Eat Magazine - Bulletins

New Chef at Fraiche & Crave

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Local top chef Dino Renaerts makes move to replace chef Wayne Martin at the helm of Fraîche Restaurant and Crave Beachside.

Carmelis Cheese Shop Reopens

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

On March 1st, the farm shop at Carmelis Goat Cheese will reopen for the season. Located near Okanagan Lake, some 12 Km south of downtown Kelowna next to high quality wineries such as Cedar Creek Estates Winery, St. Hubertus winery, Summer Hill Estate winery, and at the entrance to the Okanagan Mountain Park. Website

Topo's Italian Restaurant Closes

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Topo's Italian Restaurant has closed, according to a hand-written sign on the door, dated February 12th 2010. The note on the door expressed the owner's regret at having to close, and gratitude to all their loyal customers.

Slow Food Chocolate Tasting

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

SCHOKOLADE'S CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP

14th FEB, 2010 VALENTINES THEME 6pm - 9pm

Spending wonderful time together and creating the most beautiful chocolate hearts. Dipping truffles and decorating strawberries with chocolate. Enjoy this intimated time with chocolate. Pairing international wine with our artisan handcrafted chocolates with fresh ingredients.Light hors d'oevures will be served, all ladies will be presented with rose and special handcrafted raspberry heartshaped pralines.

You also bring home all finished chocolate goodies for a long lasting memory of Valentine's day!

$150 per 2 persons ($75/person), maximum seating 16 person, make your reservation early.

Address and Contact

2263 East Hastings, Vancouver B.C. V5L 1V3

RSVP to 604-253-9411 or info@schokoladecafe.com

Slow Food Olive Oil Tasting

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Lorenzo Caponetti oiive oil tasting by Slow Food at Bossa Foods Jan 30 at 2:30 pm. Non-members $10. rsvp@slowfoodvancouver.com

Victoria Independent Film Festival update

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A 2nd showing of Focaccia Blues has been added for Sat, Jan 30 at the Odeon Theatre, 5pm. VIFF

Niagara Grocery Stocking Slater's Meats

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Niagara Grocery is now stocking Slater's Meats, with fresh selections arriving daily as well as a variety available in the frozen section.

An exclusive offer from Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Brentwood Bay Lodge extends a warm invitation to explore their spectacular property and pristine surroundings at a very special rate. Until February 11th stay in their of our luxurious OceanSuites for just $99...our best Friends & Family rate.

During your stay, pry you away from your beautiful room with a crackling fireplace and a jacuzzi tub to visit their SeaGrille fine-dining restaurant and The Spa - Essence of Life to make the most of your experience.

www.brentwoodbaylodge.com

Bubby Rose's Open on Mondays

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bubby Rose's Bakery in the Cook St. village is now open for business on Mondays, from 9am - 4pm.

Closed for Annual Holidays

Wed, 6 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Taking a page from the French who all seem to take their vacations at the same time, Victorian business owners take their much deserved breaks at the beginning of the new year.

Don't try to stock up or dine at the following until they re-open.

Ottavio's

Charelli's

Choux Choux

Plenty

Wild Fire

Brasserie L'Ecole

Cafe Mela

Vista 18 Closed for Redecoration

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Vista 18 is closed for redecoration from January 3, 2010 at 3:00 pm until February 3, 2010 at 3:00 pm.

This exciting redecoration will include furniture, wall coverings, fabrics and colour scheme.

Clive’s Classic Lounge located on the Lobby Level will remain open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner*

* no minors allowed after 11:30am

Rum Nights at The Reef

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Every Sunday from January until April 2010 The Reef on the Drive will be holding rum nights: 17 weeks, 17 different rums. Complimentary tastings from 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Feature cocktails all night. Visit www.thereefrestaurant.com for more details.

