Fresh Ideas Start Here (F.I.S.H.), the popular sustainable seafood store, has opened its first Vancouver location in Kitsilano at 2959 West Broadway. The original location is in South Burnaby’s Market Crossing. Look for daily sustainable seafood and the house line of “Shmoked” seafood. Another new addition is chef Josh Blumenthal (former executive chef at Bishop’s), who has created an exclusive line of ready-to-eat products, such as stuffed seafood pasta, seafood terrines, seasonal sauces and marinades. The store will also carry general store-style artisan products, such as salt from Vancouver Island Salt Co., olive oil from Domenico Fiore, and more.
Dixie’s, the Central Texas-style barbecue joint from the owners of Gringo in Gastown, is now officially open at 337 East Hastings Street. Look for lots of bourbon, rubs and pork.
The Tuck Shoppe has opened in the old Parker/Big Trouble space on Union Street. The new operation focuses on sandwiches, salads and craft beer, but there’s also BC wine, caesars and highballs.
The Chef’s Table is back! The popular biannual pop-up restaurant at Vancouver Community College is back from April 20 through June 30 at VCC’s downtown campus every Tuesday through Friday. Enjoy a five-course menu prepared by chef Hamid Salimian and the students of VCC’s International Culinary Arts program for $30 ($45 with BC wine pairings), plus taxes and gratuities. The menu changes weekly. Opening menu includes tuna cannelloni with sidestripe prawns, grilled octopus with chorizo, foie gras and duck confit, roasted beef striploin, and white chocolate and strawberries. Reservations a must. Email [email protected]
Celebrate World Malbec Day on April 16 with free Argentinean wine tastings at select private wine stores. Everything Wine, Legacy Liquor Store and Marquis Wine Cellars will each pour at least three different wines, including Malbecs and Malbec blends.
The 10th annual Spot Prawn Festival is back May 13-15, with the popular spot prawn boil at Fisherman’s Wharf. To celebrate a decade of sustainable deliciousness, this year’s festival also includes a spot prawn gala at the Vancouver Club on May 13, and a special cooking class on May 14.
Fancy a drive? The world’s largest culinary film festival is making a pit stop in Osoyoos May 6-8 at Watermark Beach Resort. Devour! Okanagan features top BC chefs, culinary competitions, A Slow Food market, dinners, and even a Mother’s Day brunch.
While you’re there… Joy Road Catering has posted the schedule for their epic al fresco winery dinners at God’s Mountain Estate in Penticton. Each Thursday during the season features a different winery and menu. As well, every Sunday there is a longtable dinner.
