Monday 20 December 2021

Gajar Matar Recipe aka The Carrot Peas Indian Dish I Love

Curry is a bit of a misnomer in the Western world. From where I am from in Northern India, curry is a specific dish that is bright yellow in colour, almost neon yellow, made from sour milk and always eaten with rice. In North America, "Curry" is used as an all-encompassing term for savoury Indian entrees with some sort of sauce. Instead of the word "curry," In India, we use the word "Sabzi" as the generic name for savoury dishes that make up our main dish. My favourite Indian sabzi is a dry carrots and peas dish. 

Called "Gajar Matar" which literally translates to Carrot Peas, the traditional dish is vegan and gluten-free. The natural sweetness of the carrots and peas is the main highlight of the dish. To this day, I had never made an Indian sabzi. It has always felt like a daunting task to me! 

Sunday 28 November 2021

Weird and Wonderful Wishlist 2021 Holidays


This is my Weird & Wonderful Wishlist and it features amazing local Vancouver brands and shops. It is my goal to support more slow fashion and smaller independent shops. My list does include bigger global brands, but the majority of the items can be purchased locally in Vancouver from local boutiques. 

I know not everyone lives in Vancouver, so I am also going to include links through which you can purchase the pieces internationally. Hopefully if you are local you are able to pop into one of my favourite shops and pick it up in person! Perhaps we will bump into one another there! 

The Butter Ornament

Sunday 21 November 2021

Lower Mainland Devastated by Floods and Mudslides from "Atmospheric River"


This blog has always been a space to share fun discoveries with you. Today we are going to be taking a pause from the whimsy and food to acknowledge the events unfolding in the Fraser Valley in British Columbia. The property I purchased is in the Fraser Valley, but at this time I am living at my parent's house which is in Metro Vancouver, the region west of the Fraser Valley. 

I woke up on Monday, November 15th to harrowing winds and aggressive rainfall. Leaves and small twigs were being smashed up against my bedroom window by the ongoing storm. Rain is a normal part of Vancouver, so at no point did it phase me. It never even crossed my mind that things could get worse and I should not be going to work. By the time I was off from work, the sky had cleared in Vancouver and the pools of water were slowly draining away. 

The part of Vancouver that I grew up in has long been the butt of all flooding and sinking-related jokes. The highway bisecting my city and several major streets were flooded to my knees. Now simply imagine the relief that me, my family and everyone else that lives in the region felt when the city was able to get control of the flooding. 

Wednesday 10 November 2021

Ça Marche Crêperie the newest addition to Vancouver House

Another day in Vancouver, another restaurant opened. This time, it is the long-awaited Ça Marche Crêperie, specializing in crêpes from Brittany, France. If there are crêpes involved, you know I will be there, so it should come as no surprise that opening night, I was knocking down their door to be let in already. 

Dinner service on Saturday November 6, 2021 marked the opening of Ça Marche Crêperie. The new eatery is located at the foot of Vancouver House, adjacent to another favourite of mine, Autostrada Osteria. The space is small; therefore limiting the number of diners Ça Marche Crêperie can accommodate at a given time. An eccentric neon sign shines a glow onto an interesting rusted exterior panelling. Guess we can call it industrial rust chic? Inside, emerald green, brass, white and greys make for an elegant upscale setting. The old me would have fawned all over the design, but I now know better than to be blinded by beauty. 

Tuesday 26 October 2021

The Dorothy Motel is Banff, Alberta's first boutique motel



Roadside motels are a staple in North America. Often rundown, dingy, merely a place to catch some sleep before getting back on the road. But they are the affordable counterpart to hotels and hence why Super 8 Motels and such fill my own childhood memories of family road trips across Canada! The Dorothy Motel on the other hand is no ordinary motel. As Banff's very first boutique motel, The Dorothy Motel blends Banffs beautiful national forests with a retro 50s vibe, completely redefining what a motel is. The motel is beautiful and is a must stay when in Banff. 

The Dorothy Motel's wooden sign sets the tone for your stay with its asymmetrical shape, rounded corners and curvy bold text. A lovely rich teal blue paint exterior is accented by beautiful crisscrossing large wooden beams, a nod to traditional ski chalets that are sprinkled on the mountains. Nestled in the middle of the motel is a wonderful stone-paved courtyard with cute bistro tables, chairs and lush plants. An excellent place to sit back and sip on some drinks underneath the starry Banff night sky! 

