Late Night Dinner at Pho Mimosa in Granville Street, Vancouver

I did something I hadn't done in a long time: volunteer in person.

Compassion Canada was looking for volunteers for the "for KING & COUNTRY" concert at Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Downtown Vancouver. I have a confession: I didn't know the band before volunteering and spent the last few nights listening to their songs on YouTube.

It was fun to volunteer in person. After our volunteering part (during the intermission), we enjoyed the second part of the show.

I haven't been to a concert since forever (12 years ago?), and it was fun, but I wish I knew more of their songs. After the show, I exited the Queen Elizabeth Theatre to see my husband standing outside. We're both giddy that our dear Vancouver Whitecaps FC won 6-2 (six!!!) against Houston Dynamo at nearby BC Place.

I told him I wanted ramen, but after 10:00 PM, all ramen shops Downtown were closed. Grr. His alternative proposal: pho. I searched for pho restaurants, and only two are open until 11:00 PM, one of which is Pho Mimosa along Granville Street.

Before you judge me (okay, you're allowed to judge), I last ate at 12:30 PM lunch, and it's already 10:30 PM, and I was standing up for about 3 hours. Surprisingly, I'm not feeling hungry, but I know that when my mom reads this, she'll nag me not to eat or drink anything cold and no alcohol because it'll upset my stomach.

I wanted pho but spotted my favourite Vietnamese Beef Stew, so I ordered everything I wanted and overate.

The first thing to arrive at our table is the Hoanh Thanh Soup (Pork and Shrimp Wontons soup with no noodles). I took a spoonful, and it warmed my stomach. It's like a comforting hug after a tiring day. The Pork & Shrimp Wontons are nice too. If I'm back to strictly dieting, I'll be happy to order this without the noodles.

#28 Hoanh Thanh Soup from Pho Mimosa
Pork and Shrimp Wontons Soup

Afterwards, hubby's Pho Dac Biet (Special Beef Noodle Soup) arrived. He gave me a bite of each meat and offered me a bite of the noodles, which was so good. At this point, I regret not getting a bowl of pho.

#31 Pho Dac Biet from Pho Mimosa
Special Beef Noodle Soup (rare beef, brisket, beef balls, tendon and tripe)

Then, my Com Bo Kho (Vietnamese Beef Stew) arrived alongside a bowl of rice. The pieces of beef are so tender, which is why it's my favourite. Then, because I was feeling greedy, I ordered an Extra Grilled Chicken on the side, which was terrific. It's sweet, tender, and perfectly cooked.

#49 Com Bo Kho from Pho Mimosa
Vietnamese Beef Stew with Rice

Extra Grilled Chicken from Pho Mimosa

The Cha Gio (Deep Fried Pork Spring Rolls) is the last thing to arrive. It's huge. At least, it's bigger than what I remember we get from other pho restaurants, or maybe it's how it's presented. It's delicious, too - crispy exterior and flavourful interior.

#1 Cha Gio from Pho Mimosa
Deep-Fried Pork Spring Rolls

After dinner, we walked across Granville Bridge because I needed to burn calories after eating so much. We also enjoyed looking at the waning gibbous moon. It's so beautiful.

Queen Elizabeth Theatre Food and Drinks Menu | Vancouver, BC

Below is the food and drinks menu of Queen Elizabeth Theatre. I recommend eating elsewhere before going in for your show. This was taken during a concert and caterers may become available depending on the show.

Inside Queen Elizabeth Theatre

The prices are all in Canadian dollars and does not include taxes and tips. Information are subject to change without prior notice. Moreover, Vancouver Civic Theatres only accept debit and credit card.

