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Joe Fortes – Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2018

/in /by Ben McRae

Dine Out Vancouver Fest is a magical time of the year where participating restaurants offer a three-course menu at a subsidized price. The original idea spawned from high end restaurants attracting new guests in a normally slow time. The beneficiaries are the beautiful people of Vancouver who get to dine like a movie star without having to break the bank.

Joe Fortes

In my opinion no other restaurant does Dine Out better than Joe Fortes. Rich with historical ties to Vancouver, Joe Fortes is the perfect blend of high end fine dining without the pretention. The three course $40 menu they’re offering is truly a special deal. I had the pleasure of dining at my favourite spot downtown and it’s left me gushing about it to everyone!

For my first course I indulged with their Albacore Tuna & Sockeye Salmon Crudo with Miso Aioli. Crudo means raw in Italian and this dish reminded me of a sashimi salad with sliced tuna and salmon on a bed of pickled vegetables.

joe fortes seafood & chop house

photo by Ben McRae

For my main I had to go with the New York Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes. I was amazed at the size of this beautiful, cooked to perfection, succulent steak. Sometimes you get restaurants cheaping out a bit during Dine Out due to the lower priced menu, not Joe Fortes! They keep the value coming and make sure every guest leaves satisfied.

joe fortes seafood & chop house

photo by Ben McRae

Of course you must finish of your meal with a cocktail and one of their delicious desserts. I went with their Creme Brulee which was the perfect end to a perfect meal.

joe fortes seafood & chop house

photo by Ben McRae

The reason why I love Joe Fortes is because they embrace the spirit of Dine Out by treating their beloved guests to an experience you won’t forget. I urge you to take advantage of this once a year opportunity!

*Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2018 – $40 three-course menu.

For more information:

Taco Tuesdays at El Camino’s on Main Street

/in /by Ben McRae

Tuesday’s have never tasted better! El Camino’s, located on Main and 16th, is a small Latin American inspired restaurant that serves nothing but big flavours! Enter the doors with a warm welcome and instantly be captivated by the unique setting and vibe. Let their knowledgeable and charming bartenders recommend drinks while telling stories about the origins of many of their delicious tequila’s and mezcals.

el caminos taco tuesday

photo by Ben McRae

Taco Tuesday’s featuring 2 tacos for 6$ (frijoles were our favourite ?) as well as their amazing happy hour specials make El Camino’s a staple for us! $3 el tigre shots are great way to wash down tacos and complimentary tajin seasoned popcorn. If you’re looking for a unique spot where you’ll definitely have a blast with friends check out El Camino’s on Main Street. Do yourself a favour and hit it during Happy Hour!

el caminos happy hour

photo by Ben McRae

El Camino’s Glorious Happy Hour?
• MAIN ST. PILSNER $4
• EL TIGRE SHOT $3
• PALOMA COCKTAIL $6
• HOUSE RED & WHITE $5

MONDAY TO THURSDAY: 5-6pm & 10PM-CLOSE
FRIDAY: 4-6pm & 10PM-CLOSE
SATURDAY: 3-6PM & 10PM-CLOSE
SUNDAY: 3PM-CLOSE

el caminos taco tuesday

photo by Ben McRae

el camino taco tuesday

photo by Ben McRae

For more information:

East Vancouver Brewing Company

/in /by Bella Tang-Graham

Living just a couple blocks away from East Vancouver Brewing Company’s Commercial and Venables location, I’ve been eagerly waiting for a chance to check out the newest addition to East Vancouver’s abundant craft breweries. Watching their progress since early last spring has built up the suspense: finally, on one of these twilight-zone foggy nights we’ve been getting in Vancouver recently, I stopped in for a beer.

east vancouver brewing

photo by Bella Tang-Graham

East Vancouver Brewing Co.

