Showing posts with label Take Out. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Take Out. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Prosciutto and Bocconcini Focaccia from Lovelarte

Happy Wednesday! Today was anything but ordinary - it was brinner day! For those unfamiliar with this glorious portmanteau, it combines breakfast and dinner into one epic meal. But this wasn't your average solo pajana-clas feast. Today's brinner was a virtual company-wide celebration, a way to connect with our colleagues across time zones.

Since our company has offices in Vancouver, Melbourne, and Cork, mealtimes get a little interesting. Our breakfast in Vancouver meant early dinner for our team in Cork! We kicked things off with some fun St. Patrick's Day trivia - the laughter and friendly competition setting a lively tone for the morning.

After the virtual merriment, it was time for breakfast! My colleague and I walked to nearby Lovelarte.

I chose the Prosciutto and Bocconcini Focaccia sandwich. This beauty boasted layers of thinly sliced prosciutto, its rich, salty flavour a perfect counterpoint to the creamy, melt-in-your-moth bocconcini mozzarella. Slices of juicy red tomat added a burst of freshness, while the peppery arugula offered a delight bite. But the treu star of the show was the basil pesto sauce. The nutty richness tired everything together!


Prosciutto and Bocconcini Focaccia sandwich from Waves
Pork, bocconcini, mozzarella, tomato, arugula, basil pesto sauce 

To complement this savory masterpiece, I opted for a small mocha. The rich, cocoa-y notes of the espresso blended beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the steamed milk, creating a warm and comforting drink that perfectly balanced the boldness of the sandwich.


Mocha from Lovelarte

Overall, it was a fantastic start to the day. The virtual fun with colleagues, the delicious brinner from Lovelarte, and the feeling of connection that transcended time zones – it all came together to create a truly memorable Wednesday!

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Filipino Birthday Fiesta from Little Ongpin and LA Chicken

Another year older, another reason to celebrate! This week, my husband turned another year wiser, and I wanted to make his birthday extra special, especially considering he's away from his family in the Philippines.

Remember when I first worried he might feel lonely after moving here? Well, this year's celebration was all about proving otherwise! It was a Filipino fiesta filled with family, laughter, and, of course, delicious food.


Filipino Birthday Fiesta in Vancouver from my mom, Little Ongpin, and LA Chicken

Staying true to our roots, I enlisted the help of my mom. Her home-cooked Filipino-style spaghetti, bursting with sweet and savory flavors, was the centerpiece of the table. To complement it, we ordered classic party favorites: crispy lumpiang shanghai and savory pork BBQ skewers from Little Ongpin, and juicy fried chicken from LA Chicken (satisfying my chicken craving), all from Little Ongpin, a taste of home right here in Canada.


Fried Chicken from LA Chicken

Looking back on my own childhood birthday parties in the Philippines, these were the exact same dishes that brought everyone together. Food isn't just sustenance; it's a language of love and tradition, and having these familiar flavors on the table instantly transported us back to happy memories.


60 pieces of Lumpiang Shanghai from Little Ongpin

14 pieces Filipino-style pork BBQ in skewer from Little Ongpin

Of course, there were more than just culinary delights. We captured the moment with laughter-filled photos, sang a heartfelt rendition of "Happy Birthday", and watched as my husband blew out the candles on his cake.


Assorted Cheese Tart from Pablo

My mom even surprised him with biko and a refreshing Filipino fruit salad. And, as a sweet ending, my sister's boyfriend brought in a box of mouthwatering Japanese cheese tarts from Pablo. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and delicious surprises. Plus, I got to play Overcooked with my siblings.

Saturday, February 10, 2024

Singapore Fried Noodles from Ming Fong Fast Food inside Chinatown Plaza

Our Taste of Chinatown adventure continued, with Lee Man's "Top 10 Dishes" list guiding our culinary compass. After indulging in the sweet delights of New Town Bakery, we set out to conquer another dish on the list. Unfortunately, a mischievous drizzle decided to join the party, forcing us to improvise.

