The Nosh Vancouver: Recent Episodes
Vancouver Co-op Radio
The Nosh is a weekly show about the people, places and issues behind what—and where—we eat and drink. Hosted by Anya Levykh.
Anya chats with Chef Alex Tung of Yowza Culinary Concepts and Chefs' Table Society of BC about the current state of the industry, opening and running small businesses, including his newest spot, Argyle Cafe in Ladner, seafood sustainability, mentorship, the work of CTS and whom it benefits, and all the deliciousness of life. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Chef Ricardo Valverde of Suyo Peruvian and the recently opened UCHU Raw Bar and Cevicheria about Nikkei, seafood, childhood influences, UCHU's menu and ethos, working in Chinatown, and so much more. And later, Chef Daniel Lee of Nabi House in East Van joins to chat about Royal Korean cuisine, cooking with his mom, simplicity over fuss, and the best tteokbokki in town.
Anya chats with Katya Movsesian, Head Sommelier at Folietta Restaurant in East Vancouver, about wine, bubbles, the industry, trying new wines on a budget, challenges for women in the industry, mentoring and paying it forward, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
From marketing to cupcakes to TV to farming to ice cream, this BC woman has gone through it all and is now making ice cream that is better for people and the planet, right from her home farm. Anya chats with founder Lori Joyce about her journey from the founding of Cupcakes in Vancouver to ice cream on the island. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Evan Saunders and Tanya Martin of Blasted Church Winery about growing grapes in Okanagan Falls, recovering after two cold snaps and what's on the vine right now, summer experiences at the winery (including pool parties, barbecues, and more), and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Executive Chef Jasper Cruikshank of L'Abattoir in Gastown about cooking in competitions, winning Canadian Culinary Championships, the French technique that drives the West Coast menu at L'Abattoir, comfort food, the industry, mentorship, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Kristin Zerbin, founder of Hoochy Booch Kombucha in East Van, about probiotics, gut health, fizzy delights, starting a business based on a "gut" instinct, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with John Clerides of Marquis Wine Cellars and Leeann Froese from Wines of Argentina about the humble French grape that found its forever home in Argentina's fertile Mendoza Valley at the foot of the Andes, and how went from minor Bordeaux addition to a premium single varietal that's taking over wine lists around the world. Listen in, eh?
From the winning podium at Top Chef Canada and cooking for then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to cooking under world-renowned chefs Ferran Adrià and Andoni Luis Aduriz, and opening restaurants in Montreal and now Vancouver, Chef Chanthy Yen of Touk Contemporary Cambodian chats with Anya about his culinary journey, his Cambodian roots, his sense of community, childhood inspirations, representing the LGBTQIA+ community on the competition stage, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Lead Culinary Instructor Ben Kiely of Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA) about the next generation of kitchen professionals, the current realities of the industry, how teaching culinary arts has evolved over the years, kitchen culture and the ongoing changes, PICA's programs and what current students are looking to do once they graduate, and so much more.
Anya chats with chef and Loam Bistro owner Rahul Negi about breakfast, sourcing local ingredients, seasonal treats, the resurgence of pistachio everything, growing up in coastal India, street food and restrained gluttony, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Wild whisky, as in literally made in the wild, is Canada's newest and most intriguing spirited offering from Master Blender Andres Faustinelli. Anya chats with Andres about what makes a good whisky, including the where, how and what goes into it, and thinking and creating inside and outside of the barrel. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Gail Nugent, publisher of The Alchemist Magazine and founder of Vancouver Cocktail Week, about cocktail culture in Vancouver, what makes this city stand out from others, the evolution of cocktails over the last 10 years, all the events during Cocktail Week and more. Listen in, eh?
multiple sub-appellations and growing regions, tips for an enjoyable wine fest experience, and so much more.Anya chats with Harry Hertscheg, Executive Director of the Vancouver International Wine Festival, about this year's theme region, new wineries, Mozart, supporting the arts and culture, the distinctive regions of BC's
Anya chats with owner and sake sommelier Iori Kataoka of Yuwa Japanese Cuisine, as well as sommelier Kiyomi Kodama, about wine, sake, terroir, merroir, culture and community, and a little about the upcoming Vancouver International Wine Festival. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Gizelle Pare, Executive Pastry Chef at Cin Cin Ristorante on Robson Street about Italian desserts, the delicate art of macarons and why they're one of the hardest things to make, breads and laminations, favourite spots around town, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with sommelier and hospitality veteran Kiyomi Kodama about the Japanese festival of Hinamatsuri, growing up in Brazil, cross-cultural eating and travel, favourite places around the city for dining and treats, making connections, and more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Henry Aboagye, co-founder of Mükasi Coffee Roasters in Abbotsford and New Westminster, about coffee, crema, roasting, beans and baking, and so much more.
Anya chats with Chef Tushar Tondalkar of Kavita Restaurant about modern Indian, cross-regional cooking, sustainable seafood, growing up around Goa, street food and fine dining, and so much more.
Anya chats with Lucas Pavan of Dine Out Vancouver about this year's festival, the events, classes, dinners, restaurants, foraginng adventures, the global chef exchange, all the deals for staying, dining, and seeing, and so much more.
Anya chats with Le Crocodile by Rob Feenie's new wine director, Andrew Forsyth, about wines for the holidays, bubbles for New Year, the finer points between cremant and champagne, the undisputed singularity of Chateau Margaux, pairing bubbles with latkes and other tasty things, the famed cellar at Le Crocodile, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Peter Van de Reep, Head Sommelier at L'Abattoir Restaurant in Gastown, about BC's wine forecast, local wine picks for the holidays, terroir and the study of rocks, the beauty of Cabernet Franc in BC, and much more.
From gluhwein to schnitzel, hot Aperol spritzes (really) to marzipan pigs, this year's Vancouver Christmas Market celebrates in traditional German style with food, drink and gifts from around the world. Anya chats with VCM President Denise Wagoner about what to taste, see, and hear over the next few weeks. Listen in anytime.
Anya chats with Bram Bolwijn of Iconic Wineries of BC about the state of the industry, grapes that grow best in BC, the remarkable properties of Cabernet Franc, pairing beyond the traditional practices, what to drink over the holidays, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with author and chef Bonny Reichert about her new book, How to Share an Egg, dealing with food scarcity, intergenerational trauma and being the child of a Holocaust survivor, the simple joy of sharing food, recipes from our grandmothers, the rigours of professional cooking school, and more.
The holiday season is just getting started, which means it's time to visit a Christmas market near you, and the North Shore's Shipyards market is definitely one not to miss. Anya chats with market co-founders John Van Rij and Erin Chamberlain about supporting BC artisans, delicious tours, community initiatives, and old-world mulled wine. Later, chef and instructor Hamid Salimian joins to talk about Vancouver Community College's Culinary Arts program, its Chef's Table fine dining series, and maybe even a future collab with Shipyards Christmas Market? 'Tis the season of magic, after all. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with owner Deepak Khanchi and executive chef Bal Ajagaonkar of Desi Indian Lounge in downtown Vancouver about coastal Indian cuisine, regional differences, cultural stagnation in the diaspora, modernizing traditional flavours, growing and sourcing local, the art of pairing wine and cocktails with Indian cuisines, and so much more. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Alana Dickson from the BC Hospitality Foundation about industry workers facing medical crises, the state of the hospitality industry, resources available for staff and owners, community, culture and care in BC and what makes this province's workers stand out, the issues around the changes regarding temporary foreign workers, how to entice young people into the industry, and the BCHF Spirit of Hospitality fundraiser and all the prizes you can win by just buying a ticket. Listen in, eh?