Wednesday 13 October 2021

Golden Skybridge including an Exhilarating Treetop Experience


Golden BC's newest attraction, the Golden Skybridge, was completed and opened for guests to visit just this past May of 2021. Still fresh from opening day, some of the attractions at Golden Skybridge are still under construction like the Giant Swing, but others are open for guests to enjoy. The moment I learned about Golden Skybridge, I was fixated on visiting and I was able to in the final week of September, just ahead of Golden Skybridge closure for the 2021 season. 

The two Skybridges officially boast the honour of Canada's highest suspension bridges and cross the Columbia Valley with phenomenal views of the Rocky and Purcell mountains. A 61-meter tall Hospital Creek Fall rushes into the river that flows beneath the bridges and into the mountainous forests. 

Flying Domestically in Canada during the COVID-19 Pandemic



Last week, I flew domestically to and from Calgary, Alberta. The flight barely exceeds an hour of flight time from Vancouver, British Columbia, so I could hardly take advantage of inflight entertainment. Not that there have been many movies released since the onset of the pandemic. Since returning, I have been fielding questions about what it was like to fly during the pandemic? 

Normal travel has resumed for domestic flights in Canada. I am a Canadian citizen and did not face any hurdles as one. I booked my tickets normally through the airline carrier's website. There is a small blurb on the website advising guests that are experiencing any flu-like symptoms to refrain from flying. Flying domestically within Canada does not require a negative COVID-19 test. I checked in remotely 24 hours in advance. Since I was not checking any luggage in, so after arriving at YVR airport, I proceeded directly to security. Again, nothing out of the ordinary. Did the normal security screening process at YVR airport after which strolled around the terminal until it was time to report to the gate for boarding. 

THREE COVID-19 related changes implemented by both Air Canada (YVR Airport) and WestJet (YYC Airport): 

Thursday 16 September 2021

Claudia's Kitchen is upgrading your home charcuterie


Charcuterie has steadily garnered popularity in Vancouver and I only see demand increasing for these artistically arranged meat and cheese boards. Originating from 15th century France, Charcuterie has evolved from only meats to now include an array of accoutrements. Claudia's Kitchen specializes in charcuterie condiments and sent over a package containing their 4 core products. 

Claudia's Kitchen is elevating your home charcuterie spreads. All of their condiments are prepared fresh in Vancouver in small batches. Owner Claudia is making it a point to reduce as much packaging waste as possible, so the condiments are packaged in small reusable glass mason jars. In addition to the condiments, Claudia plans to offer common charcuterie foods like meats, cheeses, crackers, pickles and nuts. 

Monday 13 September 2021

Chatime 10 Year Anniversary Collab with the Moon & Back Gallery


Happy 10th Birthday Chatime Canada! To celebrate, Chatime Canada has partnered with Vancouver's beloved selfie studio, Moon & Back Gallery. I have had Chatime plenty of times because they always come through with their signature Milk Teas. You would think I would have been to Moon & Back Gallery already, but this was my first time checking them out. 

One of the special features for season 3 at Moon & Back Gallery is the exclusive Chatime room. The purple-hued room features an 8-foot boba cup complete with boba straw and beachball bobas! Across from the giant Chatime cup was my favourite corner in the entire space. Rainbow holographic walls are dotted with pictures of Chatime bubble tea glasses. A purple LED "Chatime 10th Anniversary" hangs from the wall and in front is a bubble swing! Needless to say, everyone had a fun time posing in that space. 

Thursday 9 September 2021

Fox & Oak Coffee and Doughnuts in Downtown Squamish

There are two kinds of people in this world. Those who like fluffy airy brioche doughnuts and those who prefer the denser cake doughnuts. Brioche doughnuts will forever be my favourite. Perched on the corner of Main Street and Cleveland Avenue in Squamish is my newest doughnut obsession, Fox & Oak. This blogpost is months overdue, so the doughnut flavours I talk about might not be part of Fox & Oak's current lineup.

