Showing posts with label Dine In. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dine In. Show all posts

Sunday, December 1, 2024

Matcha Latte and Pumpkin Walnut Loaf from Caffè Artigiano

After shopping with my parents at Best Buy and Canadian Tire, we decided to take a break at Caffè Artigiano.

Matcha Latte from Caffè Artigiano

Pumpkin Walnut Loaf from Caffè Artigiano

I ordered a matcha latte and a pumpkin walnut loaf. The unsweetened matcha paired perfectly with the sweet, moist pumpkin walnut loaf.

Gourmet Wok inside Granville Island Public Market

After Mass today, I spent some quality time with my parents. Our first stop was Granville Island Public Market for lunch. Naturally, I went straight to my favourite spot, Gourmet Wok, and ordered my usual: the 3-item combo

This combo includes fried rice, which is flavourful but sometimes on the drier side, making it a great base to soak up the sauces from the other dishes. The fried salt-and-pepper fish had a lightly crispy exterior, though it was slightly stale today. Despite that, the bold seasoning of salt, garlic, and pepper still shone through. The kung pao chicken was rich and saucy, with a slight tang and a savoury, umami-filled glaze that clung to the tender chicken pieces, complemented by the crunch of peanuts and bright red chili peppers. The Chinese-style barbecue pork was indulgently fatty with a sticky-sweet glaze that melted in my mouth, offering a deliciously smoky and caramelized flavour.


Gourmet Wok inside Granville Island Public Market

This meal is my go-to at Granville Island Public Market because it offers the best value for the price, satisfying both my appetite and my taste for variety.

Friday, November 29, 2024

Al Pastor Burrito and Chronic Fries from Chronic Taco

Shopping! Well, it was Black Friday, and we found ourselves unintentionally near Metrotown (the biggest mall in BC!), so we decided we might as well shop.

In between shopping, we needed to refuel and grabbed dinner at the food court. It was packed with people! We decided on Chronic Tacos and ordered the Al Pastor Burrito and Chronic Fries.


Al Pastor Burrito from Chronic Taco
Flour tortilla, al pastor, rice, beans, and toppings

The Al Pastor Burrito was a vibrant combination of flavours wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. The al pastor— spicy, marinated pork with a hint of sweetness from the pineapple — stood out as the star of the dish. The rice and beans provided a hearty base, while the mix of fresh toppings, including crisp lettuce and tangy salsa, added layers of texture and brightness. Every bite was a balance of smoky, sweet, and savoury notes, with just the right amount of heat. 


Chronic Fries from Chronic Taco
Crispy french fries topped with pollo asado, melted cheese, onions, cilantro, lime, and salsa

Meanwhile, the Chronic Fries offered a different kind of indulgence. The crispy fries served as the perfect vehicle for the juicy, marinated pollo asado, which had a lightly charred, smoky flavour. Melted cheese added richness, while the fresh cilantro, onions, and lime brought a refreshing zing that cut through the heaviness. The salsa tied everything together, creating a bold, satisfying dish with an irresistible mix of crispy, cheesy, and zesty flavours.


Chronic Fries from Chronic Taco

Since we’re rarely at Metrotown, here’s an updated checklist of food stalls for future reference.

✔️ A&W

☑️ Bake House (closed)

☑️ Bourbon St. Grill

✔️ Bubble Waffle Cafe

✔️ Burger King

🔳 Cazba

✔️ Chachi's (closed)

☑️ Chef Tony Dimsum (closed)

☑️ Chronic Tacos Mexican Grill

☑️ Crepe de Licious

✔️ Curry Express Indian Cuisine

✔️ DQ Orange Julius

✔️ Freshslice Pizza

✔️ KFC

🔳 Koya Japan

🔳 Jamaican Mi Juicy

☑️ Manchu Wok

☑️ Nando's

✔️ New York Fries

🔳 Opa! Of Greece

☑️ Subway

✔️ Thai Express

✔️ Tim Hortons

🔳 Togo Sushi

🔳 U-Grill

☑️ Vina Vietnamese

Drinks and Snacks at Chai Coffee N' Chaska

 I have a doctor's appointment today and we arrived a bit early so we decided to hang out and have snack at nearby Chai Coffee N' Chaska.