  1. 🗸 Duck Noodle Soup from Chinatown BBQ (130 East Pender Street)
  2. 🗸 Steamed Dai-Bao from New Town Bakery and Restaurant (148 E Pender Street)
  3. Bun Cha Hanoi from DD Mau (145 E Pender Street)
  4. Tajarin from Kissa Tanto (263 E Pender Street)
  5. Steamed BBQ Pork Rice Rolls from Sun Fresh Bakery (245 Keefer Street)
  6. Classic Omelette with Salted Radish from Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie (163 Keefer Street)
  7. 🗸 Singapore Fried Noodles from Ming Fong Fast Food (180 Keefer Street)
  8. Chilled Tofu with Century Eggs from Fat Mao (217 E Georgia Street)
  9. Butter Beef from Phnom Penh (244 E Georgia Street)
  10. The Full Irish Breakfast from Irish Heather (248 E Georgia)

With umbrellas unfurled, we wandered the bustling streets of Chinatown. We suddenly found ourselves in front of Chinatown Plaza. It's our first time here. We spotted Ming Fong Fast Food inside the food court, and their Singapore Fried Noodles are included in Lee Man's Top 10 Dishes in Chinatown.


Singapore Fried Noodles from Ming Fong Fast Food inside Chinatown Plaza

The first three bites were a revelation! The noodles, cooked to order, held a delightful springiness, perfectly capturing the essence of wok-hei. Each mouthful was a burst of flavour: bean sprouts added a refreshing crunch, red and green peppers injected vibrant colours and sweetness, and slivers of BBQ pork offered savoury richness. But the star of the show was undoubtedly the yellow curry, its gentle warmth infusing every element with its aromatic embrace.

We were still full and decided to take the rest home for dinner. We packed food safely in our bag and walked to the bus stop.

Red Bean Bliss at New Town Bakery

Our Taste of Chinatown adventure continued! After indulging in the savoury delights of Chinatown BBQ, our stomachs weren't quite ready to say goodbye just yet. With a sweet tooth calling, we walked to the legendary New Town Bakery.


Red Bean Cake from New Town Bakery

The line snaking outside was a testament to the bakery's iconic status. While the lure of their famous bao buns, devoured during our Brinner celebration last week, was strong, we decided to explore the sweeter side of New Town Bakery this time.

Tempting displays of pastries and buns greeted us inside, each one vying for our attention. After much deliberation, I opted for the Chinese Red Beans Donut. I am biased toward Chinese Donuts, with my favourite from Kam Do Bakery in Richmond. My husband chose the Red Bean Cake.


Red Bean Donut from New Town Bakery

We found a spot just outside the bakery and eagerly dug in. My donut was everything I had hoped for: a cloud-like vessel filled with a smooth, flavorful red bean paste. The coating of sugar added a perfect touch of sweetness without being overpowering.


A peek inside Red Bean Cake from New Town Bakery

My husband's Red Bean Cake offered a textural delight. The thin, slightly crisp exterior gave way to a soft, warm interior where the red bean paste shone. Unlike the donut's sweetness, the cake had a more subtle sweetness, allowing the natural flavours of the beans to take center stage.


Inside a Red Bean Donut from New Town Bakery

As we savoured these delicious treats, people-watching and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown, we realized that sometimes, the sweetest discoveries are made by venturing beyond the tried-and-true. While the bao buns will be waiting for us the next time, exploring New Town Bakery's sweet selection was a delightful reminder that culinary adventures are always rewarding, especially when they lead to hidden gems like these red bean treats.

Taste of Chinatown: Specialty Food Items Pop-Up

Happy Lunar New Year! This year, my husband and I embarked on a delicious adventure to Vancouver's Chinatown, immersing ourselves in the vibrant sights, sounds, and, of course, tastes of this historic neighbourhood. Our journey began with a refreshing 4-kilometre walk from South Granville, leading us to the heart of the festivities: Taste of Chinatown!

