From the official press release…

ISLAND WINERIES OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Edited by Gary Hynes and from the contributors of EAT Magazine: Larry Arnold, Jeff Bateman, Kathryn McAree, Julie Pegg, Treve Ring, Adem Tepedelen, and Rebecca Wellman

Island Wineries of British Columbia will now go on to compete for “Best in the World.” Awards will be presented on March 6, 2012 in Paris, France.

A collaborative effort from the writers of EAT Magazine, Island Wineries of British Columbia is your guide to a growing wine culture and the food movement that accompanies it. Starting with the history behind the region’s wine production, this book is an intimate conversation with local wine producers—their individual stories, their most memorable creations, and where you can find their beautiful wineries.

Complete with maps and suggested wine tasting excursions, Island Wineries of British Columbia also explores the Islands’ meaderies, cideries, fruit wines, artisan distilleries and craft beers. Some of the region’s most talented chefs provide recipes that emphasize the local ingredients and suggest exquisite pairings of wine and food.

“A wonderful, groundbreaking, it’s-about-time book.”—Jurgen Gothe, Wine Columnist, The Georgia Straight

“An accessible and elegant must-have book for anyone interested in Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands wine.”  —Garth Eichel, Times Colonist

“An interesting, well-produced and intelligent book.”—January Magazine

Gary Hynes, a former sommelier, chef, and innkeeper, is the founder and editor of EAT Magazine, a bi-monthly publication that celebrates food and drink in British Columbia. Gary and the team at EAT worked together to create Island Wineries of British Columbia from their shared knowledge of excellent wine and bc’s unique culinary scene. Please visit eatmagazine.ca.

To order a copy of the book, click here

Cuisine Canada has just announced the shortlist for their 2011 Culinary Book Awards (Yes – I know, the link says ‘2010′ – but it is the 2011 list.)

Particular congratulations to local contributors.

• Carolyn Herriot, The Zero-Mile Diet: A Year-Round Guide to Growing Organic Food, Harbour Publishing, Madeira Park, BC

• Kootenay Country Store Cooperative and the Nelson Municipal Library, Seasonings: A Year of Local Flavour in Words and Recipes, Kootenay Country Store Cooperative and the Nelson Municiple Library, Nelson, BC

• Meeru Dhalwala and Vikram Vij, Vig’s at Home: Relax, Honey, Douglas & McIntyre, Vancouver, BC

• Jane Mundy, ed., The Ocean Wise Cookbook: Seafood Recipes that Are Good for the Planet, Whitecap Books, North Vancouver, BC

Past BC winners have included John Bishop (including a Lifetime Achievement Award), the Chef’s Table Society of British Columbia, Heidi Noble, Vikram Vij and Meeru Dhalwala (for Vij’s: Elegant and Inspired Indian Cuisine), Bill Jones, and Jurgen Goth among many others.

You guys are in illustrious company – good luck!

In a grand ceremony at the River Rock Casino in Richmond on Tuesday, January 18th, the 3rd annual HSBC Chinese Restaurant Award winners were announced.

See the complete list of the winners here

Of particular interest were the two awards that Chinatown’s darling, Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie, took home: “Best Modern Chinese Restaurant” and “Best Wine and Spirit Service”.

^ Werner Schonberger, Vice President of Select Wines presents the "Wine and Spirits Service" award to Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie (Photos courtesy of: Rae Uske for CRA)

Straddling a very interesting and under serviced niche that seems to bridge the gap between the two separate restaurant solitudes of Western and Chinese, once the sole territory of the trailblazing Wild Rice, Bao Bei was the obvious choice with their modern stylish room and refined cocktail list.

Another interesting sign of things to come was the speech/sales pitch by Werner Schonberger of Select Wines (a key sponsor of the event) that offered wine and spirits consulting services to all the restaurants, citing the growing trend in Hong Kong and China towards a comprehensive drinks list beyond the token bottle of Johnny Walker Red hidden behind the cashier. A boozy new frontier is opening up and I see cognac and riesling sales spiking.

As Vancouver’s Chinese population and culture continues to grow and diversify from both the steady influx of new immigrants and second and third generation Chinese Canadians looking to make their mark in the industry, the future of Chinese cuisine in Vancouver is looking brighter and more integrated than ever.

~ PK

The 3rd annual 2011 HSBC Chinese Restaurant Awards is looking for your vote.

Last week, the public nominated their top 20 favourite Chinese restaurants. And now, until November 12th, the public is invited back to select their favourite dishes from the list of nominees for the Diner’s Choice Awards.

VOTE IN THE DINER’S CHOICE AWARDS

Results will be announced online on Nov 15, 2010

For more info, visit: chineserestaurantawards.com

Good luck eveybody! ~ PK

Yesterday, in signature glamourous style the 21st annual Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards were presented at the Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel.

^ Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar’s Chef Frank Pabst and Restaurant Director Stephane Cachard clink glasses to celebrate their impressive trifecta win as Restaurant of the Year, Chef of the Year and Best Seafood Restaurant.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Click here to view the complete list

~ PK

On Friday, May 14th, during Canada’s first Vancouver Craft Beer Week, the first annual BC Beer Awards sponsored by Brewery Creek Liquor Store were presented for the best brews in 11 style categories along with one overall winner know as best in show.

With tremendous gratitude and pride for all our talented and passionate regional brewers, I present the 2010 winners:

Session Ale
1st Saltspring Golden Ale
2nd Howe Sound Garibaldi Pale Ale
3rd Whistler Honey Lager

Wheat Beer
1st Yaletown Hill’s Special
2nd Driftwood White Bark Wheat
3rd Steamworks Ipanema Wheat

Lager
1st Vancouver Island Herman’s Dark Lager
2nd Okanagan Springs 1516 Lager
3rd Longwood Pilsner

Amber/Brown
1st Granville Island Nut Brown Ale
2nd Canoe Beaver Brown Ale
3rd Tree Brewing Hophead 45 Red Ale

Pale Ale
1st Central City Red Racer ESB
2nd Driftwood Ale
3rd Central City Red Racer Pale Ale

Other Dark
1st Phillips Skookum Cascadian Dark Ale
2nd Okanagan Spring Black Lager
3rd Fat Cat Bunny’s Black and Tan

Fruit Flavored
1st Storm Black Currant Lambic
2nd Phillips Longboat Chocolate Porter
3rd Swans Coconut Porter

IPA
1st Yaletown Brick and Beam IPA
2nd High Mountain Wodward’s IPA
3rd Central City Red Racer IPA

Stouts / Porters
1st Phillips The Hammer Imperial Stout
2nd Lighthouse Keeper’s Stout
3rd Howe Sound Diamond Head Stout

Spiced / Seasonal
1st Yaletown Oud Bruin
2nd Tree Brewing Spiced Reserve
3rd Driftwood Farmhand Ale

Strong Beer
1st Driftwood Old Cellar Dweller Barley Wine
2nd Central City Thor’s Hammer Barley Wine
3rd Swans Scotch Ale

BEST OF SHOW
Ian Hill’s Yaletown Brick and Beam IPA

At the BC Beer Awards Tasting, in conjunction with Vancouver Craft Beer Week, guests can sample the Top 11 Beers from the 188 submitted and enjoy them with food from Beerbrats tonight from 7 – 11 pm at the Heritage Hall at 3102 Main Street.

I got 2 FREE tickets to tonight’s sold out BC Beer Awards tasting event for the first person to complete the following quiz…

1) What’s the main difference between an ale and a lager?

2) What company owns Molson Canadian?

3) What is the worst beer ever made?

4) What is the final event being offered during VCBW?

5) What beer movie starred these two Canadian comic legends? And who are they?

Playhouse Wine Festival announces trade competition award winners; The Glowbal Collection of Restaurants – Dine Out Vancouver 2010; Café Nuba on 3rd opens its doors on South Main; David Gunawan appointed Chef de Cuisine of West Restaurant; Chef’s Jean-Francis and Alessandra announce special cruise and eat tour to France and Barcelona; Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery announces 2010 FIFA World Cup appreciation events with a team of special guests; Chefs’ Table Society of BC announces the fourth annual Spot Prawn Festival; Opus Bar & Cointreau present: FAB Women; The Price is Right at Market for Dine Out Vancouver 2010; Wine tasting with a social twist

PLAYHOUSE WINE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES TRADE COMPETITION AWARD WINNERS

Vancouver, BC, April 24th, 2010 – The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival has announced this year’s trade competition winners. “The trade competitions give the Festival an opportunity to honour and celebrate those professionals who have developed and enhanced the extraordinary wine and food culture of our region,” says Festival Executive Director Harry Hertscheg. Winners were honoured at the 7th Annual Awards Lunch on Friday, April 23rd, 2010. Attendees enjoyed lunch and wines from theme regions Argentina and New Zealand.