Anya chats with Chez Celine co-founders and former St. Lawrence luminaries Margaux Herder and David Lawson about casse-croute, Quebecois fare, opening in the Fraserhood, childhood favourites, pork chops and snails, and so much more.
Women continue to face unique challenges in the hospitality industry and one local organization is looking to remove those challenges and uplift female chefs and other industry professionals through mentorships, scholarships, and an epic night of food, drink, and competition. Anya chats with a group of women in the industry about what's improved in the industry, what still needs to change, how women are helping each other, and so much more.
The 2026 Canadian Culinary Championship is coming up and it all starts with regional qualifiers in 10 cities across Canada. Anya chats with some of the competing chefs and the Head Vancouver Judge for Kitchen Party Vancouver about culinary inspiration, industry ethos, creating in chaos, childhood dishes, supporting children and youth across Canada with access to food, sports, and music programs, and so much more.
Anya chats with Luppolo Brewing's Ryan Parfitt about the current state of the industry, the push against the current provincial taxing strategy, what makes a craft beer craft, wild yeasts, food-forward brews, and more.
From homey childhood favourites to modern French and Italian influences, Anya chats with Samson Iza-Fellows about his journey in the industry, the best kind of carrot cake, the cuisine of the poor, afternoon tea with a nostalgic twist, and so much more.
Anya chats with Skipper Otto co-founder and CEO Sonia Strobel about local fishers, the state of the industry for small fishing families, where all the seafood is going and why it's more expensive than ever, how we can support local fishers and sustainable seafood, what needs to change in the industry, and more.
From maple water to sugar shacks and scrambled eggs, plus summers in Quebec and tables champetres, Anya chats about (almost) everything, even caviar, with Chef J-C Poirier of St. Lawrence and Chez Celine, as well as the summer dining series that takes guests through a field-to-table experience with a twist.
'Pakals' means "Let's eat!" or "Let's feast" in Cebuano. In the Philippines, it's how you celebrate community, have fun, and come together. Now, a celebrated food writer and judge, along with two acclaimed chefs, are coming together to create a feast like no other. And later, a recap of Anya's chat with Diana Silva of Cake it Easy.
Anya chats with two founding members of a new Vancouver Island restaurant collective that is hoping to highlight the best of Island dining to locals and visitors alike, and later talks about farming, foraging, and dining local with Tomer Rockman of Stone's Throw Organics in Courtenay.
Curious about sake? And shoju? And rice? And water? (Yeah, it's a thing.) Anya chats with two of the city's most knowledgeable sake sommeliers and restaurateurs about this unique rice-based beverage that is not a wine and not a spirit, with a flavour profile that ranges from delicate and floral to bold and earthy. And yeah, there might be some barley talk as well. Listen in, eh?
How many chefs are too many? An upcoming event in support of Lapu Lapu Day victims tries to answer that question in the most delicious way. Anya chats with Chefs TJ Conwi and Andrea Aldridge about the event, comfort food, caring for community, fave childhood dishes, and more. And later, it's all about the Indian-French fusion at Peya Restaurant.
Three legendary Vancouver chefs are coming together to raise awareness and funds for mental health in the hospitality industry, and Anya chats with them about the changes they've seen over the decades, what needs to change moving forward, the challenges the industry is facing, and more.
From the comfort dishes of her Chinese-Canadian upbringing to her modern gluten-free lifestyle, this chef and food writer has been busy reimagining Asian dishes, sauces and condiments from a celiac-friendly perspective and is now set to release her first cookbook, all inspired by her best friend's (aka. husband's) celiac diagnosis. Anya chats with chef/writer Jannell Lo about her book, cooking and dining out with a gluten-free friend, the joys of chicken feet, and more.
Anya chats with Nikki Bayley, founder of Boards of Keremeos and now Boards of Vancouver about cheese, charcuterie, pickles, Spain, doing what makes you happy, grazing boards, plant-based cheeses, and more. And later, chef Mark Singson joins to talk about his fundraiser for Lapu Lapu Day victims, cooking on Top Chef Season 6, and finding balance.
Maria Ponce, executive chef for La Taqueria restaurant group, joins the show to chat about growing up in Mexico, cooking in the fine dining milieu, Mexican cuisine in Canada, the problematic nature of "authenticity," and more.Later, Anya chats with forager, farmer and chef Tomer Rockman about local supply, sustainability, urban foraging, and cooking in the field.
Those sweet, delicate crustaceans are back for another short season. Alex Tung from Chefs' Table Society is on to talk about the upcoming spot prawn festival, where to buy your prawns, how to cook them, and more. And later, Cake It Easy owner Diana Silva joins to chat about pandemic baking with her daughter and how that led to running successful business, ube sweets sans rival, bubble tea, and more.
It is a heavy week for the Filipino-Canadian community and for all who were impacted by the tragic events of Saturday, April 26, 2025 at the Lapu Lapu Festival. The community is still reeling but is already embodying the concept of "kapwa", the idea of "I am you, and I am not me without you," via counselling, financial support and most especially, food. Anya speaks with food writer, culinary judge, and cookbook author, Joie Alvaro Kent, Lee's Doughnuts owner Celine Bacani, and Ben Castro of Second Winds Counselling.
Anya chats with chef/owner Ashwani Dabas of Peya Restaurant about Indian-French fusions, moving beyond butter chicken and gulab jamun, mother sauces, and more. And later, pastry chef Ksenia Dempster talks spring desserts, cherry blossom onigiri, perfect pie crusts, and she and Anya wax rhapsodic over soft-serve ice cream, ek mek (IYKYK), and peaches.
Anya chats with chef Angus An of Maenam about his newest opening, the robustness of northeastern Thai cuisine, regional specialties, and more, and later, Tara Davies chats about her experiences behind the bar and running the show at Chupito, being a woman in the industry, living and working in Mexico, raicilla and mezcal, and Chupito 2.0.
Anya chats with industry veteran Tyson Reimer about his upcoming fish-and-chips (and more) shop in Hastings Sunrise, the ethics of eating octopus and Humboldt squid, the novels of S.E. Hinton, simple food done well, and more. And later, Patricia Massy of Massy Books talks about tariffs, Indigenous authors, and pivoting in the face of another potential economic crisis for the publishing industry.
The much-loved and long-running Sala Thai closed after almost 40 years of serving generations of loyal customers, but the story isn't over. The next generation is reimagining Thai at Jay Nok while paying homage to their family's legacy. Anya chats with co-founders Bobby Kongsilp and Bumpen “Nok” Khangrang, the husband-and-wife team behind the new False Creek restaurant. And later, Anya chats with Jennifer Kim of Nooroongji Books on Granville Island about the potential impacts to the Canadian publishing industry from the current trade war with the U.S.
