For the longest time – it seemed like Vancouver had two distinct food cultures, great West Coast cuisine and world class Chinese food. But rarely was there any cross over, either in flavor influences or clientele. It was the Two Solitudes of local dining. As a Chinese guy who is passionate about food, I’ve always tried to demystify Chinese food. It’s pretty simple, good food is good food.

With all of this great Chinese cooking at our doorstep – cross cultural Asian restaurants have been generally met with skepticism or even hostility. When the excellent Bao Bei opened, some said to me that it was not authentic and too fancy.

What?

Here’s a little secret. Real Chinese diners are not beholden to ‘authenticity’. What matters is good cooking. Well selected ingredients, cooked with respect, lifted with balanced and natural flavors.

Tom Doughty and Robert Belcham prove this point abundantly at the new Fat Dragon – an ode to pleasures of Asian BBQ with a Southern twang. There are no shortcuts here. Where other restaurants equate “Asian” with sugary sauces worthy of a Tim Horton doughnut (Chinois – I am looking at you), Fat Dragon heads down of road of restraint and careful technique. And the rewards are delicious foods made for sharing with a easy going vibe.

^ Albacore tuna is lightly cold smoked, brightened with a spicy sharp sauce that accents not masks the natural sweetness of the fish

^ The smoked beef deckle with the steamed Chinese bao is completely luscious, a sort of dream of Texas dim sum

^ The crispy beef ribs are fantastic - rich, succulent - but tightly focused. The perfect mix of fall apart smokiness with Asian crackle

^ Finish your meal with one of their house made soft serve. I mean - who can resist a bit of DQ goodness?

With warm brick, soft candlelight and strings of lights, the room conveys a back yard friendliness that is exactly in tune with the food. The flavors are smart, grownup, but most importantly of all – delicious. Sounds pretty Chinese to me!

Fat Dragon Bar-B-Q
566 Powell Street | East Vancouver
604.558.0880
Website | Twitter | Facebook

~ Canucklehead pays for all of his food, eats in disguise, and uses a giant telefoto lens.

^ Heather Yau serves Xi Shi’s signature Iron Lotus cocktail.

The Shangri-La Hotel has relaunched its lobby lounge as a relaxed gathering spot where you can linger over exceptional comestibles or enjoy a casual meal. Named after Xi Shi, one of the legendary Four Beauties of ancient China, the Asian touches at Xi Shi Lounge are evident in the hand-tailored Shanghai qipao worn by servers, the floral and fruity emphasis in their original cocktails, and the rice cracker snacks.

^ Inspired by Shanghai in the 1920s, Xi Shi servers wear white qipao during the day, black in the evening.

^ Nori-wrapped rice cracker bar snacks, the Asian answer to peanuts and popcorn.

^ The Hastings Set. Live music entertains guests in the evening and during afternoon tea set on weekends.

Under the direction of Lead Bartender, Jay Jones, cocktails take pride of place in Xi Shi Lounge’s beverage offerings. From the radiant and evocative signature Iron Lotus, to classics like the Aviation and Singapore Sling, all palates are accommodated. You can also find here one of the best hotel beer selections in the city with Driftwood Farmhand Ale, Red Racer IPA, Red Truck Lager, and a rotating beer on draught. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the fine selection from the lounge’s Enomatic.

^ Paris, a Xi Shi original with Grey Goose La Poire vodka, green Chartreuse VEP, crème de cacao,  crème de violette, absinthe, orgeat.

^ Jay Jones, the Shangri-La Hotel’s Lead Bartender.

^ Gancho Rojo with Cazadores reposado tequila, Punt E Mes, maraschino liqueur, orange bitters.

For those with an appetite, the more than dozen food menu items represent a variety of culinary influences from Asia to Europe to the Americas. There are vegetarian options and three desserts for sweet tooths. Traditional afternoon tea with live classical piano is served on Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am – 5:00pm.

Xi Shi has been described as “equally charming in both heavy and light makeup” and “as appealing when she frowns as when she smiles”. But with Xi Shi Lounge, it’s more than just the space that appeals. The potential connections you make with visitors from other parts of the world is a notable virtue that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Xi Shi Lounge
Lobby Level, Shangri-La Hotel
Web | Twitter | Facebook
Hours: 11:30am – 1:00am

~ RG

Disclosure: http://cmp.ly/2/tOp4eH – Media promotional party

Last Thursday, the newly opened Hawksworth Restaurant hosted an exclusive Visa Infinite dinner, the first event to be held in the beautifully restored private banquet space, The York Room, located directly above the dining room and overlooking the historic Vancouver Art Gallery and Georgia Street below.

After a champagne and hors d’oeuvre reception, over 70 people buzzing with excitement filled the elegant chandelier-lit room and seated communally at 2 long tables draped in ivory white linen, fine silverware, and crystal wine glasses. The attention to detail was impressive right from the start as servers began handing out the appropriate black or white cloth napkin depending upon the colour of the guests’ evening attire.

The evening’s festivities were hosted by local wine educator, DJ Kearney, who expertly deconstructed each of the wine and food pairings. Here are some of the highlights of the evening:

^ Yellowfin tuna crudo, lemon parsley, garlic paired w/ Ehlers Estate Sauvignon Blanc St. Helena Napa Valley 2009

For 3 years, many people had been anxiously awaiting Chef David Hawksworth’s return to the restaurant kitchen, and I count myself as one of them. When the first dish finally arrived, it did not disappoint. Plated and delivered with military precision. Top quality ingredients. Sublimely fresh. Beautiful, balanced and subtle flavours. Fantastic wine pairing. Yes, the Hawk is indeed back.

^ Yarrow Meadows Duck Breast, confit leg, pea tendrils, enoki tempura, five spice broth paired w/ Siduri Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands 2008

Chef Hawksworth’s Asian, French and local influences shone through with his second course, a brilliantly textured and delicately nuanced duck dish that harmonized our dominant cultures and flavours. This is Vancouver cooking at it’s finest, a delicious expression of our city’s evolving culinary identity.

^ Smoked Alberta Prime Striploin, bone marrow, potato fondant, charred onion, natural jus paired w/ Ehlers Estate 'One Twenty Over Eighty' St. Helena Napa Valley 2007

^ Fine Canadian Cheese plate of national award winning cheese paired w/ Heidi Schrock Ruster Ausbruch 'On the Wings of Dawn' 2004 Burgenland, Austria

A small sampling of some of the best cheeses in the country confirmed the quality of Canada’s food products. The Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar from Prince Edward Island was a stand-out and worth seeking out (find at: Les Amis, Benton Brothers, Oyama).

^ Poached Rhubarb, crispy phyllo, vanilla brûlée

And dessert…well, it tasted as good as it looked (seasonally correct and not too sweet) and it felt like I was eating an edible piece art, which it was.

~ PK

* Special thanks to Don House from Integrated Digital Media Group for the dinner invite.

Job details inside.

