Pita and Hummus from The Wicklow

Happy Thursday! For dinner, I met up with my former colleagues, who have since become close friends. It’s always such a joy to spend time with them. We went to our usual spot: The Wicklow.

True to form, I ordered my favourite dish—the Yorkshire Pudding Bowl. These are, hands down, the best I’ve had in Vancouver so far. The Yorkshire puddings are perfectly soft and chewy, offering the ideal contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes they’re filled with. The dish is then drenched in rich, savoury gravy and topped with tender Angus beef, which is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. I absolutely love it.

Yorkshire Pudding Bowl from The Wicklow
Certified roast angus beef, house gravy, garlic mash potatoes, horseradish aioli, served in a big Yorkshire pudding bowl

I arrived a bit too early and, while waiting for everyone, decided to try the Pita and Hummus. The roasted garlic hummus was smooth and flavourful, with just the right amount of garlic to make it savoury without overpowering. The warm, soft pita bread slices were perfect for dipping, providing a comforting balance to the rich hummus.

Pita and Hummus from The Wicklow
Roasted garlic hummus, black olives, paprika oil, fresh parsley

I also tried a mocktail—the Pineapple Sour. This refreshing drink was a simple yet delightful mix of pineapple juice, egg whites, lemon juice, and simple syrup, resulting in a tangy-sweet beverage with a silky texture. It was a great way to sip something light while catching up.

Pineapple Sour from The Wicklow
Pineapple juice, egg whites, lemon juice, and simple syrup

I love The Wicklow! It never disappoints.

Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie and Billy Miner Pie from The Keg

Happy Merry Tuesday! We celebrated the holiday season at the office with a delightful dinner at The Keg, followed by watching the Vancouver Canucks game at Rogers Arena (they lost 4-3 in overtime).

Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie from The Keg
Carrots, peas, mushrooms, green lentils, chickpeas, red wine gravy, and mixed green salad

For dinner, I ordered the Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie. It was wonderfully creamy and surprisingly satisfying, especially for a low-calorie option. The dish featured a comforting blend of carrots, peas, mushrooms, green lentils, chickpeas, all topped with a rich and savoury red wine gravy. The flavours were hearty and well-balanced, offering a great alternative to the traditional meat version.

Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie from The Keg
Carrots, peas, mushrooms, green lentils, chickpeas, red wine gravy, mixed green salad

I also couldn't resist the Keg Fries, which were perfectly crispy and golden—ideal for mopping up any leftover gravy from the Shepherd's Pie. The fries were seasoned just right.

Billy Miner Pie from The Keg
Mocha ice cream, chocolate crust, fudge, caramel, and almonds

To cap off my meal, I indulged in the Billy Miner Pie. This dessert is incredibly decadent — rich mocha ice cream nestled on top of a velvety chocolate crust. As if that wasn’t indulgent enough, the mocha ice cream is drizzled with warm fudge and caramel, and topped with crunchy sliced almonds. It was an absolute treat for the senses!

Below is a list of menu items I have tried from The Keg.

Appetizers

• Scallops & Bacon

Keg Steaks

• Baseball Top Sirloin
• Peppercorn New York
• Top Sirloin

Accompaniments

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Twice Baked Potato

Mains

• Oven Roasted Salmon (Pistachio Crusted)
• Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie

Casual Plates

• Loaded Nachos with Braised Beef

Desserts

• Billy Miner Pie
• Crème Brûlée

Teriyaki Bento Boxes from Namiya Sushi

It’s a beautiful Monday evening, and we attended the Immaculate Conception Mass at church today. After the peaceful hour, we decided to grab dinner at the newly opened Namiya Sushi on West Broadway.

Salmon Teriyaki Bento Box from Namiya Sushi
includes California Roll, tempura, organic salad, fruit slices, and rice

Hubby and I both ordered teriyaki bento boxes. I chose the sockeye salmon teriyaki, while hubby went for the beef teriyaki.

Beef Teriyaki Bento Box
includes California Roll, tempura, organic salad, fruit slices, and rice

The bento boxes arrived with a comforting, hot bowl of miso soup, perfect for such a chilly night. The meal also included 8 pieces of California rolls, 4 pieces of crispy tempura, a light and refreshing salad, and some sweet fruit to balance the flavours.

Chicken Karaage from Namiya Sushi

I couldn’t resist trying their chicken karaage, which was decent but didn’t stand out, and the takoyaki, which had a nice crisp on the outside and a soft, savoury center.