Menu	Price
Beer & Cider (355 ml Cans)	Price
Red Truck Craft Beer	$9.25
No Boats on Sunday Apple Cider	$9.25
Nude Coolers | Whiteclaw	$9.25
Red & White Wine (5 oz pour)	Price
Gray Monk Pinot Gris	$9.25
Red Rooster Merlot	$9.25
Sterling Vintners Chardonnay	$12.00
Sterling Cabernet Chardonnay	$12.00
Sparkling Wine (200 mL bottle)	Price
Henkell Trocken	$11.00
Spirits	Price
House Spirits	$9.25
Premium Spirits	$12.00
Drinks	Price
Pop	$5.00
Juice	$5.00
Redbull	$5.00
Sparkling Water	$5.00
Bottled Water	$5.00
Coffee	$3.50
Tea	$3.50
Hot Chocolate	$5.00
Latte	$5.00
Cappuccino	$5.00
Spirited Coffee	$9.25
Snacks	Price
Chips	$3.00
Kitkat	$3.00
Candy Bags	$5.00
VCT Chocolate Bar	$6.00

Proudly Philippines 2023: Food and Travel Fair in Vancouver

The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver announced PROUDLY PHILIPPINES 2023: Philippine Food and Travel Fair.

Source: PCG in Vancouver website

When is Proudly Philippines 2023: Food and Travel Fair?

June 3, 2023, Saturday

What time?

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Where is the Proudly Philippines 2023: Food and Travel Fair?

Similar to last year, it will be at Robson Square in Downtown Vancouver.

As of March 16, 2023, the PCG in Vancouver is now accepting applications for participation as vendors for the event.

What to expect in Proudly Philippines 2023 Food and Travel Fair?

Enjoy summer with Filipino food, products, and businesses as well as awesome performances.

The event will be hosted by Cristina Carpio of CTV Morning Live

GMA PinoyTV Tinikling 2.0 Challenge

Join the Tinikling 2.0 Dance Challenge with a Hip-Hop Twist! Win $1,500 and more amazing prices.

How to register?
Register your group by sending an email to culturalselection@vancouverpcg.org on or before May 26, 2023. Don't forget to include your group name, members, email, contact details, and hip-hop dance music for approval.

Minimum Number of Group Members: Four (4)

Criteria for Judging:

• 35% Peformance (Technical Skills
• 35% Choreohraphy (Creativity)
• 20% Audience Impact
• 10% Costume

How long is your performance? 2-3.5 minutes performance per group

List of Food Vendors at Proudly Philippines 2023: Food and Travel Fair:

The list below is uploaded on the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver Facebook page on May 29, 2023.

Angco Grand Impex Bukobaba Cake It Easy Dale's Food Products Eat Kanadiyan Goldilocks Heritage Baking KaonTa Chicken Inasal

Kape Philippine Coffee Kasama Chocolate Kaye Bakes Keyk Breads Kulinarya Filipino Eatery Leavenly Goods Macao Imperial Tea Surrey Max's Restaurants

Mr. Siopao de Langley Pampanga's Cuisine Plato Filipino Potato Corner Prospere Global Trading Inc. Sago Togo Shameless Buns Telly's Manila Kitchen

List of Non-Food Vendors at Proudly Philippines 2023: Food and Travel Fair:

The list below is uploaded on the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver Facebook page on May 30, 2023.

Artsy Candles Bee Inspired Emsager Photography Eunoia Naturale

GMA PinoyTV Hablon Styles & Hues La Moda Optibella Narda's

Malaya Handcraft Novae Student PNB Global Remit Summit Kids

List of Travel Booths at Proudly Philippines 2023: Food and Travel Fair:

The list below is uploaded on the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver Facebook page on June 1, 2023. One of the booth is for Department of Tourism.

I & J Travel Maligaya Travel

New Millennium Holidays One Dream Travel

Philippine Travel Tourmasters Travel

June's Blizzard Treat of the Month: Reese's® Caramel Pretzel Blizzard® Treat from Dairy Queen

This is the perfect Blizzard Treat for me. I love savoury flavours over sweets (my husband is the sweet-tooth) so the Reese's® Caramel Pretzel Blizzard® Treat from Dairy Queen is the perfect one for me.

Reese's Caramel Pretzel Blizzard Treat from Dairy Queen

It includes sweet and creamy world-famous DQ soft-serve with salty peanuts and crunchy pretzels and to push it over the edge is an indulgent peanut butter cup. I can't get over how much I love this. Can I have it again in large this time?

Below is a list of Blizzard Treat from Dairy Queen that we have tried.

