Urban Crave in YVR before security

 I'm flying to Australia today. Before going inside the gate, hubby and I had lunch at Urban Crave. I really wanted soup or rice so I went for their Tonkatsu Ramen while hubby got the Smoked Cheesesteak sandwich.

Airport food is expensive! Urban Crave is not a Japanese spot so I had a feeling that the Tonkatsu Ramen won't be the best choice but I can't believe how unhappy I felt after eating it.

Tonkatsu Ramen from Urban Crave

Smoked Cheesesteak with house-made chips from Urban Crave

Hubby's Smoked Cheesesteak is so much better. I highly recommend getting a sandwich. If ever there's a next time, I'm eyeing the Grilled Chicken Avocado.

Mr. Japanese Curry comfort food

I mentioned in an earlier post that I'm flying to Australia and will be gone for two weeks. I really wanted my last dinner in Vancouver (until I'm back) to be from my favourite Suika. However, since they're temporarily closed. The second best source of Japanese beef curry is good enough.

After work, we walked across beautiful Cambie Bridge to Mr. Japanese Curry. I got my usual Beef Curry (number 3) topped with tonkatsu while hubby went for the Omu-Cheese Curry (number 10) with the same topping.

Omu-Cheese Curry from Mr. Japanese Curry 

Beef Curry with Tonkatsu from Mr. Japanese Curry 

We also shared the super juicy karaage. I'm reminded why Mr. Japanese Curry is awesome. They're one of the few that serves beef curry (yes, most of the things you see in other Japanese restaurants serves chicken curry base) and their assortment of available toppings mean you can customize the experience.

Fried Pork Chop with Rice from RedBeef Noodle Kitchen

I'm going to Australia and will be flying out on Friday. I have a couple of restaurants in my head that I need to enjoy before my trip. The main one is Suika but they are temporarily closed due to damage from what I can guess is a fire.

The second one is RedBeef for my favourite Taiwanese-style popcorn chicken and chicken cutlet. I'm satisfied.

Chicken Cutlet Rice from RedBeef Noodle Kitchen 

Salt & Pepper Popcorn Chicken from RedBeef Noodle Kitchen 

Hubby tried the surprisingly equally delicious fried pork chop with rice.

Fried Pork Chop with Rice from RedBeef Noodle Kitchen 

Do you have a restaurant that gives you your ultimate comfort food? The one restaurant that allows you to forget everything else happening i your life even for just an hour to truly enjoy and appreciate food?

Traditional Burrito from Patron Taco & Cantina

If you're looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience in Vancouver, look no further than Patron Taco & Cantina. Their traditional burrito is a testament to their commitment to classic flavours and quality ingredients.

The star of the show is their signature burrito, a flour tortilla filled to the brim with a delicious combination of:

• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and gooey, providing a creamy base for the other ingredients.
• Rice: A fluffy and satisfying addition that adds substance to the burrito.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh, tangy salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
• Sour Cream: A cool and creamy contrast to the spicy pico de gallo.
• Lettuce: Adding a crisp and refreshing texture.

Served alongside a generous portion of pork beans and chicken tinga, this burrito is a feast for the senses. The pork beans are hearty and flavorful, while the chicken tinga is tender and spicy.

Traditional Burrito from Patrcon Taco & Cantina
Flour tortilla stuffed with mozzarella cheese, rice, pico de gallo, sour cream, and lettuce. Served with a side of pork beans and chicken tinga

It's no wonder why our company has been coming to Patron Taco & Cantina once a month since April. This traditional burrito has become a beloved team lunch staple. The combination of flavours and textures is truly irresistible, and the friendly atmosphere makes it an enjoyable dining experience.

Have you tried Patron Taco & Cantina's traditional burrito? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Mighty McMuffin vs. Mighty McGriddles: A Breakfast Showdown

Have you ever had a morning where you craved something a little different? That's exactly what happened to us this Sunday.

We usually start our Sundays with a classic Tim Hortons breakfast. But today, we decided to switch things up and head to McDonald's after Mass. My husband opted for the Mighty McMuffin, while I went for the Mighty McGriddles.

Let me tell you, this was a breakfast showdown for the ages! (Okay, that's a tad bit dramatic!)