For drinks, I went with their Masala Chai, a comforting blend of black tea, milk, and a medley of warming spices. My husband chose the intriguing Elachi Chai, infused with the delicate flavour of cardamom.


Masala Chai from Chai Coffee N' Chaska

To complement our beverages, we indulged in a couple of delectable snacks. The spicy beef patty was a flavorful delight, while the veggie samosas offered a crispy, savory treat. And, of course, I couldn't resist a side of crispy, masala-spiced potato wedges.


Spicy Beef and Vegetable Samosas from Chai Coffee N' Chaska

Masala Potato Wedges from Chai Coffee N' Chaska

See related article: Vegetable Samosa from Dropout Chaiwala

Friday, November 22, 2024

Korean barbecue from Royal Seoul House

When Korean barbecue cravings hit, Royal Seoul House was the perfect pick for a dinner date with my husband. Nestled on the corner of West Broadway and Alder Street, this spot is a classic go-to for authentic Korean cuisine in Vancouver.


Korean barbecue from Royal Seoul House

We opted for Combo D, a well-rounded selection for beef lovers. The set came with an assortment of marinated cuts: prime cut beef ribs, beef short ribs, marinated beef, and beef belly. Each piece was tender, flavourful, and grilled right at our table to perfection. There's something so satisfying about the sizzle of meat on the grill, the enticing aroma wafting up, and the first bite of caramelized goodness. 


Korean barbecue from Royal Seoul House

No Korean barbecue experience is complete without the ever-reliable ban chan. Their side dishes, including kimchi, seasoned bean sprouts, and pickled radishes, were fresh and balanced out the richness of the meats. I especially appreciated the variety, as they paired well with the grilled beef and rice.

I love date nights with hubby!

Pumpkin Spiced Latte and Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte from Café Anecdote

I took a day off today for what was supposed to be a routine dental appointment. But when I arrived at the clinic, they told me I didn’t have an appointment. After some back-and-forth, they realized that one of the receptionists had mistakenly canceled it.

With no dental cleaning on the agenda, we decided to make the most of the day. We grabbed lunch at McDonald’s and wandered around the Dollar Store and Michaels for some lighthearted browsing. It was fun, but I couldn’t shake the bummed-out feeling on our walk home.

To lift my spirits, we stopped by my favorite cozy spot — Café Anecdote.

We ordered their seasonal fall drinks: a Pumpkin Spice Latte and a Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte. Both were exactly what I needed to turn my day around. The Pumpkin Spice Latte was warm, aromatic, and perfectly spiced, with just the right balance of pumpkin flavor and creamy milk. 


Pumpkin Spiced Latte from Café Anecdote

The Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte was rich and indulgent, with deep caramel notes from the brown sugar and a comforting kick of cinnamon.


Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte from Café Anecdote

We stayed at the café for a good two hours, sipping our drinks, watching the construction machinery at work nearby, and talking about plans and dreams. There’s something so simple yet special about coffee dates.

Filet-O-Fish from McDonald's Canada

I finally did it. After years of seeing the Filet-O-Fish on the McDonald’s menu, I decided to give it a try. It’s one of those iconic fast-food items that people either seem to love or forget exists. Today, I joined the ranks of the curious.

Let’s talk first impressions. This sandwich is small. At 400 calories, I expected it to be a little more substantial, but it’s definitely on the petite side.

The bun is probably the standout for me. It’s soft and slightly squishy. The tartar sauce is another highlight. Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of punch, it ties the whole sandwich together. It’s generously slathered on, so you get a good taste of it in every bite. Now, the fish. This is where things get a bit “meh” for me. It’s okay — mild on the inside.