1018 Commercial Drive, Vancouver

Cult Blue Back in Stock

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cult favourite Roaring 40's blue cheese from on an island just north of Tasmania, Australia is creamy, superbly fruity, salty, nutty blue... and its back in stock at Slater's First Class Meats. (250) 592-0823.

Cocktail Alert

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

‘Tis the season. Here are two winter drinks to help keep the spirits up. Complied by Jacob Galbraith

Adam Lepp, bartender at Canoe Brewpub suggests a Hot Mint Julip. “I chose this drink because it a summer favorite with a winter twist! Enjoy a taste of summer while we hibernate and dream of warmer weather.

Solomon Siegel, bartender at Solomon’s picked a H.I.S. (Hungary, Italy, Spain). Here’s his recipe.

The H.I.S. is a great aperitif cocktail. It is dry and flavourful to get your palate going. I really like it for the holidays as it is lower in alcohol then a spirit base cocktail (around 14% compared to 30-40%). But it doesn't taste wimpy.

I use Tio Pepe sherry, nutty and dry. For Italian vermouth Cinzano if you want a little bit of sweetness, or (if you can find a bottle) Punt e Mas if you really like the bitter side.

As for Unicum, if you use Angostura bitters you have an Adonis cocktail, which is good too. But stop by Solomon's and ask me where to find Unicum.

30mL Fino Sherry

30mL Italian Vermouth

2 dashes Zwack Unicum

Stir with ice and strain into a small cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Sustainably Stuffed

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

From December 12 - 23 SIP Lounge & The Refinery will be asking each guest to bring in a non-perishable food item to support the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. Please include your business card for the nightly raffle of a Gift Certificate for SIP Lounge & The Refinery - available for use in food and/or beverage. Cash donations are also accepted.

Morning Bay Wine Sale

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A special sale of Morning Bay wines

6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Still Life Boutique at 551 Johnson St. in Victoria

Some awesome deals for your Christmas entertaining:

6 bottles 2007 Pinot Gris

6 bottles 2004 Cabernet Syrah

Total cost $120!

(retail value $168)

Ministry of Transport "cleans up" for the Olympics by removing farm signs.

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ministry of Transport "cleans up" for the Olympics by removing farm signs. So much for culinary tourism? VancouverIslandLocalFood.com

WAREHOUSE SPACE AVAILABLE

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hillside and Douglas area

385 Sq feet of warehouse space

180square ft private office space

Shared office space a possibility

Shared access to VIHA approved packaging space

Shared cooler

Call Susan at 250 595-6729

Mangia e Bevi's Annual BACIO Fundraiser

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

BACIO is Mangia e Bevi's annual fundraiser in support of cancer awareness and research. Proceeds from the menu are donated to BC Children's Hospital Oncological Research and Lions Gate Hospital Oncological Clinic.In its first two years the event raised a total of $27,300.

The BACIO menu, featuring classic Italian cuisine, will be available throughout January 2010.

Apple Luscious Apples and Terra Nova Meats Available on Moss St. Nov.14th

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Moss St. Market has closed for the season, but this Saturday, November 14th, in their usual location (corner of Moss and Fairfield), Apple Luscious Organic Apples and Terra Nova Organic Meats will be available from 10 am - 2 pm.

Win an Opening or Closing Ceremony Prize Package for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Richmond, BC, Canada – Are you still seeking those elusive Opening and Closing ceremony tickets for the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games? Here's a tip: it is all about who you know in Richmond, British Columbia. Go to Tourism Richmond's latest website to find out how Richmond residents are teaming up friends old and new from all over the world to win two grand prize packages worth $12,500 CAD each. No friends in Richmond? No problem. Tourism Richmond has even created a Message Board where you can find Richmond residents ready to partner with you. Visit the site before November 24th, 2009 to buddy up with a Richmond friend or family.

For more information and a complete list of rules, terms and conditions for the "Share Richmond 2010 Olympic Winter Games Contest," please click here.