Mighty McMuffin 

Both sandwiches were incredibly satisfying, but I have to admit, I'm a total sucker to the Mighty McGriddles. The double portion of hickory-smoked bacon was crispy perfection*, and I loved. the way the sweet, maple-flavored griddle cakes balanced out the savory sausage. It was like a little taste of heaven in every bite.

Mighty McGriddles

Have you tried either of these breakfast sandwiches? Which one is your favorite?

Green Curry from Thai Away Home in Club Kitchen

 Happy Thursday! For this week's company-paid team lunch, the theme was Thai cuisine. After checking Google Maps, the best source of Thai food within walking distance of the office is inside Club Kitchen at Expo Boulevard: Thai Away Home. We walked to the location on a partly cloudy day. There are so many options but sticking to the theme, I chose Combo 1 with chicken green curry.

Combo for 1 from Thai Away in Club Kitchen
Spring roll, green salad, hot and sour broth, white jasmine rice, and chicken green curry with eggplant

It's a feast! The meal came with some of the best Thai curry around, soft white rice to absorb all the coconut sauce, crispy spring rolls, surprisingly delicious hot & sour broth, and fresh salad. I finished everything and food coma.

Chicken Green Curry with Eggplant from Thai Away Home in Club Kitchen

That green curry sauce is just something else. I highly recommend it. After our meal, we slowly returned to the office to finish the rest of the work day.

California Dreamin' from Steve's Poke Bar

Last Thursday, our team embraced the poke trend for our company-paid lunch and headed to Steve's Poke Bar in Yaletown. A quick kilometre walk later, we were ready to dive into some fresh, flavorful poke bowls.

As a poke newbie, I opted for the classic "California Dreamin'" bowl. Two scoops of Shoyu Salmon served as the base, but instead of rice, I went for a healthier quinoa option. To top it off, I added furikake seasoning, corn, edamame, imitation crab, wakame seaweed salad, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, and a dollop of Steve's Spicy Mayo sauce.

California Dreamin' from Steve's Poke Bar
Two Shoyu salmon scoops, quinoa, furikake seasoning, corn, edamame, imitation crab, wakame seaweed salad, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, and Steve's spicy mayo sauce

The combination of flavours was delightful! The salmon was fresh and tender, the quinoa provided a satisfying texture, and the mix of toppings added depth and crunch to every bite. The Spicy Mayo sauce was the perfect finishing touch, adding a kick of heat without overpowering the other flavours.

If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious lunch option, I highly recommend giving Steve's Poke Bar a try. With its customizable bowls and fresh ingredients, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Pacific Northwest Steelhead Burger from White Spot

I had the incredible chance to choose the theme for our weekly company-paid team lunch thanks to winning our weekly office competition. And let me tell you, I made the most of it by picking burgers from White Spot. I enjoyed their Pacific Northwest Steelhead Burger.

The star of the show was undoubtedly the 5 oz Ocean Wise™ steelhead fillet. It was cooked to perfection, flaky and tender, with a delicate flavor that was the perfect base for the vibrant toppings. The pickled onion added a tangy crunch, while the arugula and tomato brought a refreshing freshness. But it was the tartar sauce that truly stole the show for me. That bold dill flavor was an absolute game-changer! I absolutely love it.

Pacific Northwest Steelhead Burger from White Spot
5 oz Ocean Wise™ steelhead fillet with pickled onion, tartar sauce, arugula, tomato, and mayo,

To complement the burger, I opted for a side of sweet potato fries with chipotle mayo dip. The fries were crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and the chipotle mayo added a delightful kick.

If you're looking for a fresh and flavorful lunch option, I recommend giving White Spot's Pacific Northwest Steelhead Burger a try. It's a delicious way to support sustainable seafood while treating yourself to a truly satisfying meal.

Have you tried this burger? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below!

Blenz Summer Sips: Coco-Ube Chillo and a Matcha Mishap

With the sun shining bright, there's nothing quite like a refreshing drink to beat the heat. Recently, we decided to check out Blenz's limited edition summer sips. Our local Blenz on the corner of West Broadway and Granville was the perfect spot for a chill afternoon.