This three-day extravaganza celebrates the Lunar New Year by focusing on the rich and diverse heritage of Vancouver's Chinatown. As foodies, we couldn't resist kicking off our exploration at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre's specialty food items pop-up.


BBQ Pork Poptart by Chinatown BBQ and Kiko Nakata from Tall Shadow Bakery
Sourdough + green onion pie dough, Chinatown BBQ pork, caramelized honey BBQ glaze, crispy rice, toasted sesame seeds, fried green onions.

Our first bite was a flavour explosion with the BBQ Pork Poptart. This unique collaboration between Chinatown BBQ and Kiko Nakata of Tall Shadow Bakery was a delightful fusion of cultures.


BBQ Pork Poptart by Chinatown BBQ and Kiko Nakata from Tall Shadow Bakery

Imagine a savoury twist on the classic pop tart: sourdough and green onion dough cradling melt-in-your-mouth Chinatown BBQ pork, all enveloped in a sweet and sticky caramelized honey BBQ glaze. The crunch of crispy rice, toasted sesame seeds, and fried green onions added an extra layer of textural and flavour complexity.


AAA Beef Brisket Curry Cheese Croissant by Beaucoup Bakery and Chinatown BBQ
Curry-infused croissant pastry, Chinatown BBQ curry, AAA beef brisket, fresh mozzarella, and topped with cheddar gruyere.

Next, we indulged in the AAA Beef Brisket Curry Cheese Croissant by Beaucoup Bakery and Chinatown BBQ. This decadent creation showcased the perfect marriage of sweet and savoury. Imagine a buttery, curry-infused croissant pastry holding tender, flavorful Chinatown BBQ curry AAA beef brisket. A gooey layer of fresh mozzarella melted beautifully with cheddar and gruyere cheese, taking the experience to a whole new level.


AAA Beef Brisket Curry Cheese Croissant by Beaucoup Bakery and Chinatown BBQ

These were just the first bites of our incredible Taste of Chinatown journey. Stay tuned for more adventures through the sights, sounds, and, most importantly, flavours of this vibrant celebration!

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Spicy Pork Bun and Chicken Deluxe Buns from New Town Bakery & Restaurant

Today was no ordinary breakfast at work. As part of our quarterly tradition, my company indulged in a special Brinner, blending the flavours of the Lunar New Year and Brazilian Carnivale to create a culinary celebration that spanned continents and cultures.

With offices in three different time zones, our Brinner is a unique opportunity to connect and share the joy of food across borders. And this morning, I kicked off the festivities with a delightful feast from New Town Bakery & Restaurant in Vancouver Chinatown.

As the only spot open early enough to fuel us before our 8:00 AM meeting with the European team, New Town Bakery came through with their delectable spicy pork bun (spicy asado siopao) and chicken deluxe bun (bola bola siopao). The moment I sank my teeth into those soft, pillowy buns, I was transported by the explosion of flavours.


Spicy Pork Buns and Chicken Deluxe Buns from New Town Bakery & Restaurant

The spicy pork bun packed a punch with its fiery yet balanced seasoning, while the chicken deluxe bun offered a comforting blend of savoury goodness. Each bite was a symphony of taste, a perfect harmony of textures and spices that left me craving more.

With buns in hand, I took a leisurely stroll to the office, relishing the crisp morning air and anticipating sharing this culinary adventure with my colleagues. Upon arrival, I paired my buns with a steaming cup of French vanilla from the office coffee machine.

As I savoured my breakfast, I dove into my morning routine, juggling emails and tasks while eagerly awaiting the end of the day for our European counterparts.


Thursday, January 18, 2024

Violet's Berry Delight from Boba Run | 2024 Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival

In case you're unaware, the 14th Annual Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival is full swing. Our third indulgence was at Boba Run in Gastown, where we enjoyed Violet's Berry Delight. This imaginative creation is inspired by the whimsical world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, paying homage to the chewing gum-obsessed Violet, who turns into a giant blueberry.