Takoyaki from Namiya Sushi

There are at least five sushi spots within a kilometre of our place, so I’m always looking for that one standout dish that will make me return. For example, Sushivan has its Korean ramen, while Masa serves a fantastic Japanese curry. What’s Namiya Sushi’s signature dish? I suppose I’ll have to keep coming back to discover my go-to item.

Tour of Italy from Boston Pizza

It's Thursday! My husband had dinner plans this evening, so I decided to head to Boston Pizza to indulge in my favorite Cactus Cuts. As I browsed the menu, I noticed their "Season's Eatings" section and couldn't resist trying one of the new items.

I chose the Tour of Italy, which features two types of pasta and chicken parmigiana. Unfortunately, I was disappointed by the pasta. The spaghetti marinara was overly tangy with a one-dimensional, sour tomato flavor, while the fettuccine in basil cream sauce lacked seasoning and felt incredibly bland. The creamy sauce didn't provide the depth of flavor I was hoping for.

New Tour of Italy from Boston Pizza
Buttermilk-breaded fried chicken breast topped with signature Alfredo sauce, Gouda, provolone, Pizza mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Served with spaghetti marinara and fettuccini in a Basil cream pasta sauce with garlic toast

Thankfully, the chicken parmigiana was a redeeming feature. The chicken was perfectly cooked—tender and juicy on the inside, with a delightfully crispy coating on the outside. It was just the right balance of crunch and tenderness, making it the true star of the dish and a saving grace in an otherwise lackluster meal.

Boston Pizza checklist

For future me, below is a list of all the items we have tried at Boston Pizza.

Apps & Shareables

• Bandera Pizza Bread
• Cactus Cut Potatoes (my favourite!)
• Classic Nachos with BBQ Chicken
• Classic Nachos with Seasoned Ground Beef
• Classic Nachos with Spicy Chicken
• French Onion Soup
• Garlic Parmesan Fries
• Spinach and Artichoke Dip
• Thai Bites (part of The Triple Play)
• The Triple Play

Pizza

• Boston Royal Pizza
• Carbonara Pizza
• Deluxe
• Great White North
• Loaded Pepperoni & Bacon Squarefooter Pizza
• The Meator
• Mediterranean Pizza
• Pepperoni Pizza
• Spicy Perogy Pizza (I highly recommend!)
• Tropical Chicken

Pasta

• Boston's Lasagna

Sides

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Desserts

• Chocolate Explosion
• Salted Caramel Panookie

Seasonal

• Barbacoa Nachos
• Breakfast Pizza
• Southwest Breakfast Bowl
• Summer Pesto Chicken Pizza
• Tour of Italy

Bulgogi Beef Rice Bowl from Disco Cheetah

Happy Thursday! It's team lunch, and the theme is Korean, so we ordered from Disco Cheetah.

I chose the Bulgogi Beef Rice Bowl instead of creating my own custom bowl. It arrived with a generous serving of rice, a fresh green salad, a perfectly poached egg, creamy smashed potatoes, vibrant red pickled cabbage, scallions, crispy shallots, garlic ranch, and a zesty chili sauce.

Bulgogi Beef Rice Bowl from Disco Cheetah

Each bite was perfectly balanced: the tender, sweet-savoury beef was the highlight, with its rich, umami flavour. The rice provided a comforting base, while the poached egg added a luscious creaminess. The smashed potatoes were velvety and indulgent, while the pickled cabbage brought a tangy crunch that contrasted beautifully with the other ingredients. The crispy shallots added a satisfying crunch, and the garlic ranch and chili sauce delivered a creamy, slightly spicy kick. Together, it was an incredibly delicious and satisfying combination.

Beef Gyro and Chicken Sandwich from Halal Guys

It had been a long day at work, and my husband picked me up. I was too tired to cook or even decide on what to eat. We spotted Halal Guys near the office and he decided to have dinner there.

Beef Gyro Sandwich from Halal Guys

I took my first bite of my beef gyro & chicken sandwich, and I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it was. The beef gyro was tender and savoury, with a rich, smoky flavour, while the chicken was juicy and perfectly seasoned. The raw onion added a crisp, slightly sharp bite, balanced by the sweetness of the peppers. The jalapeños brought a subtle heat, and the olives offered a briny tang. We also added creamy hummus, which provided a smooth and savoury contrast to the other flavours. All of this was tucked inside a soft pita that wrapped everything together in a comforting, satisfying way.

Chicken Sandwich from Halal Guys

I ended up enjoying it far more than I had expected.

Matcha Latte and Pumpkin Walnut Loaf from Caffè Artigiano

After shopping with my parents at Best Buy and Canadian Tire, we decided to take a break at Caffè Artigiano.