• Cake Batter Cookie Dough Blizzard Treat
• Caramel Fudge Cheesecake Blizzard Treat
• COFFEE CRISP® Caramel Macchiato Blizzard Treat
• OREO® Hot Cocoa Blizzard Treat
• Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat
• Reese's® Caramel Pretzel Blizzard® Treat
• Skor® Blizzard Treat

Caramel Fudge Cheesecake Blizzard Treat from Dairy Queen

After a delicious burger from Dairy Queen, hubby picked the Caramel Fudge Cheesecake Blizzard Treat for dessert. It's sweet on sweet on sweet and he absolutely loves it.

Caramel Fudge Cheesecake Blizzard Treat from Dairy Queen
Vanilla soft serve, salted caramel truffles, cheesecake pieces, and caramel topping

Indulge in the ultimate cheesecake experience with the Caramel Fudge Cheesecake Blizzard® Treat from Dairy Queen. This innovative creation combines all your favorite classic flavors in one irresistible treat, ensuring you never have to choose between your dessert cravings again.

Prepare your taste buds for a delightful blend of salted caramel truffles, creamy cheesecake pieces, and rich caramel topping, all expertly mixed with Dairy Queen's famous vanilla soft serve. Each spoonful offers a symphony of textures and flavors, with the smoothness of the soft serve beautifully complemented by the chewy caramel truffles and velvety cheesecake bites. The combination of sweet and salty notes adds an extra layer of indulgence, satisfying your sweet summertime cravings to perfection.

Caramel Fudge Cheesecake Blizzard Treat from Dairy Queen

We enjoyed our Blizzard Treat on our walk home under the blaze of spring sunshine. It's a beautiful Sunday!

Backyard Bacon Ranch Signature Stackburger from Dairy Queen

Today is the first time I am trying the savoury items from Dairy Queen. My husband ordered the New Backyard Bacon Ranch Signature Stackburger since it's new. This burger is messy so grab a lot of napkins to try and keep your hands clean!

The 100% beef patties are incredibly satisfying with their meaty goodness. What sets this burger apart is the delightful combination of sweet honey BBQ sauce and tangy ranch dressing. The flavors harmonize beautifully, striking the perfect balance that will have you craving more. Unlike recent BBQ releases from other fast food chains (McDonald's and Tim Hortons), this burger avoids excessive sweetness, making it a refreshing change.

Backyard Bacon Ranch Signature Stackburger from Dairy Queen
100% seasoned real beef patties, topped with ranch dressing, honey BBQ sauce, crispy golden onion rings, applewood smoked bacon, and two slices of perfectly melted white cheddar served on a soft and toasted bun.

But the deliciousness doesn't stop there. The addition of savory applewood smoked bacon brings a smoky and savory note, while the perfectly melted white cheddar cheese adds a creamy and comforting element. But my favourite part of the burger is the crispy golden onion rings adds a satisfying crunch to each bite, enhancing the texture of the burger.

As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for not trying Dairy Queen's burgers sooner. With their Backyard Bacon Ranch Signature Stackburger, they have certainly raised the bar and given other fast food joints a run for their money. Trust me, this burger is worth the mess and the urge to reach for more napkins. Don't miss out on this flavor-packed delight!

Bacon Two Cheese Deluxe Signature Stackburger from Dairy Queen

My husband and I recently visited the Kitsilano location of the Vancouver Public Library, and we decided to grab lunch at Dairy Queen. It was our first time trying their savory items, and I opted for the mouthwatering Bacon Two Cheese Deluxe Signature Stackburger.

Bacon Two Cheese Deluxe Signature Stackburger from Dairy Queen
It features two 100% seasoned real beef patties, topped with two types of perfectly melted cheese, Applewood smoked bacon, tomato, onion, lettuce, pickles, ketchup, and mayo on a soft toasted bun.

To my delightful surprise, the burger was absolutely delicious. The 100% beef patties had a meaty flavor that satisfied my cravings. While they weren't as juicy as I had hoped, I must say that Dairy Queen's burger gives McDonald's Quarter Pounder a run for its money.

Bacon Two Cheese Deluxe Signature Stackburger from Dairy Queen
It features two 100% seasoned real beef patties, topped with two types of perfectly melted cheese, Applewood smoked bacon, tomato, onion, lettuce, pickles, ketchup, and mayo on a soft toasted bun.