SPIRITED INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL (SIP) AWARD
The SIP Award annually honours an individual who has made a significant contribution to the sales, service or promotion of wine in British Columbia. This year, the fifth annual Spirited Industry Professional Award goes to Anthony Gismondi. Gismondi has been writing on wine since 1983 and has been the weekly wine columnist for the Vancouver Sun since 1989. He is also editor-in- chief at Wine Access, co-host of the weekly Best of Food & Wine show on AM650 in Vancouver and the man behind www.gismondionwine.com.

SOMMELIER OF THE YEAR AWARD
The 11th annual Sommelier of the Year Award recognizes outstanding wine knowledge and wine service. This year’s award goes to Kurtis Kolt for his short, thoughtful wine list at Salt Tasting Room, which also took the Platinum Wine List Award. The award is voted on by key members of the industry.

WINE LIST AWARDS
Restaurants in Metro Vancouver, Whistler, Vancouver Island, the Interior and Alberta have all been recognized for creating wine lists that complement their establishment’s unique menu and concept. Candidates who were considered submitted their wine lists and menus and were then visited by judges who reviewed their programs. “These awards are all about a wine program, not a wine list. Having a big wine list is not necessary. Food and wine pairings and staff knowledge is what makes a successful wine program,” says House Wine’s Michelle Bouffard. The Wine List Awards are sponsored by Vancouver Magazine and the Playhouse Wine Festival.

METRO VANCOUVER
Platinum
Blue Water Café + raw bar
Salt Tasting Room
West Restaurant

Gold
C restaurant
CinCin
Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill & Enoteca

Silver
Au Petit Chavignol
Le Crocodile
Cru
Lift Bar Grill View
The Observatory
Provence Marinaside
Rangoli
The Salmon House
Seymour Golf and Country Club
Vij’s
Wine Room at Joey Bentall One
Zest Restaurant

Bronze
Aqua Riva
Diva at the Met
gudrun
Hart House Restaurant
Pearl on the Rock
Shuraku
YEW restaurant & bar

Honourable Mention
Bistrot Bistro
Bravo Restaurant & Lounge (Chilliwack)
Bridges
Goldfish Pacific Kitchen
Gramercy Grill
La Terrazza
Ric’s Grill (Chilliwack)

WHISTLER
Silver
Araxi Restaurant + Bar

Honourable Mention
Ric’s Grill
The Wine Room (Fairmont Chateau Whistler)

VANCOUVER ISLAND AND GULF ISLANDS

Silver
The Pacific Restaurant (Victoria)

Bronze
The Landing West Coast Grill (Nanoose Bay)
Nautical Nellies Restaurant (Victoria)
The Restaurant at Painted Boat (Madeira Park)
SoBo (Tofino)
Veneto (Victoria)

Honourable Mention
eat@galianoinn (Galiano)
Hastings House (Salt Spring)
The Marina Restaurant (Victoria)
Stage Wine Bar (Victoria)

BC INTERIOR

Silver
Cobblestone Restaurant at the Naramata Heritage Inn (Naramata)

Bronze
All Seasons Café (Nelson)
La Bussola (Kelowna)

Honourable Mention
Emerald Lake Lodge (Field)
Sal’s Prime Steakhouse (Kelowna)
Whitetooth Mountain Bistro (Golden)

ALBERTA

Gold
Divino Wine & Cheese Bistro (Calgary)
Taste (Calgary) Silver River Café (Calgary)
Vin Room (Calgary)

Bronze
The Ranche (Calgary)
Honourable Mention
Buffalo Mountain Lodge (Banff)
Cilantro (Calgary) Deer Lodge (Lake Louise)
Ric’s Grill (Calgary)
Velvet (Calgary)

WINE PROFESSIONAL CHALLENGE
For this award, five distinguished industry professionals each play a different role in testing candidates on technical knowledge and varietal distinctions, flight tasting and customer service. This year’s winner is Sandy Hamilton, former Cannery restaurant sommelier. The Wine Professional Challenge is sponsored by Puddifoot.

QUADY DESSERT COMPETITION
For twenty-two years the Quady Dessert Competition is a test to create a dessert that pairs perfectly with a Quady wine, which this year was Elysium. First place was awarded to Tomiko Mayede from Terminal City Club. Second place was Lisa Ip from VII Lounge, and third place awarded to Whitney Reimer from Lumiere. Top Student award went to Alice Wu from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts.

About the Playhouse Wine Festival
The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, Canada’s premier wine show, runs from April 19 to 25, 2010. The Playhouse Wine Festival is one of the biggest and oldest wine festival events in the world. The featured theme regions for 2010 are Argentina and New Zealand with the global focus of rosé. The festival features a week of special events including a gala auction, wine seminars, wine minglers, winery dinners, lunches and brunches at fine restaurants and hotels. The Playhouse Wine Festival is produced by the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine

Society, which has three mandates: provide an informative, educational and entertaining wine experience for consumers and trade; be a premier marketing opportunity for the wine industry and festival partners; and raise funds for the Playhouse Theatre Company. Since its inception in 1979, the festival has raised over $6.8 million to enable Western Canada’s leading theatre company to mount 209 productions and develop extensive community outreach and educational programs. The Shore Club generously presents the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival.

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THE GLOWBAL COLLECTION OF RESTAURANTS – DINE OUT 2010

Eat your heart out, Vancouver – Dine Out is back! The GLOWBAL COLLECTION of restaurants – glowbal grill, COAST, Sanafir, Italian Kitchen, Trattoria, and Society – is once again participating in the city’s annual culinary campaign, April 26 – May 6. The promotion, organized by Tourism Vancouver and presented by Visa, offers foodie fans the chance to dine at 200 participating restaurants over 11-days. Offering incredible value, guests will enjoy three-course menus at set prices of $18, $28 or $38 respectively (excluding tax and beverages).

“The GLOWBAL COLLECTION of restaurants is thrilled to be involved in Dine Out Vancouver,” says proprietor Emad Yacoub. “Our chefs have prepared delicious menus indicative of each restaurant and we hope our existing fans, as well as newcomers to the GLOWBAL scene, will take advantage of these amazing dining deals.”

GLOWBAL COLLECTION Dine Out Incentive
All Dine Out Vancouver reservations made on Sundays through Wednesdays will receive a complimentary Gift Certificate letter valued at $25 – valid at any GLOWBAL COLLECTION location from May 10 – June 30, 2010. Limit one Gift Certificate per reservation. Restrictions apply. Diners can make reservations online at glowbalgroup.com.

glowbal invites guests to check-out its fresh new look whilst savouring a delectable meal in one of Yaletown’s favourite restaurants. With a recent renovation and a new steak-centric menu, glowbal is offering a three-course Dine Out menu for $38 per person. Diners can choose between two starters – a roasted beet and arugula salad or sweet pea soup with Dungeness crab; three entrée options include Canadian prime tenderloin, Queen Charlotte halibut, or a creamy (and vegetarian-friendly) wild mushroom risotto. Pucker up for dessert with a sweet strawberry-rhubarb crumble. click here for full menu details

COAST beckons with a tantalizing blend of both surf and turf selections on its three-course Dine Out menu, priced at $38 per person. To start, choose between the dungeness crab cake, poached prawn waldorf salad, or classic New England clam chowder. Entrées include grilled wild BC salmon, broiled Canadian prime beef tenderloin or jumbo sea tiger prawns. The Pastry Chef’s dessert platter is guaranteed to float your boat, with white chocolate-vanilla cheesecake lollipops, chocolate mascarpone brownie and pistachio cream. click here for full menu details