Filet-O-Fish from McDonald's Canada
Dive right in. Our Filet-O-Fish is pure temptation on a lightly steamed bun, topped with processed cheese and tangy tartar sauce.

So, will I order the Filet-O-Fish again? Maybe. It is a solid choice if you’re in the mood for something light and straightforward, but it’s not going to dethrone any of my fast-food favorites (chicken nuggets). For now, I’ll chalk this up as another item checked off in the McD's menu.

Sunday, November 17, 2024

Chicken Cutlet Rice from Redbeef Noodle Kitchen

I had a lunch date with my parents today and I enjoyed my favourite Chicken Cutlet Rice from Redbeef Noodle Kitchen.


Chicken Cutlet Rice from Redbeef Noodle Kitchen

Redbeef has the best Taiwanese-style chicken cutlet in Vancouver.

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Holiday Hot Chocolates from Blenz Coffee

Blenz has unveiled a delightful lineup of hot chocolates for the holiday season, and they are truly worth savouring! With creative flavours and customizable chocolate bases (choose between dark, milk, or white), these cozy drinks are perfect companions for the chilly Vancouver weather.

Here’s a closer look at the available options:

  • The Naughty - it's a spicy cocoa with hinta of vanilla and roasted acho peppers.
  • Sticky Toffee Twinkle - just like sticky toffee pudding - creamy toffee notes and sweet dates.
  • Holly Jolly Pistachio - rich avocado notes with a lush, earthy finish.
  • Peppermint
  • Hazulnut

We decided to try the Sticky Toffee Twinkle and Holly Jolly Pistachio, both made with dark chocolate for an added depth of flavour. The Sticky Toffee Twinkle was indulgent, with its caramel-toffee profile perfectly enhanced by the bittersweetness of dark chocolate.


Holly Jolly Pistachio from Blenz Coffee

The Holly Jolly Pistachio, on the other hand, offered a unique, earthy nuttiness that paired beautifully with the robust dark chocolate base. Both were exceptional, especially as the temperatures dip in Vancouver.


Sticky Toffee Twinkle from Blenz Coffee

For food, we paired our drinks with two classics: a butter croissant and a roasted veggie sandwich on multigrain bread.

A warmed butter croissant. Flaky, golden, and decadently buttery, this croissant was the perfect light bite to complement our rich drinks. Each layer was airy yet satisfying, melting in our mouths with every bite.

The roasted veggie sandwich on multigrain bread is packed with flavour, this hearty sandwich featured roasted zucchini and red peppers, which added a sweet, smoky touch. The creamy house-made hummus lent a tangy, garlicky balance, while the baby spinach and melted mozzarella brought freshness and richness to every bite. The multigrain bread tied it all together with its wholesome, nutty texture.


Roasted Veggie Sandwich on Multigrain Bread from Blenz Coffee

Whether you’re seeking a festive treat or a cozy café moment, Blenz’s holiday hot chocolates and comforting food pairings are a must-try this season! Which flavour will you go for first?

Friday, November 8, 2024

Birthday dinner feast at Indian Oven

There’s nothing like celebrating a special occasion with a feast of beloved dishes. For my birthday dinner, I went all in with some of my favourite Indian flavours at Indian Oven.

Starting with the appetizers, we enjoyed crispy Indian fries — potato fingers dipped in a chickpea batter and fried to a perfect golden brown. They had that satisfying crunch, with a subtle hint of spice in the batter that made them addictive from the first bite. 


Indian Fries from Indian Oven
Potato fingers dipped in chickpea batter and deep fried

Then came the Indian Oven Special Platter, a vibrant assortment of pakoras and samosas. The platter was a hit with everyone at the table; the paneer pakora was soft and delicately spiced, while the fish and chicken pakoras had juicy interiors, contrasted by their crispy, flavourful coatings. The samosa was packed with well-seasoned potatoes and peas, delivering that classic, hearty flavor in each bite.