The coffee and doughnut shop is still fairly new, but has already amassed a loyal following. For the hour that I was there, the line-up warpped around the corner. In fact, I braved the line twice because I had to get more doughnuts to snack on later. 

I have a weakness for fresh strawberries and when they are cooked down with rhubarb, it is just magical. The naturally leveaned brioche doughnt was generously filled with the strawberry rhubarb cardamom jam. Fox & Oak kept the rhubarb and strawberry pieces large, so the jam had a wonderful texture and a fresh sweet taste. The doughnut was finished with a glaze, pie shell lattice and whipped cream. 

Wednesday 8 September 2021

Fig Face is Innovating Facials in Vancouver


Fig Face has changed the facial game in Vancouver with its innovative tech-forward approach to skincare. When co-owners Isabella Blow and Jessica Walsh moved from London to Vancouver, the duo noticed YVR had very little to offer in terms of spas. I do not disagree with them. Vancouver does not have much in the way of spas and relaxation. 

Fig's gorgeous green exterior and interiors are what initially piqued my interest. The floors, walls, counters, and even the ceiling are all green. But if you pop into the bathroom you will be treated to a delicious pink, representative of the fig fruit's pink interior. I could go on all day on Fig's impeccable styling and details. Needless to say, Scott & Scott Architects deserve an award for their work on Fig. 

Thursday 26 August 2021

National Waffle Day in Vancouver

Krause Berry Farms | Raspberry Waffle

Waffles are this magical food that is acceptable as a breakfast but can also be enjoyed as a dessert. Waffles can be sweet or savoury, square or round, fluffy or chewy, Brussels or liege, fresh or frozen, the possibilities are endless! Waffles also happen to be one of my guilty pleasures that make me happy. 

Needless to say, if I had to pick between pancakes or waffles, I would hands down pick waffles every single time. No matter the circumstance, waffles will forever be superior to pancakes. Prove me wrong in the comments below! 

In Vancouver, Nero Waffles has been the place that I hit up for my waffle fix. There is a Robson Street location, but I prefer the Seymour location that is on the cusp of Yaletown. The location is gorgeous and is a dine-in restaurant setting which really gives it character and makes it more appealing to me. The Seymour location also boasts a spacious patio with heaters for the winter. Basically, the vibes at Nero Waffles are perfection. 

Wednesday 18 August 2021

Diner Desserts Highlights BC's Fresh Fruit Garnished with Nostalgia


My love for desserts is a large part of who I am. Desserts are not only about flavour, but also presentation, textures and storytelling.  A recent addition to Vancouver's sweet scene is Diner Desserts.  Based out of Vancouver's beloved Red Wagon, Diner Desserts has amassed a cult following for his wonderful creations. After work on Sunday, August 15th, I headed over to the Red Wagon to give his Fresh & Fruity menu a try. 

Sam, the man behind Diner Desserts is an absolute sweetheart and his passion for his work speaks for itself. The Fresh & Fruity menu is a collection of 6 desserts that pays homage to BC's fruit farms. I have only dined at Red Wagon's original location, so I had no idea that they now had a patio. We took our seats at a sage green-painted picnic bench surrounded by a smattering of plants. 

Saturday 31 July 2021

Hand Rolls from Hello Nori are a Must Try

Vancouver is known for its sushi and it happens to be one of my favourite foods. Sushi and sashimi go hand in hand, but my favourite rolls are the vegetarian ones. Yam tempura with avocado for me please! Hello Nori is a fairly new addition to Vancouver and this Robson Street shop has been drawing in some serious crowds. 

What sets Hello Nori apart is their focus on ehomaki-style hand rolls. Ehomaki is like a sushi roll that has its ingredients and sushi rice wrapped in nori (dried seaweed) and served unsliced. Patrons are encouraged to forgo the chopsticks and simply eat the ehomaki with their hands. 

Wednesday 28 July 2021

Chilliwack Sunflower Festival is Open for the 2021 Season

The sun is shining, the air is warm and the sky is a beautiful clear blue! We are halfway through summer which means the start of sunflower season! The Chilliwack Sunflower Festival is welcoming guests to their magical valley of flowers. One of my favourite parts about visiting the Chilliwack Sunflower Festival is that the farm is surrounded by mountains. It really helps me disconnect from the crazy city life. 