Tibetan Kitchen Opens in New Location

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Tibetan Kitchen has relocated from Market Square to a sit-down location at 680 Broughton St. Tibetan monks blessed the restaurant at the pre-opening event last week. The new Tibetan Kitchen opened for business November 5th.

Edible British Columbia Opening Satellite Store at the Bay Downtown Vancouver

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After nearly four years of incredible success at our Granville Island Retail location, [http://www.edible-britishcolumbia.com/] Edible British Columbia is opening a satellite store in downtown Vancouvers historic Hudson Bay store. On Saturday, November 7, 2009, EBC will open at HBC, with a mini retail space showcasing our top 100 products from across BC, plus some favourites from our brand new Edible Canada line.

Tin Fish Food Bank Drive

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Barbara-Jo's Books to Cooks is pleased to launch our Tin Fish Food Bank Drive. Throughout the month of November, we will donate $5 from the sale of every copy of Tin Fish Gourmet ($13.95) by our very own Barbara-jo McIntosh. For every dollar donated, the Food Bank can triple its buying power. This means that the $5 donated from each book sale will buy $15 worth of food.

Tin Fish Gourmet makes a wonderful holiday gift so pick up copies for friends and in return, give to the Food Bank.

You are also welcome to drop off donations of non-perishable food items at Books to Cooks. The Food Bank is pleased to accept a variety of foods, but is in particular need for protein items such as fish, meat and peanut butter.

Foo review

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Have you been yet to the hot buzz new restaurant in downtown Victoria? If you have link here and leave your comments.

Brasserie L'École Reopens

Mon, 2 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After being closed for most of September and October, Brasserie L'École is once again open for business. Historical restorations are still underway, so the scaffolding will remain up for another month or so. Please note that they will now operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. To read the management's reasons for this change in policy, please click here.

'Staff of Life' Menu at Bishop's

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The November early bird Producer’s Dinner menu will incorporate house-made breads and other foodstuffs (think pasta perhaps) made from the milled wheat flour along with others that use wheat berries acquired from a different supplier on Vancouver Island.

"The grain CSA is the first one in the Lower Mainland which is one of the reasons why I find it so exciting. It is a step closer to a local food system," says Bishop’s Executive Chef Andrea Carlson. "We’ve received about 200 kg of flour and I will be exploring different ways in which to use it."

The ‘Staff of Life’ three-course early bird menu is available every evening in November from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. for a very reasonable $38.

If you wish to add the wine pairing, then that is an additional $20 for 3 oz. pours or $38 if you prefer larger 6 oz. pours.

Reservations are always a good idea and can be made online at www.bishopsonline.com or call 604-738-2025.

Book Your LURE Holiday Lunch Party Now!

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

3 courses $29

Maple Cinnamon Butternut Squash Soup

Pumpkin Seed Pesto

Organic Mesclun Salad Greens

Crumbled Blue Cheese, Caramelized Walnuts, Cranberry Vanilla Vinaigrette

Roasted Local Chicken Breast

Chanterelle Pan Jus, Dijon Yam Puree

Pan Seared Pacific Halibut

Apple Parsnip Puree, Citrus Vinaigrette

Honey Cider Poached Pear

Butterscotch Mascarpone

Wild Berry Tea Cake

Chai & Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt

Lure Seafood Restaurant & Bar

http://www.lurevictoria.com/

250 360 5873

Free Parking

Moss Street Market Extends Its Season

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Moss Street Market has extended its season again this year due to popularity and the amazing abundance of food that continues to pour in from our farmers. The market's last day will be October 31st and organizers have some fun family events planned for Halloween. Morning music with the jazzy Boogaloo In Orbit. In the afternoon dance to the tunes of Flash In A Pan. Trick or treat with the vendors. Halloween crafts at the Kid's Tent and more apple varieties from Harry Burton: Northern Spy, Calville Blanc d'Hiver, King and more Bramleys. The abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, preserves, jams and jellies is outstanding at this time of the year.

Baker's Market

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

WHO: bakers & foodies unite!