Coco-Ube Chillo: A Tropical Dream

I opted for the Coco-Ube Chillo, and let me tell you, it was pure bliss! This creamy concoction is a delightful blend of vanilla ice cream, ube, whipped cream, and toasted coconut. The texture is like a thick, indulgent milkshake, and the coconut flavour takes center stage, with a subtle sweetness from the vanilla and ube. It's the perfect treat for a hot day!

Coco-Ube Chillo from Blenz Coffee

Ube Matcha Freddo: A Matcha Mishap?

My hubby ordered the Ube Matcha Freddo, anticipating a creamy ube latte topped with matcha whipped cream. Unfortunately, it seems they might have mixed up the order, as what arrived was more like a regular matcha latte. While still delicious, it wasn't quite what he was expecting.

Ube Matcha Freddo or Matcha Latte from Blenz

To complement our drinks, we indulged in a vegan brownie. It was the perfect finishing touch to our relaxing afternoon.

Have you tried Blenz's summer sips yet? Share your favourite in the comments below!

Signature Chicken, Nuggets and more from Popeyes Chicken

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like fried chicken. With stomachs grumbling, we decided to indulge in a classic comfort food experience from Popeyes. 

Our first order was a combo of eight crispy nuggets with Bayou Buffalo sauce on the side, accompanied by a generous serving of Cajun fries. The nuggets boasted a golden, shatteringly crisp exterior that gave way to a tender, juicy interior. The Bayou Buffalo sauce delivered a fiery kick with a subtle tanginess, creating a harmonious blend of heat and flavour. The Cajun fries were a symphony of textures, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy, potato-forward interior. Infused with the bold, aromatic spices of Cajun cuisine, they were a delightful complement to the nuggets.

8-piece chicken nuggets with cajun fries and biscuit from Popeyes

Our second round was a more traditional affair: a four-piece chicken meal with onion rings. The chicken pieces were encased in a thick, crunchy coating that crackled with every bite. Beneath the golden armour lay succulent, moist chicken that was both flavorful and satisfying. The onion rings were a masterpiece of their own, featuring thick-cut onions enveloped in a light, airy batter. The result was a crispy exterior that yielded a tender, caramelized onion center, a truly indulgent treat. 

4-piece signature fried chicken with onion rings and biscuit from Popeyes

This Popeyes feast was the perfect antidote to a long day, offering a delightful combination of flavours, textures, and pure comfort food satisfaction. 

Tomato and Mozzarella Baguette Sandwich from PAUL Le Café

It’s a beautiful Thursday with plenty of sunshine and a company-paid lunch to look forward to. With the 2024 Summer Olympics happening in Paris, our team decided that the theme would be the iconic baguette.

Beautiful Baguette Sandwiches from PAUL Le Café

We’re lucky to have PAUL Le Café, a lovely French bakery, in the lobby of Vancouver Centre II. I decided to try the vegetarian Tomato and Mozzarella sandwich.

Tomato and Mozzarella Baguette Sandwich from PAUL Le Café

The baguette was fantastic – crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, filled with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, crisp lettuce, and a fragrant basil pesto. It was a light, delicious lunch that felt like a taste of Paris.

Canelé from PAUL Le Café

To finish off, I tried a canelé for the first time. This small pastry had a thick, caramelized crust and a soft, custard-like center. It was sweet, rich, and incredibly satisfying – a perfect end to my French-inspired lunch.

We Ate Every Footlong Sidekick and Dipper at Subway

Disclaimer number 1: This post is not sponsored by Subway. We just really, really love food.

Disclaimer number 2: This post is based on a single experience and individual taste preferences may vary.

So, my husband and I decided to go a little crazy today and try every single item on Subway's new footlong Sidekicks and Dippers menu. Yes, you read that right. Every. Single. Item. We figured, why not? We went all in! Let's dive into our honest reviews.

Subway Footlong Sidekick and Dipper

Footlong Sidekicks: Hit or Miss?

We started with the Sidekicks.

Let’s start with the sweet stuff. The Footlong Cookie was a definite hit. Warm, gooey, and incredibly moist, it was the perfect indulgence. We’d happily order this again.

Footlong Cookie from Subway

Next up, is the Footlong Pretzel. Unfortunately, it was a bit of a letdown straight out of the bag. It was stale and lacked flavour. However, a quick trip through the air fryer worked wonders. The smoky honey mustard dip was a game-changer, transforming the pretzel into a surprisingly decent snack.