Matcha Latte from Caffè Artigiano

Pumpkin Walnut Loaf from Caffè Artigiano

I ordered a matcha latte and a pumpkin walnut loaf. The unsweetened matcha paired perfectly with the sweet, moist pumpkin walnut loaf.

Gourmet Wok inside Granville Island Public Market

After Mass today, I spent some quality time with my parents. Our first stop was Granville Island Public Market for lunch. Naturally, I went straight to my favourite spot, Gourmet Wok, and ordered my usual: the 3-item combo

This combo includes fried rice, which is flavourful but sometimes on the drier side, making it a great base to soak up the sauces from the other dishes. The fried salt-and-pepper fish had a lightly crispy exterior, though it was slightly stale today. Despite that, the bold seasoning of salt, garlic, and pepper still shone through. The kung pao chicken was rich and saucy, with a slight tang and a savoury, umami-filled glaze that clung to the tender chicken pieces, complemented by the crunch of peanuts and bright red chili peppers. The Chinese-style barbecue pork was indulgently fatty with a sticky-sweet glaze that melted in my mouth, offering a deliciously smoky and caramelized flavour.

Gourmet Wok inside Granville Island Public Market

This meal is my go-to at Granville Island Public Market because it offers the best value for the price, satisfying both my appetite and my taste for variety.

Vancouver Christmas Market 2024: Second Visit

One of the perks of having a season pass to the Vancouver Christmas Market is the chance to revisit and discover more culinary gems. Today, we returned for another festive evening, this time focusing on trying dishes we hadn’t sampled before. Here’s a rundown of our latest foodie adventure.

All Beef (100%) Sausage from Bratwurst Haus

This naturally smoked sausage was everything you want in a bratwurst: juicy, flavourful, and cooked to perfection. The fine grind beef had a satisfying texture, and the smoky aroma added a warm, comforting vibe that’s perfect for a winter night.

All Beef (100%) from Bratwurst Haus

Veggie Sausage from Bratwurst Haus

This plant-based option, made with soy and bean protein, veggies, and mild Italian spices, was a thoughtful offering for vegetarians. While it had a decent flavour profile, it didn’t quite hold up to the other savoury options at the market. I’d recommend skipping it unless you're committed to a vegetarian diet.

Veggie Sausage from Bratwurst Haus

Creamy Mushroom Soup from Das Champignon Haus & Das Soup Haus

As a mushroom enthusiast, this soup was a delight! The rich, velvety broth was packed with earthy mushroom flavour, making it the ultimate comfort food on a chilly evening. I could have easily had a second serving—it’s that good!

Creamy Mushroom Soup from Das Champignon Haus & Das Soup Haus

4. Nutella Langos from Das Langos

We ended our night on a sweet note with this indulgent dessert. The freshly fried langos, topped with a generous spread of Nutella, was a dreamy combination of crispy and creamy. It’s the perfect shareable treat to cap off a magical market visit.

Nutella Langos from Das Langos Haus

Having season passes allows us to explore the market at a relaxed pace, revisiting our favourites while taking the time to discover new dishes. With so many food options and festive activities, each visit feels fresh and exciting.

Vancouver Christmas Market 2024: Food Menus and Prices

The Vancouver Christmas Market is back for 2024, bringing festive cheer, twinkling lights, and an irresistible array of delicious food and drinks. Whether you're craving traditional German fare, indulgent sweet treats, or gourmet comfort foods, this iconic holiday market offers something for everyone. To help you plan your visit, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of food vendors, their menus, and prices to ensure you don’t miss out on the market’s culinary delights.

All prices are listed in Canadian dollars (CAD) and do not include taxes or gratuity. Please note that prices and menu items are subject to change without prior notice, so double-check with vendors during your visit. Get ready to explore the flavors of the season at the Vancouver Christmas Market!

New items have ✨ next to it. If you want to compare prices, please check the list from last year.

Vancouver Christmas Market 2024

Bratwurst Haus

Bratwurst is a quintessential German sausage, perfectly grilled to achieve a delectable blend of smoky flavours and savoury spices, delivering a true culinary delight.

☑️ Thuringer Brat - $11.00

☑️ Bavarian Smoke - $11.00

☑️ All Beef (100%) - $12.00

☑️ Farmer Sausage - $13.00

☑️ Currywurst - $13.00

☑️ Veggie Sausage - $13.00

☑️ Cheesy Bacon Twist - $14.00

☐ Pop / Water - $3.00

Das Champignon Haus & Das Soup Haus

They share a booth.