Hapa Umi is currently seeking full-time Business Partners for it’s busy Coal Harbor location.

Hosts: daytime availability preferred

Expeditors: lunch and dinner positions available

Servers: daytime or evening availability with a minimum of 2 years fine dining or casual fine dining experience

Please apply in person at 909 West Cordova Monday to Friday from 2pm to 4pm.

For more information on our concept please visit www.hapaumi.com

Late in the evening a couple of days ago, I swear, a few seconds before I was about to turn off the computer and crawl away into bed before the sun came up, a tweet flashed across my screen that stopped me in my tracks…

‘Word’ is that Chef Dale MacKay and David Sidoo are staying together, w/ plans to move Lumiere’s kitchen to the Corner Suite Bistro space. (click here to view the tweet)

Just when I thought it was safe to draw a few gloomy conclusions about the state of the declining restaurant industry something like this happens. It’s the football equivalent of a fake punt followed by a long bomb hail mary into the end zone. WTF? catch them off guard while they’re still processing your last move kinda deal.

It would have been easy to run roughshod with this rumour, it was 3 am after all, but I realized I needed to talk to Dale directly to find out what was really going on. Having worked for both Gordon Ramsey and Daniel Boulud, two of the world’s top-drawer chefs, one thing is for sure, Dale Mackay can cook (one of my favourite meals of last year). But his arrival and tenure at Lumiere, even after it’s extensive remodeling and re-launch by the Dinex Group, never got free and clear of the dark cloud that formed and lingered after founding chef Rob Feenie’s dramatic departure.

So I asked Dale about the rumour… ‘Are you and the Lumiere kitchen crew moving into the former Corner Suite Bistro Deluxe location?’

“I have visited the space, but I have not signed anything, so right now the answer is no,” he responded.

‘Is David Sidoo backing the new venture?’

“No, David is not my partner on this one. I have enjoyed my time working with David and the Dinex Group, but I feel I am ready for a fresh start. I am currently working with another investor who I have known for many years.”

So, Chef Mackay is wanting to stay right here and work and call Vancouver his home; all things considered, this is a big win for our dining scene. Stay tuned!

~ PK

(Image courtesy of: Tracey Kusiewicz)

PINK ELEPHANT THAI SET TO OPEN ON ALBERNI MID-APRIL

Desmond Chen, president of Charm Modern Thai, Urban Thai Bistro, and Chilli House Thai Bistro, is pleased to announce that his newest restaurant, Pink Elephant Thai, will open at 1152 Alberni Street by mid April 2011. Pink Elephant Thai will be open seven days a week, from 11:30am through midnight, serving lunch, dinner, cocktails, plus everything in between.

Desmond secured the prime location on Alberni between Thurlow and Bute streets in late 2010 and quickly began executing his latest concept.

“Alberni Street has undergone an amazing transformation over the past few years,” says Desmond. “It has morphed from being Robson Street’s little sister to an attraction in its own right with the right mix of high-end fashion boutiques and destination restaurants.”

Although located in one of the trendiest culinary hotspots in the city, Desmond chose a restaurant name that honors old world Thai culture and tradition. In Thailand the white elephant is a symbol of divine and royal power, featured in Buddhist art and architecture, and loved by Thai people. In contrast, the pink part represents all that is fun, sexy and hot. Hot pink that is.

Pink Elephant Thai will offer an innovative Thai menu utilizing authentic ingredients and techniques in new ways. The dishes are designed to be enjoyed tapas style and paired with Pink Elephant’s signature cocktails.

“I like to think of it as an Iza-THAI-ya,” says Desmond. “Don’t get me wrong, Pink Elephant is not fusion of Thai and Japanese food, but we will offer a casual vibe and tapas style menu that is similar to that of a Japanese izakaya, and a low price point too. Only in Vancouver, eh!”

The 80-seat restaurant has an intimate bar with seating for 10, plus a chef’s table for larger groups. The decor is ultra sleek with gleaming whites and polished blacks, offset by plush banquette booth seating, and punches of silver and the restaurant’s signature pink.

Although the atmosphere at Pink Elephant Thai aims to be “sanook”, that’s Thai for fun and vibrant with lots of energy; there’s also room to “sabai sabai” or relax and chill. With two levels, there’s enough space to accommodate everyone’s mood.

PINK ELEPHANT THAI
1152 Alberni Street | Vancouver
www.pinkelephantthai.com

Last week, I was invited to try the new dinner menu at Commune Cafe on the corner of Seymour and Nelson. This place has always intrigued me, as it rather quietly dropped into a very prime downtown location flexing an ambitious high-end cafe concept and some serious pedigree. Service Excellence Consulting’s Annette Rawlinson (C, Au Petit Chavignol) and Chef Tina Fineza (Flying Tiger, Les Faux Bourgeois, La Taqueria), helped refine the concept and developed the locally focused menu showcasing seasonal and fresh items sourced from Vancouver’s abundant small producers, farmers, butchers & bakers.

For the space’s design, they brought in award winning Evoke International, whose simple and colourful re-imagining of a modern cafeteria fits perfectly into the quickly evolving neighborhood that straddles both the entertainment district and the outer edge of hipster Yaletown.

Organized around the large food display units and menu boards with a large communal table dominating the centre of the room, the space is comfortable, clean and simple. With the addition of a dinner menu, Commune Cafe brings more serious food offerings while keeping the most important aspect of their casual concept intact, the value.

From the starters, shared plates and mains, nothing on the food menu is over $15. The beer list is all Canadian craft (Red Racer, Phillips, Steam Whistle, Lighthouse, Propeller, St Ambroise, Unibroue $6-$6.50); the wine list consists is of 10 (5 red. 5 white) by the glass ($6-$11) or bottle ($27-$50) are all BC. The top quality coffee is 49th Parallel and the loose-leaf tea is from Shaktea.

click here to view the menu

Here are a few of the highlights from the evening’s tasting:

^ Warm chicken waldorf, celery salad, pickled grapes, candied walnuts - $8

^ Sangak Iranian flatbread, bacon and caramelized onion - $10

^ Sangak Iranian flatbread, tomato and bocconcini - $9

^ Seared salmon risotto, smoked bacon, garden peas, preserved lemon - $14

^ A sampling of the desserts on offer

If you are in the area and are looking for some quality food and drink that won’t break the bank, Commune Cafe is definitely worth a try.

1002 Seymour Street | Vancouver
Tel: 604-681-2551
Email: info@communecafe.ca
www.communecafe.ca

~ PK

Jamie Boudreau returns to Vancouver for one special night at Two Chefs; Downtown’s Red Card Celebrates Canada’s Game; Top International Special Event Award for Culinary Capers Catering; Taste the Olympic Spirit – 
YEW remembers the dream!
; MARKET by Jean-Georges – Rabbit Wines to welcome Chinese New Year

JAMIE BOUDREAU RETURNS TO VANCOUVER FOR ONE SPECIAL NIGHT AT TWO CHEFS

Evening to feature St-Germain cocktails paired with a fresh French-themed menu

(Vancouver, BC) On Wednesday February 9th, Two Chefs and a Table will celebrate the one night Vancouver return of renowned bartender and cocktail artist Jamie Boudreau with a special evening dinner event. The night will feature a paired menu of French-inspired classic dishes created by Chefs Allan Bosomworth and Karl Gregg matched with cocktails built around the unique flavour of St-Germain, the French Elderflower blossom liqueur.