WHAT: to buy/sell delicious baked goods

WHERE: 408 East Kent Avenue South, Back door #115

Vanco uver, BC V5X 2X7. Free parking.

WHEN: Saturdays, Oct. 17, 24, Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5, 12.

11am - 3pm

WHY? Support your local, talented & creative bakers, who love to bake for customers like you!

www.bakersmarket.com

Come and join us at the Baker's Market. If you have a"sweet-tooth", this is the place for you. Inspired by traditional farmer's markets, this market is even better since it is indoors with lots of free parking too. You'll find talented bakers selling cakes, cupcakes, cookies, muffins, scones, breads, pies, tarts. Also many bakers will be happy to take orders for birthday cakes, wedding cakes and much, much more!

BAKERS: if you are a baker of any kind, home baker, student baker,pastry chef, bakery owner, wedding cake decorator, cookie baker; this is the place to show-off and sell your baked treats.

Give yourself a break and treat yourself to something sweet.

Remember DESSERTS is STRESSED spelled backwards!

Gastown Blues & Chili Festival

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So.Cial in Gastown Custom Butcher Shop and Deli Competes in the Gastown Blues & Chili Festival

Sunday, September 20th - 12:00 noon to 7:00 pm

200 Block of Abbott Street between Water and Cordova in Gastown

FREE Admission

Public 2 oz. chili tastings start at approximately 12:30pm

Cost $1 per 2oz sample/ $3 per 8 oz cup

$15.00 to sample 2 oz size of all 18 contestants

International Chefs Congress

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

StarChefs.com announces that the 2009 International Chefs Congress (ICC) will take place between September 20th - 22nd at the Park Avenue Armory in New York City! Don't miss the most exciting professional culinary event in the US. ICC is a three-day culinary symposium where more than 60 of the world's most influential and innovative chefs, pastry chefs, mixologists, and sommeliers present the latest techniques and culinary concepts to their peers. Read More

Okanagan Wine Bus Tour

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The BC Wine Appreciation Society is filling up the bus for its fourth annual bus tour of the South Okanagan. Stops at great restaurants such as Nk’Mip Winery, lunch at Burrowing Owl Winery, and many more tasting opportunities in the Oliver/Osoyoos round out a fantastic trip. Call 250.498.2225 to make your reservations. Trip scheduled for September 12th and 13th. Only 24 seats available.

California Experience Garden Party at Hart House

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On Sept. 9, Hart House at Deer Lake offers a “California Experience” garden party that pairs world-class Californian wines with inspired west coast cuisine. Guests can relax and enjoy live music as they dine al fresco, celebrating the bounty of our neighbours to the South. $45 per person, call 604-298-4278 to reserve.

6th Annual Naramata Bench Tailgate Party

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sept 12, 2009, La Frenz Winery. The Naramata Wineries drop their tailgates for the goodtimes wine event of the season. Meet the winemakers, taste the wines, and fuel the fun with live music and south western BBQ cuisine. Tickets are $79, call 1-800-663-1900 or buy online at www.naramatabench.com

Go South!

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The house wine girls are headed far south to Chile and Argentina. Both countries are gleefully associated with great values but this doesn’t apply to just the cheap and cheerful. They deliver at all price points! We will tantalize you with a wide range including the flagship wines of Carmenère and Malbec, as well as other varieties that are making an equally bold statement. Don’t miss this delicious tango for your taste buds. Sept. 16 at the Vintage Gallery at O’Doul’s. Click here for more info.

How To Taste Wine Like a Pro

Tue, 1 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Examine the “see, smell, and sip” components in accessing the quality of wine. September 3rd at the Dunbar Centre from 7 to 9pm. $45 fee includes acid and tannin samples, a wine aroma sensory kits, and four wine samples. Register online at www.dunbarcentre.ca

WINESTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL at MORNING BAY WINERY

Tue, 1 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A day of great music and wine at one of BC’s prettiest vineyards. September 5th marks the Winestock Music Festival’s fourth year at Morning Bay Vineyard on Pender Island. This year’s acts include The Odds, The Furies, Coco Love Alcorn, and many more. For the full line-up visit www.morningbay.ca. Tickets available online.

