Leone photo by KK Law
If the mention of Alexander McQueen and Prada sends your heart palpitating, make your way to Leone—celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Peruse the multi-level 2,320-sq-m (25,000-sq-ft) space on your own or book a personal shopping appointment. Upstairs, splurge on high-end fashions for the whole family, then head downstairs to the edgier L2 Leone for items from uber-popular Vince and Y-3 by Yohji Yamamoto.—Jennifer Patterson
The lights of Science World often change colours for special occasions, so be on the lookout for pink lights come Valentine’s Day. What happens when the lights burn out? A mountain climber must change them. Photo by KK Law
Every savvy media star knows when it’s time for a facelift, and Science World at Telus World of Science is no exception. The iconic geodesic dome has been an integral part of Vancouver’s skyline since 1986, when it housed Expo Centre for the 1986 World Exposition on Transportation and Communication, and over the years it has appeared in TV series such as The X-Files and MacGyver. But the building’s age was starting to show, so two years ago a $35 million renovation project began.
Now the rejuvenated building is ready to enter the limelight again, showing off its 2,790-sq-m (30,000-sq-ft) expansion, new lobby and new green roof with a deck overlooking False Creek. Its improved ecological footprint includes solar-thermal installations to heat the hot-water supply, solar-thermal rejection technology to reduce the need for air conditioning, and solar panels to provide shade and electricity.
Ready for a close-up? Absolutely.—Sheri Radford
Dockside tempts with pan-fried chilli squid (front) and sauteed tiger prawns (back). Photo by KK Law
The burgeoning beer scene here yields no shortage of hop-friendly dining.
1 Dockside (pictured) Discover Granville Island’s “other” brewery and dine in vista-kissed surroundings.
2 Howe Sound Brewing Take a 45-minute trip to Squamish to sample Howe Sound Lager with seafood chowder or ale-braised pork sliders.
3 Steamworks Enjoy freshly brewed quaffs, such as Lions Gate Lager, in a brass-trimmed, wood-panelled Gastown pub overlooking the harbour.
4 Yaletown Brewing Grab a glass of Downtown Brown along with a steaming bowl of sliced beef tenderloin tip stroganoff in this red-bricked Yaletown haunt.—Tim Pawsey
Hart House photo by KK Law
In a welcome contrast to the bustle of downtown, elegant and romantic Hart House is set in manicured gardens on the tranquil shores of Burnaby’s Deer Lake Park. This Tudor-style home welcomes lovers and others to cozy up inside. Regional specialties range from grilled BC salmon to Yarrow Meadows duck breast with roasted beets, before dessert of chocolate terrine or espresso crème brûlée, all offered with well-chosen wines from an extensive cellar.—Tim Pawsey
January 20 to February 5
Seared weathervane scallops at Hawksworth Restaurant. Photo by KK Law
Foodies, this one is for you. The largest restaurant festival in Canada celebrates its 10th year with culinary tours, cooking lessons, dinner-theatre evenings, contests and—the pièce de résistance—prix fixe menus with optional wine or beer pairings at 225 eateries, from humble bistros to casual favourites to Vancouver’s most elegant dining establishments. Choose your price category ($18, $28 or $38) then make a reservation, because tables always fill up quickly. This year’s line-up of tasty choices includes Hawksworth Restaurant, The Boathouse Restaurant, Yew Restaurant + Bar, Banana Leaf Malaysian Cuisine, Diva at the Met and Market by Jean-Georges. Get ready to make your taste buds very happy.—Sheri Radford
Reservations and menus at www.tourismvancouver.com/dine/dine-out-vancouver-2012
The bar and meat-aging cellar at Black + Blue. Photo by KK Law
Downtown’s newest steak emporium, Black + Blue (pictured) is a positive stunner with no shortage of buzz, wrapping prime beef and killer cocktails in a dazzling three-tiered setting highlighted by a glass-walled elevator. Uber-cuts from the Himalayan-salt-walled dry-aging room range from PEI Blue Ribbon and Canadian Reserve Angus to USDA RR Ranch and Wagyu, grilled precisely to taste and offered with a variety of sauces. Good sustainable seafood options cater to the less carnivorously inclined. Think high-energy protein palace…then multiply by 100. For a less contemporary though still very flavourful take on steak, wander down to clubby Hy’s Encore, established in 1962. For simple but flawless steak frîtes, and wines to go along, rendez-vous chez Bistro Pastis.—Tim Pawsey
The food at ShuRaku is as lovely as art. Photo by KK Law