#30 Violet's Berry Delight from Boba Run
A blueberries and cream hot chocolate made with sweet blueberries, white couverture chocolate, oat milk, and finished off with a fresh blueberry whip. This drink is inspired by Violet, a chewing gum-obsessed girl from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory who turns into a giant blueberry. It is served with a mini-sized 54.5% dark chocolate bar made in-house that may contain a winning golden ticket. There will be 5 golden tickets hidden in these bars for a chance to win prizes and coupons! BONUS: For a chance to win one of 5 larger prizes, purchase a bigger full-sized chocolate bar! Limited quantities of the larger bars each day. May the odds be in your FLAVOUR!

This enchanting concoction is blueberries and cream hot chocolate that artfully blends the sweetness of blueberries with the creamy richness of white couverture chocolate. The use of oat milk adds a luscious texture, and the beverage is crowned with a fresh blueberry whip, creating a delightful harmony of fruity and velvety notes.

As if the experience couldn't get any sweeter, each serving is accompanied by a mini-sized 54.5% dark chocolate bar crafted in-house by Boba Run. Five golden tickets are hidden within these delectable bars, offering lucky patrons a chance to win exciting prizes and coupons, adding an extra layer of excitement to this delightful hot chocolate adventure. My husband was disappointed that we didn't win.


#30 Violet's Berry Delight from Boba Run

Boba Run's "Violet's Berry Delight" not only tantalizes the taste buds but also invites guests to participate in the whimsy of the festival, bringing the magic of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life in the heart of Gastown. Take the chance to sip and savour the fantastical world of flavour that awaits you at Boba Run.

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Avocado Toast from Kafka's

 Happy Thursday morning! It's the last work day for the year in the office, so I decided to treat myself to breakfast at Kafka's downstairs. I got their avocado toast. Will it shock you that it's my first time trying the popular breakfast item?

I get the appeal. Avocado is creamy and a healthier version of butter, and it has a nice texture contrast compared to the toasted slice of sourdough. Moreover, it was topped with fresh arugula, providing a fresh crunch and pickled onion to help cut through the fat.


Avocado Toast from Kafka's
A cross-generational favourite. Smashed avocado, pickled onions, arugula, and chili oil on our feature bread.

Overall, it's enjoyable with the French vanilla coffee I come to love since I started working here.

Friday, December 1, 2023

Paella Mixta from Paella Guys

Hey! It's the first Friday of December, which means in Downtown Vancouver, the city is lighting up the most enormous Christmas Tree in Western Canada.

After the festivities under the rain, we decided to grab a Paella Mixta from the Paella Guys booth at the back of the Vancouver Art Gallery.


Paella Mixta from Paella Guys
Chicken, shrimp, red peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomato, garlic, saffron, and bomba rice

It's warm and rich against the cold rainy night. The chicken and shrimp topped the flavourful bomba rice. Yum!

Sunday, November 5, 2023

Indulge in Sweet Bliss: Wicked Cafe's S'mores Cookie

Step into the cozy world of Wicked Cafe in Vancouver and treat your taste buds to the irresistible S'mores Cookie. With a perfect blend of gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate chunks, and a buttery graham cracker base, every bite is a journey into the nostalgic campfire treat.


S'mores Cookie from Wicked Cafe

The contrast of textures and the rich, comforting flavours make this cookie a must-try for dessert enthusiasts seeking a delightful escape. Embrace the warmth and sweetness of Wicked Cafe's S'mores Cookie, a heavenly creation that captures the essence of a classic favourite.

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Coconut Macaroon from purebread

After lunch, my colleague and I decided to drop by purebread to grab some sweets.


Coconut Macaroon from purebread

purebread is dessert heaven; the real challenge is choosing which one to try. I went for coconut macaroon, and it did not disappoint.