For those that have never visited, this is a massive 60-acre farm of which 15 acres have been planted with sunflowers and dahlias. During the spring, a massive portion of the land is covered in every blooming tulip. This year, the farm is brimming with 42 types of sunflowers, 50 varieties of Dahlias, and 8 types of Gladiolas. One of the dahlias we saw was a white dinner plate variety and it was MASSIVE. I am not being dramatic, it was big and beautiful! 

Tuesday 20 July 2021

Breaking Up with Fast Fashion


Shopping for clothing used to be done a couple times a year. Generally, it was for replacing essentials and perhaps picking up a new piece or two. But with the emergence of fast fashion retailers, fashion became more accessible. New trends used to emerge a couple times a year, but these days it feels things change every month. 

Fast fashion brands mass produce runway looks and sell them for cheap. Essentially fast fashion floods the market with cheaply produced clothing that is financially accessible to consumers. Unfortunately, this results in a huge amount of waste because the garments soon find their way to the landfill. Also, cheap fabrics, often plastic-based, shed microplastic fibres with each wash; therefore, polluting our waterways and oceans. 

Tuesday 6 July 2021

Disney Pixar's Luca Review

Pixar Animation Studios/ Walt Disney Pictures

Disney Pixar movies make some of the best animated movies that are enjoyed by adults and children alike. Pixar first stole our hearts with Toy Store, in 1995 and have since released countless feature length animated films ranging from adventures to superheros and magical wonders. Some of my favourites include Ratatouille, Inside Out, Finding Nemo, Monster's Inc., Up, Coco and Wall-E. You would be hardpressed to find someone who does not love a single Pixar movie. 

Luca is Disney-Pixar's newest release and is a coming of age movie of two sea-creature boys in a seaside town of Italy. 

SPOILERS AHEAD:

In most instances, Pixar blows my mind, but Luca was awful. The beginning of the movie felt oddly similar to the little mermaid. Whenever the sea monsters are out of water, they transform into a human form. Luca has to learn how to walk and is fascinated by human objects - ahem Ariel? Luca's parents are anti-land and deem it a dangerous scary place for sea monsters. 

Monday 28 June 2021

Beating the Heat with the Best Ice Cream in Vancouver

Vancouver has been hit with a heatwave like no other. Temperatures reached 38ºC which is practically unheard of in BC. I think the most we ever hit during the summer months is 34ºC. Tomorrow and Monday is going to be even hotter, surpassing 40ºC. That is scorchingly hot and honestly terrifying. I feel like I am on the beaches of Hawaii, not the Northern Pacific West Coast! 

Needless to say, me and everyone else in Vancouver are just trying to stay cool in this sweltering heatwave. Ice Cream, iced drinks, loose linen clothing, fans, ice cubes and whatever else it takes. So I thought I would make a list of the best ice cream spots in and around Vancouver because not everyone lives in Vancouver City! 

I wanted to get this list up quickly, so I have not had the chance to insert pictures. 

Wednesday 23 June 2021

Turkish Coffee with JamJar Canteen Commercial Drive

Years ago I saw a video of Turkish Coffee being made in the Middle East. I had seen nothing like it before. A little coffee pot was placed in hot sand and within moments, a frothy coffee begins to boil up. I have never seen any sort of food or beverage prepared in hot sand before! Needless to say, it was really cool and looked like magic! 

When I heard JamJar Canteen serves Turkish Coffee, you bet I had to go check it out. JamJar Canteen is a  Lebanese restaurant that specializes in Mezze - Middle Eastern Tapas. The space is stunning, with emerald green walls, ornate penny tiled flooring and lovely old-growth wooden beams, but there was no sand in sight. For logistical reasons, hot sand is not feasible, thus JamJar uses a gas burner. 

Sunday 20 June 2021

I BOUGHT A TOWNHOUSE!



I bought a house!

I am giddy, in shock, excited and simultaneously in disbelief because being a homeowner has been one of my biggest goals in life. It was important to me that I purchase a place in Metro Vancouver because I grew up in Vancouver and want to continue living here. All of the paperwork has been completed, the payments have been made and the keys dropped off. So as of May 2021, I legally own a two-bedroom townhouse! 