Discover Sanafir’s signature tapas trios and indulge in its exotic three-course Dine Out menu for just $18 per person. Start the meal with either tomato and lentil soup or sake-marinated woodland mushroom salad. Entrées include one of the following trios: Land – goat cheese stuffed lamb kibbeh, hand-rolled oxtail ravioli and Punjabi-style butter chicken; Sea – miso bourbon glazed sablefish, kanafa wrapped tiger prawns, and spicy salt & pepper calamari. A vegetarian option of filo-wrapped lentils, goat cheese and grilled vegetables with marinated tofu and green tea vermicelli noodles with crispy Asian slaw is also available. Finish the evening with pannetone bread pudding or baklava. click here for full menu details

Those seeking a generous helping of good old-fashioned Italian home cooking need look no further than Alberni Street’s sumptuous Italian Kitchen, which is presenting a three-course Dine-Out menu for $38 per person. Choose between a crab and mushroom torta or braised chicken cannelloni to start the meal. Main courses include veal parmigiana or roasted sablefish. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of espresso anglaise tiramisu for dessert. click here for full menu details

Comfortable and casual, Trattoria is offering a modern twist on Italian dining with its three-course Dine Out menu, priced at $28 per person. To start, try the farro soup (wild forest mushrooms and mussels) or fresh burrata cheese with crispy prosciutto. Entrée options include braised beef cheek pappardelle topped with pear and apple mostarda or pan seared halibut accompanied by fried potato gnocchi. A traditional tiramisu is served for dessert. click here for full menu details

Offering an unexpected twist on classic favourites, Yaletown’s newest hotspot Society presents a three-course Dine Out menu for $18 per person. Start with the tomato soup with mini grilled cheese sandwiches; jalapeno, white cheddar mac ‘n’ cheese balls; or Caesar salad. Entrées include blackened wild BC salmon, penne primavera or grilled beef short ribs accompanied with house-cut fries. Of course, no visit to Society would be complete without something sweet — enter the dessert platter, consisting of bread pudding, donuts, mini cupcakes and cookies. click here for full menu details

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CAFE NUBA ON 3RD OPENS ITS DOORS ON SOUTH MAIN

Vancouver, BC – Nuba’s commitment to quality, organic ingredients, sustainable business practices, vibrant service and community involvement has earned it a place in Vancouver’s heart. Thanks to the generous response of customers, friends and staff, the Nuba team has created a new space in the South Main neighborhood.

The new Café Nuba maintains the soul of the original concept while adding fresh, new and colorful elements to its authentic Lebanese roots. Expect homemade Middle-Eastern baked goods, new vegan items and organic retail products. The unique beverage offerings start with nourishing fresh-pressed juices, including selections like “Life on Mars?” and “Redencion” (made with watermelon, raspberries and rose water) and finishes with organic coffees, teas and the house favorite: Turkish coffee.

The architectural and interior design of Café Nuba was entrusted to Scott Cohen who has designed projects such as Maenam, Les Faux Bourgeois and Nuba on Hastings. The new interiors were inspired by the conceptual idea of a roadside café in the Middle East during the early 1970’s. For this project, Cohen developed bright colored geometric patterns and non-conventional surfaces resulting in a space that brings back the exuberance of the late 60’s and early 70’s. The music selection is inspired by third world grooves from the same period.

The new location also houses the production kitchen and bakery where all the Nuba products are made fresh everyday. Soon, Nuba Natural Foods products will be available on retail shops around Vancouver.

Please join us to celebrate the GRAND OPENING on Wednesday the 28th from 6:00pm to 10:00pm for a tasting of our new dishes, fresh juices and a great musical selection.

CAFÉ NUBA will be open for business Monday to Saturday from 11:30am to 9:30pm. The Café Nuba is located on 146 East 3rd (between Main and Quebec).

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DAVID GUNAWAN APPOINTED CHEF DE CUISINE OF WEST RESTAURANT

Vancouver, B.C. – Jack Evrensel, proprietor of Top Table Group, is pleased to announce the promotion of David Gunawan to Chef de Cuisine of West Restaurant.

“David is a tremendous talent who will provide a fresh focus for West’s kitchen,” said Evrensel. “His philosophy reflects the restaurant’s core values and our ongoing dedication towards providing exemplary fine dining experiences.”

A rising star in Vancouver’s culinary scene, David honed his skills in top restaurants throughout Chicago, Seattle and Vancouver.

Unusually for an aspiring chef, he first studied at Purdue University in Indiana where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Form soon followed function, when he graduated from two culinary schools: Kendall College in Chicago, and then Vancouver Community College.

David now joins West’s outstanding management team: Brian Hopkins, Restaurant Director; Rhonda Viani, Pastry Chef; Owen Knowlton, Wine Director; and David Wolowidnyk, Bar Manager. Together with their teams, they will continue to achieve the high fine dining standards that are synonymous with West.

West’s outstanding contemporary regional cuisine and seamless service have garnered much critical acclaim, both locally and internationally. Cocktails are crafted behind the gleaming cherrywood bar, and the highly awarded wine collection is housed in a magnificent, temperature-controlled wall of wine. 2881 Granville Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Valet nightly. Open for dinner nightly, and lunch Monday to Saturday. 604-738-8938. www.westrestaurant.com

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CHEF’S JEAN-FRANCIS AND ALESSANDRA ANNOUNCE SPECIAL CRUISE AND EAT TOUR TO FRANCE AND BARCELONA

The Chefs Jean-Francis and Alessandra are going to Provence! Join them on this exciting adventure to one of the most beautiful places in the world. The Chefs will share all of their love and deep knowledge of France during this 13 night culinary experience.

The adventure begins June 30, with three magical nights in Paris before transferring in style aboard the high speed TGV train to Lyon, to board the beautiful Swiss Pearl, to begin your 7 night river journey, where the Chefs will join you to cruise through exquisite wine growing regions. Explore the historical town of Avignon, taste famous wines such as Beaujolais, Côte du Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, feast your eyes on the rolling hills and endless fields of lavender. End your cruise in the ancient town of Arles where a motor coach will await to transfer you to Barcelona for three additional nights! This will truly be a magical and life changing journey. Indulge your love of food, wine and adventure!

When you make your reservation, mention Chefs Jean-Francis and Alessandra to be entered to win a magnificent four course dinner for yourself and nine guests at Provence Marinaside; the perfect setting to reminisce with friends and family about your adventures. Book your cruise before May 31, 2009 and receive two entries for this exclusive contest.

For more information or to book please visit www.cruiserivers.com/ama/

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KICK OFF THE WORLD CUP IN STYLE

Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery announces 2010 FIFA World Cup appreciation events with a team of special guests

Vancouver, B.C., April 21st, 2010 – Stylish downtown eatery, Red Card Sports Bar is preparing to embrace the 2010 FIFA World Cup, with events taking place next week in celebration of the upcoming championship launch on June 11th, 2010.

The FIFA World Cup is the highlight of the European sporting calendar and takes place this year in South Africa, from June 11th to July 11th. Thirty-two teams will vie for the coveted title of World Champions, an accolade that only seven teams have achieved in the history of the tournament. With its ingrained Italian heritage, Red Card Sports Bar is excited to support the Italian reigning champions.

A team of very special guests is headlined by Osvaldo “Ossie” Ardiles, former member of the Argentinean World Cup team, rising to glory after winning in 1978. Ossie went on to play for Tottenham Hotspur, implementing the 4-4-2 diamond formation and helping them to win the UEFA Cup in 1984. In more recent years, Ossie has shown his talents for management with positions at Swindon Town and West Bromwich Albion. Other celebrated special guests include White Caps and Canadian National Women’s team players Kaylyn Kyle and Randee Hermus.

Red Card Sport Bar + Eatery’s World Cup Kick-Off takes place on both Tuesday April 27th and Thursday April 29th, with meet and greet opportunities with Osvaldo Ardiles and other soccer experts between 2-3pm and 7-8pm each day. Entry is free but space is limited, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

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

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CHEFS’ TABLE SOCIETY OF BC ANNOUNCES THE FOURTH ANNUAL SPOT PRAWN FESTIVAL

(Vancouver, BC) – The Chefs’ Table Society of BC is pleased to announce the Fourth Annual Spot Prawn Festival. Lasting for the duration of the season, the six to eight week Spot Prawn Festival will kick off on Saturday May 8th from 12pm – 3pm with a community and family-friendly event at False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf.

This rain or shine launch will feature delicious spot prawn dishes, spot prawn specials at the award-winning Go Fish, a gathering of Vancouver’s chef and restaurant community, and the arrival of the season’s first spot prawns as local fishermen return to the wharf with their catch.