Footlong Pretzels from Subway

And then there’s the Footlong Churro. We’re not sure what happened here, but it was a complete disaster. Stale and hard, it was a far cry from the delicious treat we know and love. This one’s a hard pass.

Footlong Churro from Subway

Footlong Dippers: A Flavorful Trio

Moving on to the savoury side, the Pepperoni and Cheese dipper was a clear winner. Packed with flavour, it didn’t even need the garlic aioli dip to shine. The Ham and Cheese was decent on its own, but the smoky honey mustard elevated it to another level.

Pepperoni and Cheese Footlong Dipper from Subway

The Two Cheese dipper was a bit of a disappointment. It was mostly bread with not enough cheese to make it interesting. The Chipotle Southwest dip was a must to add some flavour.

Overall, our Subway Footlong adventure was a mixed bag. While the cookie and some of the dippers impressed, the pretzel and churro fell short. We’re curious to hear your thoughts if you've tried these new menu items. Let us know in the comments below!

Quesabirria from Patrón Tacos and Cantina

It's Thursday, which means company-sponsored team lunch! With my colleagues on vacation, I had a solo Mexican fiesta at our go-to Patrón Tacos and Cantina.

Quesabirria from Patrón Tacos and Cantina
Two corn tortilla filled with melted cheese, beef birria, onions, cilantro, lime, and sour cream. Served with a birria broth.

I kicked off my meal with my favourite tortilla soup – a comforting blend of smoky guajillo broth, crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, tangy sour cream, and salty feta. It's the perfect prelude to any Mexican feast.

Tortilla Soup from Patrón Tacos and Cantina
Veggie guajillo broth served with fried corn tortilla strips, avocado, sour cream, and feta cheese.

But the star of the show was undoubtedly the quesabirria. Two soft corn tortillas cradled a mouthwatering combination of melted cheese and tender, slow-cooked beef birria. The rich, complex flavours of the birria, infused with a hint of spice, were perfectly balanced by the cooling crunch of onions and cilantro. Dipping the tortillas into the accompanying birria broth elevated the experience, creating a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. The broth itself was a savoury masterpiece, with a deep, earthy flavour that was both satisfying and addictive.

Quesabirria (part of the lunch set) from Patrón Tacos and Cantina
Two corn tortilla filled with melted cheese, beef birria, onions, cilantro, lime, and sour cream. Served with a side of birria broth. 

I've sampled a good amount of their menu, but this quesabirria has undeniably claimed the top spot. Patrón Tacos and Cantina continues to impress with its authentic and flavorful offerings.

For future me, below is a list of menu items we have tried:

Appetizers

• Empanaditas

Sopas Tradicionales

• Tortilla Soup
  

Main

• Chilaquiles (Chorizo)
• Enchiladas (Carnitas and Garlic Mushroom)
  
• Huaraches (Garlic Mushroom)
  
• Quesabirria
• Quesadillas
  

 Desserts

• Churros
  

Summer Feast at Boston Pizza

We decided to skip the cooking for Thursday's dinner and head to Boston Pizza,   just a couple blocks away. Their summer menu sounded perfect for a warm evening, so we dove right in.

I opted for the Barbacoa Nachos! The slow-cooked spiced beef was tender and incredibly flavorful, with a hint of smokiness that perfectly balanced the tangy avocado lime sauce. Each bite was a delightful combination of textures – the crisp tortilla chips giving way to the gooey cheese, the juicy tomatoes adding a pop of freshness, and the jalapeno poppers providing a touch of heat. To make it even more decadent, I added guacamole, the perfect creamy complement to the dish.

Barbacoa Nachos from Boston Pizza
Slow-cooked spiced beef over hand-cut tortilla chips topped with cheddar cheese, pizza mozzarella, red onions, tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeno poppers. Drizzled with avocado lime sauce. Served with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.

Hubby couldn't resist the "Pizza Flights" option. Three 6-inch pizzas for the price of one? Genius! We chose a trio that offered a variety of flavours.