Indian Oven Special Platter from Indian Oven
Combination of veg pakora, veg samosa, paneer pakora, chicken pakora, and fish pakora

For the main course, I started with my all-time favourite, chicken vindaloo. True to its reputation, the vindaloo was fiery, with a complex tangy heat that built up but never overpowered the tender chicken. Paired with a side of fluffy white rice, each spoonful balanced the rich spices with just the right amount of heat. The palak paneer, meanwhile, was creamy and smooth, with chunks of paneer that were tender yet held their shape beautifully. The mild, earthy spinach paired perfectly with the paneer's subtle cheese-like flavour — a comforting dish that I just had to include.


Chicken Vindaloo from Indian Oven
Chicken simmered in zestry tangy curry sauce with rare spices

Palak Paneer from Indian Oven
Puréed spinach and paneer cooked with onions and seasoned with garlic

On the side, we ordered both regular naan and garlic naan to scoop up every last bit of curry. The naan was pillowy, with a slight chew that’s perfect for sopping up sauces. The garlic naan added that extra flavour punch, with toasted garlic bits elevating each mouthful.


Indian Oven

For my parents, the coconut chicken provided a milder option, with a silky coconut-based sauce that added sweetness to the succulent chicken. And the goat curry? This dish was deeply aromatic, with tender pieces of goat and spices that melded into a luscious sauce, perfect over a bed of rice.


Coconut Chicken from Indian Oven
Chicken cooked in creamy coconut sauce

Goat Curry from Indian Oven
Goat cooked in exotic spices

My sisters ordered the palak chicken and butter chicken. The palak chicken combined tender chicken pieces with creamy spinach, providing a fresh yet savoury contrast. Meanwhile, the butter chicken offered that classic, indulgent richness with its smooth, buttery tomato gravy coating each bite of juicy chicken.


Palak Chicken from Indian Oven
Chicken cooked in spinach sauce

Each dish brought something unique to the table, with textures and flavours that played off each other beautifully. Celebrating with this feast was the perfect way to indulge and enjoy the full range of Indian cuisine at Indian Oven. If there’s one thing better than delicious food, it’s enjoying it with family on a special night!

Cookies at Deja Brew

For years, Deja Brew felt like a bit of a mystery. Tucked in busy West Broadway, this coffee shop only operates on weekdays, closing its doors by 5:00 pm — a schedule that doesn’t exactly suit those of us who save our coffee shop outings for leisurely weekends or evenings after work. But when I had a Friday off, my husband and I finally had our moment to solve this "Deja Brew" enigma. And it was worth the wait!

Walking in, we were greeted by a warm, intimate setting that felt like a throwback to classic, cozy coffee houses with earthy tones, mismatched mugs, and mellow lighting. The ambiance was relaxed, yet buzzing with regulars.


Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie from Deja Brew

After browsing their pastries, we settled on two cookies: the peanut butter chocolate chip and the white chocolate macadamia. The peanut butter chocolate chip cookie was soft with just the right chew and a blissful mix of sweet chocolate and peanut butter.

The white chocolate macadamia, however, was the highlight. It was subtly sweet, with the macadamia nuts adding a buttery crunch that balanced the creamy white chocolate—definitely a winner for anyone who loves a bit of decadence in their cookie!


White Chocolate Macademia from Deja Brew

Although Deja Brew’s hours are challenging for those with typical work schedules and does not work or live nearby, this coffee shop deserves a detour if you ever get a chance. It’s one of those hidden-in-plain-sight gems in Vancouver where weekday visitors are treated to great coffee, delicious baked goods, and a cozy, welcoming vibe. While we might not make it there often, I’m already planning about my next day off for another visit.

Chicken Teriyaki Curry from Mr. Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is my absolute favourite dish. I make sure to enjoy it on the weekend of my birthday. Since Suika is still closed, we walked over to Mr. Japanese Curry to get my fix.

I went with my usual order: beef curry topped with tonkatsu, The curry itself was rich and savoury, with a smooth, thick consistency that perfectly coated each bite of rice. The beef added a hearty depth, its flavour slow-cooked into the curry. The tonkatsu on top was crispy and golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. The crunch of the breading with the softness of the curry made every bite satisfying.