It won’t be the first time that Jamie Boudreau will have teamed up with Karl Gregg; they cut their teeth together in the early 90s in the Vancouver food business when Jamie was honing his craft behind the bar and Karl was learning his trade in the kitchen. Since moving from Vancouver to Seattle, Jamie collected a list of accolades that includes awards like Bartender of the Year in Seattle Magazine, being named one of their “Best of the Decade” and being listed as one of Playboy’s “Top 10 Mixologists” in 2009. Jamie now spends much of his time consulting with bars all over the World on their cocktail programs and working on his award-winning bartending instructional show called Raising the Bar.

At the same time Karl has worked throughout Vancouver developing his culinary vision culminated by opening his own French-inspired bistro Two Chefs and a Table in 2008 with his partner Allan Bosomworth. In 2011, they followed this award-winner by opening Big Lou’s Butcher Shop, Vancouver’s first nose-to-tail craft butcher shop. While the dinner will focus on French-inspired preparations like Duck Cassoulet, Nicoise and Red Pepper Bisque, in keeping with the philosophy of Two Chefs and Big Lou’s, the entire menu will be made with local and house made ingredients like Polderside Duck and Chicken, long line caught tuna, house made pasta and Big Lou’s Butcher Shop sausage. “We’re really excited to have Jamie joining us for the next event in our Wine Drinker Dinner Series,” said Karl. “He’s one of my oldest friends in the business and I am excited to work with him one more time and have our customers treated to his world-class mixology.

The matched cocktails that will Jamie will mix and serve range from the original St-Germain cocktail to his own interpretations of classics like the 18th Century and Chrysanthemum, to the evening closing Bitter Bike, a Jamie Boudreau creation. “I’m looking forward to working, once again, with one of the first people that I’d met when I’d moved back to Vancouver. Vancouver is where I learned the industry, and I’m excited to be coming back to my roots to share and experiment with my friends and peers.”

The dinner costs $80 per person (tax and gratuity not included) and there will be two seatings during the evening. This night is expected to fill up fast so reservations are strongly recommended.

To book your table, email info@twochefsandatable.com or call 778-233-1303. Two Chefs and a Table is located at 305 Alexander Street.

Two Chefs and a Table/St-Germain Dinner Menu

First course
Roasted Red Pepper Bisque: goat cheese crouton, basil oil
With/ St-Germain Cocktail: St-Germain, sparkling wine, soda, lemon twist

Second course
Italian Sausage Papardalle: house made pasta, Big Lou’s sausage, wild mushroom, grano padanoWith/ Paris Manhattan: Cognac, St-Germain, dry vermouth, bitters, Griottine cherry

Third course
Nicoise Salad: long line albacore tuna, olives, green beans, new potato, free-range egg
With/ 18th Century: gin, St-Germain, Lillet, lemon, absinthe rinse

Entrée

Choice of

Polderside Lamb: grilled lamb loin, and roasted breast, chimmichurri, new potato, carrot
With/ Fleur de Provence: aged rum, St-Germain, fresh herbs, lime

or

Polderside Cassoulet: duck confit, lamb sausage, sloping hills pork belly
With/ Traditional Elderfashoned: Bourbon, St-Germain, bitters, orange twist and Griottine cherry

or
Salmon Wellington: sockeye salmon, spinach, wild mushrooms, lemon cream, baby vegetables
With/ Chrysanthemum #3: Dry Vermouth, St-Germain, lemon, absinthe rinse

Dessert
Gala apple Dumpling: crème anglaise, vanilla bean
With/ Bitter Bike: chilled St-Germain layered with Angostura bitters (to be consumed immediately following dessert)

Visit: twochefsandatable.com •   778-233-1303   •   305 Alexander Street

————————————————————————————————-

HOCKEY DAY IN CANADA – RED CARD CELEBRATES CANADA’S GAME

On Saturday, February 12, Red Card celebrates Canada’s game in style thanks to 18 high-def screens, a glowing cocktail bar, delicious Italian-style pizzas, impeccable service, an impressive beer list, a late-night menu and Vancouver Canucks prizes. Red Card is the place downtown to catch all the NHL action and some Canadian spirit for this highly anticipated game day.

Throughout Red Card’s ‘Hockey Day in Canada’ party, guests will have a chance to win an assortment of prizes, including coveted box seat tickets to the March 16th Canucks vs. Colorado Avalanche home game. Hockey lovers can also enjoy delicious pizzas prepared in the high-tech Marana Forni wood-burning pizza oven imported straight from Italy, and sip on Stanley Park 1897 Ale for only $3.50/sleeve.

During the 2010-2011 hockey season, which runs until April 9th, Red Card hopes to raise upwards of $5,000 to benefit the Canucks Autism Network (CAN). Two dollars from each $17 NHL charity pizza sold during the regular hockey season will be donated to CAN. Aptly named, the Hat Trick pizza is topped with spicy sausage, sopressata, bacon and mozzarella.

About Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery
With its central location at the corner of Seymour and Smithe, Red Card offers a dramatic and stylish atmosphere for guests to enjoy their favourite sports game – or to just mingle, drink and enjoy a great bite to eat any day of the week. Executive Chef Andreas Wechselberger has created a varied menu with a definite Italian twist, which uses only the freshest ingredients and is executed to the highest standards.

Red Card is located at 900 Seymour Street, adjacent to Moda Hotel (entrance on Smithe Street), in the heart of Downtown Vancouver. For more information on Red Card Sports Bar + Eatery visit www.redcardsportsbar.ca.

————————————————————————————————–
TOP INTERNATIONAL SPECIAL EVENT AWARD FOR CULINARY CAPERS CATERING

Vancouver, BC (February 2, 2011) – Culinary Capers Catering was a winner at The Special Event 2011 Gala Awardsat the annual Special Event Conference and Trade Show in Phoenix, Arizona. Company CEO Debra Lykkemark accepted
the Gala Award for Best Off-Premise Catered Eventat the Gala Awards Ceremony on January 28th.

Special event professionals from throughout the world gathered in Phoenix for the international Gala Awards’ black-tie ceremony, honouring the finest work in special events worldwide.

Culinary Capers’ winning entry for Best Off-Premise Catered Event was for Shaw Communications’ Hospitality Suite at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. Over eighteen days, 5,500 high profile VIP guests enjoyed custom-designed menus highlighting regional and Canadian ingredients. In two on-site kitchens built specifically for the Games, our team prepared 130 individual catered experiences for all day entertaining.