The star of the show was definitely the new Summer Pesto Chicken Pizza. The basil pesto sauce was vibrant and bursting with fresh herbs, while the seasoned grilled chicken added a savoury counterpoint. The roasted red peppers offered a touch of sweetness, and the red onions and goat cheese brought a delightful tanginess. It all came together beautifully on their signature pizza dough, which was perfectly crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

Pizza Flights from Boston Pizza

The Boston Royal was a surprise for me. I love classic pizza combinations, and the mix of smoked ham, pepperoni, shrimp, olives, green peppers, onions, and fresh mushrooms seemed unorthodox on paper. However, the flavours somehow melded together beautifully. The smokiness of the ham paired surprisingly well with the briny shrimp, and the variety of veggies added a welcome freshness.

But my personal favourite was the Spicy Perogy Pizza. This unique creation was a delightful twist on comfort food. The creamy sour cream and crispy bacon were a classic combination, and adding those delicious cactus-cut potatoes was pure genius. The pizza mozzarella and cheddar cheese added a gooey richness, and the green onions provided a pop of freshness. Every bite was a delightful medley of textures and flavours, with a subtle kick from the spice.

After our delightful feast, we decided to walk around the neighbourhood to soak up the summer evening. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the city, and the streetlights were just starting to twinkle. It was the perfect ending to a delicious and fun-filled evening.

Boston Pizza checklist

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

• Bandera Pizza Bread
• Barbacoa Nachos
• Boston's Lasagna
• Boston Royal Pizza
• Breakfast Pizza
• Cactus Cut Potatoes
• Carbonara Pizza
• Chocolate Explosion
• Classic Nachos with BBQ Chicken
• Classic Nachos with Seasoned Ground Beef
• Classic Nachos with Spicy Chicken
• French Onion Soup
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Loaded Pepperoni & Bacon Squarefooter Pizza
• Mediterranean Pizza
• Pepperoni Pizza
• Southwest Breakfast Bowl
• Spicy Perogy Pizza
• Spinach and Artichoke Dip
• Summer Pesto Chicken Pizza
• The Meator
• Triple Play

Maple Bacon Cheddar Croissant and Maple Bacon Bagel BELT from Tim Hortons

Tim Hortons brings back the beloved maple bacon and this year, it graces not just one but two breakfast options: the Maple Bacon Cheddar Croissant and the Maple Bacon Bagel BELT.

Maple Bacon Cheddar Croissant

The maple bacon is the star of the show, boasting a sweetness that lingers on the palate. This sweet element meets its match in the buttery layers of the croissant, creating a textural symphony. The melty cheddar cheese adds a touch of saltiness, rounding out the flavour profile.

Maple Bacon Cheddar Croissant from Tim Hortons

Maple Bacon Bagel BELT

The Maple Bacon Bagel BELT starts with a classic – the everything bagel. Toasted to perfection, the bagel offers a delightful chew on the outside and a soft, doughy center. The fresh lettuce and juicy tomato add pops of colour and freshness, providing a welcome contrast to the sweet maple bacon.

Maple Bacon Bagel BELT from Tim Hortons

The Maple Bacon Cheddar Croissant and the Maple Bacon Bagel BELT are delicious. The croissant provides a luxurious eating experience, while the bagel BELT offers classic breakfast flavours with a sweet twist. Ultimately, the winner depends on your preference.

Craving a decadent and textural adventure? Go for the croissant. Looking for a familiar favourite with a sweet surprise? The bagel BELT awaits. No matter your choice, Tim Hortons' maple bacon breakfast is sure to satisfy your sweet and savoury cravings.

Pesto Prawn Benny and Hearty Hash Bowl from Tap & Barrel Bridges

Happy (though still coughing) Sunday! Hubby and I celebrated one of our anniversaries yesterday, but unfortunately, this summer's heat gave me a nasty cough. I've been feeling under the weather all week, even taking a sick day from work last Friday and staying home all Saturday to rest up.

Every July anniversary, we have a tradition of going to The Bridges restaurant (2023, 2022, and 2020), which is now part of Tap and Barrel. Despite the sweltering morning, we grabbed a table on their patio, enjoying the stunning view of False Creek and the Burrard Bridge. We opted for the weekend brunch menu, perfect for a relaxed Sunday celebration.