Coconut Macaroon from purebread

What sets coconut macaroons apart is their unique texture. The shredded coconut, when baked, achieves a perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and a chewy, moist interior. It is rich, nutty, and slightly sweet. I thought of my dad while enjoying it since he loves coconut-based desserts.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Steak Pasty from Mrs. King’s Pork Pies in Borough Market

As mentioned in my earlier posts, I used Fodor's Essential England guidebook to help me decide what to eat in London. It lists ten foods and drinks to try in England, and #10 on the list is cornish pasty.

The night before, I searched for "best cornish pasty in London" and found this article from DiscoverWalks.com. The number 1 on the list is Mrs. King's Pork Pies in Borough Market, so I went there today. I couldn't locate Mrs. King's Pork Pies, so I chose Pieminister since I am famished.

With a bit more energy after devouring the Steak & Ale British Pie, I explored the Borough Market some more and found Mrs. King's Pork Pies. I chose the Steak Pasty since it looks the closest to the Google search image result.


Steak Pasty from Mrs. King's Pork Pies

The outside is crisp, golden-brown, while the inside is filled with soft savoury filling. It has well-seasoned beef, potato, and onion enveloped in sauce. It is a hearty and portable meal.


Steak Pasty from Mrs. King's Pork Pies

I should have read the article in detail because it says, "Cornish pasties are a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), meaning they have a protected status much like halloumi or mānuka honey. According to the guidelines, officially, only pasties prepared in Cornwall to the specific traditional standards can be named Cornish pasties, and they'll have a stamp of authenticity to prove it."

It further detailed that Mrs. King's Melton Mowbray pork pies (not the Steak Pasty) are PGI certified. Sigh, I ordered the wrong thing. Oh well, more reason to come back to London!

Steak & Ale British Pie from Pieminister in Borough Market

Happy Wednesday! It's our penultimate day in London, and I decided to take it slow. I realized that exploring two museums a day is too much in this city because they are ginormous with so many galleries and sections. My original plan for today is to visit and explore St. Paul's Cathedral, then cross the Millenium Bridge to the Tate Museum.

In my attempt to take it slow, I still took the train to St. Paul's Cathedral and took pictures of the outside. Then, I realized Millenium Bridge was closed for repairs, so I crossed the Thames using Southwark Bridge. I joined a 45-minute free tour on the second level inside the Tate Museum and learned about modern art and the different displays. Afterwards, I went up the 10th floor to view St. Paul's Cathedral on the south side of Thames. I did not even attempt to explore every gallery and every floor of the Tate Museum.

It was already 1:00 PM, and I only ate two small bags of potato crisps for breakfast while walking around. I continued my journey to the nearby Borough Market to explore.

The Borough Market in London shares some similarities in popularity and concept with the Granville Island Public Market in Vancouver, Pike Place Market in Seattle, and St. Lawrence Market in Toronto. These markets are renowned for offering fresh produce, artisanal food products, international cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere, making them popular destinations for locals and tourists.


Moo Pie from Pieminister
Steak & Ale

I went here in search of Cornish Pasties but found something similar: British Pie from Pieminister. I ordered their Moo Pie, which is steak & ale, a classic British dish. It has tender chunks of beef steak with a flavorful ale-based gravy encased in a flaky pastry crust.


Moo Pie
Steak & Ale

Simmered in ale, the steak results in a tender, succulent filling, while the gravy imparts a deep, hearty flavour. The pastry crust adds a delightful textural contrast, crisp on the outside and tender within.

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Scones from GAIL's Bakery

Happy Tuesday! After an exhausting Monday walking around the British Museum, I am headed to the National History Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum today.

I decided to look for the best breakfast option upon exiting South Kensington station. I spotted a long line at GAIL's Bakery and decided to grab a couple scones. I munched down on the plain scone while walking to the National History Museum.


Plain Scone from GAIL's Bakery

I honestly cannot believe I have such a terrible misconception of scones. I had one horrible experience in Toronto and vowed never to order it again. I'm glad I kept trying because the scones from GAIL's Bakery were terrific, and the last few I tried in Vancouver were delicious, too.


