Monthly Archives: November 2013
Chef Vikram Vij – Edible Canada Guest Chef Market Dinners
Happy Fall / Winter days great foodie friends,
I wanted to share with you my experience at the latest Edible Canada’s Guest Chef Market dinner – all of their events bring you closer to a great array of talented culinary masters within their respective field, but some guest chefs are so popular that in order to fairly allow for the best opportunity for you to attend the event, Edible Canada is forced to put the ticket purchase process to a lottery style.
Chef Vikram Vij is absolutely one of those highly popular draws and rightly so. I was lucky enough to win one of the coveted tickets for 2 and had the pleasure of attending this wonderful event.
Our city has become a veritable cultural melting pot of culinary offerings from around the world.
The Market dinners are done “just right” with a warm welcome, almost like they are inviting you into their kitchen or living room. You are greeted with a nice house developed sip to start your event.
And then once we were spotted by Chef Vikram we were quickly on our way to the flavour journey for the night!
One can’t fully describe the wonderful blend of complex flavors and textures as they unfold with each bite but let’s just say that these two appetizers were both different in the flavor profile but at the same time made you want another please!
What you see unfold right away is the true passion and personality that Chef Vikram has and what a storyteller / entertainer he is.
I have always maintained that you eat with your eyes and your nose before it crosses the lips, but you cook with your heart and your soul (Basically or actually a love and passion for what you are doing) and it will show through your food. Vikram definitely believes this theory and trust me it showed all night!
After we had time to settle in, Vikram introduced himself and laid out how the evening was going to unfold. Then he says “Come cook with me” and invites us all around the kitchen island.
One thing I must tell you is that I have never met such a bright personality who displays a total humility and thankfulness for what has graced his life. He was very complimentary of his two sous chefs that assisted (actually Guided Vikram somewhat…shhhhh) him through the night and complimented his whole team as they are the ones that makes the magic happen for the Vij’s and Rangoli restaurant family everyday.
To say that the room started to fill with aromas beyond “wow” is an understatement. Chef Vikram did mention that true Indian cooking is full of personal nuance differences but is mostly “In your face” with powerful and delectable flavors.
First up was Coconut Masala Prawns
As the bountiful flavours danced across your taste buds you could only hear a silence except for the veiled “mmmm” sound from many.
Vikram used local spot prawns along with his house-made spices and herbs to create a winner for our first dish.
Edible Canada has some great knowledge in how to pair wines with the guest chefs dishes, and Joiefarm. Noble Blend was paired perfectly with the prawns.
Next up Vikram says “Come cook my family chicken with me” – as a side note Chef Vikram tells us of his upbringing and trips back home. Another belief surrounding great chefs is that your dish should be a reflection of you. To explain further, everyone has their own style and it will show in a slight difference in your dish. Vikram would explain that within family and friends that you will always have an auntie or friend that makes the “best” traditional curry chicken but as it should be, it will be their “own” no measurements, no recipe, just passed on through tribal knowledge and made uniquely your way. “This is a good thing and how it should be”
You might try Vikrams family masala or curried chicken and say that it wasn’t like the one that you tried before at another eatery, and that’s just how he likes it ! You will note that when you visit Vij’s or Rangoli that you won’t see the cliché dishes that are at almost all Indian restaurants, but rather signature family dishes that scream Vij. Vikram still takes trips back home and visits as many different homes and restaurants as possible to see and learn about the different twists on traditional dishes, he embraces the uniqueness with open arms.
Our final savour dish was Cinnamon Stewed Lamb Curry – the flavors that Vikram and his team were able to develop from scratch in a few short hours were “Out of this world! The depth of colour and flavor in each dish with fantastic and delectable.
The lamb dish was served with fresh naan bread for over the top dipping fun! Vikram invited guests to try their hand and proclaimed that this very technique was how they made naan in his restaurants.
After all of our deep rich flavoured dishes, a perfect dessert was served to cleanse the palat, Rice pudding with silver leaf
A great fresh dish that slowed your palate down to clean finish.
Who is Vikram?:
Vikram Vij – Born in India and raised in New Dlehi & Bombay. Vikram moved to Canada in 1984 to work at the Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta. (Chef Vikram culinary training is from Salzburg, Austria where he took hotel management, chefs training and became a certified sommelier) in 1994 Vikram and his wife Meeru opened their first restaurant -Vij’s in Vancouver BC. And then in 2002 Meeru and Vikram opened their second restaurant and market called Rangoli. In 2010 Vikram began selling Vij’s gourmet curries now selling across Canada including at Edible Canada!
Vikram has co-written 2 cookbooks and has just received the Enroute people’s choice award for his Latest successful venture – Vij’s Railway Express food truck – awarded as “Best new restaurant”. Vikram has also been a guest judge on Top Chef Canada as well as recently named as one of the judges on Recipe to Riches.
The accolades are countless and certainly there are so many more to come.
Vikram will not tell you about his accolades but if you ask him you will get a humble and warm smile for mentioning it!
Edible Canada Guest Market chef dinners are over the top fun and full of great food. The Chef line up is amazing and diverse so there will sure to be a dinner that you would want to sign up for!