The annual Spot Prawn Festival will provide another local, fresh, and sustainable ingredient for our restaurant chefs and home cooks to enjoy. Those who take pride in serving the bounty of British Columbia can use this annual six-to-eight week window of opportunity to purchase live, locally sourced and sustainable spot prawns directly from our local fishermen at False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf and at participating restaurants serving local spot prawns. At $12 per pound for the public ($10 for Chefs’ Table members), they are an excellent and affordable alternative to the farmed tiger prawns.

This year the Spot Prawn Festival is proud to feature wine samples from Ganton & Larsen Prospect Winery, a kids play area from the Vancouver Aquarium Ocean Wise Program, a special guest speaker from the David Suzuki Foundation, and entertainment from local blues-rock band Terminal Station. As the Chefs’ Table Society is continuing to spread awareness for it’s latest cookbook Vancouver Cooks 2, festival goers can purchase books at the festival and have them signed by their favourite Vancouver chefs.

The festival creates a virtual ‘spot prawn frenzy’, as the event is growing bigger and better each year! Bringing energy and excitement down to the docks, attendees will flock to local fishermen at the wharf generating long line-ups for spot prawns bought fresh off the boats.

Local. Sustainable. Delicious. Join us for the 4th Annual Local Spot Prawn Festival!

Launch date: Saturday May 8th, 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Duration: The Spot Prawn Festival will run for eight weeks
Buying times: After 1pm daily
Location: False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf
(1505 West 1st Avenue, North-West of Granville Island, between the Burrard Street Bridge and the Granville Street Bridge – http://www.falsecreek.com/p_map.htm)

For further event information please visit:
www.chefstablesociety.com

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OPUS BAR & COINTREAU PRESENT: FAB WOMEN, THE SAVVY WOMEN’S GUIDE TO A STYLISH LIFE APRIL 28

Wednesday April 28, 2010
6-9pm, OPUS Bar 350 Davie Street, Yaletown

Enjoy cocktails, canapés and network with fabulous women at the chic ‘see and be seen” OPUS Bar in the world renowned
OPUS Hotel Vancouver.

RSVP to Jessica Dunn JDunn@opushotel.com

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HAMILTON STREET GRILL PRESENTS THE WINES OF ARGENTINA AND NEW ZEALAND

Hamilton Street Grill is pleased to host Yaletown Wine Festival
A “Vancouver wine festival” themed evening for those of you who can’t make it to the big festival,
are looking for a more casual setting to try this year’s featured wines,
or are just looking for great value!

Monday, April 26th and Tuesday, April 27th
5:30 to 7 pm – 3 wines, 3 appetizers $25 per person

In keeping with our popular monthly format, try a sampling of three new wines and have three savoury, wine-inspired food tasters while learning from a wine expert as they take you through a sit down yet casual style tasting. This month International Cellar’s Tina Hoogeveen takes you through some of the wines featured at this year’s Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival

Monday, April 26 at 5:30pm or Tuesday, April 27 at 5:30pm
$25 per person plus taxes and gratuity
Hamilton Street Grill
1009 Hamilton Street, Yaletown, Vancouver
Reserve by credit card at: 604-331-1511
or hamiltonstreetgrill@telus.net

Hamilton Street Grill
Brunch served 10 am – 3 pm
Dinner served 7 nights a week from 5 pm
Lunch Tuesday – Friday – 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Reservations available, large party’s welcome
twitter@hamiltonstgrill / Facebook Hamilton Street Grill

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Now serving Dine Out Vancouver Menus $28 and $38 April 19th to May 9th and a $15 three course Dine Out lunch April 17th – May 7th

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THE PRICE IS RIGHT

MARKET is ready to make your taste buds and your wallet go ‘wow’ during DINE OUT Vancouver 2010.

This annual event brings the foodies – whether local or visitors – out in droves to the city’s top restaurants where menu creativity is at an all time high, and pricing at an incredible low.

From April 26th to May 6th, discerning diners will enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu – 3 decadent courses for $38 plus tax.
Bookings begin early – April 19th and sell out fast.

To reserve your DINE OUT spot in MARKET, call 604-695-1115 or e-mail marketbyjg.slv@shangri-la.com

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WINE TASTING WITH A SOCIAL TWIST

Oliver, BC…..Tinhorn Creek Vineyards has always been a leader in the BC Wine industry and embracing the age of social media has proven no different. The Tinhorn Creek team are avid tweeters, Facebook followers and are very LinkedIn. So, to meet their fellow social types, Winemaker Sandra Oldfield and the crew from Tinhorn Creek Vineyard are hosting a Staggered Tasting, Wednesday, May 26th from 6 – 9pm in the Audience Lounge at CBC, 700 Hamilton Street, Vancouver. This event is structured as “brown bag meets speed dating”, with a fast paced tasting followed by light canapés, and guided unveiling of wines by Sandra Oldfield and live tweeting galore. Tickets are an incredibly reasonable $20 and can be purchased at www.staggeredtasting.eventbrite.com or by calling the winery at 1-888-484-6467.

This irreverent look at Speed Dating has nothing to do with dating, but more about the fast paced times we live in and making wine tasting fun. Guests have five minutes per brown bag, then move to the next table, taste and move on. Upon completion, winemaker Sandra Oldfield will guide tasters through the nuances of each varietal, with the chance to win great prizes if you choose to enter the game and guess the wine. Enjoy the cool space of CBC, taste and re-taste wines, nibble on canapés and leave with a souvenir Riedel wine glass. BUT, no staggering allowed!!!

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.

Ever since food and travel writer Mark Schatzker told the world to pack their chopsticks for Vancouver “home to the best Chinese food in the world,” in his now legendary article that came out in Condé Nast Traveler during the February 2010 Winter Olympics, “interest in the Chinese Restaurant Awards has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception last year,” says Craig Stowe, CRA Founder and Director.

The CRA are divided into two components: The Critics’ Choice Signature Dish Awards and the HSBC Diners’ Choice Awards. The Awards announcements were split up for 2010 to accommodate the Olympics with the HSBC Diners’ Choice Awards being announced last November and the Critics’ Choice Signature Dish Awards revealed on April 7th.

Evaluating over 400 Chinese restaurants from Metro Vancouver to arrive at the ‘Critics’ Choice Signature Dish Awards’ is no easy task, but over the course of the last year, 8 judges did just that, producing a short list that all the critics carefully analyzed to finally select the 50 medalists (25 gold, 25 silver).

Here are the results: CRITICS’ CHOICE SIGNATURE DISH AWARDS

Interactive map of all the winners

Visit: www.chineserestaurantawards.com

~ PK

2010 Afterglow – Naramata Bench Wineries Spring release; Warren Geraghty to depart West; Something’s Fishy at Provence in April; JoieFarm named “2010 BC Winery of the Year”; Nathan Guggenheimer named Chef de Cuisine at DB Bistro Moderne, Vancouver; Culinary Capers Catering Receives Event and Catering Awards; Playoff with Panache at Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery; Who Framed Roger Rabbit? We (The Refinery) did; Tinhorn Creek Breaking ground with TLC; Two Chefs & a Table launches new brunch menu

2010 AFTERGLOW ~ NARAMATA BENCH WINERIES SPRING RELEASE + WINE AUCTION

For more information, visit www.naramatabench.com
To purchase tickets, click here.

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WARREN GERAGHTY TO DEPART WEST A message from Top Table proprietor, Jack Evrensel:

“It is with no small regret that I announce that Warren Geraghty, executive chef of West Restaurant, will be departing at a yet-to-be determined date.

Warren has made many valuable contributions in leading our culinary team since arriving from his native London, England in 2008. His conversant style with local ingredients continuously pushed West to the forefront of British Columbia’s fine dining landscape and his contributions to West: The Cookbook were invaluable in chronicling many of the restaurant’s signature recipes.

Our talented kitchen brigade will continue to develop and implement our seasonally-based culinary program, and to achieve the high standards that are synonymous with West. We wish Warren all the very best in his future endeavours.”