☑️ Mom's Grilled Cheese - $10.00

☑️ Ham & Cheese Croissant - $12.00

☑️ French Onion Soup - $13.00

☑️ Roasted Tomato Soup - $13.00

☑️ Creamy Mushroom Soup - $14.00

☑️ Champignon with Garlic Sauce - $16.00 for regular and $20 for large ✨

☐ Slice of Garlic Bread - $3.00

☐ Slice of Bread - $2.00

☐ Extra Cheese - $2.00

☐ Water Bottle - $3.00

Das Kebab Haus ✨

A middle eastern flare at the Vancouver Christmas Market. This is a new food stall this year! You can choose from three sauces: BBQ, tzatziki, and spicy.

• 3 skewers for $13.00
• 5 skewers for $20.00
• 8 skewers for $28.00
• Pita Bread - $4.00

☑️ Beef

☑️ Chicken

☑️ Lamb

☑️ Pork

☑️ Veggie

☐ Pita Bread

Das Lángos Haus

The Hungarian delight of langos is a golden-fried flatbread adorned with a delectable combination of garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese, creating a symphony of flavours that dance on your taste buds.

☑️ Classic Lángos - $13.50

☐ Traditional Lángos - $12.50

☑️ Nutella Lángos - $11.00

☐ Plain Lángos - $9.00

☐ Extra Bacon - $2.50

☐ Cheese - $2.50

☐ Green Onion - $2.00

Das Strudel Haus

Indulge in the delicate layers of flaky pastry wrapped around a delectable filling by grabbing a strudel from Das Strudel Haus.

☐ Warm Cherry Strudel with Creme Anglaise - $15.00

☑️ Warm Apple Strudel with Creme Anglaise - $15.00

☑️ Black Forest Cake with Callebaut Chocolate - $14.00

☐ Strudel Gift Box for 2 with Creme Anglaise - $28.00

☐ Black Forest Gift Box for 2 with Callebaut Chocolate - $26.00

Meat Pie Haus and Mr. Hotcakes

Mr. Hotcakes and Meat Pie Haus shares a hut. Vegan options are available for the hotcakes.

☑️ Original hotcake with whipped cream - $10.00

☐ Original hotcake with cream cheese icing - $11.00

☐ Original hotcake with ice cream - $13.00

☐ Chicken Pot Pie (topped with mashed potato and gravy) - $15.00 ✨

☑️ Sausage Roll (All Beef) - $12.00 ✨

Mr. Pretzels

If you want the perfect combination of chewiness and crispiness that makes an irresistible treat for festive snacking, then look for Mr. Pretzels.

• Combo 1 (pretzel + bottled water) - $10.50
• Combo 2 (pretzel + dipping sauce + bottled water) - $12.50
• Bottled water - $3.00
• Dipping sauce - $2.00

☑️ Sugar & cinnamon pretzel - $8.75

☐ Salted pretzel - $8.75

Pancake & Waffle Haus

Customizable sweets are the game at the Pancake & Waffle Haus. Bottle water is $3.00

Choose your style for $8.00:

☑️ Poffertjes (10 pieces of Dutch Mini Pancakes)

☐ Croffles (Croissant waffle)

☐ Affogato (Hot coffee on ice cream)

☐ Waffle on stick

☐ Ice cream (2 big scoops)

Choose a sauce for $1.00 each:

• Nutella
• Chocolate syrup
• Strawberry syrup
• Caramel sauce
• Maple syrup
• Condensed milk
• Butter
• Whipped cream
• Raspberry jam

Choose a topping for $1.00 each:

• Oreo crumbs
• Biscoff crumbs
• Cinnamon Sugar
• M&M
• Marshmallow
• Cinnamon crunch
• Coconut
• Sprinkles
• Add ice cream +$3.00
• Add banana +$2.00
• Add strawberry +$2.00

Below is a list of popular creations:

☐ Icing sugar & butter - $9.00

☐ Raspberry jam & marshmallow - $10.00

☐ Caramel sauce & biscoff crumbs - $10.00

☐ Condensed milk & cinnamon - $10.00

☐ Strawberry syrup & coconut - $10.00

☐ Nutella & peanut - $10.00

☐ Chocolate syrup oreo - $10.00

☐ Nutella banana - $11.00

☐ Nutella strawberry - $11.00

☐ Strawberry syrup banana - $11.00

Squid Feast

One of my favourites from last year, Squid Feast, is an Asian booth in a European market. Choose from one of the following sauces: spicy garlic, tzatziki, spicy salt & pepper, and sweet & sour.