This is my 4th market dinner and surely not my last!
You can find the market dinner listing through Edible Canada’s web site by clicking the link below.
Click here to access Edible Canada’s guest chef market dinners
Thank you Edible Canada for the continued support of Local products and for finding unique and heartwarming culinary journeys for your foodie friends.
You Gotta Try This!
Trip Advisors travellers choices for the top 25 All-Inclusive resorts in the world.
Happy Thursday great foodie friends,
I thought this was worth sharing, it is not specifically food related but in order for them to get such a ranking from the Travellers (you and I) the food on the resorts must rank high and be memorable.
Enjoy….
You Gotta Go Here!
Cartems Donuterie – an impressive blog Post I came across
Happy Wednesday good foodie friends,
I came across this blog post about Cartems and thought I would share! “Everybody loves a doughnut….or two”
A great perspective from young minds.
click here for the Cartems posting
You Gotta Read This
French Onion soup – Chef Marcus Samuelsson
Happy Thursday great foodie friends,
I saw this great recipe from Chef Marcus Samuelson and had to share.
As the days get wet and cold and fall/ winter falls upon us, this recipe will help warm your hearts as well as your tummy!
The great thing about onion soup is truly that even if you don’t like onions (but who doesn’t !?) you will most likely love the flavours of this aromatic deep warm flavoured soup. The onions are caramelized with the herbs just right and then all of the flavours just start to blend into harmony with each other…..the great news is this is a perfect vessel for day or two old bread and if needed you could substitute the cheese for another favourite.
-
French Onion Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1 pound medium yellow or red onions, halved and thinly sliced lengthwise
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 Turkish bay leaves
Salt to taste
1/2 stick unsalted butter
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 cups low sodium beef stock
1/2 cup water
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 1/2-inch slice of fresh baguette
1 cup Gruyere cheese, coarsely grated
1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Method:
Melt the butter in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot over moderate heat. Add the onions, thyme, bay leaf and sold and cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until the onions are very soft and deep golden brown, 20-30 minutes.
Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring.
Add the wine and cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
Add the broth, water and pepper and simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered. Stir occasionally.
While the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 350°. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5 minutes per side until bread is completely dry and crusty.
Remove bread from the oven and preheat the broiler. Discard the bay leaves and thyme. Ladle the soup into three oven-proof bowls or mugs. Float a slice of toast in each, and top with the shredded Gruyere and Parmesan.
Broil 4 to 5 inches from heat until cheese is melted and bubbly, 1 to 2 minutes.
Photos: Emma Haberman
To follow Chef Marcus on Twitter (@MarcusCooks)
Enjoy
You GottaTry This!
Best of the City Dining 2013: The winners! – brought to us by the We Vancouver Weekly
Best of the City Dining 2013: The winners!
click here for the link to the whole list and WE Van Weekly
Here’s one winner that won’t surprise WE Vancouver readers: we carry a torch for Lemonade’s gluten-free goodies.
Rob Newell
NEWS FOR YOU
Best of the City Dining 2013: The winners!
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Edgemont seniors complex, community gardens top North Van council agenda
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Published: November 06, 2013 1:00 PM
Updated: November 07, 2013 3:47 PM
We asked our readers to tell us their favourite places to eat and drink in Vancouver and they responded with enthusiasm. We didn’t guide them; they took the time to list their top choice in each category.
And now, let them be your guide to discovering new favourites while celebrating all the places you already know to love.
Best Shops
General Goods Grocery Store