To kick things off, we shared their Fresh Guac & Chips. Let's just say I'm having a serious guacamole moment – it's that good! We've always gotten their amazing nachos in the past, but we wanted to try something new. The guacamole was fresh and vibrant, with a perfect chunky texture. The chips were perfectly crispy, ideal for scooping up every last bit of that delicious green goodness.

Fresh Guac & Chips from Tap & Barrel Bridges
Guacamole, roasted pumpkin seeds, cilantro, pico de Gallo, feta, cumin-dusted tortilla chips

For his main course, Hubby went for the hearty hash bowl, which featured their famous southern fried chicken. Apparently, the chicken was absolutely crispy on the outside and juicy inside!

Hearty Hash Bowl from Tap & Barrel Bridges
Crispy potatoes, red onion, tomato, red peppers, sauteed spinach, poached eggs, hollandaise, parsley, and southern fried chicken

Meanwhile, I couldn't resist the Pesto Prawn Benny (last year, I got the Pesto Prawn Pizza, while the year before last, it was the Pesto Linguine). The prawns were cooked to absolute perfection – plump, juicy, and bursting with freshness. The toasted English muffin provided a sturdy base, while the soft poached eggs added a luxurious touch. 

Pesto Prawn Benny from Tap & Barrel Bridges
Sauteed prawns, almond basil pesto, garlic mayo, English muffin, poached eggs, hollandaise, old bay seasoning, micro radish and crispy potatoes

But the real star of the show was the almond basil pesto. The rich, creamy hollandaise sauce is a classic Benedict staple, but the pesto added a new dimension. The almond and basil combined for a beautiful herbaceous earthiness, perfectly balancing the creamy richness of the hollandaise.

Their crispy potatoes were the perfect accompaniment, with just the right amount of golden brown crispness and fluffy interior.

Despite the beautiful view and delicious food, the heat and my lingering cough had me a little worried. I didn't want to spoil the celebration by getting faint or overheated, so I made sure to stay hydrated, and we took our time enjoying our conversation on a slow walk home.

Blueberry Sour Cream and Sugar Twist retro donuts from Tim Hortons

To celebrate Canada Day, we capped off a fantastic dinner at Salmon n' Bannock with a visit to a true Canadian icon - Tim Hortons! In honour of their 60th anniversary, they're bringing back some retro donuts for a limited time.

Blueberry Sour Cream and Sugar Twist donuts from Tim Hortons

This time around, I tried the sugar twist and the blueberry sour cream donut. Now, full disclosure, I don't have any childhood memories attached to these flavours. But based purely on today's experience? I can't believe they ever took them off the menu!

Sugar Twist donut from Tim Hortons

I'm a self-proclaimed fried dough enthusiast (baked works are welcome, too!), so the sugar twist was an instant win. The classic combo of crispy, fluffy dough and a generous sugar coating is my kind of dessert - simple and delicious.

Sugar Twist from Tim Hortons

Now, the blueberry sour cream donut was a surprise hit. I was expecting a flavour overload, but it turned out to be a delightful balance. Just like their blueberry muffin, it wasn't overly sweet or tart - just perfect.

Blueberry Sour Cream retro donuts from Tim Hortons

Blueberry Sour Cream retro donuts from Tim Hortons

Here's a rundown of all the retro donuts they've brought back so far: 

• Blueberry Fritter
• Blueberry Sour Cream
• Cinnamon Sugar Twist
• Dutchie Donut
• Sugar Twist
• Walnut Crunch

If you're looking for a nostalgic trip or simply want to have donuts, be sure to head to Tim Hortons before these beauties disappear again!

Smoked Sablefish from Salmon n' Bannock | Canada Day 2024

I am big on annual traditions, and for the past four years, we have had dinner at Salmon n' Bannock close to Canada Day weekend. This year was no different!

This afternoon, we walked to Canada Place to see the Canada Together event. It was a beautiful celebration of our country, and it definitely built up our appetites! Then, we walked back across Burrard Bridge and headed straight to Salmon n' Bannock for dinner.

My husband ordered the Smoked Sablefish and he gave me half. It is a rich, slightly sweet smoke flavour that paired perfectly with the creamy, balanced sauce. The Haudenosaunee Corn Polenta was a delightful surprise - soft and cheesy, with pops of sweet corn kernels throughout. The fish itself had a firm texture, similar to cod or haddock, but with a subtle oiliness and flakiness that reminded me of salmon.