The addition of juicy tomatoes, fresh lettuce, tangy pickles, and raw onions perfectly complemented the savory beef and creamy melted cheese. Each bite was a delightful combination of flavors.

Dairy Queen has truly stepped up its game and is giving other fast food joints a serious competition. I can't help but regret not trying their burgers sooner.

Wagyu Curry from WA! CURRY by ABURI Restaurants

I'd like to think that I'm a Japanese curry specialist because it's my favourite food. I order Japanese curry in every Japanese restaurant I visit when available. I noticed that my favourite is Japanese beef curry. It's darker in colour and has a deeper flavour than the more common chicken-based curry sauce. In most restaurants, you will find the chicken-based curry sauce.

With that said, my favourite Japanese curry in Vancouver is from Suika - it's my basis if another curry is good. It's a beef stew Japanese curry with shredded melt-in-your-mouth beef. It's usually served with pickled vegetables for a palate cleanser. The closest and my second favourite curry sauce is from Takenaka Japanese food truck. Lastly, Mr. Japanese Curry has a delicious beef curry sauce too.

WA! Curry offers a Wagyu Curry base served with rice, and you can choose your topping. We tried it with Pork Katsu (my go-to), Hamburg Steak, Chicken Karaage, and Ebi Fry.

The sauce is close to what I get from Suika, so I am pleasantly surprised. However, it needs pickled veggies as a side dish to cut through the fat and as a palate cleanser.

The Pork Katsu is still the best topping, and theirs was less fatty than I thought it would be. Meanwhile, the Hamburg Steak is perfect with just plain rice without curry sauce. It's just too juicy and good on its own to go with the curry.

Wagyu Curry topped with Pork Katsu and Hamburg Steak from WA! Curry by ABURI Restaurants

On the other hand, their Chicken Karaage was quite disappointing. I hoped it was more crispy and juicy. Mr. Japanese Curry has a better one. If I have to pick a second side, the Ebi Fry surprisingly worked. The sweet, succulent shrimp, in contrast to the curry sauce, was excellent.

Wagyu Curry topped with Ebi Fry and Chicken Karaage from WA! Curry by ABURI Restaurants

The only thing that would make the curry better if there's an option to add heat. Even a level 2 spiciness would improve the curry and help cut through the greasiness. Will I come back again? Maybe. There's an option for the Wagyu Curry Stew base, which was sold out when we got there. I might come back to try that.

Cinnamon Coffee Cake from Starbucks

After lunch at Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House, we grabbed desserts from the Starbucks inside Safeway. 

I am not a fan of any dessert that includes cinnamon, so my husband was amused that I chose the Cinnamon Coffee Cake from Starbucks. However, my brain read coffee cake, which was sufficient to make me try it. Unfortunately, when I took a bite, that's the only time it sync in that there's "cinnamon" at the name of the dessert I picked.

Cinnamon Coffee Cake from Starbucks

If you love the cinnamon flavour, this is the dessert to go with. Otherwise, the Double Chocolate Brownie is more than enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Double Chocolate Brownie from Starbucks

Deep-Fried Pork Chop and more at Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House

Happy Victoria Day! It's a non-working holiday in BC, Canada. So hubby and I decided to walk the span of Arbutus Walkway from 12th Avenue to the southern end. After 1.5 hours and more than 7 kilometres of walking, we found ourselves famished at the end of Granville Street.

I have been eyeing Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House every time Bus 10 would pass by, and today I got to try their food. Please note that they do not accept credit cards.

We ordered all our favourite Taiwanese food:

• C1. Deep-Fried Pork Chop with Rice
• C2. Deep-Fried Chicken Thigh with Rice
• E13. Deep-Fried Salty Pepper Chicken
• E20. Deep-Fried Taiwanese Sausages

C1. Deep-Fried Pork Chop with Rice from Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House

The Pork Chop is better than the Chicken Thigh. It's fattier, and the breading worked better on it. While the Chicken Thigh was juicy in its own right, it lacked flavour.

C2. Deep-Fried Chicken Thigh with Rice from Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House

My favourite is the Salty Pepper Chicken. It's seasoned perfectly! Although, Redbeef's version is still my favourite from the Beef Noodle Houses I have tried.