East Van Brewing Company opened its doors in early November, boasting a spacious tasting room, industrial-chic décor, an ACDC pinball machine and a wide variety of indulgences like local pickles from Kaylin and Hobbs, calzones from Bianca Maria Italian Foods and of course, many hoppy, yeasty libations. We were especially intrigued by the Humble Hive English Brown Ale, brewed in collaboration with local company EastVan Bees, who manages hives all over East Vancouver, producing what their website identifies as “hyper-local neighbourhood honey”– “taste the flavor-hoods”! The Humble Hive Ale is imbued with a sweet, honeyed undertone courtesy of East Vancouver’s bees, chocolate malt, and English hops. Other stand-outs include the Jive House Ale, brewed with Norwegian Farmhouse yeast strains and Pacific Northwest Hops to produce a fruity, tart, unconventional brew, and the crisp, easy-drinking Community Lager (also available in six-packs if you’re the take-home type).

east vancouver brewing

photo by Bella Tang-Graham

Community Roots

The brewery is a tribute to the community from which it draws its name. You’ll find East Vancouver roots everywhere: the flights of six are arranged in a cross shape, reflexive of the iconic East Van sign at Clark and Great Northern Way. A couple of beers deep, I can confidently attest that East-Vancouverites like myself will immediately feel at home and embrace East Van Brewing with open arms: eagerly riding in on our road bikes for a beer, a growler fill, and a hipster-aesthetic fulfilling East Van Brewing Company hoodie (available for 39$ for those of you who want to look like “that craft beer guy”).

east vancouver brewing

photo by Bella Tang-Graham

east vancouver brewing company

photo by Bella Tang-Graham

For more information:

Odin’s Gift Amber Ale / Beer of the Month – December 2017

/in /by Daniel Lee

S E A | Y V R :
@odinbrewing ✖️

@factorybrewing

Odin’s Gift Amber Ale – semi-dry chocolatey or porter-like.

?: Discovered these single cans @legacyliquorstore‘s in-store tasting while going for a ???last weekend. Limited quantities, only at select stores. Core brand beer, brewed regularly at Factory Brewing.

Odin's Gift Amber Ale

photo via @dangerdan_yvr

December 2017 – Odin’s Gift Amber Ale

Check back again for our Beer of the Month feature, and follow @dangerdan_yvr for more great craft beer photos and updates!

For more information:

Odin Brewing Company
402 Baker Blvd
Tukwila, WA
98188

(206) 241-1013

odinbrewing.com

Factory Brewing
1575 Vernon Dr
Vancouver, BC
V6A 3P8

(604) 322-8679

factory.beer

 

Happy Hour on Main Street

/in /by Bob Pember

For our next neighbourhood feature we’re looking at some of our favourite happy hour spots on Main Street. This part of town is no stranger to craft beer and delicious cocktails as its one of Vancouver’s most prominent restaurant scenes. Here’s where we like to unwind with some cheap drinks and snacks on Main –

 

The Whip Restaurant

209 East 6th Ave.

Happy hour Monday – Friday with $5 highballs, house wine, and beers.

happy hour main street

The Whip Restaurant and Gallery is a neighbourhood favourite in a funky loft space featuring a rotating exhibition of local artists. This cozy, relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering over lunch or dinner with a menu highlighting an eclectic mix of market fresh and organic vegetarian dishes, burgers, Ocean Wise fish, and locally-sourced meat dishes. The Whip showcases local microbrews and features a weekly cask brew from a wealth of Vancouver breweries tapped every Sunday at 4pm.

Locus Restaurant and Lounge

4121 Main Street

Happy hour 3 – 6 daily with $4 beers, $5 wine, and $5 caesars and black lemonades.

happy hour main street

The Locus Restaurant offers an eclectic fusion of modern and classic favourites. The staff sources the best local and seasonal ingredients to create globally inspired, innovative dishes and delicious daily specials. Visit the Locus Restaurant and enjoy the natural yet unique and dynamic, gothic décor. The atmosphere is friendly, cozy, and casual.

The Reef

4172 Main Street

Happy hour 4 – 6 PM and 9 PM – close daily with $4 drinks and half price tacos.

happy hour main street

Enjoy the edible treasure of the tropics with their eclectic Caribbean fare and drinks.

The Reef’s menus are complete with plates inspired by the styles and tastes of the Caribbean.

Vibrant colours, tropical plants, and kitschy signs create a casual, fun atmosphere. The friendly and personable staff keeps the vibe upbeat and always make for a good place to unwind.