Sunday 23 May 2021

Granville Island Brewing Peach Sample Shop

Granville Island Brewing Company is hosting a 10 day peach themed pop-up in celebration of the release of their newest hoppy creation, the Peach Sour! In partnership with the Vancouver Food Bank and Lee's Donuts, the Sample Shop is open from 12pm - 5pm from May 14 to 24, 2021 at 45 Water Street Vancouver. If you are strolling through Gastown, this immersive peach themed sample shop is tough to miss. Now I LOVE Peaches, so I could not miss this. 

Scroll down to see me show off my peach 

Thursday 6 May 2021

What I Miss from Before COVID-19 Restrictions


I live in Canada which is currently in the midst of its third COVID-19 wave. The interesting part is knowing there are countries in the world that have resumed normal life, but unfortunately, the province I live in, British Columbia, is still in a state of emergency. March 18, 2020, was when the original state of emergency went into effect and has since been extended and is still in effect over a year later. Needless to say, I never imagined COVID-19 having such a profound effect on the world, on my life, and everyone's life. The most frustrating part is being restricted in terms of activities and overall my "usual" way of life. 

So this is my list of activities, tasks, random things that I took for granted pre-covid and seriously miss. 

Monday 3 May 2021

Imagine Van Gogh Vancouver is a Must Visit


Imagine Van Gogh is an immersive art experience that is currently open for viewing in Vancouver. When I first purchased my tickets - over a month ago! - I thought this would be a typical Art Gallery show in which original Van Gogh paintings would be on display. Definitely not a stereotypical art experience. They really take the immersive aspect to a whole new level. 

In his career, Van Gogh painted an staggering 900 pieces of work which is even more impressive considering he passed at the age of 37. Unfortunately many artists including Van Gogh did not gain fame until after their passing. His work is now valued millions of dollars. What I did not know was Van Gogh struggled with mental illness and spent a large part of his life in and out of hospitals. The exhibit starts with panels of information from which I learned so much about Van Gogh. 

Tuesday 27 April 2021

Maxine's Cafe & Bar is Vancouver's newest brunch obsession

Vancouver was in desperate need of a Europeanesque bistro and Maxine's Cafe & Bar has finally filled that void. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with natural light that bounces off the marble counters, deep walnut-toned wood, and metallic brass accents. What particularly caught my eye is the stunning art-deco arched shelving above the bar that is lined with premium liquor. As soon as I saw the pictures and press releases for Maxine's, I knew I had to visit them. 

Since I am obsessed with brunch, it only made sense that I swung by on a Sunday morning. We were seated out front on Maxine's makeshift patio, as the actual patio undergoes completion. I love the white & red woven bistro chairs because in my head I picture these chairs being used for seating in cute Parisienne cafes! 

Wednesday 14 April 2021

I Made a Fruit Sculpture for the Nakano Knives Contest


I love working with my hands, being creative, and making beautiful creations. Nakano Knives reached out to me to be an ambassador for the Fruit Sculpting Contest. 


I thought it would be easy since I have seen it done many times on the Food Network. IAarón and Chris can do it on Chefs vs. City with no training, then I should be able to carve a piece of fruit into a wicked sculpture too! 

Chefs vs. City was probably one of my favourite Food Network Channel shows! It ran for two seasons airing from 2009 to 2010. Chefs Aarón Sánchez and Chris Cosentino travel go head to head with two chefs from the city they are competing in. Sort of like the Amazing Race that you go to the city, compete in games for clues, racing around the city to the finish line. Each episode has several challenges that are centered around the local food culture in the city! I do not remember the exact episode, but maybe you can find it!

Tuesday 6 April 2021

Indoor dining in BC temporarily banned March 29th to April 19th, 2021


The announcement of all indoor dining being suspended effective midnight Monday March 29th came as no surprise because the Covid-19 cases in BC have surged. Unfortunately, the ban on indoor dining, group fitness classes and Whistler Backcomb ski resort negatively impacts a huge number of small businesses in BC. The current emergency closure is in place until April 19, 2021, and there is very good possibility that it will get extended. 