Anya chats with Cyril de Ramos, the founder of Hanap Filipino Fusion Bakes about Filipino cuisine and desserts beyond ube, reinventing the classics, upcoming pop-ups, and more. Later, restaurant owners James Iranzad of Bufala, Lucky Taco, and Bells & Whistles, along with Vincent Nguyễn of Anh & Chi, talk about how they're dealing with reservation ghosting by doing good.
Anya chats with Brent Mansfield, elementary school teacher, co-founder of LunchLab, and school food advocate about running for a cause, the importance of school lunches, their educational and societal impacts, the recent news from the provincial and federal governments, and resetting the structural idea of school lunch entirely.
agan farmer and vice-president of BC Fruit Growers Association joins to talk about this year's coming harvest, the latest updates, help from the government, and the importance of buying local.
Anya chats with Canadian Culinary Champion Chef Alex Kim of Five Sails Restaurant in Vancouver about growing up in South Korea, cooking on his grandmother's farm, elevated dining, comfort food for chefs, and more. Later, Booker Winery joins to chat about the wines of Paso Robles and what to expect at wine fest.
Anya chats with Vancouver International Wine Festival executive director Harry Hertscheg about everything from the history of the festival, wine-cations, supporting Bard on the Beach, aha moments, the interconnectivity of wine regions north and south of the border, the BC wine industry's current challenges, and supporting BC wines. Later, winemaker Kurtis Ogasawara from Robert Mondavi Winery in California joins to chat about the winery's history at the wine fest, current growing challenges, the origins of fumée blanc, Chardonnay in the post-ABC world, and "salty" wines (not really, but kind of, yeah...).
From Jessica Simpson-inspired dishes to 10-auntie recipes, the perils of sticky rice, red pockets, slinging haggis and sucking eyeballs, it's a lively discussion with four chefs who are also presenting their own favourite dishes for Lunar New Year at a new chef demo series at Metropolis at Metrotown.
From pairing wine with Asian cuisines to gluten- and dairy-free Lunar New Year feasts, plus local producers supporting Chinatown, it's a packed show as Anya chats with Cheryl Chang of Nourished Kitchen, Christine Coletta of Haywire Winery, and Carrie Leung from Vancouver Chinatown Foundation.
Anya chats with Alana Dickson from the BC Hospitality Foundation about helping those in need, the current state of the industry and its workers, and how you can help. Later, Chris Noske from Heritage Acres Distilling in Abbotsford joins the show to chat about BC's goldrush past, preserving Barkerville, and a hurdy-gurdy gin for the holidays.
From photography and design to waffles and making waves, it's a packed hour with Medina Cafe owner Robbie Kane as he chats with Anya about family, friends, creating great experiences, Liege waffles, and more.
From bike mechanics and working a salad bar to writing about food systems and culture, this award-winning author and journalist has covered a lot of ground and explores the idea of food for both pleasure and sustenance in her latest book. Anya chats with andrea bennett, senior editor at The Tyee, about Hearty: On Cooking, Eating, and Growing Food for Pleasure and Subsistence.
From small-town beginnings in Prince George to three-Michelin-star restaurants in London and Disney cruise ships, the immigrant experience, discovering sushi, and cuisine without borders, Anya chats with Executive Chef Garett Blundell and Head Sushi Chef Jae Cho of The Victor steak and seafood house at Parq Vancouver about putting the fun back into fine dining.
From his childhood in the Philippines working in the family restaurant to launching and running glittering hotel and corporate kitchens to working to fight food waste and food insecurity, this chef has served up almost half a million meals over the last five years to those that need them most. Anya chats with chef TJ Conwi, owner of ONO Vancouver about "Robin Hooding" food (without the stealing), the dangers of aesthetically pleasing produce, poorly seasoned chicken, and so much more.
Anya chats with Sarah and Murray Bancroft of Birch Block Vineyard about the journey from cooking and high fashion to wine and agriculture, raising grapes, working with UBC Farm, and more.
Anya chats with award-winning author and journalist Timothy Taylor about his latest book, The Rise and Fall of Magic Wolf, as well as mentors and strange journeys, hybrid cuisines, the connection between this novel and his first, Stanley Park, becoming a restaurant critic, uncovering family history, the social world of food, and more.
From a small village in Belgium to the northern wilds of Dawson Creek and Quesnel, and then to Vancouver and fine-dining, this seasoned front of house veteran has seen—and done—it all, and now she's serving it back with the launch and expansion of TIPS (To Insure Proper Service) Academy, which offers training to newcomers to Canada, as well as those entering or looking to upgrade in the profession. Anya chats with Sandrine about leaving home as a teen, becoming a bouncer, overcoming an introverted personality, respecting boundaries, reigniting your passion, and the true meaning of "the customer is always right."
From the culture of nhậu and eating frog legs to save the environment, to cocktails that tell a story and drinking "collagen juice," it's a packed show chatting with co-owner Amelie Nguyen and beverage director Ben Kingstone of Good Thief.
Solving puzzles, surprising takes on chicories, the many definitions of Pacific Northwest cuisine, tastes of home, being an ambassador for B.C. wine, salsa macha (not the tea), spice levels, cooking hyper local on a grand scale, and so much more. Anya chats with Executive Chef Hector Laguna and Wine Director Matt Jacobson of Botanist Restaurant at the Fairmont Pacific Rim about it all.
From cooking in Alsace to winning Iron Chef to taking over the reigns at Le Crocodile, Rob Feenie's career has spanned many styles and situations. Anya chats with the renowned chef about growing up in Burnaby, travelling as a teenager, cooking and drinking in Russia (really), mentors, traditions and legacies, cracked glass (the kind you eat), and future plans both in and out of the restaurant.
From talking to the fish (really) to defining a new Kyushu style of omakase infused with West Coast ingredients and sensibilities, Chef Hiroshi Hoshiko and owner Yuki Aida have turned a quiet corner of Lonsdale into a small retreat that transports you to Japan. Anya chats with the pair about Sushi Mahana, the omakase experience, brulee on eggs and more.
The Philippines are a group of 6,000+ islands and more than 200 languages and cultures. The idea of Filipino cuisine as being a monolith of steam-table cafeteria-style fare is one that has persisted too long and is now slowly being replaced with the understading that what we know about Filipino cuisine represents only a tiny fraction of the whole story. A group of intrepid Filipino-Canadians are launching a collaborative dining series that explores the essence and evolution of Filipino cuisine, its diversity of regions and flavours, and what it means to be Filipino in Canada. Anya chats with the group behind Indáy to learn more.
It's all about community building, great coffee, continuing a Strathcona legacy, and becoming a gentrifier for a cause as Anya chats with Union Market owner Aman Loodu.
His pâtés and terrines became a byword when he was working at the city's best French restaurant and now he is striking out on his own with a venture that it sure to 'spread' in popularity. Anya chats with Chef Colin Johnson of Le Petit Chapeau about pâté, kitchen culture, cooking for pleasure, working in restaurants on both sides of the Atlantic, and more.