1. Whole Foods, Various locations, http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com
2. Save-On Foods, Various locations, http://www.saveonfoods.com
2. Choices, Various locations, http://www.choicesmarket.com
3. Donald’s Market, 2279 Commercial Dr., 604-255-1440; 2342 E. Hastings, 604-254-3014, http://www.donaldsmarket.com
Cheese Shop
1. Les Amis du Fromage, 1752 West 2nd Ave, 604-732-4218; 843 East Hastings Street, 604-253-4218, http://www.buycheese.com
2. Benton Brothers Fine Cheese, Various locations, http://www.bentonscheese.com
3. La Grotta del Formaggio, 1791 Commercial Drive, 604-255-3911, http://www.lgdf.ca
Butcher
1. Jackson’s Meat and Deli (tie), 2214 West 4th Ave, 604-738-6328, http://www.jacksonsmeatanddeli.com
1. Armando’s Finest Quality Meats (tie), Granville Island Market, 604-685-0359, http://www.armandosmeats.com
2. Windsor Quality Meats, 4110 Main Street, 604-872-5635, http://www.windsorqualitymeats.com
3. Big Lou’s Butcher Shop, 269 Powell Street, 604-566-9229, http://www.biglousbutchershop.com
Farmers Market
1. Trout Lake, North Parking Lot of John Hendry Park at Trout Lake, Vancouver Farmers Markets, 604-879-FARM, http://www.eatlocal.org
2. Kitsilano, Parking Lot of Kitsilano Community Centre, Vancouver Farmers Markets, 604-879-FARM, http://www.eatlocal.org
3. West End, 1100 Block of Comox Street, Vancouver Farmers Markets, 604-879-FARM, http://www.eatlocal.org
Health Food
1 Whole Foods, Various locations, http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com
2. Choices Market, Various locations, http://www.choicesmarket.com
3. Organic Lives (tie), 1829 Quebec Street, 778-588-7777, http://www.organiclives.ca
3. Famous Foods (tie), 1595 Kingsway, 604-872-3019, http://www.famousfoods.ca
Private Liquor Store
1. Legacy Liquor Store, 1633 Manitoba Street, 604-331-7900, http://www.legacyliquorstore.com
2. Marquis Wine Cellars, 1034 Davie Street, 1-800-589-2804, http://www.marquis-wines.com
3. Liberty Wine Merchants, Various locations, http://www.libertywinemerchants.com
Food Stalls Granville Island
1. Oyama Sausage, 604-327-7407, http://www.oyamasausage.ca
2. Terra Breads, Various locations, 604-685-3102, http://www.terrabreads.com
3. Benton Brothers Fine Cheese, Various locations, 604-609-0001, http://www.bentonscheese.com
Specialty Grocery Store
1. Whole Foods, Various locations, http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com
2. Choices, Various locations, http://www.choicesmarket.com
3. Urban Fare, Various locations, http://www.urbanfare.com
Kitchenware Cooking
1. Ming Wo, Various locations, http://www.mingwo.com
2. Gourmet Warehouse, 1340 East Hastings Street, 604-253-3022, http://www.gourmetwarehouse.ca
3. Cookworks, 377 Howe Street, 604-662-4918; 1548 West Broadway, 604-731-1148, http://www.cookworks.ca
Best Fish Market
1. Daily Catch, (tie), 1418 Commercial Drive, 604-253-3474, http://www.dailycatch.org
1. Granville Island Market (tie), http://www.granvilleisland.com
2. The Lobster Man, 1807 Mast Tower Road, Granville Island, 604-687-4228, http://www.lobsterman.com
3. 7 Seas, 2328 West 4th Ave., 604-732-8608, http://www.7seas.ca
Specialty Items
Chocolatier
1. Thomas Haas, 2539 West Broadway, 604-736-1848, http://www.thomashaas.com
2. Purdy’s Chocolates, Various locations, http://www.purdys.com
3. Thierry, 1059 Alberni Street, 604-608-6870, http://www.thierrychocolates.com
Dessert
1. Thomas Haas (tie),
2539 West Broadway, 604-736-1848, http://www.thomashaas.com
1. Thierry (tie), 1059 Alberni Street, 604-608-6870, http://www.thierrychocolates.com
2. True Confections, 3701 West Broadway, 604-222-8489, http://www.trueconfections.ca
3. Sweet Obsession, 2611 West 16th, 604-739-0565, http://www.sweetobsession.ca
Donuts
1. Cartems, 534 West Pender, 778-708-0996, http://www.cartems.com
2. Tim Hortons, Various locations, http://www.timhortons.com
3. Lucky’s (in 49th Parallel Roasters), 2902 Main Street, 604-420-4901; 2198 West 4th, 604-420-4901, http://www.luckysdoughnuts.com
Brunch
1. Café Medina, 556 Beatty Street, 604-879-3114, http://www.medinacafe.com
2. Provence Marinaside, 1177 Marinaside Crescent, 604-681-4144, http://www.provencevancouver.com
3. Jethro’s Fine Grub (tie), 3420 Dunbar Street, 604-569-3441: 3455 Fraser Street. 604-620-5292,
http://www.jethrosfinegrub.com
3. Twisted Fork (tie), 1147 Granville Street, 604-568-0749, http://www.twistedforkbistro.ca