Visit: www.westrestaurant.com

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

The celebration comes with its own ‘fish forward’ three-course menu offering a ‘school’ of choices for only $45. On it you’ll find fish of every description prepared in a myriad of ways. From sardines to salmon, confit to bouillabaisse there is something to please every fish lover on the extensive menu. For an additional $5 you can also order the Whole Fish of the Day, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and seven-grain rice. Then end on a sweet note with a choice of something decadent from Provence’s regular menu of hand-crafted desserts. Can you say ‘French lemon tarte?’  “As an inaugural member of Ocean Wise, we serve only fish that have been harvested in a sustainable and responsible manner. That still gives us plenty of choice,” states Provence’s Executive Chef and Owner, Jean-Francis Quaglia. “Poisson d’Avril is an opportunity to welcome spring with a bit of fun.” Everyone gets involved, including the children of staff who have created the hand-drawn fish what whimsically adorn the restaurant and menus during the promotion.

In France, Poisson d’Avril is an ‘excuse’ to poke a little fun and play a practical joke or two. People attach fish (usually paper cut-outs) to the back of their friends and family, who, unaware of the addition to their wardrobe, continue about the day with the new accessory until someone shouts ‘Poisson d’Avril!’ and the jinx is up. Patissiers and chocolatiers create special fish-shaped treats while at some restaurants, little chocolate fish are presented following the meal.

During April, some Provence patrons will find a lucky Poisson under their plate or pinned to their coat. These Poissons come with a prize – perhaps a complimentary appetizer, dessert or meal discount or a copy of New World Provence or even a chance to win a personal cooking demonstration class in their home with Chefs Alessandra and Jean-Francis Quaglia.

The restaurant will also offer a daily rosé feature by the glass, half litre or bottle. While there is something very fishy happening at Provence Marinaside in April, diners will agree that the Poisson d’Avril menu is no joke!

Information/Reservations: www.provencevancouver.com

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JOIE FARM NAMED “2010 BC WINERY OF THE YEAR” JoieFarm is proud to announce that we have been named the “2010 British Columbia Winery of the Year” by Wine Press Northwest in the spring edition of their magazine. This award is selected by the editors of Wine Press Northwest based on blind tastings, visits, accolades and other considerations.

Wineries of the Year must have also completed at least five vintages. The complete article can be found online: here Wine Press Northwest is an independent quarterly magazine published out of Walla Walla, Washington. Wine Press Northwest is focussed on Washington, Oregon, Idaho and British Columbia’s talented winemakers and the wineries, vintners and restaurants that showcase Northwest wines. JoieFarm is owned and operated by Michael Dinn and Heidi Noble in beautiful Naramata, BC.

JoieFarm is interested exclusively in the grape varieties of Alsace and Burgundy which excel in the cool-climate, desert landscape of the Okanagan Valley.

For more information, please contact Michael Dinn at 250-488-1960 or wine@JoieFarm.com.

Visit: www.joiefarm.com

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Nurturing and promoting talent from within is a trademark of Daniel Boulud and the management style of his restaurant group. So it comes as no surprise that the new Chef de Cuisine for DB Bistro Moderne in Vancouver has been a sous chef at the restaurant since it’s opening in December 2008. In fact, Nathan Guggenheimer, just promoted to lead the kitchen of this French inflected British Columbia bistro is a veteran of both DB Bistro and its adjacent more upscale sister restaurant, Lumière.

Nathan Guggenheimer will take on his new role as Chef de Cuisine as of Sunday April 4th, with an Easter Sunday menu. He is a British Columbia native from Pitt Meadows who has been cooking since 2002 when he got his first training at Vancouver Community College. He has traveled and studied in France to fine tune his culinary technique and gained valuable experience working with respected Chefs such as Philip Howard at The Square in London and later David Hawksworth at Vancouver’s West. In preparation for his role at DB Bistro Moderne, Nathan cooked along side Chef Daniel Boulud at DANIEL in New York City, and most importantly, has been working closely with DB Bistro’s current Chef de Cuisine, Stephane Istel, as well as Lumière’s Dale Mackay.

“Nathan has demonstrated real dedication to his craft and an ability to perform consistently. He has a talent for combining British Columbia’s incredible ingredients with classic French technique. He’s earned my respect during these last two years cooking at Lumière and DB Bistro, proving he’s ready to take on greater responsibility,” affirms Daniel Boulud.

The promotion became available to Nathan Guggenheimer when Daniel Boulud asked the current Chef de Cuisine, Stephane Istel, to take on the challenge of overseeing the kitchen of his new DB Bistro Moderne opening at Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands Resort this coming June 2010. The result is an ideal opportunity for a worthy young local chef to show his talent close to home. Look for Nathan weekday mornings as he shops from local farmers at the Trout Lake and Kitsilano markets on his way to work.

DB Bistro Moderne, opened in 2008, is located at 2551 West Broadway in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighborhood and is a sister restaurant to the Manhattan original. The restaurant is operated by Chef Daniel Boulud and his restaurant management group and has been recognized as a Conde Nast Traveler HOT LIST TABLE, earned 4½ stars in the Vancouver Sun and AAA’s three diamond award. Most recently the restaurant received a 2009 Golden Plate Award for Best New Restaurant in Vancouver.

Visit: dbbistro.ca

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CULINARY CAPERS RECEIVES EVENT AND CATERING AWARDS A Latin menu using fresh regional and sustainable ingredients earned the award for Best Food Presentation. And a Tuscan al fresco celebration featuring a seated and interactive food station dining experience won for Best Catered Event. The Star Awards are presented annually and are the top honour for Canadian event professionals. Other noted achievements in March included Culinary Capers Beijing taking home a 2009 CATIE Award (Catered Arts Through Innovative Excellence). An exclusive plated luncheon on the Great Wall of China was the winner for Signature Caterer for Best Event. The CATIE Awards were presented on March 8th by the International Caterers Association at the 2010 Catersource Conference and Trade Show in Las Vegas which was attended by over 4,000 industry professionals. The Awards recognize the achievements of caterers from around the world. Culinary Capers’ pulled off gold medal performances of our own for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games It took 500 chefs, waiters, bartenders, and kitchen and operations staff working out of four kitchens to successfully pull-off the most exciting time in the company’s storied 24 year history.

Some fun stats:

Our kitchen teams turned out:

578 events
59,279 people served
196,867 hors d’oeuvre
21,944 petite desserts
15,025 breakfast items
14,221 entrées and mini meals
563 hors d’oeuvre platters
432 Team Canada hockey jersey sugar cookies

Information about Culinary Capers can be found at culinarycapers.com

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PLAYOFF WITH PANACHE AT RED CARD SPORTS BAR + EATERY

(April 1, 2010, Vancouver, BC.) In just a few weeks, Olympic-fever will revive as hockey-fever with the upcoming Playoff season. Can our courageous Canucks make it through to the Stanley Cup finals this year? And can they possibly beat the odds and raise the chalice for the very first time? Be sure to catch all the action in style at Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery situated in the core of downtown’s excitement.

To add to the revelry, Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery is celebrating Playoff Season with the “Hockey Lover’s Deal”, which includes a delicious Hockey Lover’s Pizza (topped with sopressata, spicy sausage, bacon and mozzarella) made fresh in an authentic wood burning oven and a glass of your choice of local beer on tap (Canadian, Miller Genuine Draft, R&B Cream Ale, Rickards White, or Whistler Premium Export), all this for just $15. Take advantage of this superb feature, available every Canucks game night at Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery.

Of course, there is more than just one way to enjoy the game at Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery – delve into our chic cocktail menu, marvel at our glowing marble bar, experience one of Red Card’s specialty dishes….and if you keep your eyes peeled, you may even spot a celebrated hockey player or two!

For reservations call 604.689.4460 or visit www.redcardsportsbar.com

About Red Card Sports Bar With inspired Italian cuisine, prepared with the freshest ingredients to the highest standards and a beautifully-restored heritage building, Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery offers a dramatic and elegant environment in which to enjoy your favourite sports game. Red Card Sports Bar is located at 900 Seymour Street, adjacent to Moda Hotel, on the corner of Seymour and Smithe Streets, Downtown Vancouver. Open Monday – Saturday: 11.00am – 1.45am and on Sunday: 11.00am – midnight with pizzas served until 01.00am!