This chef and restaurateur has done everything and pretty much seen everything in his time in the industry, ranging from fine dining to cooking on the downlow. Anya chats with DownLow Chicken founder and chef Doug Stephen about fried chicken, confit bacon, creating safe spaces for kids—and snacks, the sepia-toned restaurants of our youth, going from cork dork to slushie nerd, playing Tetris with walk-in fridges, and more.
His professional background has gone from deep sea bomb detection to butcher to chef and a whole lot in between. Now, he cooks and collaborates in Whistler at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre. Anya chats with chef Steven Fecho about hooshum berries, cooking with local and seasonal ingredients, the perils and positives of smoking fish (even in summer), switching from fine dining to casual cookery and back, and more.
Her breads and baked goods have been a byword in restaurant kitchens for years, as has her Commercial Drive storefront. Claire Livia Lassam, owner of Livia Bakery, Pasta and Wine Bar, joins Anya to talk about bread, baking, kitchen culture, food as community, the ups and downs of potato bread, feeding kids, the dreaded "P" word, embracing the slow life, eating together, the importance of carbs, and so much more.
In a remote town on the northern west coast of Vancouver Island lies a small but mighty restaurant that has become of one of the best in Canada. Pluvio in Ucluelet is run by a husband-and-wife team who have turned this tiny town into a dining destination. Anya chats with them about their love of rain, cooking, hospitality, fried chicken, fine dining, doughnuts, adventures with bears, and more.
Anya travels to Tofino to chat with Executive Chef Clayton Fontaine of The Wickaninnish Inn's The Pointe Restaurant about cooking on the Wild Wet Coast vs. East Coast, how local and sustainable plays out on the northern tip of Vancouver Island, the extraordinary pace of changing menus, growing anything in a temperature rain forest, local suppliers, the Relais & Châteaux experience, and more.
Two much-lauded restaurateurs, Meeru Dhalwala of Vij's and Rangoli, and Shira Blustein of The Acorn, have come together to open Lila on Main Street. They chat with Anya about the restaurant, the menus, working together, friendship, food sustainability, the culture and politics behind plant-based, vegetarian and flexitarian eating, avoiding labels, the concept of welcome, and more.
Bud break has arrived in the Okanagan, but this year's harvest isn't likely to produce the bumper crops of years past. Anya chats with BC wine and fruit growers about the current outlook, how this will impact wine and fruit production down the road, and how local consumers can support these local industries, including some fantastic experiences you can explore this summer.
Going out for a drink is starting to take on a new meaning. Gone are the days when choosing the non-alcoholic option meant going for pop or juice or perhaps sparkling water. The growing number of people seeking out low-alcohol or zero-proof options shows this is more than just a passing trend and restaurants and retailers are taking note. Anya chats with two purveyors of zero-proof beverages and discusses the intricacies behind making these non-alcoholic tipples.
Mikaela Cannon is an ardent nature enthusiast, forager and educator who recently published her book, Foraging as a Way of Life. She chats with host Anya Levykh about becoming comfortable in the wild, foraging in Sweden and Canada year-round, what to cook with your spoils, and more.
The challenges that the hospitality industry is currently facing are unprecedented, with more than half of all restaurants not only not making a profit, but not even breaking even. Anya chats with a panel of industry insiders about where we can go from here.
Anya chats with Bearfoot Bistro's executive chef Dominic Fortin about his journey through the industry, cooking and pastry at Bearfoot, Sooke and other spots, the history of the sugar shack, and what's on the menu this week.
'Tis the season to celebrate citrus and Jane Squier grows a remarkable array of citrus in her Salt Spring Island greenhouse at The Garden. Anya chats with Jane about hardy citrus in cool-weather climates, anaerobic digestion, closed-loop environments, Buddha's Hand and kaffir limes, passion projects, switching from lettuce and basil to citrus and avocados, heating (or not) in the cooler months, where to find her citrus (mainly at restaurants), and more.
Anya chats with Dallah el Chami, chef and owner of Superbaba, about his upcoming new project, Mishmish Bakery in the Fraserhood, Jerusalem bagels, shewarma, nostalgia, third-culture cuisine, the making and use of halva, the history of French fries in MENA countries, and more.
Anya chats with winemaker Raffaele Boscaini, Chief Technical Director for Masi Agricola, about his family's winery, seven generations of winemaking, the rise of Valpolicelle and Amaro, the terroir of northern Italy and the Dolomites, the wines, fermentation, cork vs. stelvin vs. new polymers, and much more.
Anya chats with Ksenia Demspter, founder of Nice Cake Co. and aspiring baker, about being nice, making cakes, the best cookies in the city, baking at home, dogs, and more.
Recorded live at the Vancouver International Wine Festival, Anya chats with two California winemakers, Kyle Jury of Harvey and Harriet Winery and Drew Schneider of The Prisoner. From terroir and tannins to cultivating a cult wine, it's a lively set of discussions on the tasting room floor, as well as a tasting of the best of both wineries.
Recorded live from the Vancouver International Wine Festival! Anya chats with Beppe d'Andrea of Ruffino and Kurtis Ogasawara of Robert Mondavi about Italian and Californian wines, polpette, the post-ABC wine world, and more.
Anya chats with Chef Ricardo Valverde about modern Peruvian cuisine, the influences of Nikkei cuisine, and others, growing up in the kitchen, cooking for kids, opening Suyo Modern Peruvian Cuisine in Mount Pleasant, and more.
Anya chats with Canadian Culinary Champion chef Jasper Cruikshank and CCC judges Joie alvaro Kent and Douglas Chang about the recent national battle for kitchen supremacy.
Anya chats with pastry chef Julien Salomoni about baking, bread, pastry, the art of lamination, and teaching the art of baking and love.
Anya chats with Margarita Valou of Echo Haskap Farms and Andrew Raines of Haywire Winery.
Anya chats with Lucas Pavan of Dine Out Vancouver about this year's festival, the special events, the participating restaurants, the visiting chefs and so much more.
Winter festivities mean just one thing...it's caviar season! Anya chats with International House of Caviar's Amir Rad about the history of caviar, its origins, varieties and production, red vs. black, how to pair with food and drink, and so much more.
On the Golden Mile Bench, this south Okanagan winery crafts estate wines that speak of minimal intervention, gentle handling and some really lovely wines. And this season, those wines are getting some intersectional visuals from a local artist. Anya chats with Culmina Family Estate Winery Estate Manager & Sommelier Maryke Vandermal, and Vancouver-based artist and sculptor Tara Lee Bennett about wine, terroir, taste and art.
While the smaller islands around Vancouver Island are popular destinations in the summer, there’s something to be said for visiting during the quieter winter months, specifically the Southern Gulf Islands. Like Tofino, this small group of islands have a become a food, drink and cultural destination year round. Anya chats with Amanda Stars of Pender Island Chocolates, Jesse Keefer of Bodega Ridge Resort, and Jaimie Stirling of Southern Gulf Islands Tourism about where to go, and what to eat and drink, while you're there.
It’s a centuries-old tradition in Germany, but in Vancouver, it’s only been 13 years since the Vancouver Christmas Market was launched, bringing with all things merry and bright. Anya chats with market founder Malte Kluetz, as well as first-time vendor Daniel Nielsen, co-founder of Churchkhela, the Georgian Sweet House.