Tapas + Wine Nights

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For a limited time.

This summer, Executive Chef Dave Roger is proud to present a new tantalizing Tapas menu. Pair this with our specially priced $20 bottles of wine from our exclusive feature sheet available on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.marriottvictoria.com/firewater to view menus.

Cibo Regional Dinner

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cibo Regional Dinner - August 12
The most exciting monthly regional dinner yet! This evening will feature the cuisine of Sicily and will be hosted with the House Wine Girls. 5 course dinner for $48.

Jackson Triggs Rootstock

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jackson Triggs Rootstock: For one night only: On August 19, the Amphitheatre at Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Winery, Niagara on the Lake, will host ROOTSTOCK, wine country's first ever Canadian Songwriters' Circle. This intimate evening will feature five of Canada's top musical artists - Steven Page, Jim Cuddy, Tom Cochrane, Kathleen Edwards and John Mann (Spirit of the West), and will truly be a celebration of fine Canadian music and wine.

Can It!

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mark Saturday, August 15, 11:00 a.m. on your calendar for our Can It! class. Chef Glenys Morgan discusses key points of canning and demonstrates recipes from Well Preserved by Mary Anne Dragan. Guests will leave with the confidence to can the summer and fall bounty at home. Cost: $65.00.

Brooklyn Brewmaster Visits Vancouver

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Granville Room is proud to have Garrett Oliver (Brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery) here in Vancouver. Friday, August 14 6:00 – 9:00 PM Brewmaster’s Dinner at the Granville Room in Vancouver.

Okanagan Summer Wine Festival

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Okanagan Summer Wine Festival, Silver Star Mountain, Vernon, Aug. 6-8. A mile-high treat of wine tastings, arts, music, seminars, gourmet meals and outdoor activities (to help work it all off).This is a four course dinner with Brooklyn beer paired to each course. Garrett will talk about the food and beer during each course.

En Plein Air Art

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

August 15 one-day camp 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. En Plein Air Art: 'en plein air' epitomized the techniques of Impressionist artists Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Cezanne. Looking at the artists of the period, participants will try their hand at Impressionistic painting styles out in the Garden. At the same time, they will experience fresh new flavours as they prepare and share a picnic lunch using local, seasonal ingredients. This one-day program is for children ages 6 - 11 years of age. Children attend unaccompanied by an adult. Program fee covers admission to the Garden as well as food and art supplies. Cost: $45 per participant

The Secret Life of Bees

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Explore the secret life of bees at Sooke's Tugwell Creek Honey Farm and Meadery tour. Meet their bee colony (behind glass) and see the inner workings of their world. 1 hour tour begins at 11am Sunday, August 9. $10 per person. (Cost of tour is forgiven with equivalent purchase.)
Call 250.642.1956.

Hot Summer Days!

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leave the cooking to us, new summer inspired menu now being served…check out link www.paprika-bistro.com for full copy of new menu.

3 Course Dinner Table d’hôte Menu

• Soup or salad to start

• Choice of 3 entrees

• Chef’s choice dessert

$26 ~ available from 5pm to 6pm Tuesday to Saturday

Paprika Bistro

2524 Estevan Ave. | Victoria B.C. | V8R 2S7

ph: 250.592.7424

Recycling Shipping Containers Makes For Good Food

Sat, 4 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The recycling of used shipping containers is taking off. In Victoria, an old container has been spruced up and outfitted as an OceanWise sanctioned take-out fish and chips place on Victoria waterfront. I've seen a pod of used containers turned in to an eco house in Vancouver.

Now, in Montreal, Müvbox offers a variety of dishes featuring lobster from Îles-de-la-Madeleine. To promote themselves they made a very cool video. Watch it here.

