The much-anticipated Grapes and Soda, little sister to Farmer’s Apprentice, is finally open, serving up a rotating list of small bites paired with natural wines. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 5pm-11pm. GrapesAndSoda.ca
Just in time for summer…Rain or Shine has opened a second location of their much-lauded ice cream shop on Cambie at West 18th. RainOrShineIceCream.com
Yaletown just got another dining destination. Malt and Marrow is a new gastropub that has opened at 1269 Hamilton. The concept revolves around BC craft beer and European comfort food. Let’s hope they can beat the curse that seems to sit on this block. MaltAndMarrow.com
Central City Brewers & Distillers has collaborated once again with Jeff O’Neill of CFOX for the Jeff O’Neil Show Red Racer Maple Bacon Ale. Available at BCLDB and private liquor stores in 650 mL bottles ($5.25). CentralCityBrewing.com
Just in time for Mother’s Day, French Made Baking has launched a new Parisian-themed afternoon tea service, with both a light bites option ($15, available every day), and a full-service afternoon tea with Kusmi Tea ($31.50, Friday-Sunday). There is also a new macaron-making class and kit, for those looking for more interactive gifts. FrenchMadeBaking.com
The next installment of the Greasy Spoon Supper Series will take place on May 19 at Save On Meats with executive chef William Tse of BC Place Stadium. Each dinner is in support of A Better Life Foundation and its community programs. Tickets $95. GreasySpoonDiner.com
On May 20, Yew Seafood & Bar wine director Emily Walker is bringing together six of the city’s top sommeliers for a wine-themed six-course dinner that will cover a variety of wine regions and styles. The line-up includes Jason Yamasaki of Chambar, Mike Bernardo of Vij’s, Lisa Haley of Boulevard, Sally Campo of Vino Volo, and, of course, Emily Walker and Steven Lane of Yew. Tickets $295. Picatice.com/SixSommDinner
Miku has introduced three new Kaiseki menu options. Kaiseki refers to the art of combining meticulous preparation, beautiful presentation and an air of mystery. Expect unique dishes such as scallops with yuzu puttanesca, Kaisen temari, and beef carpaccio with jalapeño-garlic ponzu. The three options include Shokai ($68), Kaisen ($88) and Aburi ($118). The latter requires 72 hours’ notice. MikuRestaurant.com