In my opinion, the "circuit breaker" as put by BC health was not well implemented. Restauranteurs and employees hardly had any time to plan or make alternative arrangements. Literally they had less than 12 hours notice! The restaurants with patio and outdoor seating are lucky because the health order specifically prohibits indoor seating, not outdoor or patio dining. However, since BC is a temperate rainforest, we get several months of dreary rainy weather, so it is understandable why many restaurants only have indoor seating. 

Monday 5 April 2021

Douce Diner scoops out Banana Splits in a retro 50's aesthetic space

My craving for the 1950's diner experience is real! The era was all about the bright hued interiors, penny tiles, cushioned booths, neon signs, and Roc'n Roll. Douce Diner has brought the classic Americana vibe north of the border to the North Shore and needless to say, they nailed the 50's era vibe! 

Douce Diner checks off so many boxes for me with their Pink, Mint and Yellow colour palette, to the intricate penny tiled flooring and the neon pink "Hello Sunshine" sign that overlooks the space. Douce Diner have struck the perfect balance between contemporary and retro. 

Saturday 27 March 2021

Pink Dance Bubbles In and Around Downtown Vancouver

An outdoor art exhibition of pink illuminating bubbles have been popping up all around Downtown Vancouver. Called #LoveVancouver Dance Bubbles, the urban art pieces by local dance production company Small Stage. The piece has been putting a smile on the face of Vancouverites for the month of March and they have been such a success that Tourism Vancouver is planning to extend the duration of the exhibit into April.

Me being me, I could not resist a pink carpet and glowing pink bubbles! I visited on a day that the installation was in the Vancouver Art Gallery Courtyard. There were 6 bubbles each with their own theming, but all bright pink in tone. The art piece was designed to have dancers perform live within the bubbles, but for that night, they did things a little different and set up two of the biggest outdoor screens ever that showed live streamed the dancers. 

I hope Vancouver continues with bringing unique interactive urban artwork like this to the community. It really brings a lot of charm and quirk to Vancouver and that is what I love about living here. Plus, it keeps things interesting! 

I should have taken pictures of the bubbles after the sun had set because they look stunning in the dark! The bright pink light really makes the bubbles just glow and pop! 

#LoveVancouver Dance Bubbles are set up at various locations throughout Downtown Vancouver. An updated schedule on dates, times and locations is available on Tourism Vancouver's website. 

BYES




Friday 19 March 2021

Happy 6th Birthday Pink Tea Latte

Happy 6th Birthday Pink Tea Latte!

Since blogpost number one on March 16, 2015, I have published 391 posts. That is 391 creative original pieces written by me with photographs that I took first using my iPad Mini generation 2, then my parent's Nikon D 3200. I purchased my very first camera the Nikon D 5500 and upgraded to my current baby, Nikon D 750. A full frame beast that takes stunning pictures and probably remain my companion for years to come. At this point, the Nikon D750 is essentially my co-contributor for Pink Tea latte because without pictures, my writing does not feel complete. 

Feast for the Eyes - The Story of Food in Photography only at The Polygon Gallery

I love food because it is for much more than just the fuel for our bodies. Food brings us together as a society, a common uniter over which we share stories and create new memories. We mark celebrations and milestones like birthdays with food - PTL just turned 6 years old and you bet I treated myself to cake! Feast for the Eyes: The Story of Food in Photography combines my two loves, food and photography and is available for public viewing at the Polygon Gallery until May 30, 2021. Admission is by donation. 

The exhibition is divided into three themes. "Still Life" is the classic display of food. Acclaimed artists the likes of Matisse and Van Gogh come to mind. "Around the Table" looks at how we as humans interact with food whether it be social gatherings or sharing of food. The final portion of the exhibit was my favourite of the three, "Playing with Food." Going beyond just capturing food as food, but turning it into pieces of art, humour and irony.  

Tuesday 9 March 2021

Hunnybee Bruncheonette for Delicious Morning Lattes & Ricotta Pancakes

Brunch is delicious and amazing and when it is combined with sun drenched space, makes for the perfect Sunday morning. Hunnybee Bruncheonette is a magical offshoot of the beloved Gastown cafe, The Birds & The Beets, which happens to be one of my favourite places to hangout. Honestly, I could lose hours of my life just sipping a latte and basking in the warmth of the sunshine at either of these locations. 