“We are honoured to receive this prestigious Gala Award,” said Debra Lykkemark. “2011 will mark Culinary Capers’ 25th year in the off-premise catering business and it is extremely rewarding to be recognized for our continued hard work. I could not be more proud of our talented team’s commitment to excellence in
creating delicious food and event experiences for our clients.”

About Culinary Capers Catering
Culinary Capers Catering is the Vancouver market leader in off-premise catering. Company President and CEO Debra Lykkemark heads a group of top professionals dedicated to producing cutting-edge cuisine, innovative presentation, contemporary design and courteous service. Ms Lykkemark has been featured as
one of Canada’s top 100 women business owners by Profit magazine.

Information about Culinary Capers Catering can be found at culinarycapers.com

————————————————————————————————–

YEW RESTAURANT + BAR BRINGS BACK A FEBRUARY FULL OF FRESH, FUN FLAVOURS

Oh Canada! The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games took over the city and YEW restaurant + bar would like to celebrate this memory by bringing back a few of the Olympic favourites for two weeks.

Bring your appetite, or a few friends to help you dive into our one pound Olympic Burger, you have to see it to believe it! Boasting a generous 1 ½ pound serving of Kobe and Alberta Beef, Sautéed Chanterelle Mushrooms, Double Smoked Canadian Tyroler Bacon, Tomato Chili Jam and Agassiz Farmhouse Cheddar all nestled between a buttery Brioche Bun. A side of crunchy Yam Fries completes this dish and is sure to satisfy every palate!

Mixing it up in YEW bar, bartender Justin Taylor created three unique Olympic inspired cocktails designed to commemorate Canada’s Olympic presence. Each drink offers flavors unique to our Canadian culture.

BRONZE
Montreal 1976 is made with Alberta premium Rye topped off with Cinnamon Brûlé and Granny Smith apple.

SILVER
Calgary 1988 amps up the traditional Caesar with Chipolte and Smoked Buffalo Jerky infused Vodka, chili pepper, secret spice and YEW bar’s own house made clamato.

GOLD
Vancouver 2010 showcases one of B.C.’s biggest exports, as well as the new gin distillery on Vancouver Island . The cocktail is made with dill and cucumber infused Gin from Victoria, and a candied smoke salmon garnish.
Come into YEW restaurant + bar and celebrate the Olympics 
Four Seasons style!

Foxxy Fridays
in YEW restaurant + bar
Make Friday’s Fun in 2011

With every New Year comes the usual resolution to be frugal, stay on budget, and enjoy more time with friends. Happily these goals go hand-in-hand with the popular, pretty-in-pink promotion – Foxxy Friday’s in YEW restaurant + bar. Celebrate the end of your work week by dressing in pink, and gathering your pals for a tasty get-together.

Every Friday from 2:30pm until close, come into YEW wearing pink (a little or a lot) and receive a chef’s creation appetizer on the house. YEW bartenders will also be shaking up pink lady cocktails at a special price. Pink doesn’t discriminate! Ladies and gents are equally welcome.

Foxxy Fridays feature $9 pink drinks all day long. Sample the crowd favourites including the Feng Shui, Cosmo, Clover Club and glasses of French Rosé.

See YEW on Friday!

Click here for more information.

————————————————————————————————–

MARKET BY JEAN-GEORGES – RABBIT WINES TO WELCOME CHINESE NEW YEAR

February 3, 2011 begins the Chinese New Year – “Year of the Rabbit”

The rabbit is the fourth of 12 Chinese animal astrological signs, and primarily represents tranquility and calm.
The rabbit is considered a lucky sign and the year ahead is said to be one to ‘catch your breath’ and ‘calm your nerves’.

But MARKET by Jean-Georges sommelier, David Tremblay, wants to take your breath away and unnerve you with rare vintages from “Years of the Rabbit”.

• ‘99 Brut Champagne, Pol Roger, France (1.5 Litre) – $400. (excluding tax)

• ‘99 Beaune 1er Cru,, Maison Louis Jadot, Burgundy, France  – $111.

’99 Harlan Estate, Oakville, Napa Valley, California – $1350. (3 bottles only)

• ‘99 Valpolicella Classico Superiore, Quintarelli, Veneto, Italy – $357.

• ‘87 Côte-Rôtie, E. Guigal ‘La Turque’, Rhône Valley, France – $1200. (1 bottle only)

• ‘99 Port LBV, Smith Woodhouse, Douro Valley, Portugal 750ml  (Bottle $104. or by the Glass $13)

Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Visit: www.marketbyjgvancouver.com

Today, we are excited to welcome the Commune Cafe to the Urban Diner community.
Check out their new listing: here

Ready or not, here they come. With equal parts anticipation, rejoicing and dread, the year’s first big dining promotion, Dine Out Vancouver, starts today with over 210 restaurants participating with their $18, $28, or $38 custom three-course menus.

For some restaurateurs, it couldn’t come soon enough; getting more bums back in seats after the post-holiday lull is always important, but has become especially critical after a tough year that went sideways for many owners and into a heart-breaking death spiral for an unfortunate few. In 2010, the industry took a couple of big hits.  With the surprise ramming down our throats with the ‘introduction’ of the HST and the lowering of the legal driving limit regarding alcohol, the men and women on the front lines of the service industry really deserve a good turn now more than ever.

With participation at an all-time high, along with the addition of a few new special events such as “Dining in the Dark” and “Secret Supper Soiree” and “Dine Academy” to name a few, as well as special room pricing ($68, $98, $138) at select hotels across town, Tourism Vancouver has put a lot of work into this year’s offering to make it as wide-reaching as possible.

Although, not all greet the event with the same level of enthusiasm. For some jaded industry folk and discriminating frequent diners, Dine Out is seen as a giant cattle call for bargain hunters with service and menu offerings being dumbed down for the masses, and thus, best avoided like the plague. Some restaurants who have participated in the past are capitalizing on this sentiment and are now playing the other side of the marketing coin by quietly promoting their venues as the place to escape from the ‘lemon-water’ masses that Dine Out inevitably attracts.

“We are lucky that we don’t need to do Dine Out, but it always good to bring in new customers to our restaurants and show them what we are about,” says Emad Yacoub, whose Glowbal Collection of Restaurants are all participating this year. “We love to show people a good time and this is another opportunity to do it.”

Love it or hate it, it’s here and bigger than ever. So plan your dining strategy accordingly and make the best of it. See you out there!

~ PK

Dine Out Vancouver – January 24th – February 6th

click here to view the full list of participating restaurants and their menu offerings

Job details inside.

Hapa Izakaya Restaurants Ltd. is excited to announce the launch of its new restaurant, Hapa Umi, opening by March 2011 in downtown Vancouver’s waterfront area, across the street from the Vancouver Convention Centre. The restaurant will offer an upscale twist on what Hapa Izakaya has been doing with great success since opening on Robson in 2003. Hapa Umi is now hiring for all positions.