Meet on Main

4288 Main Street

Happy hour daily 3 – 6 PM with $4 sleeves and $5 snacks.

happy hour main street

Meet is a comfortable room and  inviting space where people leave happy and full without a compromise on choice or satisfaction. Rely on them for a tasty cocktail and even tastier food. A place to get food and drink the way you want it – neighbourhood prices, lots of choice and a philosophy of casual comfort.

The Five Point

3124 Main Street

Happy hour 3 – 6 PM Monday – Thursday with $3 beers.

happy hour main street

The Five Point Restaurant’s stunning turn of the century chandelier, friendly service and innovative menu has made this local the brightest restaurant on Main Street. With a focus on fresh ingredients, good wine and an upbeat relaxed atmosphere The Five Point Restaurant and Pub is an essential part of Main Street’s restaurant and nightlife culture. Complete with an awesome South-West facing patio there is no better place to relax on the block.

 

Vancouver Holiday Events 2017

/in /by VanCity Drinks

Christmas is right around the corner, and you probably need a break from holiday shopping and planning. So why not get out this week for some Vancouver holiday events with your friends and family! Here are four events in the lower mainland to check out – 

Deep Cove Holiday Social

When: Wednesday, December 20, 4-7pm

Where: Deep Cove Brewers + Distillers. 170 – 2270 Dollarton Hwy # 170, North Vancouver

Cost: Free

Deep Cove Brewers and Distillers is hosting a holiday social, and it’s one you don’t want to miss. Bring a few friends and join the talented Collin Bullock for some live music and craft beers. You can sip on some mulled wine and then get your annual photo taken with Santa Claus. Did we mention there’s free food?

vancouver holiday events

 

Christmas Dark Matters – Liqueur-Infused Desserts Xperience

When: Thursday December 21, 8-9pm

Where: 77K Freeze – 2240 Commercial Drive, Vancouver BC

Cost: $25.00 – Tickets available here

Have you ever tried liquid nitrogen ice cream? Share a unique holiday experience this Thursday by raising your dessert game with some liquor infused dessert from 77K Freeze. For $25, they’re offering personalized Christmas desserts with liquid nitrogen using a wide range of flavours, liqueurs, and alcohols.

vancouver holiday events

 

Ugly Sweater Party

When: Friday December 22, 8-12

Where: Mariner Brewing – H-1100 Lansdowne Dr, Coquitlam, BC

Cost: Free

Mariner Brewing is hosting its first ever ugly sweater party! Make sure to wear an ugly sweater to be entered to win prizes and receive $1 off beers from 9-12pm. Also, Mariner Brewing is revealing three new beers on Friday, if you show up between 8-9 pm you can to try all three for just $3 each!

vancouver holiday events

 

Four Winds Festivus

When: Saturday December 23, 7pm-late

Where: The Cobalt – 917 Main Street, Vancouver, BC

Cost: Free

The Cobalt & The Boxcar present a Four Winds Festivus. Join event host Nick Pound for an evening of Festivus miracles, airing of grievances, feats of strength, comedy, and more. Four Winds is featuring more than 16 classic and rare brews for you to try. Admission is free with a donation to the Downtown Eastside Women’s Shelter. For a complete list of accepted donations, visit the Facebook page here.

vancouver holiday events

 

Diablo Cookie Porter / Beer of the Month – November 2017

/in , /by Daniel Lee
Diablo Cookie Porter

photo via @dangerdan_yvr

DIABLO.GALLETA :

@superfluxbeer ✖️ @tacofinovan ✖️ @fourwindsbrewco

Diablo Cookie Porter w/ cinnamon, vanilla, salt, cayenne pepper, & ginger.

?: Sweet aromatics/taste up front, then a little tickle in the back of the throat. I find the unassuming umami-like mouthfeel binds all the flavours together into a cohesive beer.

Diablo Cookie Porter

photo via @tacofinovan

Diablo Cookie Porter

photo via @tacofinovan

November 2017 – Diablo Cookie Porter

Check back again for our Beer of the Month feature, and follow @dangerdan_yvr for more great craft beer photos and updates!