E13. Deep-Fried Salty Pepper Chicken from Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House

Lastly, the Taiwanese Sausage arrived sliced, which is a surprise since it usually comes as a full link. It works well with rice.

E20. Deep-Fried Taiwanese Sausage from Wang's Taiwanese Beef Noodle House

I'll return to try the beef noodle soup next time since it's their specialty.

Assorted Waffles from Whitewood Coffee in Oak Street, Vancouver BC

My husband and I took a walk from church to Queen Elizabeth Park. We even went inside the Bloedel Conservatory for the first time. On our way home, we agreed to hang out at a coffee shop we haven't been before. I checked Google Maps and spotted 3 possible coffee shops. The first one closed at 3:00 PM, the next is too small and is already packed while the last one is the spacious Whitewood Coffee at the corner of Oak Street and 16th Avenue.

Iced Mocha from Whitewood Coffee

I ordered one of each available waffle flavour: Sugary Churro Waffle, Earl Grey Waffle, and Classic Waffle. For our drink, we went for an Iced Mocha.

Classic Waffle, Sugar Churro Waffle
and Earl Grey Waffle from Whitewood Coffe in Oak Street

• Classic Waffle - It's late in the day so it's a bit stale. I bet this would be amazing first thing in the morning. It's not as sweet as the Sugary Churro Waffle so it's perfect with either sweet or bitter drink.
• Earl Grey Waffle - Wow. The Earl Grey flavour is strong with this one. This is the perfect waffle for hot chocolate or sweeter drinks.
• Sugary Churro Waffle - For black coffee or tea, this would be the perfect accompaniment. It's sweet and delicious. It made our Iced Mocha taste more bitter.

I love the calm ambiance of this coffee shop. People can just relax and slow down while enjoying good food and amazing coffee.

Refreshing and Fruity: Tim Hortons' New Sparkling Quenchers

It's a beautiful cloudy day in Vancouver and it's a perfect time to take long walks while enjoying the Blood Orange Ginger Sparkling Quencher and Blackberry Yuzu Sparkling Quencher from Tim Hortons.

Blood Orange Ginger Sparkling Quencher

I was expecting a sweet slightly tangy flavour from the Blood Orange Ginger Sparkling Quencher from Tim Hortons, instead all I got is the bold warm ginger after taste.

I didn't enjoy it, but if you like ginger this is a good option for you.

Blood Orange Ginger Sparkling Quencher from Tim Hortons

Blackberry Yuzu Sparkling Quencher

Why do I feel like they added Yuzu to the name of the drink to make it sound cool and exotic but there's absolutely no yuzu flavour to this drink. It's essentially a sweet blackberry iced drink.

Blackberry Yuzu Sparkling Quencher from Tim Hortons

I am not a fam of both drinks but if you twist my arm to make a choice I would go for the Blackberry Yuzu Sparkling Quencher. The ginger after taste on the first drink is just too much for me.

Have you tried one or both drinks? What do you think?

Tim Hortons BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Bowl

Enjoy a delicious and convenient meal with Tim Hortons' latest creation—the BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Bowl. If you're craving the mouthwatering combination of crispy chicken coated in a smoky barbecue glaze, along with wholesome grains, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of creamy barbecue sauce, this bowl is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Tim Hortons BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Bowl from Tim Hortons

Same with the wrap version, I found the barbecue glaze too sweet. Everything else was delicious - the medley of grains, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers. The BBQ Crispy Chicken was the downfall - too sweet barbecue sauce and not crispy chicken.

Trying Popeyes' Ghost Pepper Chicken Sandwich

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen never fails to impress when it comes to bold flavours and fiery sensations. In their latest limited-time offering, the Ghost Pepper Chicken Sandwich, Popeyes combines their renowned expertise in fried chicken with the intense heat of ghost peppers.

Ghost Pepper Chicken Sandwich from Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

At the heart of Popeyes' Ghost Pepper Chicken Sandwich is a perfectly cooked, all-white meat chicken breast fillet. Marinated in an authentic blend of Louisiana seasonings, the chicken is expertly hand-battered and breaded in a buttermilk coating. The result? A symphony of textures, with the exterior boasting an irresistible crunch while the interior remains tender and juicy. Unlike some fried options, this sandwich impresses with its lack of excess oil, making each bite a delightful and satisfying experience.