Anya chats with chef and restaurateur Angus An about cooking, the evolution of Thai food in Vancouver, the opening of Mekong in Whistler, and more.
Anya chats with Scott Elliott, CEO of The Dr. Peter Foundation, and Amelie Nguyen, co-founder of Anh and Chi restaurant and co-chair of the Passions gala, about this year's event, which is often called the city's best small gala. It's also one of the best food events of the years, with an exciting line-up of chefs, mixologists, somms and more, all coming together for a fantastic cause. Listen to hear all the details and the story behind how a small fundraiser a local cookbook store has raised more than $2 million dollars and is set to raise even more.
The Vancouver International Wine Festival is taking place in a few months, this time with a focus on Italian wines. Anya chats with renowned sommelier and wine educator Filippo Bortolotta about the rise of Lambrusco and the frizzante of it all, la cucina povera and its connection to Italian wine, especially Chianti, and the wide world of Italian varietals, including what you might find at the festival.
Anya chats with Mark Taylor of Vancouver International Wine Festival about the upcoming event, the theme region of Italy, the wineries and countries that will be participating, the origins of the festival, its charitable partner, and so much more!
Anya chats with industry veterans Shiva Reddy of Burdock & Co., and Pricilla Deo of Folke, about the challenges women still face in the industry and the opportunities that are helping to combat them.
Anya chats with Joanna Jagger of WORTH Association and Eleanor Chow Waterfall of Cadeaux Bakery about being a woman in hospitality and the upcoming Yes Shef! fundraiser.
Anya chats with chefs and judges from the Canadian Culinary Championship and Canada's Great Kitchen Party about the upcoming regional qualifier in Vancouver, the Olympian challenges that the competing chefs undertake, and the not-for-profits that benefit from it all.
Anya chats with patissier and master chocolate maker Steve Hodge of West Vancouver's Temper Pastry & Chocolate about his new book, tempering chocolate, growing up on the North Shore, flavours outside the box, and more.
Anya chats with Betty Hung of Beaucoup Bakery and Lee Man of Chinese Restaurant Awards about the upcoming festival, the symbols and meaning behind the foods, and the places you can go to taste and participate in the festivities.
Anya chats with a couple of winery owners in the Okanagan about the recent wildfires, the current harvest, and the state of the wine industry moving forward.
A significant new restaurant opening in Whistler last year has expanded the dining landscape in the popular ski town and Anya chats with two of the partners about the food, concept and people behind it all.
Anya chats with the people behind the annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival about all the tasty treats and fun you'll find there, as well as the history behind Vancouver's Chinatown and its continuing evolution.
Anya chats with some of the chefs and fishers behind the upcoming BC Seafood Festival on Vancover Island about the events, the seafood, the state of the industry, and digging moats (yes, real moats).
Anya chats with a panel of experts about all things Filipino and delicious in honour of Filipino Heritage Month.
Anya chats with Como Taperia founder Shaun Layton about Spanish tapa, fish in tins, being recognized by the Spanish government, not your grandma's sherry, the bikini, and more.
Anya chats with chef Justin Cheung and Ernest Lee of the newly opened Street Hawker in Mount Pleasant, and later, gets all the details about this year's Spot Prawn Festival and how to get your spotted catch.
Alex chats with Alex Hamer, founder of BC Distilled, the annual spirited event that celebrates BC's craft spirits industry.
Anya chats with Provence wine director Joshua Carlson about the re-opening of TWB after a three-year hiatus and the 100+ by-the-glass wines (plus all the bottles) that are on offer.
Anya chats with Folke Restaurant co-owner and pastry chef Pricilla Deo about plant-based dining, ethical sourcing, baking with sourdough, the art of timing, and paying a living wage.
The Vancouver International Wine Festival is back and better than ever. Anya chats with wine fest executive director Harry Hertscheg about what visitors can expect this year, the participating countries and wineries, the theme region, and tips to maximize your experience (and minimize faux pas) in the tasting room.
Anya chats with gelato master and Uno managing partner Andres Bermudez about ice cream, gelato, sorbetto, old-world traditions, Italian hazelnuts, Miami, and more.
Anya chats with Maj Yee of Goldilocks Bake Shop about Filipino treats, pandesal, ube, Easter, family traditions, women breaking barriers, and more.
Anya chats with Brian Thompson of Myca Farms in Langley about mushrooms, mycology, and more.
Anya chats with Chef Jean-Francis Quaglia of Provence about Provencal cooking, almost 30 years of running restaurants, and what's coming up for this southern French hotspot.
Anya chats with Jillian Brooks, founder and owner of Metis Bannock Queen, about Indigenous foods, bannock, salted caramel and more.
Anya chats with finalists Bobby Milheron and Aaron Lee of Wentworth Hospitality Group and senior Vancouver judge Joie Alvaro Kent about the recent Canadian Culinary Championships in Ottawa, including some "blow-out" moments.
Anya takes a trip down memory lane with Iron Chef Rob Feenie and talks about his current menu at Bacchus at the Wedgewood Hotel and plans for the future.
The team behind Archer Restaurant joins Anya for a chat about what contemporary Canadian cuisine really means.
Anya chats with Globe and Mail columnist and culinary judge Alexandra Gill about restaurants, the hospitality industry, what to expect in 2023, and dining like a critic.
Anya chats with lauded chef Eva Chin about food, sustainability, Lunar New Year, how Canadian and Chinese cuisine have both evolved over the years, and cooking with a sense of place.
Anya chats with chef and founder Lee Cooper of L'Abattoir, along with director of operations Chad Clark and head pastry chef Oliver Bernardino, about cooking outside the box, 12 years in Gastown, being selfish (in a good way) and more.
Anya chats with Lee Man, food writer and founding judge of the Chinese Restaurant Awards, about this year's winners, the new format and categories of the awards program, and how Chinese restaurants have evolved in BC.
Chinese-Canadian restaurants have become a staple across Canada, from coast to coast, in even the smallest of towns and most remote of locations (think in the environs of the Arctic circle). Anya chats with local baker, author and multidisciplinary creator Jackie Kai Ellis, who is hosting a new docuseries that explores these quintessentially Canadian establishments and the dishes and stories behind the menus.
Anya has a joyous, hilarious and heartfelt conversation with Michelin-starred chef Andrea Carlson, chef and instructor Hamid Salimian, and food writer and judge Joie Alvaro Kent about the hospitality industry and an upcoming event that supports Canadian chefs, athletes and musicians. It just might be the coolest kitchen party you've ever been to.
Anya chats with Globe and Mail restaurant critic Alexandra Gill and Chinese Restaurant Awards founding judge Lee Man about the recently announced Michelin awards for Vancouver and what this means for the industry.
Anya chats with Hanna McLean, National Dished Editor at Daily Hive in Vancouver, about what we can expect for fall. New restaurants, trends on the plate and in the glass, places we've had to say farewell to, and more.
Anya chats with mixologist Sabrine Dhaliwal of Juke Fried Chicken and The Chickadee Room about cocktails for fall, Vancouver's bar scene, zero-proof drinking, and more.
Anya chats with Lee Murphy, co-founder of Vista D'Oro Farms and Winery about jams, jellies, toast, wine, walnuts, sustainability, and so much more.