Front of house: Servers, bartenders and hosts who are energetic, hard working and seek a fast-paced, fun environment. Applicants should have a passion for Japanese cuisine. Experience is an asset, however not mandatory.

Kitchen: Experienced chefs with 3 to 4 years culinary experience, preferably Japanese influenced is required. Japanese language skills are a definite an asset.

For more information on our concept we encourage you to have a look at our website. www.hapaizakaya.com

Please forward your cover letter, resume and references to kevinbanno@hapaizakaya.com

I am sad to report that The Corner Suite Bistro De Luxe has permanently closed its doors.  Confirmation came from owner, Steve Da Cruz, via email earlier this evening after rumours began spreading on Twitter suggesting the end had indeed come.

Read CSBD’s final Twitter announcement: here

Sincere condolences to Steve, Jason, and all the staff who worked hard to keep the dream alive. And what a dream it was.

Back in the spring of 2009, three young and talented industry veterans (manager Andre McGillivray, barman Steve Da Cruz, and chef Anthony Sedlak) came together to make a major play for their own independent restaurant just before the arrival of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Grabbing the space of the former family-run French bistro, Saveur, they went for it, transforming an underachieving space into something big, bold, and different. But their ambitions were slowly subdued as construction set backs, permit delays, and cost overruns stifled their progress and eventually pushed their original opening date of July 1st 2009 to the first week in February of 2010. Surprisingly, a couple of weeks before finally revealing their long-coming and much-hyped new restaurant, executive chef Anthony Sedlak, vacates the project for greener pastures even before he’s cooked a single meal for the public.

With the departure of Andre McGillivray in August of 2010, remaining owner Steve Da Cruz and Chef Jason Leizert made one final stand to keep Corner Suite going, but the numbers eventually caught up with them and unable to negotiate a better lease to navigate the murky economy and tighter margins, the plug was pulled.

Keep your heads up, gentlemen. You fought long and hard and deserve much respect for all your sacrifice. We wish you success in your future endeavors.

~ PK

Vancouver restaurant industry trio make Food Bank appeal; Blue Mountain and Friends: A Feast for the Senses; Maenam goes southern Thai; New Year’s Eve wine drinker dinner at Two Chefs and a Table; The GLOWBAL COLLECTION of Restaurants celebrate New Year’s Eve; Celebrate the holidays at Hamilton Street Grill; Holiday events at db bistro and Lumiere; Gobble up some turkey at The Corner Suite; Christmas at The Teahouse; Upcoming cheese and wine events at Au Petit Chavignol; Holiday news from Legacy Liquor Store; Need a last minute gift?

VANCOUVER RESTAURANT INDUSTRY TRIO MAKE FOOD BANK APPEAL

(Vancouver, BC)  Vancouver Magazine’s 2010 Chef, Sommelier and Bartender Of The Year have united in putting out an appeal to those in the city’s hospitality industry and their patrons to donate what they can to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.

In response to this year’s increased demand for the charity’s services in the face of decreased donations, Frank Pabst, Kurtis Kolt and Shaun Layton are asking their industry colleagues and patrons to remember those in the city who are truly going hungry this Christmas. Their goal is to boost Food Bank donations in these last crucial days before Christmas.

“While we’re in the middle of this hectic time of year, it can be easy to forget that there are many Vancouverites in need.” says Kolt, Sommelier Of The Year, who is currently consulting and working with the Waldorf Hotel. “In our restaurants, hot food needs running, cocktails need shaking and wine needs to be poured, but for some people in our city, getting food on their family’s table is a much bigger challenge.”  Echoing the sentiment are Blue Water Cafe’s Pabst, Chef of the Year and L’Abattoir’s Layton, Bartender Of The Year.

There are many ways to donate to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.  Information on non-perishable item drop-off locations and online monetary donations can be found at www.foodbank.bc.ca/

———————————————————————–

BLUE MOUNTAIN AND FRIENDS: A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

Join us on Monday, January 17, 2011 for an evening celebrating the premium wines of BC’s Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars.  The event will be grazing style which will allow guests to wander the room sampling wines paired with cuisine from twelve of British Columbia’s top restaurants.

The following is a list of the twelve restaurants that will participate in this stellar evening: Cin Cin, C Restaurant, DB Bistro Moderne, Hart House Restaurant, Lift Bar & Grill, O’Doul’s Restaurant & Bar, Provence Marinaside, Raincity Grill, The Shore Club, The Vancouver Club, The Pointe Restaurant at Wickaninnish Inn and Yew Restaurant+ Bar

These restaurants will be matched with the following twelve Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars wines: Brut NV, 2006 Rosé Brut,2009 Pinot Blanc, 2009 Chardonnay, 2008 Reserve Chardonnay, 2009 Sauvignon Blanc, 2009 Pinot Gris, 2008 Reserve Pinot Gris, 2009 Gamay Noir, 2009 Pinot Noir, 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir and 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir served in Magnum.

Many of the wines being served at this event have not yet been released by the winery and will be the first opportunity for guests to sample them.

Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars is a family-owned winery in BC’s Okanagan Valley and is distinctive among Canadian wineries in that all its wines are produced exclusively from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards.  Ian Mavety purchased the land which is now Blue Mountain Vineyard in 1971.  Current owners Ian, Jane, Matt, and Christie Mavety continue to work to realize the potential of the region, utilizing sustainable farming methods and winemaking practices.  Celebrating the 20th anniversary of its first vintage this year, Blue Mountain continues to offer complex and cellar-worthy varietal wines.

Proceeds from the event will support the charitable work of the British Columbia Hospitality Foundation (BCHF), which offers scholarships to students enrolled in Hospitality programs and financial assistance to those employed in food, beverage and hospitality professions when facing financial hardship due to critical medical needs.

The event will be held at Vancouver’s prestigious Four Seasons Hotel, which is conveniently located close to the Pacific Centre SkyTrain station and Canada Line.

Monday, January 17, 2011
6:30-9:00pm
Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver
791 West Georgia Street
$90 plus tax

For more info, visit: www.bluemountainwinery.com

———————————————————————–

ANGUS AN DISHING THAI TRAVELS

Maenam now offering Southern inspired lunch, dinner and take out menus

Vancouver, BC, December 13^th, 2010 – Fresh off his annual three week exploration through Southeast Asia, Chef Angus An has launched a new menu highlighting the iconic street eats of Southern Thailand. This food vendor speckled region offers cuisine themed by local seafood, fruits, and nuts, with dishes that are typically fresh and sharp or nutty and spicy. Largely influenced by its proximity to coastlines and a land border with Malaysia, the south has a strong Muslim presence resulting in the widespread use of spices like cumin, fennel, anise, and turmeric.