Ghost Pepper Chicken Sandwich from Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

One of the standout features of the Ghost Pepper Chicken Sandwich is the ghost pepper mayo, delivering a subtle heat that adds depth to every mouthful. While not as fiery as the Ghost Pepper Chicken Ranch Chicken Sandwich from Wendy's, Popeyes strikes a harmonious balance, allowing the heat to complement rather than overpower the overall flavour profile. Accompanied by crunchy pickles that provide a refreshing tang and contrast to the spiciness, this sandwich is a well-rounded delight that caters to a range of palates.

Overall, it's a delicious sandwich but can be enjoyed even by those with mild tolerance to spicy food.

Crispy Delight: A Review of Popeyes Flounder Fish Sandwich

Are you looking for a mouthwatering seafood experience combining crispy goodness with tender flounder fillets? Look no further than Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and their irresistible Flounder Fish Sandwich. In this blog post, I'll share my firsthand experience of savouring this delectable sandwich and how it exceeded my expectations, even when ordered for delivery.

With my first bite, I was greeted by a delightful contrast of textures. The exterior coating of the flounder fillet boasted a satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the tender and flavorful fish inside. Despite the sandwich being delivered, the crispy exterior remained intact, showcasing the quality and attention to detail in Popeyes' preparation.

Flounder Fish Sandwich from Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

What impressed me the most was the way the flavours harmonized. The flounder fillet was succulent and perfectly cooked, offering a delicate and mild taste. The tartar sauce added a creamy and slightly tangy note, while the pickles provided a refreshing crunch and a hint of zing. It was a harmonious symphony of flavours that left me craving more.

One thing that sets Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen apart from other fast food chains, particularly those known for their delectable fried chicken, is their inclusion of a seafood sandwich on their menu. While many fast food establishments focus primarily on fried chicken, Popeyes' introduction of the Flounder Fish Sandwich is a pleasant surprise. It's refreshing to find a crispy and flavorful seafood offering amidst the sea of chicken sandwiches, showcasing Popeyes' commitment to offering diverse and satisfying choices for their customers.

Cool Down with McDonald's Confetti Cookie Dough McFlurry: A Burst of Color and Creaminess

As the scorching heat wave continues to hit Vancouver, McDonald's Canada has introduced a delightful treat to help beat the heat — the Confetti Cookie Dough McFlurry. Combining smooth vanilla soft serve, colorful candy confetti, and chunks of cookie dough, this McFlurry promises a cool and creamy dessert experience. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of this vibrant creation, share our firsthand experience, and offer insights into its flavor and texture.

Confetti Cookie Dough McFlurry from McDonald's

The McFlurry is a refreshing treat perfectly suited for hot summer days. The smooth and creamy vanilla soft serve forms the base of this delectable dessert, providing a cool respite from the sweltering heat. As we took our first spoonful, the velvety texture of the soft serve instantly brought relief and a sense of indulgence.

One of the unique aspects of this McFlurry is the addition of colorful candy confetti. While the confetti doesn't contribute significant additional sweetness, it adds a playful burst of color to the dessert. The vibrant confetti speckled throughout the McFlurry creates an eye-catching appearance that appeals to both children and the young at heart. Beyond aesthetics, the confetti also adds a slight variation in texture, providing a subtle crunch amidst the creamy soft serve.

Confetti Cookie Dough McFlurry from McDonald's

The star of the Confetti Cookie Dough McFlurry is undoubtedly the chunks of cookie dough scattered throughout. These generous portions of cookie dough provide a delightful softness to each spoonful. With its own distinct flavor, the cookie dough adds a hint of sweetness and a comforting taste reminiscent of freshly baked cookies. The combination of the creamy soft serve and the cookie dough creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

As we savored the Confetti Cookie Dough McFlurry during the Vancouver heat wave, we found it to be a perfect treat to combat the soaring temperatures.

McDonald's Canada's New Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder

McDonald's Canada is constantly innovating its menu, and the latest addition to its lineup is the limited-time Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder. With a tantalizing combination of flavours, this burger aims to please both BBQ enthusiasts and burger lovers alike. In this blog post, I'll share details of this new creation, share my first-hand experience, and provide an honest assessment of whether it lives up to expectations.

Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder from McDonald's Canada
100% Canadian quarter pound* beef patty topped with sweet and spicy chipotle BBQ sauce, hickory smoked bacon strips, crispy onions, pickles, and two slices of processed cheddar cheese served on a toasted sesame bun.

The Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder boasts a 100% Canadian quarter-pound beef patty that forms the foundation of this burger. One of the standout elements is the surprising depth of beef flavour, which caught me off guard in the best possible way. While we don't typically order quarter-pounders, this one impressed me with its juicy and robust taste.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the sweet and spicy chipotle BBQ sauce. Its tangy notes add a zesty kick that elevates the overall flavour profile. Combining the smoky chipotle and the sweetness of the BBQ sauce creates a delightful contrast, making each bite an explosion of taste.

Accompanying the beef and sauce are hickory-smoked bacon strips, crispy onions, pickles, and two slices of processed cheddar cheese. These toppings contribute to the overall texture and flavour complexity. The bacon adds a smoky and savoury element, while the crispy onions provide a satisfying crunch. The pickles offer a refreshing tang, and the cheese brings a creamy richness to the ensemble.

Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder from McDonald's Canada

After savouring the Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder, I reflected on our experience. While it was undoubtedly enjoyable, it didn't leave a lasting impression that would make it a regular order for me. Although the beef flavour was surprisingly good, the overall combination of ingredients didn't quite match my personal preferences. In comparison, I found the previously introduced Carolina BBQ Quarter Pounder to be a more compelling option.

McDonald's Canada's Chipotle BBQ Quarter Pounder may not be a personal favourite, but taste preferences can vary, and we encourage you to try it and decide for yourself. So visit your nearest McDonald's Canada location to indulge in this limited-time offering, and let us know your thoughts!

Wendy's Brings the Heat with Limited Time Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich

Wendy's has once again upped their sandwich game with the limited-time release of the Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich. If you're a fan of spicy food, this sandwich is a must-try. However, with three layers of ghost pepper heat, it's not for the faint of heart.

Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich from Wendy's

The star of the sandwich is the Spicy Chicken filet, which is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. But what makes this sandwich even more special are the toppings. The ghost pepper seasoned fried onions provide a subtle sweetness and crunchiness that balances the spice. The ghost pepper American cheese adds a creamy, cheesy element, while the ghost pepper ranch dressing brings it all together with a cooling sensation.

Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich from Wendy's

The lettuce and tomatoes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy flavours of the sandwich, and the soft bun completes the package. While it's not as spicy as the Fired Up Chicken, it still packs a punch.

In addition to the Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich, Wendy's has also released Ghost Pepper Fries. This natural-cut, skin-on fries are tossed in a spicy ghost pepper sauce, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their food. The combination of the crispy texture of the fries and the spicy sauce is sure to please any fan of spicy food. So if you're looking for a side to accompany your Ghost Pepper Chicken Ranch Chicken Sandwich, these fries are the perfect choice.

Ghost Pepper Fries from Wendy's

The Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich and Ghost Pepper Fries are delicious and satisfying options for those who enjoy spicy food. So don't be chicken – try it while it's still available at Wendy's!

Tim Hortons NEW BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Wrap: A Sweet and Messy Meal

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delectable combination of flavours? Tim Hortons has just released its newest creation, the BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Wrap. Packed with succulent crispy chicken coated in a smoky barbecue glaze, paired with a medley of grains, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and drizzled with creamy barbecue sauce, all wrapped in a 10-inch soft tortilla, this wrap promises to be a mouthwatering experience.

NEW BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Wrap from Tim Hortons

We tried it today for lunch, and it was delivered with the smoky barbecue glaze covering everything from the grains, chickens, and all the vegetables inside. However, it's really messy to eat, and I find it too sweet.

It has such great potential to be a portable, easy lunch option, but hard to justify the mess it created. Be sure to wash your hands afterwards, or you'll get barbecue sauce all over your keyboard or phone.

I think the BBQ Crispy Chicken Loaded Bowl would be better and easier to eat.

Salted Egg Yolk Croissant and more at Lumiere Cafe

I love the corner of West Broadway and Cambie Street. The area has so many restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes. Today, we visited Lumiere Cafe for the first time, and I was overwhelmed by the number of croissant varieties and buns available.

