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!

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 - $15.00 ✨

☐ 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 Apple Strudel with Creme Anglaise - $15.00

🗹 Warm Cherry 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

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?

Birthday dinner feast at Indian Oven

There’s nothing like celebrating a special occasion with a feast of beloved dishes. For my birthday dinner, I went all in with some of my favourite Indian flavours at Indian Oven.

Starting with the appetizers, we enjoyed crispy Indian fries — potato fingers dipped in a chickpea batter and fried to a perfect golden brown. They had that satisfying crunch, with a subtle hint of spice in the batter that made them addictive from the first bite. 

Indian Fries from Indian Oven
Potato fingers dipped in chickpea batter and deep fried

Then came the Indian Oven Special Platter, a vibrant assortment of pakoras and samosas. The platter was a hit with everyone at the table; the paneer pakora was soft and delicately spiced, while the fish and chicken pakoras had juicy interiors, contrasted by their crispy, flavourful coatings. The samosa was packed with well-seasoned potatoes and peas, delivering that classic, hearty flavor in each bite.

Indian Oven Special Platter from Indian Oven
Combination of veg pakora, veg samosa, paneer pakora, chicken pakora, and fish pakora

For the main course, I started with my all-time favourite, chicken vindaloo. True to its reputation, the vindaloo was fiery, with a complex tangy heat that built up but never overpowered the tender chicken. Paired with a side of fluffy white rice, each spoonful balanced the rich spices with just the right amount of heat. The palak paneer, meanwhile, was creamy and smooth, with chunks of paneer that were tender yet held their shape beautifully. The mild, earthy spinach paired perfectly with the paneer's subtle cheese-like flavour — a comforting dish that I just had to include.

Chicken Vindaloo from Indian Oven
Chicken simmered in zestry tangy curry sauce with rare spices

Palak Paneer from Indian Oven
Puréed spinach and paneer cooked with onions and seasoned with garlic

On the side, we ordered both regular naan and garlic naan to scoop up every last bit of curry. The naan was pillowy, with a slight chew that’s perfect for sopping up sauces. The garlic naan added that extra flavour punch, with toasted garlic bits elevating each mouthful.

Indian Oven

For my parents, the coconut chicken provided a milder option, with a silky coconut-based sauce that added sweetness to the succulent chicken. And the goat curry? This dish was deeply aromatic, with tender pieces of goat and spices that melded into a luscious sauce, perfect over a bed of rice.

Coconut Chicken from Indian Oven
Chicken cooked in creamy coconut sauce

Goat Curry from Indian Oven
Goat cooked in exotic spices

My sisters ordered the palak chicken and butter chicken. The palak chicken combined tender chicken pieces with creamy spinach, providing a fresh yet savoury contrast. Meanwhile, the butter chicken offered that classic, indulgent richness with its smooth, buttery tomato gravy coating each bite of juicy chicken.

Palak Chicken from Indian Oven
Chicken cooked in spinach sauce

Each dish brought something unique to the table, with textures and flavours that played off each other beautifully. Celebrating with this feast was the perfect way to indulge and enjoy the full range of Indian cuisine at Indian Oven. If there’s one thing better than delicious food, it’s enjoying it with family on a special night!

Cookies at Deja Brew

For years, Deja Brew felt like a bit of a mystery. Tucked in busy West Broadway, this coffee shop only operates on weekdays, closing its doors by 5:00 pm — a schedule that doesn’t exactly suit those of us who save our coffee shop outings for leisurely weekends or evenings after work. But when I had a Friday off, my husband and I finally had our moment to solve this "Deja Brew" enigma. And it was worth the wait!

Walking in, we were greeted by a warm, intimate setting that felt like a throwback to classic, cozy coffee houses with earthy tones, mismatched mugs, and mellow lighting. The ambiance was relaxed, yet buzzing with regulars.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie from Deja Brew

After browsing their pastries, we settled on two cookies: the peanut butter chocolate chip and the white chocolate macadamia. The peanut butter chocolate chip cookie was soft with just the right chew and a blissful mix of sweet chocolate and peanut butter.

