Montreal Bagel Sandwich from WA-BAGEL

Today marks my first anniversary at work, and what is the theme for our company-paid team lunch? You guessed it — bagels! In fact, it's become a running joke that bagels are the clear favourite, having been chosen a whopping seven times for our weekly lunches in the last 54 weeks.

This week, we ventured to WA-BAGEL to taste their unique Japanese-style bagels. I couldn't resist their signature Montreal Bagel Sandwich. The first bite was a revelation – the Montreal smoked meat's savoury smokiness was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the miso-caramelized onions. They added a depth of flavour that regular caramelized onions just can't achieve. The creamy Japanese mustard aioli tied everything together, adding a touch of tang that cut through the richness of the meat and onions.

Montreal Bagel Sandwich from WA-BAGEL
Montreal smoked meat, miso caramelized onions, Japanese mustard aioli on a plain bagel.

For a sweet treat, I also grabbed their Mochi Matcha bagel. This beauty was a matcha lover's dream – a vibrant green bagel filled with chewy, bouncy mochi bits. The sweet red bean paste was like a burst of sweet, earthy goodness in every bite. The chopped walnuts added a delightful crunch, satisfyingly contrasting the soft mochi and smooth bean paste. It was the perfect way to end a savoury and delicious lunch.

Mochi Matcha from WA-BAGEL
Matcha bagel filled with mochi, red bean paste, and chopped walnuts

We found a charming plaza with tables and chairs along Burrard Street, the perfect spot to enjoy our feast. The summer sun was warm, and the atmosphere was just perfect. It truly embodied the beauty of a Vancouver summer!

SummerCamp Rib & Music Fest: A Smoky Showdown

It's a foodie weekend, and the festivities kicked off Friday afternoon! After work, I embarked on a two-kilometre trek to Jonathan Rogers Park for the SummerCamp Rib & Music Fest. Let's just say the barbecue was calling my name!

This is Bacon promoting Smoke Dem Bones

They had a whole selection of rubs to choose from: Gator BBQ, Smoke Dem Bones, Boss Hog's, Prairie Smoke and Spice, and Grizzly BBQ. We remembered enjoying Prairie Smoke and Spice at the PNE Summer Fair a few years back, but this time, we opted for the intriguing Grizzly BBQ and the enticing Smoke Dem Bones with adorable Bacon (pig) inflatable.

Grizzly BBQ 

Grizzly BBQ: A Tender and Toothsome Twosome

Staying true to the spirit of the event, we ordered the Pulled Pork and Ribs combo from Grizzly BBQ. The pulled pork was an absolute dream - melt-in-your-mouth tender and bursting with juicy goodness. The ribs, on the other hand, were a textural delight - perfectly cooked to achieve that "fall-off-the-bone" tenderness.

Combo: Rib and Pulled Pork from Grizzly BBQ

Pulled Pork from Grizzly BBQ

Rib from Grizzly BBQ

Smoke Dem Bones: A Brisket Revelation

Our second (and wisely final) stop was at Smoke Dem Bones. We knew we couldn't conquer mountains of meat forever! Here, we dove into their Ribs and Brisket combo. The brisket surprised us - it was incredibly flavorful, even without any barbecue sauce. While it wasn't the juiciest, the rich smokiness definitely held its own. Now, onto the ribs: my hubby declared them the clear winner, but mine threw me a curveball. The first bite revealed a surprisingly tough bark (is that the correct term?). Thankfully, the subsequent ribs were more forgiving, offering a beautiful balance of tenderness and juicy marbling.

Ribs from Smoke Dem Bones

Beef Brisket from Smoke Dem Bones

A Sweet (and Healthy) End

After this carnivorous adventure, we decided to give our hearts a break with a couple of refreshing smoothies from Body Energy Club. They were the perfect companions on our leisurely walk home.

Green Goddess from Body Energy Club
Coconut milk, avocado, banana, kale, spinach, organic dates, almond butter, and vegan protein

Chocolate Keto from Body Energy Club
Almond milk, avocado, organic coconut meat, organic cacao nibs, cocoa, Himalayan salt, MCT oil, monk fruit, cashew butter, and vegan protein

This foodie adventure was a blast, but I have to admit, Texas has set the bar high for barbecue in my book. My standards might be a tad stricter now, but that just means I get to keep exploring and savouring the best of the best!

Tim Hortons Dream Donut: Wildberry Cheesecake vs. Caramilk Filled Ring

Tim Hortons has been serving up donuts for decades, but their recent addition of Dream Donuts has brought some exciting new flavours to the table. I recently had the chance to try both the Wildberry Cheesecake Dream Donut and the Caramilk Filled Ring Dream Donut and let me tell you, it was a delicious battle!

The Contenders:

• Wildberry Cheesecake Dream Donut: This beauty features a light and fluffy donut base filled with a sweet and tangy wildberry cheesecake filling. It's covered with a lavender-colour glaze topped with crushed candy bits.





Wildberry Cheesecake Dream Donut from Tim Hortons




• Caramilk Filled Ring Dream Donuts: This decadent donut boasts a cake dough base filled with a rich, gooey caramel center. It's topped with chocolate glazed, drizzled with caramel and includes crushed Caramilk on top.





