Newsletter:

Wine & Spirit Education Trust

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

Summer Teen Camps

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

Got Beer?

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

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

The Mystery Chef Kitchen Tour Returns!

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

Giving You Something Special to WINE About

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

Directly from the Les Amis du Fromage Press Release:

les amis du FROMAGE SALE

Swiss Cheese Sale

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

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

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

Directly from The Fish House in Stanley Park:

Special Klahowya Table D’hôte Menu

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

COLD SMOKED BISON CARPACCIO
mountain cranberry compote, pickled milkweed pods

CEDAR PLANKED WILD SOCKEYE SALMON
cedar scented beurre blanc

ELDERBERRY SWIRL CHEESE CAKE
hazelnut crust

Coffee or tea
-
$48 per person

Courses also available individually (a la carte)

Featured Wines

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

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

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

Directly from the Provence Restaurants Press Release: 

YOU SAY TOMATO AND I SAY TOMAHTO,

BOTH ARE TASTY AT PROVENCE

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

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

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

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

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

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

Directly from the Red Card Sports Bar Press Release:

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.redcardsportsbar.ca

Directly from the Mr Mike’s Steakhouse Press Release:

MR. MIKES STEAKHOUSE & BAR CELEBRATES 50 YEARS WITH MIKEBURGER® MADNESS
Burger-eating challenge aims to raise $50,000 for local charities across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley

Mr. Mikes Steakhouse & Bar, the popular West Coast restaurant chain, will be celebrating their 50th anniversary with Mikeburger® Madness, a challenge to their friends in communities across British Columbia and Alberta to chow down on 50,000 Mikeburgers® to raise money for local charities. As one dollar from every Mikeburger® sold will be reinvested back into the community from July 18 – August 29, the goal is to ultimately raise a total of $50,000.

“Community is a huge part of who we are and what we’re all about here at Mr. Mikes,” said Yuri Fulmer, president and CEO, Mr. Mikes Steakhouse & Bar. “Giving back to the communities that have supported us is our way of thanking them for playing a huge part in our success over the past 50 years and is a top priority for everyone in the Mr. Mikes family.”

As every restaurant in the Mr. Mikes chain is unique, each individual restaurant has chosen a meaningful organization to donate their funds to. Across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, sales will help support the efforts of various community projects, children’s and health-related charities.

Mr. Mikes strives to play an important role in charitable organizations and help provide a positive change within the communities in which they are located, continually contributing to improving the lives of their community members.

Mikeburger® Madness officially kicks off on July 18, 2010 where, for one day only, each Mikeburger® combo with fries is on special for $5.99 and will be taking place at the following locations across Western Canada: Coquitlam, Duncan, Surrey, Langley, Mission, Chilliwack, Cranbrook, Quesnel, Terrace, Dawson Creek, Fort St. John, Grande Prairie, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Red Deer, Airdrie, Okotoks, and Lethbridge. At the end of the campaign Mr. Mikes Corporate will reward the location that sold the most Mikeburgers® by matching their donations raised, up to $5,000.

Directly from the Chambar Restaurant Press Release:

A FEAST FIT FOR KINGS
Chambar Celebrates National Belgian Day in Medieval Style

July 16, 2010 Vancouver, BC – Join Chambar restaurant on Wednesday, July 21st to celebrate National Belgian Day with a feast fit for kings. History buffs will recognize this national holiday as a day that marks Leopold I taking the constitutional oath as the first King of Belgium on July 21st, 1831.
For one night only, Chambar will celebrate this momentous occasion medieval style with communal tables loaded with platters of meat, seafood and of course, Belgian beers. Outside on Beatty Street, Chef Nico Schuermans will be roasting a pig on a spit, while inside Chambar staff will serve beers by the glass or the metre. Guests should note that due to the medieval nature of this celebration, eating is going to be a hands-on experience only. Please note that vegetarian options and cutlery will not be available. Costumes and furs are deemed festive, but not essential. Get ready to be a little debaucherous.
Guests are encouraged to reserve their seat early for what promises to be a bottoms-up celebration.  The festivities kick-off at 6:30pm with seats priced at $60/person. This cost includes beer upon arrival and three hours of feasting. For reservations phone 604-879-7119 or visit: www.chambar.com

Directly from the Tinhorn Creek Press Release:

CONCERTS AND Q’S WITH TINHORN CREEK VINEYARDS

Oliver, BC… Summer has finally hit, just in time for BBQ season and the Summer concert series. Tinhorn Creek Vineyards is making the season even better this year with two of their best summer wines available at your local BC Liquor store. Hitting the shelves this week is the 2009 Oldfield Series 2Bench White at $22.99, perfect for summer sipping with grilled BC Spot Prawns or Halibut. And if steak is more to your liking, try the Tinhorn Creek 2006 Oldfield Series Merlot at $24.99. Previously these wines have only been available at the Tinhorn Creek Vineyards Wine Shop, but will now be available at select LDB stores around the Lower Mainland.

The Oldfield Series wines are Winemaker Sandra Oldfield’s signature wines. This tier provides Oldfield with a playground for experimentation and is a creative showcase for the best wines from each vintage. The 2009 2Bench White is a five-variety blend that is much more than the sum of its parts. It has intense floral aromas, with flavours of tropical fruit, apples, pears, and citrus. The wine is quite rich and full-bodied, yet the fresh acidity of the Okanagan perfectly plays its part, producing a fresh, lively, mouth-watering finish. The 2006 Oldfield Series Merlot is a Merlot with a difference: 100% estate-grown South Okanagan fruit from our Black Sage Bench (Diamondback) and Golden Mile Bench (Tinhorn Creek) vineyards. It was aged for 18 months in new French and American oak. The result is a rich, full-bodied wine with concentrated cherry and berry fruit flavours and smoky, peppery, herbal complexity.

Nothing adds to a winery experience like a live concert. The Amphitheatre at Tinhorn Creek plays host to 3 more concerts this summer. Saturday, July 24th, Wide Mouth Mason entertains; tickets are sold out for this show. Saturday, August 28th, features Dustin Bentall. Tickets for these shows go quickly, so get yours now. Call the winery  toll free 1-888-484-6467.

Bedouin Soundclash hits the stage September 11th. This Juno award winning band will have just released a new album; be one of the 1st to hear it live and outdoors. Tickets are $75 and are available at the winery, call 1-888-484-6467. Or, if you are feeling lucky, visit www.tinhorn.com for details on how to win a VIP concert experience (including round-trip transportation for 2, overnight accommodation, 2 tickets to the show).  Contest closes August 31, 2010.

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 or visit the website at www.tinhorn.com