Kitsilano Farmers Market

The Vancouver Farmers Markets society organizes summer markets in four locations and one winter market. This past Sunday was the second Kitsilano market of the season, and we rode our bikes down to forage and absorb some sunshine. As usual, the Bicycle Valet provided us with secure bike parking.

There are many reasons to support your local farmers market, such as preserving arable land, reducing impact on the environment, healthier food, keeping money in the local economy, but the main reason we go is for fun.

DOW: Salome

We ran out of Campari this week, and since we really enjoy a Negroni, we thought it might make sense to substitute Dubonnet for Campari. We did a quick search and found a recipe for a Salome, named after the famous biblical character, we hope.

Pair Bistro

Hidden gem alert! I'm amazed we haven't been to Pair Bistro before. Fair enough, it isn't in our neigh­bourhood, but still.

One of the defining characteristics of the culinary scene in Vancouver is the use of local ingredients. Given the abundance year round, we can't believe more chefs don't take advantage. Pair Bistro embraces this concept, offering ever changing menus based on what's in season.

DOW: Mint Julep

In honour of this month's 137th running of the Kentucky Derby, we made a drink that's been on our to-make list for a while, the Mint Julep.

Aphrodite’s Organic Café and Pie Shop

It's great having friends that appreciate good food as much as we do. Meeting one of them for lunch, we decided to hit one of Kitsilano's shining examples of sustainable eating, Aphrodite’s Organic Café and Pie Shop.

Beyond Bread Artisan Bakery

Once upon a time, there was a little bread bakery named Transilvania Peasant Bread. Using a wood-fired oven, the baker would create amazing rustic breads, highly valued by his loyal customers. Then one day, Transilvania Peasant Bread closed, and there was great turmoil in the land. When the baker opened a new bakery, Beyond Bread Artisan Bakery, the people rejoiced, and peace was restored.

Red Onion

The Red Onion, one of several "destination" restaurants in Kerrisdale, opened a generation ago, back in 1985. Countless diners have enjoyed tasty fresh burgers and hotdogs while witnessing the bustle of the open kitchen.

Today was our first visit back since the restaurant was sold to new owners back in February. The place has been streamlined somewhat, with a smaller menu including fewer dessert options, but most strikingly, the loss of the red onion presented alongside your bill.

Ajisai Sushi Bar

We love to try out new restaurants and bakeries, but this comes at a price. We often neglect our tried and true favourites. One of them, Ajisai Sushi Bar, is a legend, offering up the best sushi in Vancouver that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. As a bonus, it's within walking distance!

On a weekday lunch outing, we arrived early enough to get seated immediately, and ensconced ourselves next to the window, with plenty of natural light for photographs.

sweet e's pastries and sweets

One of the benefits of living right in the city is that you have a variety of shops and services, including bakeries (very important), within walking distance. In Kerrisdale, we have access to quite a few excellent bakeries, among them sweet e's pastries and sweets.