Breakfast
1. Café Medina, 556 Beatty Street, 604-879-3114, http://www.medinacafe.com
2. Joe’s Grill (tie), Various locations, http://www.joesgrill.ca
2. Red Wagon (tie), 2296 East Hastings Street, 604-568-4565, http://www.redwagoncafe.com
3. Sophie’s Cosmic Cafe, 2095 West 4th Avenue, 604-732-6810, http://www.sophiescosmiccafe.com
Bagels
1. Siegel’s Bagels,1883 Cornwall Avenue, 604-737-8151; Granville Island Markets, 604-685-5670, http://www.siegelsbagels.com
2. Solly’s, Various locations, http://www.sollysbagelry.com
3. Benny’s Bagels, 2505 West Broadway, 604-731-9730
Bakery
1. Beaucoup Bakery, 2150 Fir St., 604-732-4222, http://www.beaucoupbakery.com
2. Terra Breads (tie), Various locations, http://www.terrabreads.com
2. Lemonade (tie) 3385 Cambie Street, 604-873-9993, http://www.lemonadebakery.ca
3. Cobs Bread, Various locations, http://www.cobsbread.com
Burgers
1. Vera’s Burger Shack, Various locations, http://www.verasburgershack.com
2. Romer’s, 1873 West 4th Avenue, 604-732-9545; 1039 Mainland, 604-559-7210, http://www.romersburgerbar.com
3. Fatburger (tie), Various locations, http://www.fatburger.com
3. White Spot (tie), Various locations, http://www.whitespot.ca
BBQ
1. Memphis Blues, Various locations, http://www.memphisbluesbbq.com
2. Re-Up BBQ, 700 Hornby Street food cart (seasonally); River Market, New Westminster, 604-553-3997, http://www.reupbbq.com
3. Peckinpah, 2 Water Street, 604-681-5411, http://www.peckinpahbbq.com
Fish and Chips
1. Go Fish, 1505 West 1st Ave, 604-730-5040, http://www.gofishvancouver.com
2. C-Lovers, 1061 Denman Street, 604-662-3444, http://www.c-lovers.com
3. Pajo’s, Various locations, http://www.pajos.com
Coffee Shop
1. Starbucks, Various locations, http://www.starbucks.ca
2. JJ Bean, Various locations, http://www.jjbeancoffee.com
3. Caffé Artigiano (tie), Various locations, http://www.caffeartigiano.com
3. Forty Ninth Parallel (tie), 2902 Main Street, 604-420-4900; 2198 West 4th Avenue, 604-420-4901, http://www.49thparallelroasters.com
Food Cart
1. Tacofino, Burrard and Dunsmuir and Robson Square, 604-253-TACO; commissary at 2327 East Hastings, http://www.tacofino.com
2. Fresh Local Wild (tie), Hastings and Burrard, http://www.freshlocalwild.com
3. Le Tigre (tie), Various locations, 778-990-2853, http://www.letigrecuisine.ca
4. Mom’s Grilled Cheese, 800 West Georgia Street, 604-767-9768, http://www.momsgrilledcheesetruck.com
Gluten Free
1. Lemonade, 3385 Cambie Street, 604-873-9993, http://www.lemonadebakery.ca
2. Graze, 3980 Fraser Street, 604-620-8822, http://www.grazerestaurant.ca
3. Edible Canada, 1596 Johnston Street, Granville Island, 604-682-6681, http://www.ediblecanada.com
Ice Cream/Gelato
1. Bella Gelateria, 1001 West Cordova Street, 604-569-1010; 1089 Marinaside, http://www.bellagelateria.com
2. Mario’s Gelati, 88 East 1st Avenue, 604-879-9411, http://www.mariosgelati.com
3. La Casa Gelato (tie), 1033 Venables Street, 604-251-3211, http://www.lacasagelato.com
3. Earnest Ice Cream, 3992 Fraser Street, various local retailers, http://www.earnesticecream.com
Milkshake/Smoothie
1. White Spot, Various locations, http://www.whitespot.ca
2. Booster Juice, Various locations, http://www.boosterjuice.com
3. Fatburger, Various locations, http://www.fatburger.com
Noodles
1. Legendary Noodle (tie), 1074 Denman Street, 604-669-8551, http://www.legendarynoodle.ca
1. Peaceful Restaurant (tie), Various locations, http://www.peacefulrestaurant.com
2. Noodle Box (tie), Various locations, http://www.thenoodlebox.net
2. Congee Noodle House (tie), 141 East Broadway, 604-879-8221
3. Kintaro, 788 Denman Street, 604-682-7568
Pizza
1. Via Tevere Pizzeria, 1190 Victoria Drive, 604-336-1803, http://www.viateverepizzeria.com
2. Nicli Antica Pizzeria, 62 East Cordova Street, 604-669-6985, http://www.nicli-antica-pizzeria.ca
3. Nat’s New York Pizzeria (tie), 2684 West Broadway, 604-737-0707; 1080 Denman Street, 604-642-0777, http://www.natspizza.com
3. Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria (tie), 1380 Commercial Drive, 604-251-2292, http://www.famoso.ca
Seafood
1. Blue Water Café + Raw Bar, 1095 Hamilton Street, 604-688-8078, http://www.bluewatercafe.com
2. Joe Fortes Seafood and Chophouse, 777 Thurlow Street, 604-669-1940, http://www.joefortes.ca
3. Boathouse Restaurant, Various locations, http://www.boathouserestaurants.ca
Steakhouse