In the months to come, guests at Maenam can expect to try dishes like Kao Yum Pak Tai, an elegant rice salad of lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, green mango, cucumber, pomelo, toasted coconut, betal leaves, and lime; Kua Kling Beef, an aromatic turmeric spiked dish with thinly sliced beef, kaffir lime zest, galangal and kaffir lime julienne; Tom Som Plah, hot and sour soup of sablefish and turmeric accented with dill; and Mussaman Gat, a mussaman curry of lamb leg, with toasted peanuts, perfumed with lots of dried spices and balanced with pineapples and pearl onions. To view Maenam’s new lunch, dinner and take out menus please visit: www.maenam.ca

ABOUT MAENAM
The cuisine at Maenam is rooted in balancing intense fresh flavours with seasonal ingredients and locally sourced products, while always considering the context within which these dishes would traditionally be enjoyed. Maenam is open seven days a week, Tuesday to Saturday from 12:00PM to 2:30PM, Monday to Sunday from 5:00PM to 11:00PM. For more information or to make a reservation please visit: www.maenam.ca.

———————————————————————–

NEW YEAR’S EVE WINE DRINKER DINER

Celebrate 2011 with an intimate champagne celebration

This New Year’s Eve, Two Chefs and a Table will mark the end of a very momentous year for the Bistro and the city with a special wine drinker dinner event. In 2010, the World was invited to come and visit us, and they left impressed by us as they left an impression on us!

The Two Chefs and a Table New Year’s Eve 2010 dinner will be a perfect start to a full night of parties or by itself as a more understated way to celebrate the change of years. Gathering together signature Two Chefs’ dishes like Coq au Vin, housemade terrine, carpaccio and rilettes with seasonal vegetables, house-made desserts and sauces made from scratch, the . All capped with a champagne dessert as a final toast to the year.

This New Year’s Eve dinner is $75 per person, not including tax and gratuity.

Two Chefs and a Table is located at 305 Alexander Street. For more information or to book your table, call 778-233-1303 or email info@twochefsandatable.com. Reservations are recommended.

MENU

Amuse bouche – Salmon Rilettes
Wine: Segura Viudas Cuvee (Spain)

First Course
Potato and Leek: local potato, leek, morbier cheese croquette
Wine: Laughing Stock Chardonnay (BC)

Second Course
Lamb Terrine: housemade with polderside lamb, cornichons, french mustard, onion bread
Wine: MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir (Calfornia)

Third Course
Beef Carpaccio: triple a beef, crispy capers, fried shallots, truffle aioli, crostini
OR
Tuna Carpaccio: lemon vinegar, frisse, classic egg mimosa, caper berries, pommes anna
Wine: Petals d’Osoyoos Bordeaux Blend (BC)

Entrée
Coq Au Vin: Polderside Red Bros chicken, red wine braised, risotto
OR
Pan Seared Triple-A Tenderloin w/pavee of potato, roasted local vegetable, tableside bernaise or chasseur sauce
OR
Grilled Sturgeon: fresh w/veal demi glace, paired with a salt cod brandade, red pepper aioli, butter-roasted asparagus
Wine: Perrin and Fils Rasteau (France)

Dessert

Classic Lemon Tart w/vanilla cream
OR
Tahitian Vanilla Bean Crème Brule
Champagne: Veuve Cliquot (France)

———————————————————————–

THE GLOWBALL COLLECTION OF RESTAURANTS CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE

Ring in 2011 with The GLOWBAL COLLECTION
What kind of celebration are you craving this New Year’s Eve? Whatever you’re in the mood for, be it an intimate dinner or a rousing blowout, The GLOWBAL COLLECTION, with its six deliciously different restaurants, offers myriad ways to ring in 2011 in style.

glowbal rides the New Year’s wave with its signature aplomb. Gala tickets, available for $120 per person, include a surf n’ turf meal loaded with juicy steaks and fresh seafood, with a glass of champagne at midnight. click here to view the menu

Dive into COAST’s “Bubbles and Oceans Gala” with three different venues available in the restaurant, offering seafood-centric menus ranging from $55 to $125 per person. The Gala starts at 7:30 pm; early dinner reservations are also available. click here to view the menu

Sanafir celebrates with a decadent five-course tasting menu priced at $95 per person which includes a glass of champagne on arrival. To really get the place popping, at midnight, the Granville Strip hotspot will mark the occasion with a balloon drop – filled with gift certificates and restaurant discounts. click here to view the menu

From Carpaccio to Cannelloni, Italian Kitchen offers famiglia-style service with a four-course platter menu indicative of la dolce vita, priced at $95 per person. The evening kicks off at 8 pm; early dinner reservations are also available. Adding to the night’s festive flair, a selection of door prizes and gift baskets will be given out to lucky guests. click here to view the menu

Trattoria Italian Kitchen explores the art of sharing with platter-service perfect for family and friends. Toast the New Year with party favours and champagne at midnight. Tickets are $50 per person for the 9:30 pm gala; early dinner reservations are also available. click here to view the menu

Under the over-sized pink Murano glass chandeliers, SOCIETY will play host to the “Pretty in Pink Gala” with canapés and a glass of champagne at midnight. Gala reservations start at 8:30 pm; early dinner reservations are also available. click here to view the menu

Make your reservations online at glowbalgroup.com.

Check out THE GLOWBAL COLLECTION blog for the latest news on all the restaurants at blog.glowbalgroup.com/.
———————————————————————–

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT HAMILTON STREET GRILL

Complimentary Canapés for the Weary Shoppers – At the bar from 6-7:30 pm
And a special house made Tourtière on the dinner menu

December 24th lunch 11am – 2:30pm / dinner 5pm – 10pm

New Years Eve 2011

Join us NYE for a multi course dinner paired with a selection of excellent wines
$85 per person includes dinner and wine

Hosts Neil Wyles & Joan Harvey invite you for a relaxed and delicious evening of wine and food. Chive crusted tuna Carpaccio with organic beet gelee; Duck consommé with confit dumplings and a 5 spice crème fraîche are just some of the delicious offerings. Dress up or dress down at Yaletown’s favourite neighbourhood restaurant this NYE

Reserve at 604-331-1511

1009 Hamilton Street, Yaletown, Vancouver
hamiltonstreetgrill@telus.net
www.hamiltonstreetgrill.com
twitter@hamiltonstgrill

———————————————————————–

HOLIDAY EVENTS AT DB BISTRO AND LUMIERE

Christmas Eve: Special Prix-Fixe Menu $48 per person, plus regular a-la-carte and feature menu items. Visit event page or reserve now.

Boxing Day: Offering regular a-la-carte and special feature menu items during brunch dinner service. Visit event page for hours/details.

Reserve a Boxing Day brunch table. Reserve a Boxing Day dinner table.

NEW YEAR’S EVE NEW YEAR’S DAY AT THE BISTRO

Two seatings, one amazing five-course New Year’s value. First seating offered from 5:00-6:30pm. Second from 8:00pm.  Five courses $99 per person, feature menu item and a-la-carte menu service. Details.