Plain Scone from GAIL's Bakery

Originating in the British Isles, particularly Scotland, a scone is a small, lightly sweetened baked pastry, usually made with flour, sugar, butter, and milk or cream, known for its tender, crumbly texture.

Monday, October 16, 2023

Baked Goods from Tyburn Market inside Hilton London Metropole

After dinner at The Warwick Pimlico GastroPub and Dining Room, we checked out from Park Grand London Lancaster Gate and checked in at Hilton London Metropole. My husband got invited to a summit in the hotel, and his flight, accommodation, and even food are covered from Monday to Thursday.

We arrived at Hilton roughly around 11:30 PM. He checked in and received a $35.00 dinner voucher. However, since it's already late, the Tyburn Kitchen is already closed, but the receptionist informed us that we can use the voucher at the Tyburn Market, which is open until 1:00 AM.

I chose random baked goodies, which I enjoyed for breakfast and lunch on my third day in London.


Scones, Blueberry Lemon Muffin, Caramel Popcorn in Chocolate Muffin, and Banana Loaf from Tyburn Market

They're all delicious. I highly recommend grabbing any of the baked goods with your favourite morning drink and enjoying things on the go.

Sunday, October 15, 2023

Ultimate Breakfast Roll from Upper Crust at London Paddington Railway Station

Good morning and happy Sunday from London! We're heading to Watford Junction Station again to visit the Warner Bros. Studio – The Making of Harry Potter. I am so excited!

Before riding the Underground, we grabbed an ultimate breakfast roll from Upper Crust, a chain of coffee and sandwiches in England.


Ultimate Breakfast Roll from Upper Crust

It was a satisfying sandwich to start the day. I can't wait to finally visit Warner Bros. Studio.

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Mochido and Matcha Scones at BC Culture Days: Discover Japan, organized by Pacific Arts Market

After lunch at MASA Japanese Restaurant, we returned to BC Culture Days: Discover Japan, organized by Pacific Arts Market.

We ordered from the two food vendors: Mochido and Sweet U.


Matcha and Red Bean Chubby Macaron from Sweet U

The Matcha Scone and Matcha & Redbean Chubby Macaron from Sweet U was to die for. The macaron is perfect, especially with matcha and red bean. However, my favourite is that matcha scone. It has a strong matcha flavour, and it is so moist. It was obviously baked the same day. I need all scones to be like this!


Matcha Scone from Sweet U

Moist Matcha Scone from Sweet U

Afterwards, we chose a Black Sesame donut from Mochido, and I was overwhelmed by the black sesame flavour, which was slightly sweet yet nutty. But the real surprise that I keep forgetting is the donut base has the consistency of mochi.


Black Sesame from Mochido

I need more scones and mochi donuts in my life.

Friday, October 6, 2023

Chicken Donair, Falafel & Hummus, and Dolmades from Donair Dude

Happy Friday! It's a rare Friday for me to be in the office. I grabbed lunch from the Donair Dude location in front of our office. Donair Dude is a chain of restaurants in BC specializing in serving donair.

I ordered too much: chicken donair platter, dolmades, and falafel with hummus.

The chicken dinner platter includes rice, perfectly seasoned chicken with fresh veggies, and sauce.

Then, when I spotted the dolmades, I got it, too. These vine leaves enveloped a delectable filling, showcasing the beauty of simplicity in Mediterranean cuisine. It could be better than others I have tried, which was disappointing.


Lunch from Donair Dude

Lastly, we got falafel with hummus. The creamy and velvety hummus is the match made in heaven with the crispy on the outside and tender on the inside hummus.

Sunday, October 1, 2023

BC Culture Days: Flavours of Fall at Pacific Arts Market, Vancouver

Happy Sunday! After Mass, hubby and I walked around to wait for 1:00 PM when BC Culture of Days: Flavours of Fall is happening at Pacific Arts Market. Of course, I'm here for the food. We also attended BC Culture Days: Latin America and Vancouver Night Market happening in the area.