Beef Curry topped with Tonkatsu from Mr. Japanese Curry

Meanwhile, my husband tried the limited-time Chicken Teriyaki Curry, which was a game-changer. The chicken was incredibly tender, coated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce that added a slightly smoky, caramelized flavour. The rice was blanketed in the same rich beef curry, creating a comforting fusion of savoury curry and teriyaki sweetness.


Chicken Teriyaki Curry from Mr. Japanese Curry

It's the perfect lunch date.

Holiday Drink and Food from Starbucks Canada

Happy Friday! For breakfast today, we went to the nearby Starbucks and ordered a few seasonal favourites from their holiday menu.

We started with the Chestnut Praline Latte. This latte has a velvety, creamy texture, with flavours that evoke roasted chestnuts and sweet caramel. It’s topped with spiced praline crumbs, adding a touch of crunch and a gentle, nutty finish to each sip.


Chestnut Praline Latte from Starbucks Canada

For something savoury, we got the Double-Smoked Bacon, Cheddar & Egg Sandwich. The sandwich features thick, smoky bacon layered over a fluffy, folded egg, with melted cheddar that adds a rich, tangy note. The croissant-style bun is soft yet slightly crisp on the outside, with a buttery flavour that brings the whole sandwich together.


Double-Smoked Bacon, Cheddar & Egg Sandwich from Starbucks Canada

We also tried a Cheese Danish, which was a deliciously soft pastry with a light, flaky crust. The cream cheese filling inside was rich and slightly tangy, balanced by a hint of sweetness in the pastry.


Cheese Danish from Starbucks Canada

Lastly, we had a Turkey Sage Danish. The pastry here is tender and flaky, filled with a creamy, herby sage spread and topped with pieces of juicy, tender turkey. The earthy sage and savoury turkey make it a perfect seasonal bite, adding a warm, holiday-inspired flavour to the meal.


Turkey Sage Danish from Starbucks Canada

Altogether, it was a delicious way to start a festive Friday!

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Taiwanese-style Fried Chicken and Braised Pork Dry Noodles from Kurotaki Chabann

Happy Thursday! I’m taking a day off from work tomorrow, and with Monday as a public holiday, that means an extra-long weekend. To kick things off, my husband and I had dinner at Kurotaki Chabann.

It’s a Taiwanese spot with all our favourite dishes! We ordered a fried chicken chop rice set, which came with a soft, seasoned egg, tangy pickled vegetables, and golden-fried tofu. The chicken chop was crispy and juicy, with a perfect balance of savoury flavours. 


Fried Chicken Chop Rice Set from Kurotaki Chabann

We also got popcorn chicken (my favourite!), with a light, crunchy coating that’s seasoned with a hint of basil and spice, plus a sweet, smoky Taiwanese sausage. For popcorn chicken, Redbeef Noodles still holds the top spot in the city, but this was a close contender.


Popcorn Chicken from Kurotaki Chabann

Taiwanese-style Sausage from Kurotaki Chabann

Feeling adventurous, I went for the braised pork dry noodles. The sauce was rich and fragrant, with deep notes of soy and star anise that clung to each noodle. So delicious!


Braised Pork Dry Noodles from Kurotaki Chabann

The ambiance at Kurotaki was great too. They had a big screen showing the Canucks game and anime-inspired decor throughout the space. I’m happy!

Caramel Brownie Filled Ring from Tim Hortons

I was lucky enough to enjoy the new Caramel Brownie Filled Ring Dream Donut from Tim Hortons as a surprise sweet treat from my colleagues for my birthday, and it was the perfect way to celebrate.

One glance at the Caramel Brownie Dream Donut, and you know you’re in for something special. This donut isn’t just a simple ring – it’s dressed to impress with a luscious caramel drizzle, frosting on top, and generous brownie chunks that add both texture and flavour.