Anya chats with Stephanie French, co-founder of The Pie Shoppe in East Vancouver, about pies, pizza, wine, supporting local and sustainable producers and growers, cooking at home, and Tinder dates (really).
Anya chats with Douglas Chang of Chinatown's Ai and Om Knives about cooking, cutting, steel, cilantro and so much more.
Anya speaks with Angus An, chef and owner of the award-winning Maenam, as well as Fat Mao, Longtail Kitchen, Popina, Freebird, and Sen Pad Thai.
Anya chats with Meeru Dhalwala, co-owner of Vij's and founder of the Joy of Feeding about sustainable and social eating, UBC Farm, and celebrating local.
Anya speaks with Evan Saunders, winemaker at Blasted Church Vineyards in Okanagan Falls, about wine, terroir, the new Chardonnay, and more.
It’s peak summer, which means it’s also peak salmon season. Wild salmon is everywhere and this coming weekend, the Wild Salmon Festival is taking place at False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf and chefs Darren Clay and Julian Bond are here to talk salmon, sustainable fishing, and more.
Last week we heard about how Michelin came to Vancouver and what we can expect from the guide in its first year here. This week, we speak with industry veteran James Iranzad of Gooseneck Hospitality and food writer and judge Lee Man about what this means not only for the restaurant industry here, but also for diners, as well as potential pros and cons.
Vancouver went into a tizzy a few weeks ago when it was announced that the famed Michelin Guide would be coming to the city later this fall. But what does this mean for restaurants, hotels and the industry? Anya speaks with Royce Chwin from Destination Vancouver to hear how we got to this point and what we can expect.
There's a new wave of young, talented chefs reimagining Chinese cuisine and Vancouver's Chinese Restaurant Awards is showcasing some of their ideas at a series of dinners starting later this summer. Anya chats with Chinese Restaurant Awards founding judge Lee Man and chef Eva Chin about the tastes to come, the evolution of Chinese cuisine in Canada, and the changing meaning of authenticity.
In the quiet Summerland region, a small crush pad has achieved big things and bubs with its wines.
The art of cocktails has come a long way from the Cosmopolitan and one of the key ingredients to any cocktail is ice, ice, baby. Anya speaks with Jay Browne of Kodama Ice Co. about cocktails, ice cubes (and spheres) and Vancouver's bar scene.
Anya speaks with Robert Belcham, industry veteran and founder of Cook's Camp, an initiative designed to help hospitality workers navigate the challenges of the industry.
Anya speaks with Nathan Todd of Foxtrot Vineyards on the Naramata Bench about their world-class Pinot Noirs and later, with Dave Brinacombe of Wayward Distillery on Vancouver Island.
After a couple years that included a global pandemic, floods, fires and a heat dome, BC’s wineries are starting to return to a semblance of what you might call normal. And, on the Skaha Bench, a relatively new sub-appellation in the Okanagan, one winery is pushing the boundaries of wine making and marketing.
A new Peruvian restaurant will soon open in Mount Pleasant and a plant-based meal delivery service uses a talented team of chefs to create meals that even the most carnivorous can enjoy.
The Steveston Spot Prawn & Seafood Festival is running its inaugural event and craft beer is being celebrated once again in Vancouver this summer with an exciting outdoor event.
A small distillery on Vancouver Island is putting Campbell River on the international spirits map and in Vancouver, a popular small wine event that focuses on terroir-driven wines is back after a two-year hiatus.
Five Sails Restaurant at The Vancouver Convention Centre has been taken over by Glowbal Group Restaurants, with a revived focus on sustainable seafood. And May marks the return of one of Vancouver's most popular food events, the annual Spot Prawn Festival.
The region around Kamloops has a growing wine presence and Monte Creek Winery is helping define its terroir and taste. And, after a pandemic-induced hiatus, the Vancouver International Wine Fest is back this May and we've got all the details.
For those who think good food ends at the City of Vancouver boundaries, think again. Langley has been serving gourmet eats and supplies for well over a decade at Well Seasoned and later, Hanna McLean from Daily Hive joins to discuss the resurgence of the divine doughnut, in all its fried, baked and creamy forms.
Easter is almost upon us, but we don't need an excuse to talk about baked goods, Paris and chocolate, right? And a popular—and carnivorous—festival is coming back to Vancouver, Victoria and Calgary this summer.
A new restaurant brings Singaporean flavours to Chinatown, an action-packed and friendly competition sees local chefs cooking up curry and a virtual Fam Jam is helping to feed hungry kids.
In East Van, the talented team behind Dachi has partnered up with some new talents to open two new and rather distinct restaurants. And, some restaurants are battling Vancouver's infamous no-show diners with a reservation program that also does good for the community. Vincent Nguyen of Anh and Chi and James Iranzad of Bells & Whistles and Bufala Pizzeria tell us more.
The latest city fracas revolves around the temporary patio program, but there are some welcome updates, and, as Nowruz approaches, Anya speaks with chef/owner Bardia Ilbeiggie of Delara Restaurant in Kitsilano.
It's all about local hooch and making whoopie (pies, that is) as Anya chats with BC Distilled founder Alex Hamer and owner Katie McGuire of East Van's Whoopie Dee Doo and Modern Perogie.
A new restaurant and grocer on Commercial Drive is redefining the hospitality experience and, closer to Chinatown, a local chef is reinventing dumplings for a growing and ardent fan base.
Low or no-alcohol drinking is on the rise and sommelier Kurtis Kolt joins to chat about what's happening in the city. And, later, Chef Jen Peters, co-founder of The Good Flour Co., talks about all things gluten-free, yeast-free and wheat-free.
Gail Johnson of Stir Magazine joins to talk Valentine's eats and treats, and later, Chef Andrea Alridge of Savio Volpe talks cooking, competing and childhood inspiration.
A long-standing local Gastown restaurant has expanded its service to Vancouver Island and later, Sam Shem of The Dessert Club chats about what Lunar New Year means to him and where you can shop and dine to celebrate the Year of the Tiger.
A small local bakery in Burnaby is celebrating five years of creating French pastries and cakes and, in Chinatown, a local pastry chef is combining the Asian flavours of his childhood with French techniques to create innovative and award-winning goodies.
Hanna McLean of Daily Hive joins to tell us about what's up and coming on the restaurant scene and later, Hot Chocolate Festival founder Rhonda May gives us the sweet inside scoop on what to expect for this year's cocoa-based event.
John Bishop chats about 36 years in the restaurant industry, farm-to-table, sustainable dining, the closing of Bishop's, and what's next.
A plant-based restaurant in Yaletown is redefining what it means to stick to the veg and a celebration of all-things cocktail is coming to Vancouver this March.
Local pastry chef Sam Shem is reinventing how we think of dessert. And, new restaurant Land and Sea is creating elevated Japanese and West Coast fare that is shining a new light on Kerrisdale dining.
A new restaurant in the Shangri-La Hotel downtown brings a northern Italian focus and Dine Out Vancouver is gearing up for its 20th year of celebrating restaurants from White Rock to Whistler.