Irish Heather

Thu, 2 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Irish Heather's new Long Table Series: Set at the 40-foot communal table in the Salty Tongue space next door and starting promptly at 6:30 p.m., the dinner series ($12/per person) serves up a pint and a full plate of food fixed by the Irish Heather's new executive chef. Runs Monday through Wednesday every week during the summer. 210 Carrall St., Vancouver, 604-688-9779, www.irishheather.com, to reserve email sean@irishheather.com

Moustache Cafe Wine Tuesdays

Thu, 2 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Moustache Café is pleased to announce it will offer a 25% discount on all bottles of wine all day Tuesdays. This is a great opportunity for wine lovers to come out and explore the Café’s extensive cellar. Located in North Vancouver’s Lolo (Lower Lonsdale) District. Click here for more information.

Sun Peaks’ Sunday Markets

Thu, 2 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sustaining the local economy is even more important this summer and visitors and residents at Sun Peaks Resort will once again be supporting local farmers, ranchers and artisans. The award winning Sun Peaks & Region Farmers’ Market is returning for a 4th season and will be set up in the heart of the Sun Peaks Village every Sunday from 10am to 2pm all summer.

Summer Nights in Richmond

Thu, 2 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following the example of Asia’s evening markets, Richmond will be offering its array of curried fish balls, Korean barbeque, Easter shish kabobs and more on summer nights. Saturdays 7pm to midnight and Sundays 7pm to 11pm, stroll the market stands for delicious nosh. A perfect way to spend a summer evening. Find your way to 12631 Vulcan Way, Richmond.

Slow Food CHEESE 2009

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Italy - 18 Sep 09 - 21 Sep 09

Bra, Italy

This biennial event has become the leading international festival for quality cheese producers. At the seventh edition this year, the world’s most renowned artisan cheesemakers (presidium producers included), affineurs, sellers and shepherds will once again come together to present their cheese to an enthusiastic public.

An estimated total of 150,000 people wandered through the streets and piazzas at the last edition of cheese in 2007, looking, tasting, learning, chatting with cheesemakers or listening to one of the many concerts. Almost one-third of the visitors came from outside Italy, highlighting the international nature of the festival, which brings together cheeses from countries around the globe: from France to Australia, and from Cape Verde to Bosnia-Herzegovina.

www.cheese.slowfood.com

Vancouver Food Hub in the Works

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Green Table’s Andre LaRiviere says the New City Market ‘food hub’ is a step closer to LEED certified reality. http://greentable.net

Learn & Lunch

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chef Bradford Boisvert of Amuse Bistro in Shawnigan Lake will be preparing lunch at the Terralicious school July 6. terralicious.ca

Outstanding in the Field returns to British Columbia

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Outstanding in the Field returns to British Columbia for feasts at the farm

July dinners planned at UBC Farm in Vancouver and North Arm Farm in Pemberton Valley near Whistler

Outstanding in the Field, a group of culinary vagabonds who stage white-tablecloth dinners in farm fields across North America, is coming once again to Vancouver's UBC Farm. The group also will visit the Whistler area for a dinner at North Arm Farm in Pemberton Valley.

On Saturday, July 18, Outstanding in the Field sets its long table at North Arm Farm where farmer Jordan Sturdy, who also is Pemberton's Mayor, will be the host for the evening. Working out of an al fresco kitchen, Chef James Walt of Whistler's Araxi Restaurant will prepare the five-course feast.

On Sunday, July 19, Outstanding returns to UBC Farm in Vancouver for its fourth dinner there. Andrea Carlson of Bishop's Restaurant is guest chef for the UBC dinner. "We love city farms, and UBC's fields have been the site of some of our fondest memories," said Outstanding founder Jim Denevan."We are very excited about our newest event in Pemberton Valley and look forward to creating new memories there."