☑️ Large Deep Fried Squid Tentacle - $19.00

☑️ Small Deep Fried Squid Tentacle - $16.00

☐ Deep Fried Whole Squid - $13.00

☐ Deep Fried Shrimp - $16.00

Cheese Me Raclette

Raclette is molten Swiss cheese skillfully scraped onto potatoes, enhancing the festive ambiance with its rich, savoury allure. Vegetarian iotions are available upon requested.

☑️ Gourmet Raclette with Potatoes - $21.91

☐ Classic Raclette with Baguette - $17.15

☐ Caciocavallo Grilled Cheese - $17.15

☑️ Cheese Me Chowder - $15.24

☐ Add Charcuteries - $8.58

☐ Add Melted Raclette Cheese - $8.58

Das Apfel Haus

They serve apfel (apple cider).

☑️ Non-alcoholic cider - $5.00

☐ Spiked cider - $9.95

☐ 2024 Collectible Mug - $9.50

Das Kartoffelhaus - The Hurricane Potato

It's all potato at the Kartouffel Haus, which offers kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) and Hurricane Potato. The German potato pancakes are vegan friendly and are served with apple sauce & sour cream.

The hurricane potato is $11.00 while a zuccini version is $14.00.

☐ Kartoffelpuffer - $14.00

☐ Kartoffelpuffer with smoked salmon - $19.00

☐ Kartoffelpuffer with brie cheese - $19.00

☑️ Kartoffelpuffer with smoked salmon and brie cheese - $23.00

Das Schnitzel Haus

Schnitzel is a classic German dish featuring a thin, tenderized meat—commonly pork or veal—lightly coated in breadcrumbs and expertly fried to achieve a delightful crunch.

☐ Schnitzel wrap with crunchy slaw & potato salad - $23.00

☑️ Viennese pork schnitzel with potato salad - $18.00

☑️ German pork schnitzel with potato salad and gravy - $19.00

☐ Bottled water - $3.00

Das Gulasch Haus

Embrace the spirit of the season with a steaming bowl of Gulasch, a true winter delight. This traditional Hungarian stew features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked to perfection in a rich and savoury broth.

☑️ Tender beef stew - $16.00 + bread bowl for $2.00

☑️ Vegan potato stew - $14.00 + breadbowl for $2.00

☐ Water - $3.00

Haxen Haus

Haxen Haus serves schweinshaxe, a large pork shank roasted on a special rotisserie.

☑️ Half pork hock with sauerkraut and rye bread - $17.00

☑️ Whole pork hock with sauerkraut and rye bread - $34.00

☑️ Pork hock sandwich topped with sauerkraut - $11.00

☐ Side of sauerkraut (veggies) - $4.00

☐ Pop / water - $3.00

I Love Chocolate

Experience pure decadence at the Vancouver Christmas Market with the mesmerizing chocolate fountain. Cascading velvety layers of rich, molten chocolate await, providing the perfect canvas for dipping an array of treats.

☐ Fruit skewers (mixed skewers) - $9.50

☐ Marshmallow skewer - $6.50

☐ Chocolate covered apples - $12.00

☐ Chocolate covered banana - $11.00

☐ Chocolate covered pineapple slices - $10.00

☑️ Chocolate covered pretzel rods - $6.00

☐ Kids marshmallow - $2.00

☐ Hot chocolate - $7.00

☐ Oat milk hot chocolate - $8.00

☐ Whipping cream / mini marshmallows - $1.00

Helmis Perogies

Vegetarian option is available for their only menu item. It is served with crumbled farmer's sausage from Rempel Meats in Abbotsford, sour cream, sauerkraut, and grilled onions.

☑️ Potato and Cheddar Perogies - $17.00

Das Späetzle Haus

Späetzle are soft egg noodles, often pan-fried for a delightful crispness, bringing a taste of European tradition to the festive atmosphere.

☐ Homemade späetzle - $18.10

☑️ Späetzle with mushroom sauce - $22.86

☐ Add bacon bits - $1.90

☐ Add double cheese - $6.67

☐ Add truffle mushroom - $2.86

Authentic Churros

Churros are golden-brown treasures, dusted in cinnamon sugar or sugar, and boast a crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, soft center.

☑️ Cinnamon sugar or sugar - 3 for $8.00

☑️ Cinnamon sugar or sugar - 6 for $14.00

☐ Caramel sauce - +$1.00

☐ Chocolate drizzle - +$1.00

☐ Whipped cream - +$1.00

☐ Oreo crumble - +$1.00

☐ Nutella - +$2.00

☐ Maple syrup - +$2.00

☐ Coffee cream - +$2.00

Transylvanian Chimney Cakes

Chimney cakes are a delightful pastry with a crispy, caramelized exterior and a soft, doughy interior.