Reserve a first seating table. Reserve a second seating table.

New Year’s Day. See event page. Reserve New Year’s day brunch. Reserve New Year’s day dinner.

CHRISTMAS EVE AT LUMIÈRE

Executive Chef Dale MacKay, Pâtissier Extraordinaire Celeste Mah, and Maitre d’ & Sommelier Drew Walker invite you and yours to share Christmas Eve dinner in Five Diamond, Grand Relais & Chateaux class style at Lumière.

A special Four-Course Prix-Fixe Menu will be offered exclusively, for just $98 per person.  Optional wine pairings.

See the event page for menu and to reserve

A LUMIÈRE NEW YEAR, 2 SEATINGS

-Three-course Prix Fixe $100 pp. See details, menu, or reserve. -Tasting Menu with Bubbly $210   See details, menu, or reserve
———————————————————————–

GOBBLE UP SOME TURKEY AT THE CORNER SUITE ON DECEMBER 24, 25, 26

Vancouver, BC – Don’t feel like cooking this holiday season? Well fear not, because The Corner Suite Bistro De Luxe is serving up three days of Christmas feasts onChristmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Hot on the heels of their sold-out out Thanksgiving turkey dinner, The Corner Suite’s three-course Christmas dinners will feature a candied yam soup with crème fraiche to start, followed by roast turkey with all the trimmings (stuffing, whipped potatoes, brussel sprouts and gravy), and a traditional Christmas pudding for dessert – all for $29.

Reservations are highly recommended. Please call 604.569.3415 for reservations, or visit www.thecornersuite.com.

The Corner Suite is also accepting reservations for New Year’s Eve. No fancy schmancy New Year’s prix fixe here – The Corner Suite will be offering their regular menu and bartender Steve Da Cruz will be whipping up every champagne cocktail ever known to man.

———————————————————————–

CHRISTMAS AT THE TEAHOUSE

Whether you are an orphan, creating new traditions, or simply can’t be bothered to cook, sometimes it’s best to leave Christmas dinner to the professionals.

This year, the Teahouse in Stanley Park is open for Christmas dinner.  Featuring a prix fixe menu which includes choices of either Slow Roasted Prime Rib with truffle scalloped potatoes, Steelhead Salmon with braised cabbage and squash puree or the show stopping, Free Range Roasted Turkey with all the fixings…

This year, no matter what the reason, let the Teahouse help create lasting Holiday memories…

Click here to view the menu

———————————————————————–

UPCOMING CHEESE AND WINE EVENTS AT AU PETIT CHAVIGNOL

Cheese & Wine 101:
With Allison Spurrell & Au Petit Chavignol
In this single session, we will provide a roadmap for matching various cheese types with the wines that best suit them.  We will introduce cheese basics, including milk types, textures, flavours, how to care for and serve fine cheeses.  Then learn about how to approach the wines that you choose to pair with cheese.  Sample some of the marriages made in heaven and discover pairings that suit your own personal taste.

Date: Tuesday February 08, 2011
Time: 7:00pm – 9:30pm
Location: Au Petit Chavignol – 843 East Hastings
Cost: $70.00 per person.  Includes taxes and gratuity
Tickets available in store or by phone at les amis du FROMAGE (2nd ave) 604-732-4218
Please view our Tasting Event

Vive la France
With Allison Spurrell & Au Petit Chavignol
Make room in your schedule for this fantastic cheese tasting where you will explore some of the many regions from France.  This tasting promises to highlight some of the best that France has to offer, and will include some classic cheese pairings with wines from the Alsace, Loire valley and Bordeaux

Date: Monday March 07, 2011
Time: 7:00pm – 9:30pm
Location: Au Petit Chavignol – 843 East Hastings
Cost: $80.00 per person.  Includes taxes and gratuity
Tickets available in store or by phone at les amis du FROMAGE (2nd ave) 604-732-4218
Please view our Tasting Event FAQ

———————————————————————–

HOLIDAY NEWS FROM LEGACY LIQUOR STORE

Legacy liquor store is located at 1633 Manitoba Street, right in the heart of Millennium Village (just north of First Avenue).  We are open seven days a week, from 10 to 11 everyday.  Our selection is extensive and unique, our staff are knowledgeable and friendly and we offer a wide variety of in-house services and tastings.

Up Coming Events

Hillside Winery
4-7 pm 12/22/2010
Hillside Merlot: Red velvet in a bottle! Big, luscious, and full of ripe berries. The fruit for this well-crafted wine was sourced from several independent vineyards throughout the Okanagan Valley, giving it a complex nose and palate.

Hillside Pinot Gris: With its focus on Naramata Bench vineyards, this 100% stainless fermented Pinot Gris shines with fresh fruit. Fragrances of white peach, citrus, and melon are backed by a bright core of tree-fruit flavours that lend a mid palate lustre. Finished dry.

Graffigna Malbec and Stoneleigh Sauvingon Blanc tasting
4-7 pm 12/26/2010
This tasting little malbec is deep red with purple nuances, with a complex bouquet of ripe blackberries and aromas of black pepper. Round and velvety, it’s a steal at $15.15. Great for by the case for New Year’s eve parties!  The Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc being slightly lower in yield, has produced some fantastic fruit into the winery. This has given us some great parcels of wine to play with and you can see this in the finished blend. This wine presents concentrated fruit, ripe tropical and citrus notes and a racy acidity to tie it all together.

Lallier Champagne Tasting
4-7 pm 12/30/2010
Chef of the year in 2005 for Canada, Marcus VonAlbrecht, along with the Junior Culinary Canadian team will be putting together a menu of wonderful tapas to be paired with award winning Champagnes from Lallier.  Lallier is a small family concern, crafting beautiful blends from Grand Cru sites around Ay (also home to Bollinger, but Lalliers cellars are older). Much of their fruit is sourced from ‘Grand Cru’ vineyards – the crème de la crème of vineyard sites, classified as 100 out of 100. Lallier use a high proportion of Pinot Noir in their blend (the Rosé is 100% Pinot Noir), so with Champagne Lallier you get a Pinot Noir dominated blend from Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites – a rarity.

There is incredible investment that has gone into this wine. Matured in the bottle on its lees in chalk cellars for four years, the result is truly brilliant Champagnes with a brilliant color, good steady fizz, and that powerful typical ‘bready’ Champagne nose. These champagnes are truly a celebration in and of itself.

We will also be selling the team Canada cookbooks to help fund the Junior Culinary team’s cooking adventures.

New and Exciting Products

Wines
• Joie Rose 2009 Magnum – This is your perfect wine for Turkey dinner and the bottle is big enough for the whole family!  Experience the joyful harmony of wine and food.
• Young & Wyse Merlot and Syrah – These stunning BC red’s come from noted winemaker Stephen Wyse, of Burrowing Owl fame.  The Young & Wyse collection simply is: The Heart, The Soul, and the Soil.
• Dom Perignon 1995 – Only one person, the Dom Perignon cellar master can decide if and when to re-release a vintage.  When released for a second time, it merits the OEnotheque (wine library) label.  Celebrate this New Years’ eve in serious style.