Hunnybee is at the corner of Gore and Union Street in Chinatown. Wrapping the exterior of the cafe is outdoor seating and tables under a green and white striped awning. Floor to ceiling windows make you feel like you are basically sitting outdoors. Probably adding to that feeling are all the green plants inside and the dried foliage that hangs from the ceilings. 

Thursday 25 February 2021

16 Vancouver Neighbourhoods team up for the Love Your City initiative

 Meandering around Vancouver neighbourhoods is my favourite way to spend an afternoon. All of the neighbourhoods are distinct with their own personality, community, vibe, aesthetic and food. Love Your City is a new initiative launched in collaboration with 16 Business Improvement Associations. 

16 Vancouver Neighbourhoods:

Wednesday 17 February 2021

Marché Mon Pitou the newest addition to South Granville

I absolutely adore French cafés for their laid back atmosphere, delicious pastries and cute aesthetics. South Granville's newest addition is no exception. Marché Mon Pitou will give you major "Emily In Paris" the surprise Netflix hit show. 

The cafe shines bright like a rich green emerald set in yellow gold, a bold colour scheme. My favourite design element is the use of Pitou, the owner's adorable English bulldog as the cafés official mascot. Marché Mon Pitou is more than just a café, it is a triple threat as a grocer and bistro too. The space inside is small boasting a massive central table that was overflowing with baskets of fresh produce leaving three tiny tables for indoor seating. 

Friday 12 February 2021

Heart-Shaped Pizza and Italian Peroni Beer for the Ultimate Romantic Gesture Courtesy of Pizzeria Farina

Nothing says "I Love You" like pizza and beer! With just a few days to go until Valentine's day, Pizzeria Farina is stretching dough into the shape of a heart to share with your sweetheart and to complete your romantic night, every order comes with Italian Peroni Beer. 

The team behind Pizzeria Farina are juggernauts in Vancouver's Italian food scene. Sister restaurants include Ask for Luigi and Caffé Di Beppe, both of which I have dined at multiple times, so I can attest to their deliciousness! The original Pizzeria Farina is on the cusp of Chinatown and will be celebrating their 9th birthday on August 18th! The team at Farina take pride in their Italian pies and swear the secret to a stellar pizza is striking the delicate balance between the dough, sauce and toppings because if there are too many toppings, the flavour of the dough gets lost. Now of course, the foundation to all good food is high quality ingredients. Their Northern Italian-inspired pizzas start with a base of local Anita's organic flour which is mixed with rye and red fyfe. After a 24-hour fermentation period, the dough has deepened in flavour and is ready for toppings. Farina's tomato sauce is made with Italian San Marzano tomatoes and flavoured with salt, pepper, garlic and chilli flakes. 

Monday 25 January 2021

M!LA Plant-Based Brunch Fun in Chinatown


I never thought I would say this, but I went to a vegan restaurant, aka an eatery that serves an all plant-based menu. M!LA is one of Vancouver's most recent additions to the vegetarian food scene and can be found along Keefer Street amongst other notable restaurants in Historic Chinatown. 

I popped by M!LA with my friend Its Josh Eats for Sunday morning brunch. I must admit, I was impressed by the long line that had formed outside of M!LA before they opened their doors at 10:30 AM. I really had no idea just how popular they were, but it should not come as a surprise considering there are not a lot of vegetarian friendly restaurants in Vancouver. My parents are vegetarian and it can be a struggle for them to eat out because their only options end up being salad, a cobbled together vegetarian pasta and a not so great veggie burger. 

Monday 4 January 2021

2020 a Hell of a Year


2020 was one hell of a year. A year of fear. A year of weird. A year of loneliness. A year of yearning. A year of anxiety. A year of learning. A year of rediscovering priorities. A year of changing expectations. A year of opening my eyes to new possibilities. 

It has been a year of so much uncertainty; yet simultaneously educational. I lost my routines and my patience was seriously tested, but from it, I learned to adapt. I discovered that I could survive with much less. Now toilet paper will always be a vital necessity for me and something I CANNOT live without, but I can do without the daily overpriced caffeinated beverages. I am yearning for social gatherings and hanging out with my friends. I have been working hard to stay in contact with besties, but its just not the same. It is boring being holed up at home day after day! Despite it all, I am STRONG and CAPABLE of more than I think.