☐ Walnut chimney cake - $13.00

☐ Coconut chimney cake - $13.00

☑️ Cinnamon sugar chimney cake - $13.00

☐ Almond chimney cake - $13.00

☐ Add Nutella - +$3.00

☐ Add lemon curd - +$2.00

☐ Add apple cinnamon - +$2.00

☐ Add black forest cherry - +$2.00

Hot Chocolate Muffin from Tim Hortons

If you're a fan of hot chocolate or chocolate muffins (or both!), Tim Hortons’ new Hot Chocolate Muffin might be your next treat to try. This dessert isn’t just a muffin—it’s an experience, especially when you give it a little warmth at home.

Hot Chocolate Muffin from Tim Hortons

Hot Chocolate Muffin from Tim Hortons

When we brought ours home, we decided to experiment by popping it into the microwave for 30 seconds. What happened next was pure magic: the inside became gooey, reminiscent of a molten chocolate lava cake. The warmth elevated the chocolate flavor, turning it into something richer and more indulgent.

Have you tried it yet? Let me know how you liked it! 😊

Korean barbecue from Royal Seoul House

When Korean barbecue cravings hit, Royal Seoul House was the perfect pick for a dinner date with my husband. Nestled on the corner of West Broadway and Alder Street, this spot is a classic go-to for authentic Korean cuisine in Vancouver.

Korean barbecue from Royal Seoul House

We opted for Combo D, a well-rounded selection for beef lovers. The set came with an assortment of marinated cuts: prime cut beef ribs, beef short ribs, marinated beef, and beef belly. Each piece was tender, flavourful, and grilled right at our table to perfection. There's something so satisfying about the sizzle of meat on the grill, the enticing aroma wafting up, and the first bite of caramelized goodness. 

Korean barbecue from Royal Seoul House

No Korean barbecue experience is complete without the ever-reliable ban chan. Their side dishes, including kimchi, seasoned bean sprouts, and pickled radishes, were fresh and balanced out the richness of the meats. I especially appreciated the variety, as they paired well with the grilled beef and rice.

I love date nights with hubby!

Pumpkin Spiced Latte and Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte from Café Anecdote

I took a day off today for what was supposed to be a routine dental appointment. But when I arrived at the clinic, they told me I didn’t have an appointment. After some back-and-forth, they realized that one of the receptionists had mistakenly canceled it.

With no dental cleaning on the agenda, we decided to make the most of the day. We grabbed lunch at McDonald’s and wandered around the Dollar Store and Michaels for some lighthearted browsing. It was fun, but I couldn’t shake the bummed-out feeling on our walk home.

To lift my spirits, we stopped by my favorite cozy spot — Café Anecdote.

We ordered their seasonal fall drinks: a Pumpkin Spice Latte and a Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte. Both were exactly what I needed to turn my day around. The Pumpkin Spice Latte was warm, aromatic, and perfectly spiced, with just the right balance of pumpkin flavor and creamy milk. 

Pumpkin Spiced Latte from Café Anecdote

The Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte was rich and indulgent, with deep caramel notes from the brown sugar and a comforting kick of cinnamon.

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte from Café Anecdote

We stayed at the café for a good two hours, sipping our drinks, watching the construction machinery at work nearby, and talking about plans and dreams. There’s something so simple yet special about coffee dates.

Double Chocolate Brownie from Tim Hortons

As someone who loves rich, chocolaty desserts, I couldn’t resist trying Tim Hortons’ new Double Chocolate Brownie. From the first glance, I knew this treat was going to be indulgent—and I wasn’t wrong. It turned out to be one of the fudgiest brownies I’ve ever had, but also one of the sweetest.

The glossy top was studded with chunks of chocolate. Its deep, dark colour hinted at the richness inside, and it looked dense enough to promise a decadent treat.

When I took my first bite, I was immediately struck by how fudgy it was. The brownie practically melted in my mouth, with a gooey, almost molten texture that felt so indulgent. The chocolate chunks on top weren’t just for decoration—they added bursts of intense flavour and a satisfying bite.

Double Chocolate Brownie from Tim Hortons

That said, the sweetness really hit me after a couple of bites. While the brownie’s texture and flavour were incredible, it was almost too sugary for me to finish on my own. I could feel myself reaching my limit, so I decided to save the rest for later (or better yet, share it with someone else next time).

Filet-O-Fish from McDonald's Canada

I finally did it. After years of seeing the Filet-O-Fish on the McDonald’s menu, I decided to give it a try. It’s one of those iconic fast-food items that people either seem to love or forget exists. Today, I joined the ranks of the curious.