Beers
• Driftwood Old Cellar Dweller Barley Wine – This thick, rich barley wine beer is perfect for after dinner, or makes an excellent beer for your cellar.
• R & B Coffee Porter – The local brewery R & B combines their savoury porter with coffee roasted from Saltspring Island.
• Deus Brut de Flanders – Aromatic and light, this Belgian beauty is shipped to the Champagne region to undergo methode Chamenoise.  A great option for your New Years’ eve party.

Spirits
• Maschio Beniamino Grappa di Moscato – This grappa makes a lovely after dinner drink and is guaranteed to soothe any tummy troubles after a big Christmas feast!
• Woodford Reserve Boubon – The heat of the summer and the cold of the Kentucky winter are key when you want a fine whiskey to mature properly.  That’s why the Woodford Barrels see every season..when they reach their peak, they become Woodford Reserve.
• G Sake – G is a new genration, an undiluted, unadulterated style of Sake that brings old and new world together.  Enjoy slightly chilled or at room temperature with spicy foods and hearty dishes.

Legacy Services
• We deliver and ship province wide
• Gift baskets available in store and online; available for delivery
• Party planning services
• Cellar management consultations

We love your questions!  Please call us at 604.331.7900 or come in and visit soon!

www.legacyliquorstore.com

———————————————————————–

NEED A LAST MINUTE GIFT?

Enjoy our Holiday Bonus instantly!

Sequoia Company of Restaurants’ gift cards,
the perfect gift for everyone on your Christmas list.

For every $100 gift card you buy on our website
you’ll receive a $25 bonus gift certificate!

Stocking up? On top of the $25 bonus,
for every $1000 purchased, you’ll also receive 10% back!

Avoid snail mail this season…
Order online through Buyatab
and receive your gift cards INSTANTLY on email!

Enjoy this exclusive, online promotion from now until December 31st

BUY ONLINE TODAY!

Inspired by old world butcher shops with a focus on sustainable, local and fresh chefs Allan Bosomworth and Karl Gregg (Two Chefs and a Table) are bringing Big Lou’s butcher shop into the Railtown neighborhood. The store will offer all kinds of fresh sausages, local meat, poultry and game. Custom cutting and orders, restaurant meal replacement items  like braised short ribs, lamb shanks, pork belly and marinated specialties as well as dressings, cures, marinades and pickled vegetables. Along with the Brooklyn-style butcher shop, there will be seating for 12 for lunch, plus take-away meals.

The Butchery
We will feature cases stocked with prime meats, game and poultry as well as a focus on locally supplied products like Sloping Hills pork, Polderside Farms poultry, and Lamb, and a ever changing selection of house made sausage, and cured meats.

Whether you want to replicate a sandwich from the counter, create a dinner to go our butchers and chefs will help you find everything you need to create a great dinner at home

The Food
Keeping with the old world style, Big Lou’s will have a sandwich counter that will feature a mix of sandwiches specializing in house made meats. The menu will be highlighted by such items as sliced to order porchetta, slow cook onion caramelized beef, Vietnamese sandwiches all made in house including pickled vegetables, and a pastrami on rye.

One classic side and a handful or old style sodas will compliment the take away and counter service.

For special events we will turn the retail side of the butcher shop into a intimate dining room for 12 people in which we will feature market driven foods with Italian and French inspiration.

Official opening date: January 3rd, 2011

Hours of operation: 10 am – 6 pm daily

Big Lou’s Butcher Shop
269 Powell Street | Vancouver
Tel: (604) 566-9229
www.biglousbutchershop.com

Last week, central downtown’s newest modern Italian restaurant, al Centro, located in the upscale L’Hermitage Hotel, opened its doors to the public for the first time. Come inside to read more details.

^ al Centro owners Alex B. Tsakumis and Patrick Corsi

Excerpt from the press release:

Q4 al Centro Opens December 10th at the Centre of it All

(Vancouver, BC) December 9, 2010 – Q4 al Centro, the sister restaurant to the ever-popular Q4 Ristorante in Kitsilano, opens for its first dinner service at 5pm on Friday, December 10. Q4 al Centro will be open for dinner nightly from 5pm, and lunch Monday to Friday from 11:30am; its first lunch service will be Monday, December 13. Q4 al Centro is located at 780 Richards Street in the heart of Vancouver’s entertainment district. Reservations are recommended, please phone 604.687.4444.

A very popular feature at Q4 al Centro is the complimentary valet parking at both lunch and dinner. However, thanks to the restaurant’s location, an easy walk to everything downtown, many guests won’t need it.

In Italian, al centro means “at the centre” and it’s a perfect tribute to Q4 al Centro’s location downtown on Richards at Robson, connected to the elegant L’Hermitage Hotel. Ideally situated merely blocks from Queen Elizabeth Theatre and The Centre for Performing Arts Rogers Area, and BC Place Q4 al Centro is a perfect pre and post event destination.

The restaurant’s interior, created by Box Interior Design, is a warm, stylish, and comfortable space with 70 seats including plenty of room at the cocktail and kitchen bars. The room features natural cork flooring, a not so subtle nod to Q4’s reputation for wine excellence, plus this eco-friendly choice absorbs sound naturally; no more shouting to be heard over restaurant chatter and clatter. Speaking of sound, Q4 has retained music specialists Sonic Branding Architects to create custom playlists for both restaurants.

One of the most prominent features of the room is a 10’ by 20’ original abstract painting by renowned artist Jason Gogo. In keeping with the wine theme, Gogo used Napa Valley grapes to create the vivid wine red paint showcased in his work.

Longtime Q4 executive chef Bradford Ellis, has made the move downtown from the Kitsilano location. His menu offers classic, unpretentious Italian, and he’s thrilled about the Wood Stone Forno pizza oven that takes centre stage in the kitchen, with four pizzas, plus three house-made focaccias on the menu at both lunch and dinner.

Highlights from the tightly edited dinner menu include the Corsi family meatball recipe, Spaghetti Q4, a lusty combination of garlic, minced chicken, black beans and chilies; classic pistachio crusted sablefish with roasted red pepper succo; and provimi veal chop with lemon caper gremolata. Add paninis at lunch, and guests can be in and out within the hour and under $20, or linger over longer business and social lunches.

The room will be managed by general manager, Albert Chee who honed his skills working with BC Restaurant Hall of Fame inductee, Bud Kanke, for over a decade, most recently at Goldfish Pacific Kitchen. Chee was excited to collaborate with a recent Vancouver Magazine Bartender of the Year to create Q4 al Centro’s cocktail list.

Q4 al Centro
780 Richards Street | Vancouver
Tel: 604.687.4444
www.q4restaurant.com
Twitter: @Q4Restaurant