Caramilk Filled Ring Dream Donut from Tim Hortons

The Verdict:

(Spoiler alert: I might be a bit biased towards a surprising champion!)

While the Caramilk Filled Ring Donut delivers a classic and undeniably delicious caramel punch, I found myself surprisingly leaning towards the Wildberry Cheesecake Dream Donut. The combination of the donut, the sweet and tart cheesecake filling, and the delicate glaze creates a delightful flavour profile that's not overly sweet. The tartness of the cheesecake filling perfectly complements the sweetness of the donut, making for a well-balanced and refreshing treat.

A peek inside the Wildberry Cheesecake Dream Donut from Tim Horton

Caramilk Filled Ring Dream Donut

The Perfect Father's Day Treat (or Anytime Treat!)

I enjoyed both donuts while waiting for my dad to arrive at Vancouver International Airport for Father's Day. They were the perfect pick-me-up (or sugar rush, depending on how you look at it) while I waited for his flight from the Philippines.

So, which Dream Donut will you choose?

Whether you're a caramel fanatic or a fan of fruity and tart flavours, Tim Hortons' new Dream Donuts offers something for everyone. Head to your local Tim Hortons and grab yours today!

Below is the updated list of Tim Hortons Dream Donut

• Apple Pie Dream Donut
• Birthday Cake Confetti Dream Donut
• Baileys Flavoured Boston Cream Dream Donut
• Black Forest Filled Ring Dream Donut
• Cadbury Mini Eggs Dream Donut
• Caramilk Filled Ring
• Chocolate Fudge Pretzel Dream Donut
• Chocolate Hazelnut Eclair Dream
• Creamy Maple Pecan Dream Donut
• Dulce Apple Fritter
• Dulce de Leche
• Easter Nest Dream Donut
• Gingerbread Chocolate Dream Donut
• Hershey's S'mores Dream Donut
• Matcha Coconut Dream Donut
• New York Cheesecake Dream Donut
• Penguin Dream Donut
• Pumpkin Spice Dream Donut
• Reese's Peanut Butter Cheesecake Dream Donut
• Sea Salted Caramel Dream
• Strawberry Shortcake Filled Ring
• Toronto Maple Leafs Dream Donut
• Vancouver Canucks Dream Donut
• Vanilla Bean Dip Dream Donut
• Vanilla Cream Puff Filled Ring
• Wildberry Cheesecake Dream Donut

Pep 150 and Hawaii slice from Straight Brooklyn Pizza

Happy Thursday! For our company-paid team lunch today, we ventured to the pizza paradise known as Straight Brooklyn Pizza, just a stone's throw away from the office. Knowing their reputation for generous slices and killer combos, we opted for their two-slice and a pop deal for an excellent $12.50.

Since I'm a pizza aficionado (having sampled everything else in their display case!), I decided to branch out and try the classic Hawaiian and the intriguing Pep 150.

Hawaii Pizza from Straight Brooklyn Pizza
Ham, pineapple

The Hawaiian did not disappoint! It was a testament to the timeless combo of savoury ham and juicy pineapple. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavour – the perfect balance between sweet and salty. But let me tell you, the Pep 150 was the real showstopper.

Pep 150 from Straight Brooklyn Pizza
150 slices of imported cup n' char pepperoni

This slice was a symphony of deliciousness. Imagine a perfectly greasy canvas (in the best way possible!) adorned with generous slices of imported cup-and-char pepperoni. The char added a smoky depth that perfectly complemented the rich pork, making it the quintessential pizza slice. It was, quite simply, pizza perfection.

Overall, Straight Brooklyn Pizza lived up to the hype. Their portions are fantastic, the quality of ingredients shines through, and the flavours are truly unforgettable. This is the spot if you're looking for an authentic New York-style pizza experience!

Obsessed with Filipino-style Chicken Barbecue from Dale's Food and Products

We spotted Dale's chicken barbecue at the Proudly Philippines: Travel and Food Fair at Robson Square today, and let me tell you, their chicken is incredible!

This Filipino-style barbecue is marinated in a sweet and savoury sauce that coats the entire piece, creating a glazed exterior and an unbelievably juicy interior. It comes with garlic java rice and buttered vegetables, perfectly soaking up that delicious sauce. Needless to say, I'm hooked!

Chicken Barbecue from Dale's Food and Products

Dale's has become my favourite Filipino food vendor in Metro Vancouver. Their food is just on another level. I'm hoping they'll be at more events so I can try their pork ribs BBQ (which looked amazing!).

Filipino-style Pork Barbecue from Cucina Balai

Saturday Morning Bliss! Love those weekend mornings for sleeping in, and today was perfect.

After a quick banana breakfast, we strolled across Granville Bridge to Robson Square in Downtown Vancouver for the "Proudly Philippines: Travel and Food Fair" organized by the Philippines Consulate.

My stomach was already rumbling when we arrived, so we made a beeline for Cucina Balai's Pork Barbecue. It came with fluffy rice topped with crispy garlic, a sunny-side-up egg, and a side of atchara (pickled veggies).