A local bakery is celebrating four years on the North Shore with a new location and offerings. And, on Granville Island, PICA is continuing its quarter-century tradition of turning out fine chefs, bakers and holiday meals.
A local restaurant is celebrating their half-decade anniversary, and their long family history in the community, with flair and fun and some family-style menus for December.
The Critics' Choice winners for the 13th annual Chinese Restaurant Awards have been announced and there are some surprises and new faces. And on Main Street, one local brewery is spearheading an initiative to help Lower Mainland families and support local businesses at the same time.
Junior Culinary Team Canada is preparing for the Culinary Olympics and you can try one of their dishes this month. And Vancouver's most popular fundraising and foodie event, Passions, is back this December to once again raise funds for The Dr. Peter Centre and raise a glass to the gala's late founder, Nathan Fong.
We talk regenerative and dry farming with Gene Covert of Covert Farms in Oliver and Dine Strathcona is back in that neighbourhood to help support a local not-for-profit while also serving up some delicious dishes.
A local food writer has turned her attention to Vancouver Island with a new cookbook that celebrates everything edible and a popular Christmas market is back for an extended run.
Anya speaks with Asha Wheeldon of Kula Kitchen, a plant-based, Afro-centric catering company, and Justin Cheung, owner and chef of Potluck Hawker Eatery.
In North Vancouver, a long-standing local pub has undergone a visual and culinary transformation, while in East Van, a hyper-local series of artisan markets are running through the fall.
A local chocolate shop is celebrating a decade of excellence and options for Thanksgiving range from traditional to non-turkey takes.
In North Vancouver, a popular local ramen joint undergoes a metamorphosis and, in East Van, a pop-up dining experience returns to Vancouver Community College.
Fall means festivals and events galore, and while some things may be different this year, good food and drink are a lovely constant in times of change. Hear about some meat, cheese and beer events coming soon.
Vaccine passports in British Columbia are now in effect and restaurants are dealing with the challenges in a variety of ways.
An annual industry event aims to help those in hospitality navigate a changing industry and later we discuss what needs to change in the industry to keep attracting and retaining people.
Anya visits Watermark Beach Resort in Osoyoos, BC, Canada and indulges in a wine tasting and chat with wine director Ron Rocher at the resort's new restaurant, 15 Park Bistro.
A local chef and restaurateur has been honoured by the French government and in Oliver, a small, lakefront winery is putting out some lovely and light wines.
An East Van restaurant is celebrating a "marrowing" first year, while in Oliver, a new winery is bringing a French twist to local wine varietals.
Wine Growers British Columbia recently recognized one Okanagan wine ambassador with its highest honour, and, in Osoyoos, a small bakery has their created an enthusiastic following for its organic sourdough-based goods.
A grand new Oliver winery has a restaurant that is placing terroir at the forefront, and, on Granville Island, a new restaurant and cantina is bringing not just Mexican cuisine but culture to the masses.
Art and audacious food collide for a peak dining experience in Whistler this summer, while in the Okanagan's Golden Mile, one winery restaurant continues to set a "gold" standard.
A major—and meaty—event is coming back to Vancouver and Victoria this fall and, in Osoyoos, one restaurant is honouring the local histories and stories of the Indigenous Peoples of the region.
In the heart of Osoyoos, a famed resort gets a new restaurant with a new look, a new menu, and a new bar program, and a Vancouver café and baker have partnered to offer up some amazing treats that celebrate Vietnamese and Filipino flavours.
In Coal Harbour, a popular café and bakery gets an elegant update. And, a new neighbourhood spot is brightening up a busy corner in East Van with local goods and some killer sandwiches.
A new restaurant in the West End continues to expand despite pandemic-related restrictions, and, in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, a local diner launches a new type of picnic to go.
Restaurants are back open for dine-in and the province is gradually lifting restrictions, but now the hospitality industry is facing another challenge—staffing. Restaurants are scrambling to find staff and the challenge is heightened by the fact that the last year has seen a large number of workers leave the industry entirely. And, later, we hear how four Chinese restaurants have become game changers for a traditional milieu.
After 15 years of producing wines with a twist, one local Okanagan winery is celebrating the Nostalgia with a new name, new look and new wines. And, in Yaletown, a new store is filling a niche demand.
A family-run Okanagan winery is celebrating a decade of making great wine and, in East Van, sandwiches, specifically subs, are getting a modern—and tasty—makeover.
A global pandemic may not seem like a great time to launch a brand-new restaurant at a high-end hotel, but that’s just what’s happening at one local property in downtown Vancouver, and it looks like this will be a Shangri-La summer for us all.
Picnic season is here, so it's a great time to talk about the runny, sharp, creamy and mushroomy world of cheese. And if you're looking for other ingredients for that basket, our local farmers' markets have a lot on offer, and some new locations to explore.
Spot prawn season is launching in a few days and this year's festival will be a little different. And a new fundraiser for hospitality workers give an inside look at what it's like to run a restaurant during a pandemic.
Two local organizations have joined forces to create a pilot program for women newcomers designed to help them launch their own food businesses. And, Mother's Day is just around the corner, so we've rounded up some great options for the women in your life.
Cocktail kits are gaining ground and The Chickadee Room at Juke Fried Chicken has some great new options. And spring dining has launched despite the dine-in restrictions with patio dinners galore, including a full kaiseki experience at Miku Restaurant.
Food is one of the universal ways to show love and care. And what could be more loving than food for those in need or local chocolate made in a sustainable, fair-trade and gender-equalized way?
It might be a partial shutdown, but that hasn't stopped some new restaurants from opening up.
The recent announcement from the provincial government removing dine-in for restaurants and cafes was an unexpected and sudden change that now has local businesses scrambling - and fuming.
Canada's Department of Fisheries and Oceans has issued an announcement prohibiting the sale of frozen-at-sea spot prawns by local harvesters. One local harvester joins us to talk about the reasoning behind the decision and the impacts on the fishing industry.
It's been exactly one year since COVID-19 caused a massive shutdown of bars, restaurants and cafes across the country. We check in with two restaurateurs on how they've weathered the pandemic and where they see the industry going in the coming year.
Butter has suddenly become a hot topic, thanks to one Canadian writer's researches into what's been going on over the last year with this fatty delight. The details may surprise you.
The wine and beer industries are joining the fight to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in their workspaces. Hear about some local initiatives and how you can help.
A local restaurant is taking guests on a culinary tour de force through the best food regions of France. And, on Vancouver Island, an award-winning distillery starts 2021 with a bang by creating the top artisan spirit in Canada.
One local seafood purveyor has come up with a few fresh ideas and a BBQ favourite is back in a new location in Mount Pleasant.
A popular Gastown restaurant has launched a new burger-forward menu and, elsewhere, a farm-to-table ethos drives comfort in a whole new way.
The Chinese Restaurant Awards have launched a Feast of Fortune to give back and Dine Out Vancouver is back in a big--albeit slightly different--way.
One Whistler bakery is making waves with its organic sourdough and Hot Chocolate Vancouver is offering dozens of sweet hot delights.
A local not-for-profit is offering multiple scholarships for women and those identifying as female in the hospitality, culinary and related industries; and we look at what's new and upcoming in the restaurant scene.