Smoked Sablefish on Haudenosaunee corn polenta from Salmon n' Bannock

I originally wanted the Feel the Beet Power Salad, which sounded like a vibrant and healthy option. Unfortunately, it had already been sold out when we ordered it. In a slight panic, I went for the Game Sampler. It turned out to be a fantastic choice! Three kinds of game meats, each with its distinct flavour, were beautifully presented with candied jams, tangy blueberry preserves, and crisp bannock crackers. It was like a gourmet charcuterie board, complete with additional cheese slices for variety.

Game Sampler (2 kinds of game charcuterie with preserves and bannock crackers)

Before our main course arrived, we were served warm bannock with butter. It is the most satisfying thing —warm, slightly sweet bread that melts in your mouth. Simple but delicious, it was the perfect way to start the meal. 

Signature Bacnnock with butter from Salmom N' Bannock

Thank God for Canada and the people we share this land and country with!

Inca Savoury Empanada from El Dorado Pie & Treats

After a vibrant hour immersed in the sights, sounds, and energy of the Surrey Fiesta Extravaganza, we hopped on the Expo Line SkyTrain back to Metrotown. But the day's adventures weren't over yet! My mom announced, "Let's head to North Vancouver! I've always wanted to ride the Sea Bus." And so, we did! We disembarked at the Waterfront station. Stepping onto the Sea Bus, the iconic vessel offered stunning panoramic views of the harbor.

North Vancouver greeted us with a unique charm. We strolled through the historic Shipyards, remnants of a bygone era whispering tales of the sea. Finally, our appetites calling, we ventured into the lively Lonsdale Quay Market.

Aromatic wafts led us to El Dorado Pie & Treats. The bakery's name promised a treasure trove of deliciousness, and it did not disappoint. We decided to share the Inca savory empanada, and it was pure revelation. Each bite was an explosion of flavor: tender sliced beef, slow-cooked in a vibrant Peruvian cilantro sauce, mingled with the sweetness of carrots and peas. The garlic and spices added a delightful warmth.

Inca Savour Empanada from El Dorado Pie & Treats
Sliced beef prepared in a Peruvian cilantro sauce with carrots, peas, and garlic, and spices.

Refueled and content, we set sail back to Downtown Vancouver. My parents, weary but happy, opted for the familiar comfort of the Expo Line, while my husband and I embraced the scenic route on a bus ride home. 

Tiramisu Cold Brew with Espresso Infused Foam from Tim Hortons

Struggling with the bitterness of cold brew? You're not alone! I find cold brew too harsh. If you, like me, have sworn off cold brew in the past, then this post is for you!

This morning, I ventured into Tim Hortons with a hopeful heart (and a rumbling stomach). Having previously disliked cold brew for its bitterness, I was hesitant. But then I saw it: The Tiramisu Cold Brew with Espresso Infused Foam. Could this be the answer to my cold brew woes?

Sweet Success! A Cold Brew Revelation

The first sip was a delightful surprise! The bitterness I usually associate with cold brew was completely masked by the sweet and creamy tiramisu flavors. It was like drinking an iced tiramisu latte! My tastebuds were singing, and even my skeptical husband had to admit it was delicious.

A Second Cup Surprise: Unveiling the Coffee

Now, here's the interesting part. We enjoyed our first cup so much, we decided to grab another. This second cup offered a delightful surprise. The initial sweetness gave way to a subtle coffee flavor – the familiar taste of cold brew, but softened by the lingering tiramisu notes. It was a delightful dance on the palate!

Daily-Worthy Delight: A Cold Brew Convert is Born!

Gone are the days of avoiding cold brew! The Tiramisu Cold Brew with Espresso Infused Foam has transformed me from a cold brew skeptic to a full-fledged fan. The perfect balance of sweetness and coffee makes it a drink I could easily enjoy every day.

Looking for a delicious and approachable cold brew experience? Head to your local Tim Hortons and give the Tiramisu Cold Brew with Espresso Infused Foam a try! You might just be surprised at how much you love it.

Tiramisu Cold Brew with Espresso Infused Foam from Tim Hortons

Tiramisu Cold Brew with Espresso Infused Foam from Tim Hortons