The white chocolate macadamia, however, was the highlight. It was subtly sweet, with the macadamia nuts adding a buttery crunch that balanced the creamy white chocolate—definitely a winner for anyone who loves a bit of decadence in their cookie!

White Chocolate Macademia from Deja Brew

Although Deja Brew’s hours are challenging for those with typical work schedules and does not work or live nearby, this coffee shop deserves a detour if you ever get a chance. It’s one of those hidden-in-plain-sight gems in Vancouver where weekday visitors are treated to great coffee, delicious baked goods, and a cozy, welcoming vibe. While we might not make it there often, I’m already planning about my next day off for another visit.

Chicken Teriyaki Curry from Mr. Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is my absolute favourite dish. I make sure to enjoy it on the weekend of my birthday. Since Suika is still closed, we walked over to Mr. Japanese Curry to get my fix.

I went with my usual order: beef curry topped with tonkatsu, The curry itself was rich and savoury, with a smooth, thick consistency that perfectly coated each bite of rice. The beef added a hearty depth, its flavour slow-cooked into the curry. The tonkatsu on top was crispy and golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. The crunch of the breading with the softness of the curry made every bite satisfying.

Beef Curry topped with Tonkatsu from Mr. Japanese Curry

Meanwhile, my husband tried the limited-time Chicken Teriyaki Curry, which was a game-changer. The chicken was incredibly tender, coated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce that added a slightly smoky, caramelized flavour. The rice was blanketed in the same rich beef curry, creating a comforting fusion of savoury curry and teriyaki sweetness.

Chicken Teriyaki Curry from Mr. Japanese Curry

It's the perfect lunch date.

Holiday Drink and Food from Starbucks Canada

Happy Friday! For breakfast today, we went to the nearby Starbucks and ordered a few seasonal favourites from their holiday menu.

We started with the Chestnut Praline Latte. This latte has a velvety, creamy texture, with flavours that evoke roasted chestnuts and sweet caramel. It’s topped with spiced praline crumbs, adding a touch of crunch and a gentle, nutty finish to each sip.

Chestnut Praline Latte from Starbucks Canada

For something savoury, we got the Double-Smoked Bacon, Cheddar & Egg Sandwich. The sandwich features thick, smoky bacon layered over a fluffy, folded egg, with melted cheddar that adds a rich, tangy note. The croissant-style bun is soft yet slightly crisp on the outside, with a buttery flavour that brings the whole sandwich together.

Double-Smoked Bacon, Cheddar & Egg Sandwich from Starbucks Canada

We also tried a Cheese Danish, which was a deliciously soft pastry with a light, flaky crust. The cream cheese filling inside was rich and slightly tangy, balanced by a hint of sweetness in the pastry.

Cheese Danish from Starbucks Canada

Lastly, we had a Turkey Sage Danish. The pastry here is tender and flaky, filled with a creamy, herby sage spread and topped with pieces of juicy, tender turkey. The earthy sage and savoury turkey make it a perfect seasonal bite, adding a warm, holiday-inspired flavour to the meal.

Turkey Sage Danish from Starbucks Canada

Altogether, it was a delicious way to start a festive Friday!

Taiwanese-style Fried Chicken and Braised Pork Dry Noodles from Kurotaki Chabann

Happy Thursday! I’m taking a day off from work tomorrow, and with Monday as a public holiday, that means an extra-long weekend. To kick things off, my husband and I had dinner at Kurotaki Chabann.

It’s a Taiwanese spot with all our favourite dishes! We ordered a fried chicken chop rice set, which came with a soft, seasoned egg, tangy pickled vegetables, and golden-fried tofu. The chicken chop was crispy and juicy, with a perfect balance of savoury flavours. 

Fried Chicken Chop Rice Set from Kurotaki Chabann

We also got popcorn chicken (my favourite!), with a light, crunchy coating that’s seasoned with a hint of basil and spice, plus a sweet, smoky Taiwanese sausage. For popcorn chicken, Redbeef Noodles still holds the top spot in the city, but this was a close contender.