1. The Keg, Various locations, http://www.kegsteakhouse.com
2. Gotham Steakhouse, 615 Seymour Street, 604-605-8282, http://www.gothamsteakhouse.com
3. Black + Blue (tie), 1032 Alberni Street, 604-637-0777, http://www.glowbalgroup.com/blackblue
3. Hy’s Steakhouse (tie), 637 Hornby Street, 604-683-7671, http://www.hyssteakhouse.com
Taco
1. La Taqueria, 2549 Cambie Street, 604-558-2549; 322 West Hastings, 604-568-4406, http://www.lataqueria.ca
2. Tacofino, Robson Square food truck; 2327 East Hastings, 604-253-TACO, http://www.tacofino.com
3. Taco Shack (tied), 1937 Cornwall Avenue, 604-736-8226, http://www.tacoshack.com
3. Chronic Taco (tied), 1812 West 4th Avenue, 604-558-3666; 382 West Broadway, 604-428-2221, http://www.eatchronictacos.com
Tapas
1. Bin 941 Tapas Parlour, 941 Davie Street, 604-683-1246, http://www.bin941.com
2. Espana, 1118 Denman Street, 604-558-4040, http://www.espanarestaurant.ca
3. The Sardine Can, 26 Powell Street, 604-568-1350, http://www.thesardinecan.ca
Teahouse
1. The Urban Tea Merchant (tie), 1070 West Georgia Street, 604-692-0071, http://www.urbantea.com
2. David’s Tea, Various locations, http://www.davidstea.com
3. Secret Garden Tea Company, 5559 West Boulevard, 604-261-3070, http://www.secretgardentea.com
Vegan
1. The Naam Restaurant, 2724 West 4th Ave, 604-738-7151, http://www.thenaam.com
2. The Acorn (tie), 3995 Main Street, 604-566-9001, http://www.theacornrestaurant.ca
2. Graze (tie), 3980 Fraser Street, 6014-620-8822, http://www.grazerestaurant.ca
3. Heirloom, 1509 West 12th Avenue, 604-733-2231, http://www.heirloomrestaurant.ca
Vegetarian
1. The Naam Restaurant, 2724 West 4th Ave, 604-738-7151, http://www.thenaam.com
2. The Acorn (tie), 3995 Main Street, 604-566-9001, http://www.theacornrestaurant.ca
2. Heirloom (tie), 1509 West 12th Avenue, 604-733-2231, http://www.heirloomrestaurant.ca
3. The Foundation, 2301 Main Street, 604-708-0881
Best International Cuisine
Chinese
1. Kirin Restaurant, 1172 Alberni Street, 604-682-8833; 201-555 West 12th Avenue, 604-879-8038,
http://www.kirinrestaurants.com
2. Sun Sui Wah, 3888 Main Street, 604-872-8822, http://www.sunsuiwah.com
3. Hon’s Wun-Tun House (tie), 268 Keefer Street, 604-688-8303; 1339 Robson Street, 604-685-0871
3. Lin Chinese Cuisine (tie), 1537 West Broadway, 604-733-9696, http://www.linchinese.ca
Caribbean West Indies
1. The Reef, 1018 Commercial Drive, 604-568-5375; 4172 Main Street, 604-874-5375, http://www.thereefrestaurant.com
2. Calabash Bistro, 428 Carrall Street, 604-568-5882, http://www.calabashbistro.com
3. Simba’s Grill, 825 Denman Street, 604-974-0649, http://www.simbasgrill.com
French
1. Le Crocodile, 909 Burrard Street, 604-669-4298, http://www.lecrocodilerestaurant.com
2. Les Faux Bourgeois, 663 E 15th Avenue, 604-873-9733, http://www.lesfauxbourgeois.com
3. La Brasserie, 1091 Davie Street, 604-568-6499, http://www.labrasserievancouver.com
Greek
1. Stepho’s Taverna, 1124 Davie St., 604-683-2555; 1359 Robson St. (soon)
2. Takis’ Taverna, 1106 Davie Street, 604-682-1336, http://www.takistaverna.com
3. Maria’s Taverna, 2324 West 4th Avenue, 604-731-4722, http://www.mariastaverna.ca
Indian
1. Vij’s, 1480 West 11th Avenue, 604-736-6664, http://www.vijsrestaurant.ca
2. Maurya, 1643 West Broadway, 604-742-0622, http://www.mauryaindiancuisine.com
3. India Bistro (tie), 1157 Davie St., 604-684-6342, http://www.indiabistro.ca
3. Nirvana (tie), 2313 Main Street, 604-872-8779, http://www.nirvanarestaurant.ca
Italian
1. Italian Kitchen, 1037 Alberni Street, 604-687-2858, http://www.glowbalgroup.com/italiankitchen
2. Cioppino’s (tie), 1133 Hamilton Street, 604-688-7466, http://www.cioppinosyaletown.com
2. Cin Cin (tie), 1154 Robson Street, 604-688 7338, http://www.cincin.net
3. Francesco’s, 860 Burrard, 604-685-7770, http://www.francescos.com
Japanese
1. Miku, 1055 West Hastings Street, 604-568-3900,www.mikurestaurant.com
2. Tojo’s, 1133 West Broadway, 604-872-8050, http://www.tojos.com
3. Minami, 1118 Mainland Street, 604-685-8080, http://www.minamirestaurant.com
Korean
1. Sura Korean Cuisine, 1518 Robson Street, 604-687-7872, http://www.surakoreancuisine.com
2. Jang Mo Jib, 1575 Robson Street, 604-642-0712, http://www.jangmojib.com
3. Madang Coul Korean Restaurant (tie), 847 Denman Street, 604-688-3585
3. Damso Modern Korean Cuisine (tie), 867 Denman Street, 604-632-0022
Mexican