Large Mocha Frappé and Salted Egg Yolk Croissant

According to their website, they specialize in strong coffee and croissants. So my hubby went for a large Mocha Frappé while I settled on a refreshing Green Tea Lemonade. The temperature is supposed to reach 30°C today, so hanging out at a coffee while enjoying cold beverages seems like a smart choice.

Salted Egg Yolk Croissant from Lumiere Cafe

For croissants, I went for the unique Salted Egg Yolk Croissant and loved the creamy yolk interior, which greatly contrasts the buttery, flaky exterior. Unfortunately, the butter croissant was sold out, so I can't compare it to my favourite from Beaucoup and Mon Pitou.

Garlic & Cheese Bun from Lumiere Cafe

For the bun, I went for the Garlic & Cheese Bun. It's what garlic bread aspires to be: cheesy, garlicky, soft, and melts in your mouth. Can I have a dozen of these?

What other croissants and buns are available? See the list below!

• Pain Au Chocolate - $6.99
• Almond Croissant - $4.99
• Strawberry Croissant - $5.55
• Pistachio Croissant - 6.99
• Garlic & Cheese Bun - $6.55
• Butter Croissant - $3.49
• Salted Egg Yolk Croissant - $5.50
• Ham & Cheese Bun - $4.99
• Masago Croissant - $5.99

Sabich and Falafel Bowl from Planted Food Truck

Happy Sunday! My husband finished the BMO Vancouver Half-Marathon. Woohoo! Congratulations, Love. After his run, we checked out which food trucks were available in the Street Festival. There's Roasted Revolution, Japadog, Dos Tacos, and Planted. We have tried the first three so it makes sense to try Planted.

I ordered the Hetzi Hetzi Bowl, which means getting half Sabich and half Falafel bowl.

Hetzi and Hetzi Bowl from Planted Food Truck
Half Sabich (house-made pita, hummus, tahini, zhug, amba, tomatoes, cucumber, pickles, fried eggplant & cauliflower, pickled red onions, and chopped parsley)
Half  Falafel (house-made pita, tahini, amba, zhug, pickled red cabbage, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, shifka peppers)

It's the most moist falafel I have ever tried. Yum! I enjoyed the fried cauliflower and eggplant. There's also heat coming from shifta peppers. The hummus is perfectly creamy. I love everything!

Below is the menu of Planted Food Truck.

Planted Food Truck Menu

Costco Food Court Menu and Prices | Willingdon Burnaby BC Warehouse

The menu below is from the Costco food court in their Willingdon, Burnaby BC location (4500 Stil Creek Drive) and is subject to change without prior notice. All prices are in Canadian dollars and do not include taxes. It is similar to the menu in Costco at Expo Blvd, Vancouver, BC.

Costco is a popular wholesale retailer known for its bulk goods, low prices, and of course, its food court. The Costco Food Court is a favorite among shoppers, offering a range of tasty and affordable food options for both members and non-members.

Below is a link to other Costco Food Court Menu and Prices that I have visited. I am planning to make #CostcoTourism a thing.

• Richmond, BC Warehouse
• Vancouver, BC Warehouse
• Willingdon Burnaby, BC Warehouse
• Hawthorne Los Angeles, CA Warehouse
• South Austin, TX Warehouse

Menu Item	Price
Pop 20 oz with refill	$0.89
Ice Cream Cone Vanilla or Chocolate	$2.89
Ice Cream Sundae Caramel, Chocolate, or Berry	$3.49
Pizza Slice Pepperoni or Cheese	$2.59
18" Whole Pizza Pepperoni or Cheese	$12.99
1/4 Pound Hotdog and 20 oz pop with refill All Beef or Polish Sausage	$1.50
Chicken Strips and Fries	$6.99
French Fries	$2.99
Poutine	$5.99
Gravy	$0.30

Overall, the Costco Food Court is a great option for those looking for tasty, affordable, and convenient food options while shopping at Costco. Whether you're in the mood for a classic hot dog, a slice of pizza, or something else entirely, the food court has something for everyone. So the next time you're at Costco, be sure to stop by and try out the food court for yourself!