Popcorn Chicken from Kurotaki Chabann

Taiwanese-style Sausage from Kurotaki Chabann

Feeling adventurous, I went for the braised pork dry noodles. The sauce was rich and fragrant, with deep notes of soy and star anise that clung to each noodle. So delicious!

Braised Pork Dry Noodles from Kurotaki Chabann

The ambiance at Kurotaki was great too. They had a big screen showing the Canucks game and anime-inspired decor throughout the space. I’m happy!

Caramel Brownie Filled Ring from Tim Hortons

I was lucky enough to enjoy the new Caramel Brownie Filled Ring Dream Donut from Tim Hortons as a surprise sweet treat from my colleagues for my birthday, and it was the perfect way to celebrate.

One glance at the Caramel Brownie Dream Donut, and you know you’re in for something special. This donut isn’t just a simple ring – it’s dressed to impress with a luscious caramel drizzle, frosting on top, and generous brownie chunks that add both texture and flavour.

Caramel Brownie Filled Ring Dream Donut from Tim Hortons

What sets this donut apart is its caramel filling. As you take that first bite, you’re met with a soft, fluffy donut exterior, and then – surprise! – a gooey, rich caramel filling spills out, making each bite even more indulgent. The caramel inside is velvety, with a touch of buttery sweetness that complements the chocolatey brownie pieces on top.

Tim Hortons' Caramel Brownie Filled Ring Dream Donut is the perfect treat for caramel and chocolate lovers alike, combining the best of both worlds in each delicious bite.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup from Banter Room

This week’s team lunch was supposed to be at The Greek in Yaletown. We walked there on such a gorgeous day, but it was closed.

I started panicking about what to do next, but then we turned around and spotted Banter Room. We checked the menu and decided to go inside.

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup from Banter Room

I ordered the grilled cheese and tomato soup since I didn’t have much of an appetite. Both turned out to be absolutely delicious. The tomato soup was thick and rich, with a velvety, almost creamy texture that made each spoonful feel indulgent. It had a hint of roasted garlic and basil, adding depth to the fresh, tangy tomato flavor. The grilled cheese was made with soft, perfectly toasted sourdough bread, with a crisp golden crust on the outside and a gooey, melted blend of cheeses on the inside. The cheese had a sharpness that paired beautifully with the comforting warmth of the soup. Together, it was the ultimate cozy meal.

Salted Caramel Panookie from Boston Pizza

Happy Sunday! We decided to pop over to Boston Pizza for a late lunch (or early dinner), drawn in by their happy hour deals and the bonus of a free birthday cake since it’s my birth month—yay for birthday perks!

Boston Pizza offers “Pizza Flights,” where you can choose three 6-inch pizzas for $21.00, so we picked three different flavors to get a good sampling:

Tropical Chicken, Deluxe, and Great White North from Boston Pizza

Tropical Chicken – Each bite balances the creamy Alfredo with the sweet, juicy pineapple, giving a mild, tropical twist to the savory bacon and chicken. Despite the "spicy chicken" label, it wasn't spicy, making the overall taste smooth and approachable. The pineapple adds just enough sweetness to cut through the richness, leaving a lightly caramelized, savory sweetness on the palate.

Great White North – The ham is subtly smoky, contrasting beautifully with the melted cheese, while the tomato sauce brings a bit of tanginess that ties it all together. It's straightforward and satisfying—perfect for when you're craving something classic and uncomplicated. My favorite of the trio!

Deluxe – This pizza is a flavor-packed bite of savory goodness. The mushrooms and green peppers add a slight earthy flavor and texture, while the pepperoni and ham provide just the right amount of saltiness and richness. Each bite has a bit of crunch from the vegetables, blending well with the soft cheese and chewy crust.

We couldn’t resist ordering my favorite, the Cactus Cuts Potatoes. These thinly sliced, crispy potato rounds are perfectly seasoned, with a hint of spice that pairs well with the creamy signature cactus dip. Each bite is crunchy with a slight kick, making them totally addictive.