The ongoing, and sometimes last-minute, restrictions in the hospitality industry have impacted jobs and businesses across the province. Hear about the impacts, both past and potential, and what to expect in the coming months.
One of the city's most loved family diners has a new space and an expanded menu; and there's still time to choose a good bubbly for NYE. Curious what to pair with that bubbly? We go over all the options.
A Commercial Drive bakery is spicing up the holidays and downtown's most beloved breakfast and brunch spot has expanded to after-dark dining.
The holidays are fast approaching and with less than two weeks left, people are scrambling to find good—and safe—gifts for loved ones. How about cookies? And with more people turning to delivery services, one company has created a loyal following for its forward-thinking and local-supporting approach.
You've heard of wine and cheese, but beer and cheese? Main Street Brewing is running a holiday drive this month to benefit underprivileged kids and Les Amis du Fromage is stocking up on all your favourite creams, blues and accompanying bites.
A new local brewery creates a food menu that defies definition; and cocktail kits for the holidays will make those Zoom parties just about bearable.
Restaurants are facing challenges on multiple fronts, from loss of revenue and staff, to outrageous delivery fees and the physical, emotional and mental toll on their staff. Some restaurant owners have come up with innovative solutions and supportive initiatives.
Two new restaurants are offering up classic comfort, but with innovative twists that encompass Korean, northern Chinese and other disparate flavours.
Cowichan Valley wines continue to be top of mind, thanks to the area being named BC's newest official wine region. And wine dinners at one local restaurant involve hearty choucroute and more.
The days are getting shorter and a little wetter, which means there's more time at night to eat, drink and indulge in lush wines, heady cocktails, and all the truffles of the season. Dining out safely can still be delicious and delightful, and some restaurants are going that extra step to create some special experiences.
The annual Whistler Cornucopia Food & Drink Festival is usually a lavish, extravagant and crowded two weeks of indulgence and learning. This year, the event is still happening, but in a safer, more socially-distanced way.
Vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, plant-based...these terms have become part of the common lexicon of dining and two local restaurants are redefining what that means.
No need to worry about feeding the thousands, but with families still gathering to carve the turkey--or the ham--where can we go to dine out, take away, and celebrate with our six? Hear about lots of tasty options, from meat-centric to plant-based, gluten-free and more.
The last six months have proven challenging for the hospitality industry, but the greatest challenges are still to come as patio season - and temporary government supports - end. The pandemic and its attendant restrictions are still here, so what does that mean for our favourite watering holes?
The Mid-Autumn or Harvest Moon Festival is coming up, meaning it's time for moon cakes and other fall treats! And Salmon n' Bannock is celebrating 10 years of serving up First Nations fare in Vancouver.
The 31st annual Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards took place on September 14. VanMag Food Editor Neal McLellan joins Anya Levykh and fellow judges Joie Alvaro Kent and Lee Man to talk about the winners, the awards process, the current state of the industry, and the challenges of the coming year.
Opening during a pandemic may not seem like great timing, but for one new local wine bar, it's spelling good fortune. And, in the South Okanagan, Hester Creek Winery has relaunched its restaurant, Terrafina, and adapted to the new normal.
After 12 years, Campagnolo on Main Street is closing its doors and the Cowichan Valley is BC's newest official wine region.
The Critics' Choice winners of the Chinese Restaurant Awards are announced, Yuwa Japanese talks patios and summer features, Modern Meat's plant-based products offer local meat alternatives, and Chambar goes "into the wild."
DineOut Vancouver is months away, but restaurants need a boost now, and Tourism Vancouver is launching Dine Outside to help restaurants beat the summertime lack of tourism heat. A new nose-to-tail restaurant has opened its doors, chef Justin Cheung celebrates his Malaysian roots with Potluck, and we hear chat with Fairmont Chateau Whistler about what's good to eat in the mountains.
After 23 years of award-winning fine-dining service in Burnaby, The Pear Tree is closing its doors--not due to the pandemic, but what is becoming a common refrain...an unmanageable lease increase. In the West End, legendary gay nightclub Numbers has been given a new lease--and patio--thanks to next-door neighbour Marquis Wine Cellars. And Fresh Roots Urban Farms is supporting food security through a unique, virtual farm-to-table dinner.
Gin-based cocktails are the speakeasy drink of summer. We chat with Charles Tremewen of Long Table Distillery about essential cocktails, as well as a new Mexican-Japanese pop-up from Aburi Restaurants and a new sandwich company that's turning heads.
Angus An, owner and chef of Maenam, one of Vancouver's top restaurants, is about to release his first cookbook. We'll also chat with sommelier Shiva Reddy about wines for summer sipping and Amy Ho of popular blog Constellation Inspiration will be telling us about her new book, Blooms and Baking.
Opening a restaurant can be a daunting and harrowing experience at the best of times. Opening one around a global pandemic that has the economy partially shut down can be an act of revolution. A few local restaurants have taken on the challenge and opened, or are set to open, against the odds.
The province has opened up travel to BC residents and lakefront cottages and ferries are filling up quickly. Even the tiny town of Tofino is back open for business, as well as surrounding Indigenous destinations. Find out where you can visit--and which places you should avoid.
As the province gradually reopens, the ongoing demand for all things local and artisanal is ramping up, and local restaurants, co-operatives and other small businesses are answering the call. Those products, and the businesses behind them, are winning awards, receiving support from celebrities and locals, and looking to change the way we shop and eat for the better.
The issue of racism, on both an individual and systemic level, has been top of mind for many people and industries lately, including the food, wine and hospitality sectors. But what are the issues for the Black community and other people of colour working in these fields today? And, how can we all make things better?
With schools closed, hot lunch programs and other programs that feed kids and their families have needed to adapt. Meanwhile, local breweries are adjusting to the new normal and restaurants are approaching the new dine-in reality in unique ways. And patio approvals are getting expedited to help small businesses--sometimes.
Liquor store sales have rocketed during the last two months, as we all turn to liquid therapy. Restaurants have stepped up with everything from cocktail kits to discounted wine sales, and wineries, distillers and brewers are gearing up for a busy and challenging season.
Grocery stores are running out of yeast and flour; people are abandoning the gluten-free lifestyle in droves, and cooking is starting to feel impossible. Restaurants have stepped into the fray, offering pantry staples, meal kits, and more, as we all eat our feelings and return to the starchy days of our youth.
With many people laid off or on reduced hours, food insecurity is affecting a wider swath of society. The closure of many restaurants and reduced capacity of others means that local food producers are feeling the pinch as well. Here's how some restaurants and not-for-profit organizations are taking on the challenge of feeding people and keeping distribution channels alive.
In this edition of The Nosh, host Anya Levykh discusses restaurants pivoting to meal kits and take out with Shelley McArthur Everett from Breaking Bread, Ernesto Gomez from Nuba and Chancho, and Justin Tisdall from Juke Fried Chicken and Beet Box.
In the debut episode of The Nosh, host Anya Levykh is joined by Dana Lee Harris from the BC Hospitality Foundation, Sean Reeve, chef/owner and founder of the Staff Meal program, Miki Ellis, owner, Dachi, and Betty Hung from Beaucoup Bakery,