tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67918113846999782042024-03-27T16:53:12.370-07:00MISSVANCOUVERPIGGYMISS VANCOUVER PIGGYMiss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.comBlogger560125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-7631700658560704612019-02-15T08:29:00.000-08:002019-02-15T08:31:42.641-08:00CHEWIE'S BISCUIT CO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Southern United States cuisine lacks in Vancouver and while there are more fried chicken and barbecue restaurants popping up, what about biscuits and gravy? Chewie's Biscuit Co is a fairly new eatery located on the West side in Kitsilano and specializes in biscuits! In addition, Chewie's offers all day breakfast until 5:00pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 7:00pm (Friday and Saturday).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We visited on a weekday morning right when the restaurant opened at 9:00am and shorty others followed. The menu covers everything from bennies and breakfast bowls to of course biscuits and dessert, such as bronut and french toast!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FRIED CHICKEN BENNY $15</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fried chicken benny was recommended by the cashier and it was great (I wish the egg did not fall over though, just for the photo!). The bennies consisted of avocado, perfectly poached eggs where the yolks remained runny, and crispy along with well seasoned breast meat in a honey glaze on top of a halved buttery and flaky biscuit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The biscuit held up the bennies well and the hollandaise tasted extremely rich and buttery, but did not overwhelm. As for the gorgeously browned house spiced potatoes, each one exhibited a crispy exterior throughout and a fluffy interior. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SUNRISE BISCUIT $9</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We ordered a lighter plate especially since the benny was on the heavier side and the Sunrise biscuit consisted of double smoked bacon, American cheese, sunny side up egg and zingy sauce. The fresh and warm biscuit was perfect - crispy exterior, flaky and moist. Moreover, the bacon was perfectly rendered and the egg was, do I dare say it... perfect again, sunny side up with a crispy bottom and runny yolk. This was a very well executed plate, however I personally would have preferred cheddar of American.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BRONUT $3</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To end breakfast on a sweet note, we ordered a bronut! The available flavours are chocolate, glaze and mystery, which fortunately in our case was london fog (a favourite of mine!). The crispy bronut exhibited a perfectly dense and fluffy texture with a good balance of sweetness. Highly recommended.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Breakfast at Chewie's was well executed and I would love to come back to try other items on the menu. The portions may look on the smaller side as well, but it was quite filling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Well executed food</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Fresh biscuits and bronut (we arrived right at opening)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- It would be nice if other cheese options were posted on the menu or if use of American cheese was listed</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CHEWIE'S BISCUIT CO</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2822 West 4th Avenue Vancouver, BC V6K 1R2</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone (604) 336-9966<br /><a href="https://www.chewiesbiscuitco.com/" target="_blank">https://www.chewiesbiscuitco.com</a></span></div>
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Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-82226819212882436812019-02-06T18:15:00.001-08:002019-02-23T16:46:33.590-08:00THE RISE EATERY<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ah, the middle of January to the beginning of February means it is time for Dine Out Vancouver once again. Also known as an opportunity for restaurants to gain business during the slower months of the year. Personally, I am not a fan of dine out because restaurants can get too crowded and the food along with service may not be a true representation due to the high volume. So when Wanda from The Rise Eatery invited me to try their Kick-the-Blue's 3 course prix fixe menu, it peaked my interest because they did not participate in Dine Out. Plus, the menu looked <i>really</i> good as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Rise Eatery is a global fusion restaurant located in South Granville that focuses on shared plates. However, they specifically created an individual 3 course menu that was offered between January 15th to February 3rd at $30 per person.
And since KTBs was an amazing hit, the restaurant decided to keep the concept of a 3 course menu that will be based on seasonal ingredients in addition to their shared plates! </span><span style="font-size: large;">Prices are set to $42 per person and on Wednesdays, only $30 per person! Could you ask for a better hump day treat? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CASTAWAY $19</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the signature drinks consisted of coconut rum, grapefruit aperitif, lime, olive brine, pineapple foam and a message in a bottle. This was a light and refreshing cocktail, the novelty was super cute and it definitely brightened up our rainy evening. Castaway was one of those drinks that you want to keep ordering and ordering!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>LOLLIWOOD NORTH $13</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Another signature drink consisted of a glass of joieblend noble blend, lychee liquor, elderflower and a cranberry popsicle. Yes, a cranberry popsicle! Again, this was another novelty drink that tasted great.