Cactus Cuts Potatoes from Boston Pizza

We also ordered the Garlic Parmesan Fries - golden fries tossed in a savory mixture of garlic and Parmesan cheese. They arrive crisp and aromatic, each fry coated in a garlicky, cheesy goodness that’s elevated by the accompanying cactus dip.

Garlic Parmesan Fries from Boston Pizza

Finally, we finished off the meal with the Salted Caramel Panookie. It’s so indulgent! This dessert is a giant chocolate chunk cookie, baked in a pizza pan until it’s gooey in the center but crispy around the edges. Drizzled with caramel sauce, the panookie is warm and rich, with a hint of saltiness that perfectly complements the sweetness. It’s the ultimate mix of soft, chewy, and slightly crispy textures, ideal for sharing but hard to resist keeping all to yourself!

Salted Caramel Panookie from Boston Pizza

Boston Pizza checklist

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

• Bandera Pizza Bread
• Barbacoa Nachos
• Boston's Lasagna
• Boston Royal Pizza
• Breakfast Pizza
• Cactus Cut Potatoes
• Carbonara Pizza
• Chocolate Explosion
• Classic Nachos with BBQ Chicken
• Classic Nachos with Seasoned Ground Beef
• Classic Nachos with Spicy Chicken
• Deluxe
• French Onion Soup
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Garlic Parmesan Fries
• Great White North
• Loaded Pepperoni & Bacon Squarefooter Pizza
• Mediterranean Pizza
• Pepperoni Pizza
• Southwest Breakfast Bowl
• Spicy Perogy Pizza
• Spinach and Artichoke Dip
• Summer Pesto Chicken Pizza
• The Meator
• Salted Caramel Panookie
• Triple Play
• Tropical Chicken

Original and Cheese Snow from Chicko Chicken

Happy Friday! Tonight, hubby and I had dinner at the new Chicko Chicken location on West Broadway. After enjoying our meal at bb.q Chicken last month, we decided to try similar dishes here—ordering the boneless Original and Cheese Snow chicken.

Chicko’s portions were impressively generous, with each piece coated in a crunchy, golden crust that held up well with every bite. The Original chicken was juicy and tender inside, though I found the flavor a bit milder compared to the rich, seasoned profile of bb.q Chicken’s version. Still, the subtlety worked in its favor, letting the crispiness and texture shine.

Original and Cheese Snow from Chicko Chicken

The Cheese Snow chicken, however, was the real highlight. Unlike some other places where the cheese flavor can slip off the chicken, Chicko’s cheese coating stayed put, giving each bite a delightful balance of savory, creamy cheese dust. It added a nice depth without overpowering the chicken, which made it stand out even more.

To round out the meal, we got a side of herb and cheese Shake Shake Fries. Shaking the powder in the bag was a fun, interactive touch, and the fries came out perfectly coated with a blend of herbs and mild cheese flavor. They were crispy, well-seasoned, and paired nicely with the chicken.

Shake Shake Fries from Chicko Chicken

Overall, it was a satisfying and comforting dinner—just what we needed to kick off the weekend!

Hot Spicy Chicken Ramen from JINYA Ramen Bar

After feeling under the weather all week and even taking a day off yesterday to rest, I’m finally back at work today. Thankfully, our team lunch provided a much-needed pick-me-up. We went to JINYA Ramen Bar’s Robson location, and I ordered the Spicy Chicken Ramen — a perfect choice for a day when I needed something comforting. 

Spicy Chicekn Ramen from JINYA Ramen Bar
Chicken brother, chicken chashu, spinach, spicy bean sprouts, green onion, and thin noodles

The ramen came with a flavorful chicken broth, tender chicken chashu, fresh spinach, spicy bean sprouts, and green onion, all served with thin noodles at a satisfying hot spice level. Just what I needed to recharge.

For future me, below is a list of ramen you have tried:

• JINYA Tonkotsu Black
• Karaage Chicken Ramen
• Premium Tonkotsu Red
• Spicy Chicken Ramen
• Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen
• Spicy Umami Miso Ramen