1. Las Margaritas, 1999 West 4th Avenue, 604-734-7117, http://www.lasmargaritas.com
2. La Taqueria (tie), 2549 Cambie Street, 604-558-2549; 322 W. Hastings, 604-568-4406,
2. The Mexican (tie), 1049 Granville Street, 604-569-0955, themexican.ca
3. Salsa & Agave Mexican Grill, 1205 Pacific Boulevard, 604-408-4228, http://www.salsaandagave.com
Middle Eastern
1. Nuba, Various locations, http://www.nuba.ca
2. East is East, 3243 West Broadway, 604-734-5881; 4433 Main Street, 604-565-4401, http://www.eastiseast.ca
3. Afghan Horsemen Restaurant, 1833 Anderson Street, 604-873-5923, http://www.afghanhorsemen.com
Singaporean
1. Banana Leaf, Various locations, http://www.bananaleaf-vancouver.com
2. Tropika, 2975 Cambie Street, 604-879-6002; 1128 Robson Street, 604-737-6002,
3. Kaya Malay Bistro, 1063 West Broadway, 604-730-9963, http://www.kayamalay.com
Spanish
1. Espana, 1118 Denman Street, 604-558-4040, http://www.espanarestaurant.ca
2. La Bodega, 1277 Howe Street, 604-684-8814, http://www.labodegavancouver.com
3. The Sardine Can, 26 Powell Street, 604-568-1350, http://www.thesardinecan.ca
Thai
1. Maenam, 1938 West 4th Avenue, 604-730-5579, http://www.maenam.ca
2. Thai House, 1116 Robson Street, 604-683-3383; 1766 West 7th Avenue, 604-737-0088,
3. Sala Thai (tie), 102-888 Burrard Street, 604-683-7999, http://www.salathai.ca
3. Simply Thai (tie), 1211 Hamilton Street, 604-642-0123, http://www.simplythairestaurant.com
Vietnamese
1. Phnom Penh Restaurant, 244 East Georgia Street, 604-682-5777
2. Au Petit Café, 4851 Main Street, 604-873-3328, http://www.aupetitcafe.com
3. Thai Son, 373 East Broadway, 604-875-6436; 2800 East 1st Avenue, 604-255-6436
West Coast
1. West, 2281 Granville Street, 604-738-8938, http://www.westrestaurant.com
2. Raincity Grill, 1193 Denman Street, 604-685-7337, http://www.raincitygrill.com
3. Coast, 1054 Alberni Street, 604-685-5010, http://www.glowbalgroup.com/coast
Best Overall
Budget
1. White Spot, Various locations, http://www.whitespot.ca
2. Hawkers Delight (tie), 4127 Main Street,
604-709-8188
2. Famous Warehouse (tie), 989 Granville Street, 604-677-8080, thefamouswarehouse.com
3. Nuba, Various locations, http://www.nuba.ca
Diner
1. Templeton, 1087 Granville Street, 604-685-4612, http://www.rthetempleton.ca
2. Lucy’s Eastside Diner, 2708 Main Street,
604-568-1550
3. Joe’s Grill, Various locations, http://www.joesgrill.ca
Fine Dining
1. Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street,
604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Bishop’s (tie), 2183 West 4th Ave, 604-738-2025, http://www.bishopsonline.com
2. Le Crocodile (tie), 909 Burrard Street,
604-669-4298, http://www.lecrocodilerestaurant.com
3. West (tie), 2881 Granville Street, 604-738-8938, http://www.westrestaurant.com
3. Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar (tie), 1095 Hamilton Street, 604-688-8078, http://www.bluewatercafe.net
Chef
1. David Hawksworth, Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Ned Bell, Yew at the Four Seasons, 791 West Georgia Street, 604-692-4939, http://www.yewseafood.com
3. Rob Feenie, Cactus Club Cafe, nVarious locations, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
Cocktails
1. Pourhouse, 162 Water Street, 604-568-7022, http://www.pourhousevancouver.com
2. The Diamond, 2nd Floor, 6 Powell Street, 604-568-8272, http://www.di6mond.com
3. The Keefer (tie), 133 Keefer Street, 604-688-1983, http://www.thekeefer.com
Bar/Lounge
1. Reflections (tie), Rosewood Hotel Georgia, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-682-5566,
1. Four Seasons Yew (tie), 791 West Georgia Street, 604-692-4939, http://www.yewseafood.com
2. The Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Pacific Rim (tie), 1038 Canada Place, 604-695-5502, http://www.fairmont.com
2. Pourhouse (tie), 162 Water Street, 604-568-7022, http://www.pourhousevancouver.com
3. The Keefer (tie), 133 Keefer Street, 604-688-1983, http://www.thekeefer.com
3. Uva Wine Bar (tie), 900 Seymour Street, 604-632-9560, http://www.uvawinebar.ca
Food Blogger
1. Follow Me Foodie, Mijune Pak, http://www.followmefoodie.com
2. Vancouver Foodster, Richard Wolak, http://www.vancouverfoodster.com
3. Foodology, http://www.foodology.ca
Hotel Dining
1. Hawksworth – Hotel Georgia, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Yew at the Four Seasons, 791 West Georgia, 604-692-4939, http://www.yewrestaurant.com