For reservations call 604.689.4460 or visit www.redcardsportsbar.com

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WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT? WE DID When – Saturday April 03 2010 from 5:00pm – late My goodness. Just when you thought we couldn’t have more fun on a Saturday night, The Refinery proudly brings you an Easter Dinner, unlike anything you’ve likely seen before. The heroic tale of Roger Rabbit, famed cartoon actor from the 1940’s finds himself on the big screen at The Refinery while you indulge in a delicious menu prepared by Chef Mike Carter and his team. Have a little sip on Lauren Mote’s carrot juice cocktail while your server performs a soliloquy from The Story of Peter Rabbit, by Beatrix Potter. What’s even cooler? Some awesome DJ spinning tunes in a bunny outift.

Click the carrot to reserve your spot. Who Framed Roger Rabbit, the menu

$25 – 3 course Prix-Fixe

Easter Egg Salad Hard
boiled quails eggs, baby red potatoes, cured ham, green onion, pickled beans, chive aioli

Rabbit and Sausage Stew
Slow braised rabbit saddle, Tuscan sausage, kale, fennel, tomato saffron broth, white beans

Roasted Carrot Cake
Orange ginger icing, warm sultana compote, rum and vanilla ice cream

How’s about a quick joke? What is the difference between a crazy bunny and a counterfeit banknote?………………… One is bad money and the other is a mad bunny!

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BREAKING GROUND WITH TLC
Oliver, BC… The time has come; Tinhorn Creek Vineyards has broken ground to begin construction on their newest venture, a restaurant venue that overlooks the South Okanagan. In conjunction with Manuel Ferreira of Le Gavroche Restaurant in Vancouver, winery partners Kenn Oldfield and Bob Shaunessy eagerly look forward to April 2011 and the opening of this highly anticipated addition to the Golden Mile. And continuing the partnership that Tinhorn Creek Vineyards established in 2004 with The Land Conservancy (TLC) Tinhorn Creek management and construction crew are making sure that the restaurant site is positioned to do little harm to indigenous plants and grasses. Tinhorn Creek Vineyards has long awaited the construction of this restaurant. Plans were announced in the fall of 2008 to begin construction the following spring, and then the economic world changed. As we look toward the future, signs of recovery are promising and so time has come to move forward with the restaurant development. A new plan places the restaurant immediately adjacent to the outdoor amphitheatre. Guests will delight in the outstanding cuisine and service that has established Manuel Ferreira as one of Vancouver’s most respected restaurateurs. Breathtaking views of the South Okanagan Valley ensure that this restaurant will complement the high standards Tinhorn Creek has set for all visitors to the winery. With 65 seats both inside and out, the restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards will be open 10 months a year, providing both locals and visitors a spectacular experience.

The Conservation Partners Program is an initiative that aims to form a partnership between Conservation and Agriculture in BC, with mutually beneficial results. This initiative works to protect and enhance the natural habitat that live and thrive on Tinhorn Creek property. A site inspection with the TLC and Tinhorn Creek Vineyard’s Kenn and Sandra Oldfield resulted in the TLC preparing a plan detailing any native plants that may be in danger; how to remove and re-locate these plants, and advice as to which of the many native plants and trees might be added to the site.

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.

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TWO CHEFS AND A TABLE LAUNCHES NEW BRUNCH MENU Brunch is a vital weekly ritual for many. Whether taken solo with a newspaper and bottomless coffee or with friends and caesars, it’s the one meal that sets the tone for a weekend. Unlike weekday meals that get daily do-overs when they don’t work, Brunch is a once-a-week effort and avid brunchers tend to be a picky and ritualistic lot.

Two Chefs a Table has launched a new brunch menu to signal the arrival of spring in Vancouver. With an even greater emphasis on ingredients made in-house and a range of new flavours and dishes to match the season, the new menu offers a range of tastes perfect to start any weekend or holiday.

From English Muffins to sausage, jam to hollandaise sauce, each Two Chefs brunch dish is heavy on ingredients made from scratch on the Two Chefs kitchen. Over the winter, Chefs Karl Gregg and Allan Bosomworth have worked hard to perfect the homemade English Muffins and roasted ham that are now featured in Benedicts. Those looking for a topping for their toast will be able to enjoy the Two Chefs homemade pear jam, while carnivores can order the caribou sausage one of what will be an ever-changing selection of homemade sausages and jams made in the Two Chefs kitchen.

When ingredients are not made in-house they’re sourced from the freshest local sources like the artisan breads used at breakfast. And, like most kitchens, Two Chefs and a Table runs on coffee and it’s always an essential part of the day. Two Chefs prides themselves on their coffee, made fresh and hot and always served in a French press at the table.

For a completely new breakfast taste, the Two Chefs Brunch Risotto combines the sweet, satisfying base of risotto with mushrooms, poached eggs, caribou sausage and grilled tomatoes for a well rounded, hearty start to the day. Two Chefs offers their own spin on the Croque Madame with local charcuterie in place of the traditional ham and parmesan hollandaise and an over easy egg to complete the plate.

With the Sun climbing higher in the sky, the bright, airy Two Chefs room is perfect for a relaxed brunch with friends or solo with a paper at the newly rebuilt bar facing into the open kitchen.

Two Chefs and a Table is located at 305 Alexander Street in Railtown and at www.twochefsandatable.com on the web.

Mark your calendars! The 21st Annual Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards is set to take place on Tuesday, May 18th at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel at 1088 Burrard Street. Reception and awards ceremony starts at 1 pm.

Note: this is an industry event by invitation only.

The Vancouver Craft Beer Week organizing committee is proud to announce the first ever BC Beer Awards by Brewery Creek. On Monday, March 22nd, an expert judging panel will review over 150 beers from all across British Columbia at an undisclosed location.

The only blind judged beer competition in British Columbia, the BC Beer Awards judging panel boasts such beer experts as:

• Don Tse – A BJCP Certified beer judge, freelance beer writer and consultant, Don has been writing professionally about beer for seven years. His articles have appeared in beer publications such as All About Beer, Ale Street News and Beers of the World.
• Abram Goldman-Armstrong – A beer writer in Portland, Oregon, Abram has been a BJCP National Rank Judge since the age of 21, judging at competitions such as the Great American Beer Festival, the Okanagan Fest-of-Ales, and Portland’s Spring Beer and Wine Fest. He co-organizes the North American Organic Brewers Festival, the world’s largest organic beer festival.
• Megan Flynn – The publisher of Beer Northwest, a quarterly magazine covering beer, food, and lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest, Megan travels North America in search of the best beer and beer personalities, continuing to develop her pallet into one of the most diverse on the continent.
• James Nevison – Columnist for The Province newspaper, where his “Wine Guy” column appears weekly each Thursday. He is the co-author of five bestselling wine books, the latest is Had a Glass: Top 100 Wines for 2010 under $20, $25, and $30. Recently James was named a “Top 40 Foodie Under 40” by Western Living magazine.

Winners will be announced at the BC Beer Awards by Brewery Creek award show on Friday, May 14th, one of Vancouver Craft Beer Week’s signature events.

For further information on VCBW:
Email
VancouverCraftBeerWeek.com
Twitter
Facebook

After sabering open a bottle of Tribute commemorative Sparkling wine with a downhill ski, Sumac Ridge Estate Winery founder Harry McWatters and senior winemaker Mark Wendenburg presented Alexandre Bilodeau, the first Canadian to win an Olympic Gold Medal on Canadian soil, with a signed bottle of Tribute Gold.

With a ski?! I’d love to see that picture! ~ PK

~ Image courtesy of Sumac Ridge Estate Winery

In a ceremony held last Monday (November 30), the Government of France, as represented by its Consul General to Vancouver, Mr. Alexandre Garcia, honoured restaurateur (and owner of Bistro Pastis) John Blakeley by naming him a Chevalier (Knight) of the Ordre du Merite Agricole.

In his citation, Mr. Garcia stressed that this was a very high honour indeed as the Order recognizes people who have made a significant contribution to the field of agriculture as well as the broader fields of food and culinary arts. Amongst the Order’s members are many distinguished restaurateurs (both in France and abroad) along with vintners, food scientists and food historians. The honour carries the same status in France as a Knighthood does in Great Britain and entitles Mr, Blakeley to wear the medal or a distinctive lapel ribbon on all formal occasions.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Blakeley reminisced that in grades 8 and 9 he had attended agriculture classes but soon realized that his future ” lay in restaurants not in tractors.” He acknowledged the part played by his wife and family in his success and thanked fellow restaurateur Michel Jacob, owner of Le Crocodile and another Chevalier of the Order, for mentoring him.