2009 marks Outstanding in the Field's 10th year of shining the spotlight on the people who work hard to produce our good food. "Even in the midst of economic difficulty, or perhaps because of it, people are more eager than ever to get out to the farm, see where their food comes from, and sit down at the table with the farmers and food artisans who cultivated it," said Denevan.

Outstanding in the Field dinners begin with a tour of the host farm. Then guests sit down at Denevan's signature table -- a long, linen-draped expanse set between the soil and the sky. During dinner, the host farmer and other local food producers who provided ingredients for the meal share the table with the guests and talk about where the food on the plate came from and what it takes to get it there.

Back in the '90s, Jim Denevan held "Farmers Nights" at Gabriela Cafe in Santa Cruz, Calif, where he was executive chef. One night he thought: instead of bringing farmers into the restaurant, why not take people out to the farm? The first Outstanding in the Field farm dinner was in 1999, and Denevan took the concept on the road in 2003.

Denevan views Outstanding dinners as art installations, taking great care in laying out the long table to complement each individual site. Not surprising, because Jim also is an artist of a different sort -- check out his large-scale drawings in the sand here. Both the dinners and Jim's beach art are transitory -- the lines in the sand disappear as the tide rises and the waves sweep them away; the dinner at the farm becomes a wonderful sensory memory that makes a lingering imprint on the diner's mind.

Cost for the July 18 and 19 Outstanding in the Field dinners are $200 CAD, which includes wine paired to each course throughout the meal. Start time for both dinners is 4pm.

For more information and to make reservations, please visit www.outstandinginthefield.com .

Tofino Food & Wine Festival Photos

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To see photos from the 2009 Tofino Food 7 Wine Festival Click Here

Defending Our Backyard 2009

Tue, 2 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For story and photos click here.

Fifth Annual Organic Islands

Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Advance Tickets for the 5th Annual Organic Islands Festival & Sustainability Expo are now available. The festival takes place July 4 & 5 at Glendale Gardens, Victoria, BC

For more information on where to buy tickets and for a complete exhibitor's list go to the Organic Islands website.

This Week at the Pocket Markets

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This week at the pocket markets, we have Island: lettuce, kale, chard, chives, collards, green onions, parsley, braising greens, salad mix, fresh garlic, mint, tomatoes, rhubarb, spinach and eggs. We also have banana fingerling potatoes from Across the Creek in the Pemberton Valley; cucumbers from Delta; mushrooms from Kelowna; and apples (ten varieties this week) from Cawston.

FERNWOOD COMMUNITY MARKET: TUESDAY 4:30-8 in Fernwood Square

CENTENNIAL SQUARE : (Pandora side): TUESDAY and THURSDAY 12-5

DOCKSIDE GREEN: WEDNESDAY 12-5 and SATURDAY 9-1 beside Fol Epi Bakery, 398 Harbour Rd

4649 WEST SAANICH ROAD: WEDNESDAY and FRIDAY 12-5 beside Georgies and Urban Oasis Garden Centre

GORDON HEAD: THURSDAY 3-6 at St. Dunstans Anglican Church, 1806San Juan

ESTEVAN VILLAGE: THURSDAY 3-6 at the corner of Estevan and Musgrave

HUMBOLDT VALLEY: FRIDAY 1:30-5 on the plaza by Café Mela, 784 Humboldt

QUADRA VILLAGE: SATURDAY 10:30-2 on Kings Road near Café Fantastico

If you dont have a chance to visit the markets during the week, check us out at the warehouse market. Starting Saturday, June 6, we’ll be running a market at the warehouse (#3, 625 Hillside Ave between Government and Rock Bay) from 10-2.

Spot Prawns at La Gavroche

Wed, 20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The wait is over; Spot Prawn season is upon us in Vancouver. To celebrate, Le Gavroche has put together a 3-course, $45 Spot Prawn tasting menu. Enjoy our local, sustainable, and delicious Spot Prawns a multitude of ways, like Ceviche or Sautéed in Piri-Piri Spice. For an additional $25, treat yourself to wines masterfully paired with your meal by the pros at Le Gavroche.