Even though the city boasts countless sushi bars, the raw fish specialty is only part of the Japanese scene. Chef Masahiro Omori takes small plates to new heights at Granville Street’s ShuRaku Sake Bar & Bistro (pictured). Tucked away downstairs at Alberni and Thurlow, long-running Aki is a robata specialist. And nearby hibachi-style Kobe Japanese Steak House puts on a knife-whirling teppanyaki show. Warning: don’t try this at home.—Tim Pawsey
The Shore Club photo by KK Law
Downtown Deluxe
With the feel of a luxurious ocean liner, The Shore Club (pictured) blends a striking mahogany-wrapped decor with the best cuts of AAA Alberta prime beef and West Coast seafood served simply and elegantly. Chill over a perfectly poured vesper martini or sidecar at the downstairs lounge before ascending the gracious, sweeping stairs to enjoy a porterhouse steak, filet mignon, plentiful bouillabaisse or macadamia-crusted halibut in an elegant setting in front of the bustling open kitchen. Other worthy haunts range from Gotham to Hy’s Encore to Black + Blue.—Tim Pawsey
More information: (more…)
Chocolates by Thierry. Photo by KK Law
Every chocoholic on your shopping list will salivate over tempting treats from Thierry (pictured), Purdy’s Chocolates and Thomas Haas. The only challenge is resisting temptation long enough to wrap and give the gifts—without sampling a handful along the way.—Sheri Radford
More information:
THIERRY Open late. 1059 Alberni St. 604-608-6870. www.thi
errychocolates.com
PURDY’S CHOCOLATES Pacific Centre, 701 W. Georgia St. 604-683-3467. 2196 W. 4th Ave. 604-730-8669. 2705 Granville St. 604-732-7003. www.purdys.com
THOMAS HAAS CHOCOLATES AND PATISSERIE $. B/L (Tu-Sa). 2539 W. Broadway. 604-736-1848. 998 Harbourside Dr., North Vancouver. 604-924-1847. www.thomashaas.com
Sockeye salmon wellington with pinot noir butter sauce. Photo by KK Law
Cannery Redux
When the waterfront’s long-running Cannery succumbed to port security measures, former owner Bud Kanke took up the challenge by incorporating some of the original hallmark dishes into the menu at his Goldfish Seafood & Chops in Yaletown. Reincarnated classics include the pastry-wrapped sockeye salmon wellington and the smoked Alaska black cod, while other mainstays include brick chicken, braised beef short rib with cashew brittle, and a seafood tower stacked with marine treats.—Tim Pawsey
More information:
GOLDFISH SEAFOOD & CHOPS $$. D (daily). 1118 Mainland St. 604-689-8318. www.goldfishseafood.com
Pink salmon with Pemberton potatoes and chanterelle mushrooms, at O'Doul's. Photo by KK Law
Regional Hero
Not long ago, West Coast salmon was so plentiful that fishers used to throw back pinks. Nowadays, the milder flavoured, pale-fleshed, sustainable cousin of hard-to-find sockeye and coho has found new favour, thanks to chefs such as Chris Whittaker at O’Doul’s, who likes to serve locally caught salmon in inventive ways. Taste it also at Diva at the Met, Yew and The Fish House in Stanley Park, among others. Best way to check who serves sustainable seafood? Download the free Ocean Wise app from iTunes.—Tim Pawsey
More information:
O’DOUL’S RESTAURANT & BAR $$-$$$. B/L/D (daily), brunch (Sa-Su). 1300 Robson St. 604-661-1400. www.odoulsrestaurant.com
DIVA AT THE MET $$-$$$. B/L/D (daily), brunch (Sa-Su). Metropolitan Hotel, 645 Howe St. 604-602-7788. www.metropolitan.com/diva
YEW $$-$$$. B/L/D (daily), brunch (Sa-Su). Four Seasons Hotel, 791 W. Georgia St. 604-692-4939. www.yewrestaurant.com
THE FISH HOUSE IN STANLEY PARK $$. L/D (Tu-Su). 8901 Stanley Park Dr., next to the Pitch ‘n’ Putt. 604-681-7275. www.fishhousestanleypark.com
The retail store at Edible Canada. Photo by KK Law
Save your stocking stuffing for the retail store in Edible Canada’s stylish new space (pictured), where you’ll find gourmet goodies from across the province, from dressings and herb-infused oils to jellies and pickled nibbles. Our pick? The Vancouver-themed salts by Sea to Sky Seasonings, which are a souvenir and a savoury treat all rolled into one. For those on your list who have been extra good this year, select a gorgeous gift basket—then try to resist keeping it for yourself.—Kristina Urquhart
More information:
EDIBLE CANADA AT THE MARKET . $$. B/L/D (daily). Granville Island Public Market, 1689 Johnston St. 604-682-6675. www.ediblecanada.com
We asked. Where readers voted. Here are your favourite spots to shop
By Jennifer Patterson
Patterned ties at Harry Rosen. Photo by KK Law
Ladies’ Apparel
Aritzia
The city’s fashion elite favour this chic label thanks to high-quality, editorial-worthy clothing. This local company started in 1984 and now boasts shops across North America. The store offers six in-house lines, and it was an official apparel partner for the 2010 Winter Games.