Caramel Brownie Filled Ring Dream Donut from Tim Hortons

What sets this donut apart is its caramel filling. As you take that first bite, you’re met with a soft, fluffy donut exterior, and then – surprise! – a gooey, rich caramel filling spills out, making each bite even more indulgent. The caramel inside is velvety, with a touch of buttery sweetness that complements the chocolatey brownie pieces on top.

Tim Hortons' Caramel Brownie Filled Ring Dream Donut is the perfect treat for caramel and chocolate lovers alike, combining the best of both worlds in each delicious bite.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup from Banter Room

This week’s team lunch was supposed to be at The Greek in Yaletown. We walked there on such a gorgeous day, but it was closed.

I started panicking about what to do next, but then we turned around and spotted Banter Room. We checked the menu and decided to go inside.


Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup from Banter Room

I ordered the grilled cheese and tomato soup since I didn’t have much of an appetite. Both turned out to be absolutely delicious. The tomato soup was thick and rich, with a velvety, almost creamy texture that made each spoonful feel indulgent. It had a hint of roasted garlic and basil, adding depth to the fresh, tangy tomato flavor. The grilled cheese was made with soft, perfectly toasted sourdough bread, with a crisp golden crust on the outside and a gooey, melted blend of cheeses on the inside. The cheese had a sharpness that paired beautifully with the comforting warmth of the soup. Together, it was the ultimate cozy meal.



Sunday, November 3, 2024

Salted Caramel Panookie from Boston Pizza

Happy Sunday! We decided to pop over to Boston Pizza for a late lunch (or early dinner), drawn in by their happy hour deals and the bonus of a free birthday cake since it’s my birth month—yay for birthday perks!

Boston Pizza offers “Pizza Flights,” where you can choose three 6-inch pizzas for $21.00, so we picked three different flavors to get a good sampling:


Tropical Chicken, Deluxe, and Great White North from Boston Pizza

Tropical Chicken – Each bite balances the creamy Alfredo with the sweet, juicy pineapple, giving a mild, tropical twist to the savory bacon and chicken. Despite the "spicy chicken" label, it wasn't spicy, making the overall taste smooth and approachable. The pineapple adds just enough sweetness to cut through the richness, leaving a lightly caramelized, savory sweetness on the palate.

Great White North – The ham is subtly smoky, contrasting beautifully with the melted cheese, while the tomato sauce brings a bit of tanginess that ties it all together. It's straightforward and satisfying—perfect for when you're craving something classic and uncomplicated. My favorite of the trio!

Deluxe – This pizza is a flavor-packed bite of savory goodness. The mushrooms and green peppers add a slight earthy flavor and texture, while the pepperoni and ham provide just the right amount of saltiness and richness. Each bite has a bit of crunch from the vegetables, blending well with the soft cheese and chewy crust.

We couldn’t resist ordering my favorite, the Cactus Cuts Potatoes. These thinly sliced, crispy potato rounds are perfectly seasoned, with a hint of spice that pairs well with the creamy signature cactus dip. Each bite is crunchy with a slight kick, making them totally addictive.


Cactus Cuts Potatoes from Boston Pizza

We also ordered the Garlic Parmesan Fries - golden fries tossed in a savory mixture of garlic and Parmesan cheese. They arrive crisp and aromatic, each fry coated in a garlicky, cheesy goodness that’s elevated by the accompanying cactus dip.


Garlic Parmesan Fries from Boston Pizza

Finally, we finished off the meal with the Salted Caramel Panookie. It’s so indulgent! This dessert is a giant chocolate chunk cookie, baked in a pizza pan until it’s gooey in the center but crispy around the edges. Drizzled with caramel sauce, the panookie is warm and rich, with a hint of saltiness that perfectly complements the sweetness. It’s the ultimate mix of soft, chewy, and slightly crispy textures, ideal for sharing but hard to resist keeping all to yourself!