The Order was created in 1883 to initially reward exceptional service to agriculture and its development. It is notable that this Order was one of just four specialized orders (along with the Academic Palms, Order of Maritime Merit and Order of Arts and Letters) that were not replaced by the National Order of Merit in 1963, testifying both to its long history and to the unique place of agriculture in the history, economy and culture of France.

François makes his mark with the new Teahouse menu; Chinese Restaurant Awards, Diner’s Choice winners announced; Two Chefs Poplar Grove Wine Drinker Dinner set for December 2nd; Naramata Inn’s Heirloom Spa holiday open house; Portfolio gifting ideas from Laughing Stock; Holiday happenings at Hart House; Chef Wayne Martin of Fraîche debuts Heirloom Catering;  JoieFarm wines now available for sale online; Holidays at Q4;

FRANÇOIS MAKES HIS MARK ~ NEW TEAHOUSE MENU UNVEILED
(Vancouver, BC, Canada) – For over 30 years, Teahouse Restaurant has been defined by its breathtaking location in Stanley Park.  Today, that’s about to change as new Executive Chef François Gagnon releases his new menu (click here to view menu).

Since joining the Sequoia Company of Restaurants to head up the team at the Teahouse, Gagnon has completely reinvented the cuisine.  According to Gagnon, “The new menu has a distinct, ‘classic bistro’ feel with dishes like Cassoulet, Roasted Sablefish and Steak and Frites.  I wanted to build a menu that was primarily bistro; one which would allow traditional dishes to stand out and let the ingredients speak for themselves.” Other menu highlights include: Qualicum Beach Scallops and the AAA Tenderloin. “Even though we have created an entirely new menu,” says Gagnon, “We did keep some Ferguson Point classics like the Carrot Soup with Crème Fraîche to keep the tradition going.”

To say that Gagnon comes to the Teahouse with an impressive resume is an understatement.  First apprenticing with François Rousseau in Quebec, Gagnon made the jump to France where he trained under acclaimed chef Joel Garault, of Hotel Hermitage as well as Roger Verger of Le Moulin de Mougins.  Since then, he’s never looked back.  In 2002 he began working with Rob Feenie, both at Lumiere as Chef de Partie and at Feenie’s as Chef de Cuisine.  Soon after he made his mark at Blue Water Cafe as Executive Sous Chef alongside Frank Pabst and most recently he was Executive Chef at Cin Cin Ristorante.  Says Gagnon, “The opportunity to be at the Teahouse is unlike anything I’ve experienced in my career.  This is an exciting time, I feel it’s my kitchen to do what I want.”

According to Sequoia Group of Restaurants, bringing in Gagnon as the new Executive Chef was the “final piece” of the Teahouse re-branding, which began in May 2009. To celebrate they will be lighting up the Teahouse and going all out for the festive season. Other upcoming events where Gagnon can show off his new menu include the launch event of Senator Larry Campbell’s new book A Thousand Dreams and a children’s Christmas breakfast for the Canucks Autism Network.

Located at Ferguson Point in Stanley Park, the Teahouse began operations in 1979. Boasting fresh local ingredients and classic bistro cuisine, the Teahouse is known for comfortable, simple dining… as well as the best views in the city.

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CHINESE RESTAURANT AWARDS, DINER’S CHOICE WINNERS ANNOUNCED

(Vancouver, BC) – Who says that the Canadian electorate is apathetic? Perhaps they just need something meaningful for vote for? Apathy was nowhere in evidence with voting for the second annual HSBC Diners’ Choice Awards. More than 9,300 votes were cast in 15 award categories. Good food, good taste and the art of dining well are very important topics in cuisine-crazy Metro Vancouver. We take eating very seriously.

The HSBC Diners’ Choice Awards are one of two components of the Edgewater Casino Chinese Restaurant Awards. The other is the Critics’ Choice Signature Dish Awards which will be announced at a gala event scheduled to take place following the 2010 Olympics.

“Good food is an essential element of Chinese culture,” says Critics’ Panel Chair Stephanie Yuen. “The freshness of ingredients, balance of flavours, and subtlety of dishes are all hotly debated topics amongst Asian diners. It is no surprise to us that the Chinese community embraced the CRA so enthusiastically, but we are thrilled that mainstream society is also passionately involved in voting for their favourite restaurants.”

Many of the winning restaurants are to be found in Richmond. In fact 56 percent of the winners come from Richmond with Alexandra Road being a hotbed of culinary excellence – six winners come from that one street! For true Chinese cuisine cognoscenti, Richmond is a Mecca for the best dining in Metro Vancouver. “There is such a strong Asian restaurant culture in Richmond that it is no surprise to us that many of the winners are to be found there,” comments Ms. Yuen. “Now that the Canada Line is running, it is even easier for people from Vancouver to come and explore Richmond’s rich culinary offerings.”

The HSBC Diners’ Choice Awards included 15 categories with Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards in each. See the attached list for the full list of winners. “The best thing about the Diners’ Choice Awards is that it encourages people to get out and try somewhere new, so everyone wins in the end.” click here to view the winners list

The CRA wishes to thank the following partners who make the Awards possible: Edgewater Casino, HSBC Bank Canada, Mercedes-Benz, Tourism Richmond, CBC TV and Radio, China Eastern Airlines, Heineken, Underwater Harvesters Association, Georgia Straight, CHMB AM1320, Ming Pao, World Journal, Klip Magazine, 818Channel, Edible-Britishcolumbia.com, Westca.com, Aperture Photography, Chinese Canadian Chefs Association and the Vancouver Multicultural Society.

Be sure to watch CRA’s web site (www.chineserestaurantawards.com) for updates on The Critics’ Choice Signature Dish Awards and the Awards Gala in 2010.

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TWO CHEFS POPLAR GROVE WINE DRINKER DINNER SET FOR DECEMBER 2ND

Two Chefs and a Table is pleased to announce the next in its series of Wine Drinker Dinners to be held December 2nd in partnership with the award-winning Poplar Grove Winery.

Located on the slopes of the Naramata Bench, just outside Penticton, Poplar Grove Winery began as a quintessential garage winery in 1993. Over the last two years, Poplar Grove has entered an era of re-invention, moving from an artisan winery to a world-class winery with 150 acres of new vineyards under cultivation.

Paired with signature selections from Poplar Grove Winery and their second label Monster Vineyards, December’s menu will not only focus on fall flavours and local ingredients, such as Polderside Duck, but will include course which feature Poplar Grove Blue Cheese.

For this dinner in the Vancouver’s darkest, stormiest season, chefs Karl Gregg and Allan Bosomworth have created dishes that perfectly combine robust textures and traditional winter ingredients with subtle flavours and classic preparations to satisfy the soul and please the palate.

The Wine Drinker Dinner is $65 per person (tax and gratuity not included). As always, reservations are recommended. Email info@twochefsandatable.com or call 778-233-1303 to secure your table.

Menu

Amuse Bouche
Cold cured wild salmon w/radish, cucumber and micro greens, beet crème fraiche
Wine: Monster Vineyards Rose 08

First Course
Leek and Potato Soup: hand made with Yukon Gold potato, braised leeks, crisp prosciutto, chive oil
Wine: Monster Vineyards 08 Sauvignon Blanc

Second Course
Fall risotto w/caramelized onions, fresh sage, chickpeas
Wine: Poplar Grove Pinot Gris 08

Third Course
Poplar Blue Cheese Croquettes made w/Poplar blue cheese, basil aioli, fresh mustard micro greens
Wine: Poplar Grove Merlot 06

Entrée
Polderside duck breast:  pan seared, orange and bay leaf reduction, seasonal fall vegetables
or/
Double Braised Short Ribs: long braised with fire-roasted tomato, rosemary, shallots, accompanied by yam puree, heirloom carrots
Wine: Poplar Grove Cab Franc

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NARAMATA INN’S HEIRLOOM SPA HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

The Heirloom Spa is excited to once again hold their annual open house celebration!  Everyone is welcome and all our past guests are invited to bring a friend.