At the Altar of Love

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Okanagan winery Blasted Church releases white wine in time for wedding season. 2008 Mixed Blessing – Blasted Church. Read the notes. www.blastedchurch.com

White Bear Wine to Aid Great Bear Rainforest

Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Artisan Wine Co is pleased to announce the launch of White Bear Wines, at the EPIC sustainable living expo this week. New aromatic BC wine, White Bear is 100% Okanagan grown and crafted. In partnership with several environmental
organizations, the winery has committed to raise awareness and funds for the long term preservation of the Great Bear Rainforest on BC's Central Coast and for the conservation of the Spirit Bear's habitat...Click here to read full report.

Sutton Place Hotel Baby Menu

Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Just in time for Mother's Day, The Sutton Place Hotels in Vancouver and Toronto will be launching a menu created specially for baby. "All of our hotels welcome children of all ages, however until now, baby food was not on our restaurant menus," says Wolfgang Dauke, Food and Beverage Manager of The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver. The new baby menu will be available in both Fleuri Restaurant in Vancouver, and Accents Restaurant & Bar in Toronto beginning Sunday, May 10th, coinciding with the ever-popular Mother's Day Brunch. Only the finest quality ingredients will be used to prepare baby's meal.

New Whole Foods in Cambie

Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Whole Foods opens a new Cambie location: The shelves are stocked, the menus are set, the fresh seafood chilled and the espresso is brewing. On April 29, Whole Foods Market is opening the doors to its newest and largest location in B.C. With more than 50,000 square feet of fresh local choices and prepared foods favourites, the new Cambie store offers extended product lines, improved environmental features and an expert team of specialists dedicated to creating a heightened shopping experience for customers on every visit.

A Matter of Taste Tour at UBC Museum

Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A MATTER of TASTE GROUP TOUR at the UBC MUSEUM of ANTHROPOLOGY
Explore the links between food and the MOA’s exceptional collection of 15th to 19th century ceramics in the Koerner European Ceramics Gallery. A tour of the gallery and a sampling of old-world foods is included. $12 per person also gets you into all Museum galleries. Call 604.822.3825 to book your group.

Organic Islands Festival

Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ORGANIC ISLANDS FESTIVAL: Anyone interested in participating in this year’s Organic Islands Festival should volunteer between April 1st and June 30th by contacting Jen Cizman at 250.658.8148. This festival, which runs July 4th and 5th, promotes a ‘Vancouver Island Diet’ and gives locals a chance to meet their producers as well as make new connections with up and coming green business leaders, eco-pioneers, and environmental activists. Learn more on www.organicislands.ca

Farm Help Needed

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nanaimo sheep producer Penny Stapleton needs to leave the country to go and help her ill mother. Penny has 80 plus sheep (including lambs) that need an EXPERIENCED live-in farm sitter as soon as possible.Penny can be

contact: 250-754-9966, email hollyhillfarm@shaw.ca

Van Mag Awards

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

• Brasserie L’Ecole - Best Victoria

• Sooke Harbour House - Best Vancouver Island

• The Pointe at the Wickaninnish Inn - Best Resort Dining

• Shawnigan's Amusé Bistro awarded Silver for Best Van Isle restaurant

"Amusé Bistro", Vancouver Magazine writes, "delivers proof positive that a short menu celebrating local ingredients means a talented couple can create a better restaurant than many a resort with more resources."

www.amusebistro.com

terralicious

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TERRALICIOUS GARDENING and COOKING SCHOOL: Early Spring session start Mar. 30 and go ‘til May 9. Learn how to plant a garden in your own backyard, tend a market garden, preserve your harvest, and cook an elegant meal with Tina Fraser-Baynes and Dayle Cosway at beautiful Haliburton Farm just outside Victoria. Visit terralicious.ca for details.