For more information:

Superflux Beer Company

@superfluxbeer

Tacofino

tacofino.com

Four Winds Brewing Co.
4-7355 72 ST
Delta, BC
V4G 1L5

fourwindsbrewing.ca

The Belgard Kitchen Happy Afternoon

/in , /by Belinda Phung

I had the pleasure of experiencing one of Vancouver’s most unique restaurants last week, The Belgard Kitchen. As a long time industry worker and supporter of Vancouver’s hospitality scene, I’ve seen a lot of restaurants, bars and bottoms of empty glasses! The Belgard Kitchen, located in the historic Settlement Building, emits a radiant Vancouver vibe as you push open the 100-year-old doors imported from an Argentinian Church. Myself and my social media muse, Elle, took advantage of The Belgard Kitchen Happy Afternoon menu – which runs 3-6pm Mon-Thurs, featuring $6 Wine and $5 Beer brewed by brother-band Postmark Brewing.

belgard kitchen happy afternoon 1

Sharing Is Caring

Sharing a space with a brewery adds a unique element that makes Belgard a rarity, as well as a destination that you need to experience. The Happy Afternoon Menu gives you a chance to dabble in the absolutely delicious cuisine that Belgard offers. The Mushroom + Bacon Pate is truly mouth-watering and is only rivaled by its counterpart the Green Chickpea + Avocado Hummus.

belgard kitchen happy afternoon 2

Paving the way for my highlight of the afternoon, the Heirloom Caprese Pizzette. This decadent dish boasts being gluten free and vegan! Drizzled with sunflower seed pesto and white balsamic I was literally in food heaven. The herbed cashew mozzarella was surprisingly delicious. Cashew cheese? I’m now a believer!

belgard kitchen happy afternoon 3

Next time you want to impress a date or just spend some quality time with friends, The Belgard Kitchen will leave all your guests impressed. If you’re like me and love a good deal on quality wine and food, then enjoy their Happy Afternoon Menu Monday to Thursday from 3-6pm. Stay tuned as my search for the best places to drink and dine in Vancouver continues.

belgard kitchen happy afternoon 4

belgard kitchen happy afternoon 5

For more information:

THE BELGARD KITCHEN
55 DUNLEVY AVE
VANCOUVER, BC CANADA
V6A 3A3

(604) 699-1989

belgardkitchen.com

Day Trips From Vancouver – Craft Beer Edition

/in , /by Kevin Wiens

There are so many craft breweries in Vancouver that it’s easy to forget what’s offered in our surrounding cities. The neighbouring craft scene in Metro Vancouver continues to grow and that just means more craft options for us! Vancouver, with its Skytrain and SeaBus connections, is a great starting point for a short day trip away from our busy city. Your friends at VanCity Drinks have created a list of 3 awesome trips for you to get out of Vancouver, with a craft beer focus, of course.

Brewers Row – Murray St., Port Moody

A craft beer lover’s dream, Yellow Dog Brewing Co., Parkside Brewery, Twin Sails Brewing and Moody Ales are located within 400 meters of each other. Just one kilometer from the Port Moody Station, all four breweries offer a unique story of their history, culture, and craft brewing process. If you tour all four breweries, you’ll likely be overwhelmed by how many craft beers you’ve seen. Don’t forget to explore Port Moody’s beautiful Rocky Point Park and waterfront area! Hungry? We suggest Pajo’s Famous Fish & Chips.

craft beer 1

photo by Parkside Brewery

Green Leaf Brewing Co. – Lonsdale Quay Market, North Vancouver

There’s nothing better than riding the Seabus over Vancouver’s harbour as you take in the views of the North Shore. Lonsdale Quay has long been a tourist hotspot. The marketplace has over 80 specialty shops to visit with artisan goods, art, and clothes all on display. Since 2013, Greenleaf Brewing Co. has offered craft beer right inside the market, making it the perfect mid shopping break. We recommend enjoying their beer while sitting on the patio looking out at the harbour. Finally, top of your Lonsdale trip with a visit to the Polygon Art Gallery, which opened their new waterfront location on November 18.