Finalists
Holt Renfrew;
H&M.
Men’s Apparel
Harry Rosen
Well-groomed gents feel right at home in Harry Rosen. Custom-made suits, classic casual wear and colourful ties grace the rich wood interior, alongside leather loafers and great-for-winter puffer jackets.
Finalists
Boys’ Co.;
Mexx.
Eyewear
LensCrafters
This chain stocks a huge selection of prescription sunglasses and eyeglasses for men, women and children. Drop by for an eye exam with the on-site independent optometrist, choose from a wide selection of flattering name-brand frames, then wait while your lenses are made at the in-house optical laboratory.
Finalists
Sunglass Hut;
Eyes on Burrard.
Lingerie
Dianes Lingerie
For over 25 years Dianes has helped women of all sizes find that perfect bra. Take a few minutes to have a free, professional bra fitting, then choose from sexy lace delicates, practical t-shirt bras, or convertible or strapless numbers.
Finalists
La Jolie Madame. Pacific Centre, 701 W. Georgia St. 604-669-1831.;
Change.
Footwear
Gravitypope
Join the crowd of locals at this bustling shoe shop, carrying hard-to-find labels for the whole family. For women: Alexander Wang, Repetto and Rachel Comey. For men: Bensimon, Rag & Bone and Zeha Berlin. For kids: Minnetonka, Tretorn and Toms. The house line offers on-trend options without the sticker shock. Find purses and travel bags, too.
Finalists
Fluevog Shoes;
Aldo.
Colourful items for kids of all ages at Hip Baby. Photo by KK Law
Children’s Apparel
Hip Baby
Cool parents shop for their cool babies and kids at this Kitsilano boutique. Adults appreciate the eco-friendly options, clothing and furniture, while tots go crazy for the scoot-along balance bikes and ride-on animals.
Finalists
Dandelion Kids;
The Children’s Place;
Please Mum.
Chocolate
Purdy’s Chocolates
For over 100 years this iconic Vancouver chocolatier has satisfied sweet-tooth cravings with a box of mint melties, sweet Georgia browns or hedgehogs. The recognizable gold and purple box—chock-full of assorted chocolates, nuts and caramels—makes a great gift, whether for a hostess or for that chocolate-loving friend.
Finalists
Thomas Haas Chocolates & Patisserie;
Daniel Le Chocolat Belge.
Shopping Centre
Pacific Centre
Serious shoppers head to this downtown mall for footwear, beauty and electronics. Go underground to the lower level and make your way to The Bay, or take the aboveground overpass route to posh Holt Renfrew. Peruse the massive department stores, then pop by popular shops such as Apple, H&M and Sephora.
Finalists
Oakridge Centre;
Park Royal;
Metropolis at Metrotown.
Fine Art
Granville Fine Art
Head to Vancouver’s famed art district to find this popular South Granville gallery. The proprietors offer decades of experience and the collection ranges from Canadian masters to acclaimed American and European artists. Keep an eye out for works by The Group of Seven, Leonard Cohen and Ray Mead.
Finalists
Ian Tan Gallery;
Uno Langmann Limited.