Pork Barbecue from Cucina Balai

This barbecue was different from what I expected. It wasn't the sweet and savoury version I'm used to, but rather a soy sauce-based one. It paired surprisingly well with the rice and the tangy atchara.

Pinoy food definitely holds a special place in my heart, and I'm so glad to be enjoying it here.

McDonald's Creamy Avocado Ranch McWrap: A Verdict on the Newest Green Contender

McDonald's released the healthy-ish Creamy Avocado Ranch McWrap with Grilled Chicken. But does it live up to its name, or is it all hype and no guac? We tried it to find out.

One of the biggest wins for this McWrap is the grilled chicken. It's surprisingly tender and flavorful.

However, the star of the show, the creamy avocado ranch sauce, is hiding. While the wrap boasts "creamy avocado," the flavour is elusive. This is a missed opportunity, as the avocado ranch has the potential to be a delicious flavour combination.

Creamy Avocado Ranch McWrap - Grilled from McDonald's
Made with 100% Canadian-raised seasoned chicken topped with creamy avocado ranch sauce, crispy jalapenos, shredded lettuce, sliced tomato and cucumbers. All wrapped up in a soft white flour tortilla.

On the bright side, the lettuce and tomatoes were fresh, adding a welcome pop of color and texture to the wrap. This isn't always a guarantee in the fast-food world, so kudos to McDonald's for ensuring crisp and vibrant veggies.

Overall, the Creamy Avocado Ranch McWrap with Grilled Chicken is a decent offering from McDonald's. The well-seasoned chicken and fresh veggies are a step up, but the lack of prominent avocado flavor leaves us wanting more.

Have you tried the Creamy Avocado Ranch McWrap? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Domino's Pizza Stuffed Cheesy Bread with Philly Steak

Calling all Philly cheesesteak fanatics and cheesy bread aficionados! This blog post is for you. Today, we're diving into Domino's Pizza Stuffed Cheesy Bread with Philly Steak – a flavour explosion waiting to happen.

A Cheesy Adventure with a Philly Twist

Domino's Stuffed Cheesy Bread is a new variant in the Stuffed Cheesy Bread family. The generously oven-baked breadsticks, bursting with melty mozzarella and cheddar cheese, are a delicious indulgence in themselves. But Domino's takes it up a notch with their Philly Steak variation. This cheesy delight is packed with tender slices of steak, along with the classic trio of green peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Each bite is a satisfying combination of the gooey cheese, the savoury steak, and the crisp vegetables – all working in harmony to create a flavour fiesta.

Domino's Pizza Stuffed Cheesy Bread with Philly Steak
Our oven-baked breadsticks are generously stuffed with white cheddar and mozzarella cheese, tender slices of Philly steak, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms — covered with a blend of even more mozzarella and cheddar cheese. They are seasoned with a touch of garlic and Romano.

My Verdict: Cheesy Bliss (But Maybe a Touch More Steak Would Be Divine)

I would have loved a slightly more generous helping of steak within the cheesy bread. However, the overall flavour profile was undeniably delicious. The cheese factor was definitely on point – a delightful combination of creamy mozzarella and sharp cheddar.

Domino's Pizza Stuffed Cheesy Bread with Philly Steak
Our oven-baked breadsticks are generously stuffed with white cheddar and mozzarella cheese, tender slices of Philly steak, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms — covered with a blend of even more mozzarella and cheddar cheese. They are seasoned with a touch of garlic and Romano.

Been There, Done That: Exploring Domino's Other Cheesy Bread Delights

This wasn't my first foray into the world of Domino's Stuffed Cheesy Bread. I've previously savoured the Pepperoni version, the vibrant Spinach & Feta option, and the fiery Bacon & Jalapeno creation.

14" Hand-tossed Philly Steak Pizza

Our love for Philly cheesesteaks didn't stop at the cheesy bread. We also indulged in a 14-inch Hand-Tossed Philly Steak pizza. This beauty featured all the classic elements — tender steak, crisp green peppers, savoury mushrooms, and sweet onions. The white cheddar cheese and provolone added a delightful richness, while the hand-tossed crust provided the perfect foundation for all these delicious ingredients.

Philly Steak Feast Pizza from Domino's Pizza
Loaded with tender slices of steak, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, and three different types of cheese.

14" Hand Tossed Veggie Pizza

This Domino's feast wasn't just about satisfying a Sunday craving but also about stocking up for the week ahead. Our 14-inch Hand Tossed Veggie Pizza, loaded with black olives, green peppers, mushrooms, onions, and juicy tomatoes, offered a delicious vegetarian option for the days leading up to our HelloFresh box delivery on Thursday.

Veggie Feast Pizza from Domino's Pizza
A medley of fresh green peppers, onion, tomatoes, mushrooms, and olives.

Whether you're a cheese lover, a Philly cheesesteak fanatic, or simply looking for a satisfying and convenient meal option, Domino's Stuffed Cheesy Bread with Philly Steak and its wide range of pizzas are worth exploring. So next time you crave a cheesy adventure, head to Domino's and discover your cheesy steak-and-bread bliss!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!