Let’s talk first impressions. This sandwich is small. At 400 calories, I expected it to be a little more substantial, but it’s definitely on the petite side.

The bun is probably the standout for me. It’s soft and slightly squishy. The tartar sauce is another highlight. Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of punch, it ties the whole sandwich together. It’s generously slathered on, so you get a good taste of it in every bite. Now, the fish. This is where things get a bit “meh” for me. It’s okay — mild on the inside.

Filet-O-Fish from McDonald's Canada
Dive right in. Our Filet-O-Fish is pure temptation on a lightly steamed bun, topped with processed cheese and tangy tartar sauce.

So, will I order the Filet-O-Fish again? Maybe. It is a solid choice if you’re in the mood for something light and straightforward, but it’s not going to dethrone any of my fast-food favorites (chicken nuggets). For now, I’ll chalk this up as another item checked off in the McD's menu.

Classic Blaze with Lettuce Bun and Veggie (Harvest) Patty from Blaze Gourmet Burgers

When it comes to burgers, Blaze Gourmet Burgers delivers a menu bursting with customization options. For team lunch today, I opted for their Classic Blaze but gave it a personal twist: I swapped out the Certified Angus Beef patty for their veggie (Harvest) patty and traded the traditional bun for a lettuce bun. My choices sounds healthy but I couldn’t resist keeping the crispy, savoury bacon.

What sets the Classic Blaze apart is its thoughtful balance of ingredients. The crunch of fresh lettuce and tomato pairs beautifully with the tang of crunchy pickles, offering a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky bacon. The veggie patty, packed with savoury depth, serves as the perfect foundation, holding its own against the bold flavours. And let’s not forget the Blaze Sauce – creamy, slightly tangy, and a touch indulgent – it ties everything together in a flavour-packed bite.

Classic Blaze with veggie (Harvest) patty and lettuce "bun" from Blaze Gourmet Burgers
Cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, crunchy pickles, and blaze sauce

Switching to a lettuce bun was a game-changer. It added a light, fresh crunch that complemented the rich and smoky elements of the burger without overpowering them. Yes, it’s messier to eat – there’s no way around that – but the vibrant flavour, satisfying texture, and lower calories more than made up for the extra napkins. It was a delicious departure from the usual bun, and I’ve decided to make it my go-to choice whenever available.

If you haven’t tried a lettuce bun yet, give it a go! It might just surprise you. Blaze Gourmet Burgers makes it easy to experiment while ensuring every bite is packed with flavour.

Chicken Cutlet Rice from Redbeef Noodle Kitchen

I had a lunch date with my parents today and I enjoyed my favourite Chicken Cutlet Rice from Redbeef Noodle Kitchen.

Chicken Cutlet Rice from Redbeef Noodle Kitchen

Redbeef has the best Taiwanese-style chicken cutlet in Vancouver.

Trying new food items at Vancouver Christmas Market 2024

The holiday season in Vancouver isn’t complete without a trip to the Vancouver Christmas Market, and this year’s edition did not disappoint! Beyond the festive atmosphere of twinkling lights and live music, the highlight for me (as always) was the incredible food. Here's a taste of my culinary adventure at the market this year.

Sausage Roll from Meat Pie Haus

This warm, flaky delight was a great way to kick off our visit. The crust was perfectly golden and buttery, and the filling had just the right seasoning to make each bite a satisfying experience. It’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys comforting holiday eats.

Sausage Roll from Meat Pie Haus in Vancouver Christmas Market

Skewers from Das Kebab Haus

Das Kebab Haus is a new booth this year, offering five types of skewers: beef, chicken, lamb, pork, and veggie. While all were well-seasoned and grilled to perfection, some stood out more than others. My personal favourite was the lamb — juicy and bursting with flavour — while my husband leaned towards the beef. The veggie skewer was fine but didn’t compare to the meat options unless you're vegetarian or vegan.

Veggie Skewer from Das Kebab Haus from Vancouver Christmas Market

Beef, lamb, pork, and chicken skewers from Das Kebab House in Vancouver Christmas Market

Champignon with Garlic Sauce from Das Champignon Haus

As a mushroom lover, I was thrilled to try this dish, and it exceeded all my expectations. The garlic sauce was creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced, complementing the tender mushrooms beautifully. This is a standout dish I’ll be craving long after the market is over.

Champignon with Garlic Sauce from Das Champignon Haus in Vancouver Christmas Market

Deep-Fried Squid Tentacle from Squid Feast

This old favourite remains as delicious as ever. The crispy batter and tender squid create a delightful texture contrast, but be warned: it’s best enjoyed piping hot. Once it cools, it loses some of its magic, so eat fast!