Striped jacket from The Bay
Department Store
The Bay
Founded in 1670, this Canadian company—one of the oldest in the world—recently added some exciting elements to the downtown location: The Room, a high-end section dedicated to the crème de la crème of designer goods; and the largest in-store Coach boutique in North America. For holiday decor visit the Christmas Street department.
Finalists
Holt Renfrew;
Sears.
Antiques & Collectibles
Second Time Around Antiques
This Main Street shop opened in 1980 and is dedicated to antique and vintage furniture and decor. Search through over 740 sq m (8,000 sq ft) for that rare piece from the Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Edwardian or Art Deco era.
Finalists
Antique Warehouse;
Uno Langmann Limited.
Books
Chapters/Indigo
Spend an hour—or four—exploring this palatial, multi-level bookstore. Everything from cookbooks to architecture to language has a dedicated section, as do the hottest best sellers and magazines. Take the tots to the renovated kids’ section, then peruse the expanded gift and home decor area. Monthly author events.
Finalists
KidsBooks;
Book Warehouse.
China & Crystal
Atkinson’s
Find the perfect hostess gift, or outfit your own abode with Waterford Crystal or dinnerware by Iittala, Versace and Wedgwood. Linens, pottery, home decor and fragrances, too.
Finalists
Herzog China & Crystal;
Birks.
Jewellery & Watches
Birks
This Canadian jeweller and watchmaker has made covetable pieces since 1879. Big-name brands Rolex, Cartier, Gucci and Longines line the glass cases alongside the Birks collection of stellar diamonds, watches and pearls. On the upper lever find a large selection of fine home decor items.
Finalists
Tiffany & Co.;
Lugaro Jewellers.
Hit the water in style with a kayak from Mountain Equipment Co-op. Photo by KK Law
Athletic Sporting Goods
Mountain Equipment Co-op
This always-busy store celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Locals know it as MEC, and since it’s a co-op, every customer must buy a one-time $5 membership in order to make any purchases. Head there for everything from down jackets and wool toques to bikes, kayaks and portable cook stoves—for adventures both big and small.
Finalists
Lululemon;
Sport Chek.
Spas & Salons
Spa Utopia
Lie back, relax and let the massage therapist do all the work at this downtown waterfront spa. Book an entire day at the spa—for you, or with a plus one—and enjoy everything from medical facials to acid peels to body wraps to manicures and pedicures.
Finalists
Absolute Spa;
Aveda.
Oysters at Monk McQueens. Photo by KK Law
Superb Shellfish
Whether or not you believe the old adage about eating oysters only in months containing the letter “R,” November is a win-win. Enjoy waterfront views at Monk McQueens (pictured) while slurping succulent BC bivalves on ice. If you prefer these molluscs cooked, the oysters Rockefeller is a tasty choice. Other top spots for these freshly shucked shellfish include Coast Restaurant, Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House and Yew.—Kristina Urquhart
More information:
MONK MCQUEENS FRESH SEAFOOD AND OYSTER BAR Patio, Where to Dine Awards 2010. $$-$$$. L (M-F), D (daily), brunch (Sa-Su). 601 Stamp’s Landing. 604-877-1351. www.monkmcqueens.com (more…)
Pork rack chop with Parmesan gnocchi and bacon jus, at Hamilton Street Grill. Photo by KK Law
4 Eco-Friendly Eats
Looking for a meal that’s as good for the environment as it is for you? These Green Table–certified restaurants are sustainable from top to bottom.
1 Hamilton Street Grill Warm and friendly, this converted Yaletown warehouse is known for certified Angus steaks and great seafood.
2 Raincity Grill Across the street from English Bay beach, regional-seasonal plates are paired with wines from throughout the Pacific Northwest.