If you haven’t yet thought about your holiday shopping, or are confounded about what to get that special someone, let the Heirloom Spa staff take care of the details for you.  Some examples of what we’ll be offering during the open house are:

•Purchase $100 in gift certificates and recieve an additional $25 gift certificate
•Save up to 35% on AVEDA gift boxes for him or her
•Complimentary hors d’ouvres and refreshments
•Door prizes
•Complimentary services including hand massage & make-up touch ups

As well, this year The Naramata Heritage Inn & Spa is hosting the annual Naramata Artisan and Craft Fair on the same day.  Local artists and artisans will be showcasing their talent and their products throughout the Inn.  But wait!  There’s more!  The Naramata Bench Winery Association will be hosting an open house at the member wineries December 5th and 6th from 12 – 5pm (look for their balloons along Naramata Road). And finally, the Cobblestone Wine Bar will be open on the 6th for anyone needing their toes warmed up!  Yum!

So, come out and enjoy the day(s) with us – shopping, socializing or just relaxing Naramata style!  If you can’t make it in person, give us a ring at 1-866-617-1188 or email spa@naramatainn.com and we’ll take care of the rest!

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‘TIS THE SEASON…PORTFOIO GIFTING IDEAS

Since the financial markets have recovered by over 30% year to date (phew!), it’s time to mix some holiday cheer into your investment decisions this Christmas and check out the following gifting ideas:

Collector Magnums – Inflate your assets with large format collector Magnums including:
• Portfolio 2007 – 1.5 L – $100, 3.0L – $200
• Chardonnay 2008 – 1.5L – $65

Library Release – How has your Portfolio performed? Vertical of sold out vintages ‘04, ‘05, ‘06 of Portfolio, our flagship Bordeaux blend. Available in:
• 3-pack – $150
• 6-pack – $300

Note cards with personalized messages available for gifts direct-shipped to your clients or friends.

Consider having Laughing Stock wines for your upcoming Christmas functions. We can direct deliver to your office or event venue.

Please place your online order here, or call the winery at 250.493.8466. These specialty gift items are only offered for a limited time until December 18th, or as quantities last.

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HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AT HART HOUSE

November 19, 2009 (Vancouver, BC) – Burnaby’s Hart House Restaurant is always a great place to celebrate life’s special moments. Our house is a welcoming retreat to enjoy the company of your friends and family during this festive time of year.

DICKENS LUNCHEON BUFFET – December 7th to 24th, Monday to Friday only
Select from hearty winter favourites such as Roasted Turkey, Carved Country Ham, Root Vegetables, and Warm Bread Pudding.
·         $35 per person exclusive of taxes and gratuity

CHRISTMAS DINNER – December 25th, 2009
Join us for traditional Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings or Seared Sablefish or Braised Beef Shortribs.
All the pleasures of a Christmas feast with none of the culinary drudgery!
·         $55 per person exclusive of taxes and gratuity
·         Reservations required for both early and late seating.

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER – December 31st, 2009
Ring in the New Year with style.  The early seating offers three delectable courses, and the late seating is a decadent five-courses.
·         Early seatings (5:30 or 6:00pm) – $55 per person exclusive of taxes and gratuity
·         Late seatings (8:30 or 9:00pm) – $75 per person exclusive of taxes and gratuity
·         Reservations required
In addition to these special events, Hart House offers 25% off bottles of wine every Tuesday in the dining room (a la carte lunch and dinner), making it the perfect place to get together with friends, family, or business colleagues over the holiday season. Make your reservations today!

Hart House at Deer Lake
6664 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Reservations by phone only at 604-298-4278
www.harthouserestaurant.com

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CHEF WAYNE MARTIN OF FRAICHE DEBUTS HEIRLOOM CATERING

New Catering Program offers local food for any occasion in time for the Holidays

In Short:
Wayne Martin, the busy executive chef of Fraîche and Crave restaurants, launches Heirloom Catering, offering easy solutions to ease the stress of holiday entertaining. For relaxed events for 10 or upscale events for 200, Heirloom Catering offers solutions for every event. Call 604-319-5027 or email catering liaison andrew.sward@heirloomcatering.ca for more information.

More Detail:
In time for the busy holiday season, Martin has opened a new catering program to appeal to busy gastronomes. Led by chef Martin and Andrew Sward, former Culinary Capers catering manager, the new catering service is sure to be a great success.

Heirloom Catering offers a variety of options for stress-free entertaining for either relaxed or upscale fetes and private gatherings. Heirloom Catering is also able to cater larger events at venues like the West Vancouver Community Centre or the UBC Boathouse in Richmond.

Aside from creating memorable private events, Heirloom Catering also caters breakfast and lunch to businesses and board meetings, entertaining clients and staff alike while still keeping up productivity. Either at the office or on the town, Heirloom Catering can answer any culinary dilemma.

After 15 years honing his craft in the esteemed kitchens of Four Seasons Hotels around the world, Martin opened Crave on Main in 2004, Fraîche in 2008, and Crave Beachside in 2008. Martin also spreads his culinary philosophies through shows like the recent Vancouver Home & Interior Design Show in October  and in November Cornucopia Whistler’s Food & Wine Festival where he partnered with Road 13 Vineyards and winemaker Michael Bartier to present a sumptuous luncheon at a private home.

Sward is a natural to lead the catering efforts for Martin. Sward’s team showcased exceptional cuisine at the 2006 Olympic and Paralympic Games and he was the general manager of Fraiche. Now he is the catering liaison for all three restaurants under the umbrella of Heirloom Catering, and his proven team delivers remarkable results.

To discuss catering for your upcoming event, please contact Andrew Sward at 604.319.5027 or email andrew.sward@heirloomcatering.ca

Fraîche Restaurant is located on Chippendale Road nestled in the hillside of West Vancouver. With seasonal menus of reinvented classics, Executive Chef Wayne Martin creates flavours as breathtaking as the views.

CRAVE: where quality and care are evident in every bite of the grown-up, comfort-food menu. A delicious creation of Chef Wayne Martin, former Four Seasons Hotel executive chef, this upscale bistro prides itself in featuring fresh, local, and often organic ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed, casual and fun while the food is creative, generous and affordable.

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JOIE FARM WINES NOW AVAILABLE FOR SALE ONLINE

In analyzing client feedback and media coverage over the past several years, our clients and colleagues have told us that they love JoieFarm wines, but have difficulty accessing them.  In order to address this problem  we have decided to make our wines available year round (based on availability) via our website: click here

Our wines must be ordered in denominations of 12 (all one wine or mixed based on availability) for safe shipping.  The wines will be shipped by courier only.  We are not able to accommodate pickups in Vancouver (except for our annual Spring release)
or from our winery.  For a number of logistical reasons we strongly encourage that all wine deliveries are made to a business address.  The cost of shippping within BC is $25/case for the first case, $10/case for each additional case.  The wine is shipped in a special wine shipper for safe travel.   The store is only available to Canadian customers. All transactions are made through
a secure server so your privacy is guaranteed.

WINES CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE (prices include tax and bottle deposit)
JoieFarm “A Noble Blend” 2008   -  $23.50/btl
JoieFarm Un-Oaked Chardonnay 2008 -  $22.50/btl
JoieFarm Reserve Chardonnay 2007 – $30.00/btl
JoieFarm Rose  – Sold Out – Next release of 2009 vintage – Late January 2010
JoieFarm Riesling – Sold Out – Next release of 2009 vintage – Late January 2010
JoieFarm PTG  – Sold Out – Next release of 2008 vintage – September 2010

The website on-line store is now up and running.  Refresh your stocks for holiday entertaining or just to tide you through until our next vintage release in late January 2010. Consider JoieFarm Wines for your upcoming party plans and holiday gifting.

Holiday shipping will be available up until December 14th, 2009.  Orders can be placed after December 14th, but they will
not be shipped again until January 4th, 2010.

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HOLIDAYS AT Q4

‘Tis the Season
Q4 caters to holiday entertaining at the restaurant, at home, or
office.   Book now to secure your preferred date.

Lunch Rush
Q4 is now open for lunch every Friday.  December 1 through
December 23, Q4 will be open for lunch every week day for
mid-day holiday celebrations.

$10 Pastas
Q4’s $10 pasta on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday is here to stay.  Join us early in the week and enjoy 10 pastas for $10 each
right through the holidays and beyond.

Business as Usual
Q4 will be business as usual during the 2010 Winter Games. Be sure to visit your favourite neighbourhood restaurant while
the world stops by.

For more information contact Q4 Restaurant
2611 West 4th Ave. | Vancouver
www.q4restaurant.com
patrick@quattrorestaurants.com
604.734.4444