3. Oru at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, 1038 Canada Place, 604-695-5500, http://www.orucuisine.com
Late Night
1. Fritz European Fry House, 718 Davie Street, 604-684-0811, http://www.fritzeuropeanfryhouse.com
2. Lucy’s Eastside Diner, 2708 Main Street, 604-568-1550, http://www.lucyseastsidediner.com
3. Denny’s, Various locations, http://www.dennys.com
Live Music
1. Commodore Ballroom, 868 Granville Street, 604-739-4550, http://www.commodoreballroom.ca
2. The Cellar, 1006 Granville Street, 604-605-4340, http://www.cellarvan.com
3. The Roxy (tie), 932 Granville Street, 604-731-7999, http://www.roxyvan.com
3. The Biltmore (tie), 2755 Prince Edward Street, 604-676-0541, http://www.biltmorecabaret.com
Mid-Price
1. Cactus Club, Various locations, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
2. Edible Canada (tie), 1596 Johnston St., Granville Island, 604-682-6681, http://www.ediblecanada.com
2. Earls (tie), Various locations, http://www.earls.ca
3. Flying Pig, 1168 Hamilton Street, 604-568-1344; 102 Water Street, 604-559-7698
Pub
1. Bimini (tie), 2010 West 4th Avenue, 604-733-7116, http://www.donnellygroup.com
1. New Oxford (tie), 1144 Homer Street, 604-609-0901, http://www.donnellygroup.com
2. Doolins (tie), 654 Nelson Street, 604-605-4343, http://www.doolins.ca
2. Biercraft (tie), 1191 Commercial Drive, 604-254-2437; 3305 Cambie Street, 604-874-6900, http://www.biercraft.com
3. Yaletown Brewing Company, 1111 Mainland Street, 604-681-2739, http://www.markjamesgroup.com/yaletown
Patio
1. Tap & Barrel, 1 Athletes Way, 604-685-2223, http://www.tapandbarrel.com
2. Cactus Club Cafe, Various locations, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
3. Dockside, 1253 Johnston Street, Granville Island, 604-685-7070, http://www.docksidevancouver.com
Private Dining Room
1. Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Blue Water Café + Raw Bar, 1095 Hamilton Street, 604-688-8078, http://www.bluewatercafe.net
3. La Terrazza, 1088 Cambie Street, 604-899-4449, http://www.laterrazza.ca
Coal Harbour
1. Cardero’s, 1583 Coal Harbour Quay, 604-669-7666, http://www.vancouverdine/carderos
2. Lift Bar and Grill, 333 Menchions Mews, 604-689-5438, http://www.liftbarandgrill.com
3. Cactus Club, 1085 Canada Place, 604-620-7410, wwwcactusclubcafe.com
Commercial Drive
1. Havana, 1212 Commercial Drive, 604-253-9119, http://www.havanarestaurant.com
2. Via Tevere Pizzeria (tie), 1190 Victoria Drive, 604-336-1803, http://www.viateverepizzeria.com
2. Marcello’s Pizzeria (tie), 1404 Commercial Drive, 604-215-7760, http://www.marcellopizzeria.com
3. La Mezcaleria, 1622 Commercial Drive, 604-559-8227, http://www.lemezcaleria.ca
Downtown
1. Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Chambar (tie), 562 Beatty Street, 604-879-7119, http://www.chambar.com
2. Coast (tie), 1054 Alberni Street, 604-685-5010, http://www.glowbalgroup.com/coast
3. Joe Fortes Seafood and Chophouse (tie), 777 Thurlow Street, 604-669-1940, http://www.joefortes.ca
Gastown
1. L’Abattoir, 217 Carrall Street, 604-568-1701, http://www.labattoir.ca
2. Boneta, 12 Water Street, 604-684-1844, http://www.boneta.ca
3. Pourhouse, 162 Water Street, 604-568-7022, http://www.pourhousevancouver.com
Kitsilano
1. Fable, 1944 West 4th Avenue, 604-732-1322,www.fablekitchen.ca
2. Bishop’s, 2183 West 4th Ave, 604-738-2025, http://www.bishopsonline.com
3. Maenam, 1938 West 4th Avenue, 604-730-5579, http://www.maenam.ca
Main Street
1. The Reef (tie), 4172 Main Street, 604-874-5375, http://www.thereefrestaurant.com
1. East is East (tie), 4433 Main Street, 604-565-4401, http://www.eastiseast.ca
2. Burgoo Bistro (tie), 3096 Main Street, 604-873-1441, http://www.burgoo.ca
2. Burdock & Company (tie), 2702 Main Street, 604-879-0077, http://www.budockandco.com
3. Campagnolo (tie), 1020 Main Street, 604-484-6018, http://www.campagnolorestaurant.ca
3. Bob Likes Thai Food (tie), 3755 Main Street, 604-568-8538, http://www.boblikesthaifood.com
West End
1. Espana, 1118 Denman Street, 604-558-4040, http://www.espanarestaurant.ca
2. La Brasserie (tie), 1091 Davie Street, 604-568-6499, http://www.labrasserievancouver.com
2. Nook (tie), 781 Denman Street, 604-568-4554, http://www.nookrestaurant.ca
3. Lolita’s, 1326 Davie, 604-696-9996, http://www.lolitasrestaurant.com
Yaletown
1. Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar, 1095 Hamilton Street, 604-688-8078, http://www.bluewatercafe.net