3 Commune Cafe Right downtown, this minimalist cafeteria-style spot with a hipster buzz serves all things free-range, organic and sustainable, from dawn to dusk and beyond. (more…)
(From top) Orange and black bean Pemberton beef with potatoes, Yarrow Meadows duck breast, and portobello mushroom dumplings, at Wild Rice. Photo by KK Law
Game-Day Favourites
As Grey Cup fever sweeps the city, and the BC Lions continue to roar, convenient stadium options abound. East meets west at Wild Rice, which sports a contemporary take on Chinese cuisine with local ingredients. Go for the Yarrow Meadows duck breast or seared albacore tuna with ginger-shallot daikon. More good eats close to BC Place range from lamb tagine at Belgian-inspired Chambar to lamb osso buco at Lupo, which also offers a pre-event menu from 5 to 6:15 p.m.—Tim Pawsey
More information:
WILD RICE $$. L (F), D (daily). 117 W. Pender St. 604-642-2882. www.wildricevancouver.com X Map 1: C6
CHAMBAR BELGIAN RESTAURANT Other European, Where to Dine Awards since 2007. Chef of the Year, Vancouver magazine 2011. Best Other European, Vancouver magazine since 2008. $$$. D (daily). 562 Beatty St. 604-879-7119. www.chambar.com
LUPO RESTAURANT & VINOTECA $$. D (daily). 869 Hamilton St. 604-569-2535. www.luporestaurant.ca
Boneta's new digs. Photo by KK Law
Heritage Tastes
Gastown’s popular Boneta has moved—almost right next door. The edgy new spot, tucked in behind Gassy Jack’s statue, sports a French-inspired, locally grounded menu and a convenient back door off Blood Alley. Those seeking more traditional continental fare head to Water Street Cafe, while seafood lovers pack into Cork & Fin and hop hounds find the city’s best craft brew selection at cozy and casual Alibi Room.—Tim Pawsey
More information:
BONETA Bartender of the Year, Vancouver magazine 2011. This modern bistro serves artfully presented dishes on a constantly changing menu. Reservations advised. $$. D (M-Sa). 12 Water St. 604-684-1844. www.boneta.ca
WATER STREET Cafe Overlooks Gastown’s cobbled streets and trademark steam clock. Fresh seafood, veal, lamb and daily specials. Private dining rooms. Reservations recommended. $$. L/D (daily). 300 Water St. 604-689-2832.
CORK & FIN Casual seafood and wine bistro. Decadent seafood dishes, oyster bar and vegetarian items. $$-$$$. D (Tu-Su). 221 Carrall St. 604-569-2215. www.corkandfin.ca
THE ALIBI ROOM Trendy spot serves dishes inspired by the modern English tavern. Menu changes seasonally. DJs (F-Sa). $$. D (Tu-Sa), brunch (Sa-Su). 157 Alexander St. 604-623-3383. www.alibi.ca
Delectable food and wine pairings at Giovane Cafe. Photo by KK Law
Tucked into the Fairmont Pacific Rim, near the Vancouver Convention Centre, Giovane Cafe is handy for quick bites and great coffee. At night, though, the space transforms into a sophisticated wine bar with Italian cheeses and house-made meats, pizzas and, of course, wine. The list features more than 40 wines by the glass, including Barolos and Barbarescos, kept fresh by the state-of-the-art Enomatic system.—Tim Pawsey
More information:
GIOVANE CAFE $-$$. B/L/D (daily). Fairmont Pacific Rim, 1038 Canada Place. 604-695-5501. www.giovanecafe.com
Yew's popular Low Thai'd cocktail. Photo by KK Law
The Four Seasons’ flagship room, Yew, with its soaring ceiling and two communal tables, now features inventive marine cuisine, highlighted by a dazzling new raw bar. Top tastes include albacore tuna with Aggasiz-hazelnut granola and lime-miso aioli; scallop crudo; and roasted steelhead with bourbon-maple-squash purée. Wines are well chosen, while creative cocktails are all shook up by star bartender Justin Taylor.—Tim Pawsey
More information:
YEW Hotel Dining & Bar, Where to Dine Awards since 2008. $$-$$$. B/L/D (daily), brunch (Sa-Su). Four Seasons Hotel, 791 W. Georgia St. 604-692-4939. www.yewrestaurant.com
Touchdown! The renovated BC Place stadium welcomes the 99th annual Grey Cup
By Leszek Apouchtine, Jennifer Patterson & Sheri Radford
Photo courtesy BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo)
ROAR, YOU LIONS, ROAR!
“The Pride of all BC” plans to roar past the competition and play in the 99th Grey Cup this month at BC Place. The BC Lions, Vancouver’s professional football team, have called BC Place home ever since the stadium opened in 1983. They were forced to relocate for more than a season while the stadium was renovated, but returned to their home turf at the end of September to a near-capacity crowd of more than 50,000 screaming fans. (more…)
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