Salted Caramel Panookie from Boston Pizza


Boston Pizza checklist

For future me, below is a list of all the items we have tried at Boston Pizza.

Friday, November 1, 2024

Original and Cheese Snow from Chicko Chicken

Happy Friday! Tonight, hubby and I had dinner at the new Chicko Chicken location on West Broadway. After enjoying our meal at bb.q Chicken last month, we decided to try similar dishes here—ordering the boneless Original and Cheese Snow chicken.

Chicko’s portions were impressively generous, with each piece coated in a crunchy, golden crust that held up well with every bite. The Original chicken was juicy and tender inside, though I found the flavor a bit milder compared to the rich, seasoned profile of bb.q Chicken’s version. Still, the subtlety worked in its favor, letting the crispiness and texture shine.


Original and Cheese Snow from Chicko Chicken

The Cheese Snow chicken, however, was the real highlight. Unlike some other places where the cheese flavor can slip off the chicken, Chicko’s cheese coating stayed put, giving each bite a delightful balance of savory, creamy cheese dust. It added a nice depth without overpowering the chicken, which made it stand out even more.

To round out the meal, we got a side of herb and cheese Shake Shake Fries. Shaking the powder in the bag was a fun, interactive touch, and the fries came out perfectly coated with a blend of herbs and mild cheese flavor. They were crispy, well-seasoned, and paired nicely with the chicken.


Shake Shake Fries from Chicko Chicken

Overall, it was a satisfying and comforting dinner—just what we needed to kick off the weekend!

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Hot Spicy Chicken Ramen from JINYA Ramen Bar

After feeling under the weather all week and even taking a day off yesterday to rest, I’m finally back at work today. Thankfully, our team lunch provided a much-needed pick-me-up. We went to JINYA Ramen Bar’s Robson location, and I ordered the Spicy Chicken Ramen — a perfect choice for a day when I needed something comforting. 


Spicy Chicekn Ramen from JINYA Ramen Bar
Chicken brother, chicken chashu, spinach, spicy bean sprouts, green onion, and thin noodles

The ramen came with a flavorful chicken broth, tender chicken chashu, fresh spinach, spicy bean sprouts, and green onion, all served with thin noodles at a satisfying hot spice level. Just what I needed to recharge.

For future me, below is a list of ramen you have tried:

Saturday, October 26, 2024

Croissants and Latte from Le Doux Ciel

After a satisfying lunch at Homura Yakiniku, we decided to treat ourselves to something sweet and stopped by the newly opened Le Doux Ciel on West Broadway. Located in the same building as the Ultimate Golf Lounge, it’s a charming spot with an inviting, cozy interior — perfect for enjoying a couple croissant and latte while watching the world go by.

The almond croissant was deliciously buttery, with a crisp, flaky exterior and a generous almond filling that had a warm, nutty sweetness. The pastry layers were delicate yet slightly chewy on the inside, creating a wonderful contrast with the crunchy toasted almond slivers on top.


Almond Croissant from Le Doux Ciel

On the other hand, the hazelnut croissant, equally indulgent, had a filling that was smooth, rich, and full of hazelnut flavour. Its slightly earthy and chocolatey undertones made it a decadent treat for any Nutella lover. With the flaky, golden pastry on the outside and a creamy, nutty filling within, the hazelnut croissant added a luxurious twist to the classic.


Hazelnut Croissant from Le Doux Ciel

Paired with these treats, we sipped on a coconut latte and a rose latte. The coconut latte was smooth and velvety, with a gentle sweetness from the coconut that complemented the espresso’s natural notes. It had a tropical aroma that was light yet fragrant, adding a delicate sweetness to each sip.


Coconut Latte and Rose Latte from Le Doux Ciel

The rose latte, on the other hand, was floral and fragrant. The rose added an aromatic quality that paired beautifully with the coffee’s robustness, creating a drink that was both comforting and slightly exotic.

As we savoured these flavours, we felt blessed to share such a lovely moment together. Thank you, Lord, for all the blessings.

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