2. Flying Pig, 1168 Hamilton Street, 604-568-1344, http://www.theflyingpigvan.com
3. Minami (tie), 1118 Mainland Street, 604-685-8080, http://www.minamirestaurant.com
3. Rodney’s Oyster House (tie), 1228 Hamilton Street, 604-609-0080, http://www.rodneysoysterhouse.com
Granville Island
1. Sand Bar, 1535 Johnston Street, 604-669-9030, http://www.vancouverdine.com/sandbar
2. Edible Canada, 1596 Johnston Street,
604-682-6681, http://www.ediblecanada.com
3. Dockside, 1253 Johnston Street,
604-685-7070, http://www.docksidevancouver.com
Sports Bar
1. Shark Club, 180 West Georgia Street, 604-687-4275, http://www.sharkclubs.com
2. Red Card Sports Bar, 560 Smithe Street,604-689-4460, http://www.redcardsportsbar.ca
3. Score On Davie, 1262 Davie Street, 604-632-1646, http://www.scoreondavie.com
Interior Décor
1. Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Black + Blue (tie), 1032 Alberni Street, 604-637-0777, http://www.glowbalgroup.com/blackblue
2. Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie (tie), 163 Keefer Street, 604-688-0876, http://www.bao-bei.ca
3. Homer Street Cafe, 898 Homer Street, 604-428-4299, http://www.homerstreetcafebar.com
View
1. Cactus Club Cafe English Bay, 1790 Beach Avenue, 604-681-2582, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
2. Seasons in the Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, 604-874-8008, http://www.vancouverdine.com/seasons-park
3. Lift Bar and Grill, 333 Menchions Mews, 604-689-5438, http://www.liftbarandgrill.com
Best Place to Take Visitors
1. Cactus Club Cafe, Various locations, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
2. Edible Canada, 1596 Johnston Street, Granville Island, 604-682-6681, http://www.ediblecanada.com
3. Joe Fortes Seafood and Chophouse, 777 Thurlow Street, 604-669-1940, http://www.joefortes.ca
Service
1. Hawksworth (tie), 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
1. West (tie), 2881 Granville Street, 604-738-8938, http://www.westrestaurant.com
2. Bluewater Café, 1095 Hamilton Street, 604-688-8078, http://www.bluewatercafe.net
3. Cactus Club, Various locations, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
Student Eats
1. Subway, Various locations, http://www.subway.ca
2. Tacofino (tie), Burrard and Dunsmuir and Robson Square, 604-253-TACO, http://www.tacofino.com
2. The Eatery (tie), 3431 West Broadway, 604-738-5298, http://www.theeatery.ca
3. Congee Noodle House, 141 East Broadway, 604-879-8221
Wine List
1. Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
2. Uva Wine Bar, 900 Seymour Street, 604-632-9560, http://www.uvawinebar.ca
3. The Wine Bar, Provence, 1167 Marinaside Crescent, 604-681-4144, http://www.thewinebar.ca
Working Lunch
1. Subway, Various locations, http://www.subway.ca
2. Cactus Club Cafe (tie), Various locations, http://www.cactusclubcafe.com
2. Earls (tie), Various locations, http://www.earls.ca
3. Rio Brazilian, 689 Denman Street, 604-568-7722, http://www.riobraziliansteakhouse.ca
Romantic
1. Teahouse in Stanley Park, 7501 Stanley Park Drive, 604-669-3281, http://www.vancouverdine.com/teahouse
2. Seasons in the Park, Cambie & 33rd, Queen Elizabeth Park, 604-874-8008, http://www.vancouverdine.com/seasons-park
3. Le Crocodile, 909 Burrard Street, 604-669-4298, http://www.lecrocodilerestaurant.com
BC Wine
1. Joie, http://www.joiefarm.com
2. Burrowing Owl, http://www.bovwine.ca
3. Nichol (tie), http://www.nicholvineyard.com
3. Blasted Church (tie), http://www.blastedchurch.com
3. Mission Hill (tie), http://www.missionhillwinery.com
BC Craft Beer
1. Granville Island Brewing, 1441 Cartwright Street, Granville Island, 604-687-2739, http://www.gib.ca
2. Parallel 49, 1946 Triumph Street, 604-558-2739, http://www.parallel49brewing.com
3. Driftwood (tie), Victoria, http://www.driftwoodbeer.com
3. Red Truck (tie), 1015 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, 604-682-4733, http://www.redtruckbeer.com
Best Restaurant
1. Hawksworth, 801 West Georgia Street, 604-673-7000, http://www.hawksworth-restaurant.com
2. Bishop’s (tie), 2183 West 4th Ave., 604-738-2025, http://www.bishopsonline.com
2. Yew at the Four Seasons (tie), 791 West Georgia Street, 604-692-4939, http://www.yewseafood.com
3. Vij’s, 1480 West 11th Avenue, 604-736-6664, http://www.vijsrestaurant.ca
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