craft beer 2

photo by Green Leaf Brewing

Steel & Oak Brewery – Downtown, New Westminster

New Westminster’s historic downtown core is another excellent option for a quick trip out of the city. After strolling down Columbia Street, cross over the bridge to visit New West’s burgeoning riverfront area. Once you’ve enjoyed the Fraser views, go inside the River Market for some more casual window shopping. If you’re hungry grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and then make your way to the important stuff, craft beer. Just a 15 minute walk from the market is Steel & Oak Brewery, your go-to destination for New West craft  (see the map here). With over ten rotating taps to choose from, Steel & Oak’s tasting room has a variety of flavour combinations with something for everyone. And yes, kids too. Adults can sip on some craft beer while the kids enjoy their “craft” lemonade.

craft beer 3

photo by Steel & Oak

For more information:

Happy Hour in Kitsilano

/in , /by Bob Pember

This week, to continue our series on our favourite places for happy hour around Vancouver, we’re bringing you our picks for unwinding or gearing up after work in Kitsilano. There’s always lots to check out in the area, but we want to help you find the best way to not go broke doing it. Here are five spots in Kits that do happy hour right and what they have to offer the neighbourhood.

Burgoo Bistro

2272 West 4th Ave.

Happy hour daily 3 PM – 5 PM with $5 Burgoo Brew, $5 wine, and daily specials.

Originally opened in Point Grey, Burgoo came to life because they believe everyone needs a little comfort and a place to enjoy some great comfort food. They now have locations throughout Vancouver and North Van and have become a “go-to” restaurant for each of their neighbourhoods. Serving up comfort food and comfort drinks, Burgoo has made a name for itself by being reliable for consistent quality and unique offerings that leave guests satisfied and wanting more. Their international food offerings are a great addition to your happy hour and will help you forget that the workday ever happened.

 

Bimini Public House

2010 West 4th Ave.

Happy hour daily until 6 PM with $5 food, $4 beer, and $4 wine.

Named for a Bahamian island haven and supply point of prohibition-era rum runners, the Bimini is no stranger to a dark and stormy. There’s a real neighbourhood history between those wood-panelled walls, where local hippies and Greenpeacers used to hold court, and today it remains the locals’ local. A Vancouver icon, the Kitsilano neighbourhood pub augments its 24 draught taps with craft beer clubs and dinners, Tottenham supporters and this nation’s future from nearby UBC. Its strong cocktails, earnest wine list, and locally sourced menu make The Bimini a resurrection to celebrate, and not just for a rum run.

 

Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company

1876 West 1st Ave.

Happy hour Monday – Friday 3 PM – 5 PM featuring $4 craft lager and $6 house wine.

The team at Rocky Mountain Flatbread is passionate about using lots of local and organic produce, free-range organic meats and Ocean Wise seafood. Watch the show as they create handcrafted flatbread pizzas, daily pastas, seasonal soups, salads, and desserts “to live for” from an open kitchen and artisan oven. They are also always looking out for new and unique local craft breweries and wineries to feature with their health-conscious pizzas. They also have a frozen pizza selection for you to take on your way home from happy hour.

 

Corduroy Restaurant

1943 Cornwall Ave.

Happy hour daily 4 PM – 6 PM with $4 lager and $4.50 highballs.

Corduroy is one of Kitsilano’s best-kept secrets featuring fantastic food and a great atmosphere tucked away by the beach on Cornwall Avenue. They take great pride to ensure everyone always has a great time, good food, and exceptional service. Chef Figg creates an organic menu for you to appreciate, and always provide innovative weekend specials using local ingredients. They have events and specials throughout the week, and even feature a rock, paper, scissors tournament every Monday.

 

The Manchester Public Eatery

1941 West Broadway

Happy hour daily 3 PM – 6 PM with $3.50 lager and ale, $4.50 house wines, and $4.50 highballs.

Serving everybody from the office staff of Kitsilano to the sports fans of Vancouver, the Manchester offers comfort, good food, and 360-degree screen views for sports and other televised events. The venue has a historical connection with its local community and remains a reliable spot to see all European sports including Rugby, Irish Sports, and English Premier League Football. It’s a great after-work stop and once the weekend comes round, the bar produces fantastic shooter and shot specials, pint specials, and some of the best Weekend DJs on the Broadway strip.