Pumpkin Spice and Maple Pecan from Miss Scone

Our first stop is Miss Scone. From the name, they offer different flavours of delightful baked goods. I do not have the best impression of scones because most of the ones available at coffee shops are dry and stale. However, this one is a revelation. Who knew scones could be this good?


Pumpkin Spice Scone from Miss Scone

The pumpkin spice was sweet because of the glazed and had a good strong pumpkin spice flavour, while the maple pecan is perfect in every way with the caramel-like taste from maple and nuttiness from the pecan. I love it! The texture is also different. It's softer and not as crumbly as traditional scones.


Maple Pecan Scone from Miss Scone

Skewers from Boteco Brasil food truck

After a lengthy discussion with my husband on what to order, we finally decided to get one of each skewer variant from the Brazilian food truck Boteco Brasil. I have ordered from them in the past with the first team lunch. We got beef, chicken with bacon, chicken, sausage, and cheese. The grilled bolinha cheese is the best, especially with the pico de Gallo and toasted cassava flour.


Assorted Skewers from Boteco Brasil food truck

The beef and chicken skewer were juicy and tender, while the chicken with bacon got another crispy texture. Lastly, the sausage was fatty and savoury. They're all delicious. I regret not ordering it with rice.


Pistachio Saffron Cake from Elaichi Patisserie

Imagine French technique and pastries getting an infusion of Indian flavours - that's what you will get with the baked goods from Elaichi Patisserie. We ordered Pistachio Saffron Cake to take a break from the savoury stuff, and it reminded me of the flavours of my favourite Indian dessert: Kaju Kishmish Kheer.


Pistachio Saffron Cake from Elaichi Patisserie

The cake is soft and moist, while the flavour is packed with a nutty taste from the pistachio and aromatic essence from saffron.

I was also happy to learn that Elaichi Patisserie is part of Flavours of Hope.


Hotdog Sandwiches and Sugar Cane Lemonade from Salsa Dog

After Elaichi Patisserie, we went inside the Pacific Arts Market to window shop. I'm definitely getting the coffee-scented candle for my sister. Then, we spotted Salsa Dog and ordered their Venezuelan-style hotdogs and sugar cane lemonade.


Salsa Dog

It's a hotdog in between the soft, fresh bun, garnished with shredded cabbage, carrots, diced onions, potato sticks, and showered in parmesan cheese. Then, you can choose from available sauces (salsas). I went for cheese because I wanted to play it safe.

It was messy to eat but quite an experience. The sugar cane lemonade was slightly sweet and tarty. It's the perfect palate cleanser for the heavy hotdog.


Assorted Cookies from Nawel's French Patisserie

We had the cookies for dinner at home with chamomile tea. They're crumbly, not overly sweet, and it's the perfect treat.


Nawel's French Patisserie

Authentic Vietnamese Spring Rolls

I love spring rolls. How can you go wrong? Their crispy exterior and flavour-packed interior are just unique. My favourite? The veggie! It's so savoury yet slightly sweet and delicious.


Authentic Vietnamese Spring Rolls

We finished our spring roll at our apartment. It's a blessing that Pacific Arts Market is only a few blocks from our home. We're stopping by their BC Culture Days: Japan next week.

Friday, September 29, 2023

Cake and more from purebread

purebread in Gastown closes at 4:00 PM, so I couldn't find the perfect time to bring my husband here.


Chocolate Espresso from purebread

This is only my second time at purebread because I get too overwhelmed with all the options, from cakes to bread to bars. It's intimidating.


Salted Caramel bar from purebread

I chose the chocolate espresso loaf, while hubby opted for the salted caramel bar. It is impossible to go wrong with any of their products, and when you need a pick-me-up, this place is a safe haven.

Most viewed post in the last week