Deep Fried Squid Tentacle from Squid Feast at Vancouver Christmas Market

Pro Tips for the Market

• Go early! Beat the evening rush to avoid long lines and secure seating.
• Layer up. The winter chill can be biting, so dress warmly to enjoy the outdoor setting.
• Pace yourself. There are so many amazing foods to try, so don’t fill up too quickly!

The Vancouver Christmas Market is a feast for the senses, and with delicious offerings like these, it’s a foodie paradise you won’t want to miss this holiday season. What’s your favourite market treat? Let me know in the comments below!

Manzo and Prosciutto Sandwich from Giovane Caffè

This week’s rainy weather had me getting lunch at Giovane Caffè – Italian Coffee Bar, conveniently located in the lobby of my office building. With no desire to venture out into the downpour, I treated myself to two of their incredible sandwiches that turned my lunch breaks into a mini Italian getaway.

On Tuesday, the Manzo sandwich was a hearty and satisfying choice. Featuring thinly sliced, tender roast beef, it was beautifully seasoned and paired with a tangy horseradish aioli that added a subtle kick. Peppery arugula complemented the richness of the beef, providing balance and freshness. All of this was nestled in a toasted ciabatta roll, which had a perfectly crisp crust and a soft, pillowy interior. It was the kind of sandwich that warms you from the inside out—ideal for a gray, rainy day.

Manzo Sandwich from Giovane Caffè

On Wednesday, I opted for the Prosciutto sandwich, which delivered a more delicate, refined flavour profile. The star ingredient, thinly sliced prosciutto, was silky and flavourful, perfectly accompanied by creamy mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil. Fresh basil leaves added an aromatic touch, while a light balsamic glaze brought a hint of sweetness and tang. What really set this sandwich apart was the focaccia—light, airy, and infused with just the right amount of olive oil and herbs. Every bite felt indulgent yet balanced, a perfect ode to classic Italian simplicity.

Prosciutto Sandwich from Giovane Caffè

On rainy days when stepping outside isn’t appealing, having Giovane Caffè just a short elevator ride away feels like a luxury. Whether you’re in the mood for the bold and hearty Manzo or the refined and aromatic Prosciutto, their sandwiches are the perfect way to brighten a dreary day. If you’re nearby, I can’t recommend them enough!

For my reference, I have tried their caprese sandwich and frittata panino.

Holiday Hot Chocolates from Blenz Coffee

Blenz has unveiled a delightful lineup of hot chocolates for the holiday season, and they are truly worth savouring! With creative flavours and customizable chocolate bases (choose between dark, milk, or white), these cozy drinks are perfect companions for the chilly Vancouver weather.

Here’s a closer look at the available options:

• The Naughty - it's a spicy cocoa with hinta of vanilla and roasted acho peppers.
• Sticky Toffee Twinkle - just like sticky toffee pudding - creamy toffee notes and sweet dates.
• Holly Jolly Pistachio - rich avocado notes with a lush, earthy finish.
• Peppermint
• Hazulnut

We decided to try the Sticky Toffee Twinkle and Holly Jolly Pistachio, both made with dark chocolate for an added depth of flavour. The Sticky Toffee Twinkle was indulgent, with its caramel-toffee profile perfectly enhanced by the bittersweetness of dark chocolate.

Holly Jolly Pistachio from Blenz Coffee

The Holly Jolly Pistachio, on the other hand, offered a unique, earthy nuttiness that paired beautifully with the robust dark chocolate base. Both were exceptional, especially as the temperatures dip in Vancouver.

Sticky Toffee Twinkle from Blenz Coffee

For food, we paired our drinks with two classics: a butter croissant and a roasted veggie sandwich on multigrain bread.

A warmed butter croissant. Flaky, golden, and decadently buttery, this croissant was the perfect light bite to complement our rich drinks. Each layer was airy yet satisfying, melting in our mouths with every bite.

The roasted veggie sandwich on multigrain bread is packed with flavour, this hearty sandwich featured roasted zucchini and red peppers, which added a sweet, smoky touch. The creamy house-made hummus lent a tangy, garlicky balance, while the baby spinach and melted mozzarella brought freshness and richness to every bite. The multigrain bread tied it all together with its wholesome, nutty texture.

Roasted Veggie Sandwich on Multigrain Bread from Blenz Coffee

Whether you’re seeking a festive treat or a cozy café moment, Blenz’s holiday hot chocolates and comforting food pairings are a must-try this season! Which flavour will you go for first?