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>LARB AFFAIR</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the two available appetizers was the ahi tuna ceviche with roasted rice, kefir lime oil and rice paper crisps. A fusion of Thai and Latin American, the fresh ceviche was well executed and there was a nice kick from the chilli as well as a good balance of acidity. I really enjoyed the rice paper chips too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A DIFFERENT BEET</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The other appetizer was the beet carpaccio. The perfectly thin slices of beet were sweet and tender, and paired well with the small dollops of orange cashew cream. In additional, the sweet mandarin oranges brightened up the dish and there was a nice crunch from the pepitas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BELLY-TO-BELLY 3.0</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of the entrees we chose was the brûléed kakuni smoked pork belly. And honest to truth I am not a fan of ordering pork belly at a restaurant because from many of my previous experiences, it was rarely well executed. Although in this case, the pork belly tasted AMAZING.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The pork belly was well rendered and melted in the mouth, including the lean portion. On top of that, the smokiness was just right and did not overwhelm. The side of kabocha rice tasted very flavourful with the buttered salted egg yolk as well and the pickled apples along with daikon were a refreshing touch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>UNI-VERSAL PASTA XO EDITION</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The other entree we chose was the sea urchin pasta served with house xo sautéed prawns, which was uni heaven. The al dente squid ink pasta had a nice bite, chewiness, and soaked up the rich sea urchin cream. I especially like how you can taste the squid ink in the pasta too. There was also plenty of ooomph with the addition of tobiko and nori, and when you pair it with XO sautéed prawns it was definitely a Hong Kong and Japanese fusion plate. As for the buttery prawns, it was perfectly cooked, exhibited a nice snap, and the xo was on point. We made sure there was nothing remaining on the plate, not a single drop!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Other options for entrees are Cheeky Business: star anise braised beef cheeks and Buried Treasure: miso braised vegetables (cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts and broccoli).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>LUV U SO MATCHA</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For dessert, one of the two options was the matcha cheese tartlet (also available in full size for additional $5.00). The buttery tartlet exhibited a nice crunch along with a rich matcha cheese filling that consisted of just the right amount of sweetness. The raspberry coulis was a nice combination as well and more places should offer it, who else is over the matcha and red bean mix?! There was also a crispy element from the white chocolate pearls.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POT OF GOLD</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The other dessert option was a dark chocolate pot de creme with lemon Chantilly and wild blueberry compote, which was rich as well as decadent and did not overwhelm. I loved the additions of in-house honey combs for that hint of extra sweetness too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you could not tell, I truly enjoyed every plate. And it is rare for me to enjoy every single dish at a restaurant. The Rise Eatery is an underrated restaurant in my opinion and when looking at their regular menu, even the prices are a steal! How could I have not known of them before? From the food puns and nicely thought out menu to well executed food, I could not stop raving about The Rise Eatery for like weeks after my visit and would actually be back!</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">*Beverages and food were compensated excluding gratuity*</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Carefully thought out dishes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Well executed food</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Great prices</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Like usual seasonal items, some dishes will only be available when in season</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE RISE EATERY</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3121 Granville St Vancouver, BC V6H 3K1</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone 604 559 8280</span><br />
<a href="http://theriseeatery.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">theriseeatery.com</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Vancouver’s got no game when it comes to Chicago style deep dish pizza, like literally. There may be a couple of pizzerias offering pizza similar to deep dish, but their variations are just a higher crust. Not necessarily more toppings. So with a quick Google on our next door neighbour Washington, I managed to discover Fat Pie Pizza! I have to disclose despite never tried deep dish pizza, it really looked like something I would fall in love with. And I have always wanted to try it ever since I was a little kid.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fat Pie Pizza is located in Bellingham and specializes in Chicago deep dish, Detroit square pan, Brooklyn New York thin style, and Pan Pizzas. In addition to pizza, they offer pastas and sandwiches. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FRIED RAVIOLI ($5.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To start off, we ordered the fried beef ravioli served with tasty and hearty marinara. The crispy ravioli tasted mealy, and on the dry side however.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>MEATBALLS ($7.00)</b><br />Next up, on the table are housemade meatballs in more of that tasty marinara topped with Romano and served with rosemary focaccia. The meatballs were well seasoned and flavours were on point, but the meat was on the tougher side and dry. The highlight was definitely the delicious fresh and fluffy rosemary focaccia! Oh man, it was great.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA, REGULAR SIZE ($22.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now onto the main event, the Chicago deep dish pizza arrived! This was the regular size and fortunately we were able to choose half and half, so we went for half ‘57 Packard and half Mo Town.
The deep dish exhibited a crispy and extremely flaky crust throughout, similar to biscuit dough and the bottom held up very well (crust did not get soggy).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WaD4HEbY9F0/XFhf6siSUYI/AAAAAAAAND0/fsW-0sEV56MfBkoMD1TFWJnHOVZg81ncACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_4487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1204" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WaD4HEbY9F0/XFhf6siSUYI/AAAAAAAAND0/fsW-0sEV56MfBkoMD1TFWJnHOVZg81ncACEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_4487.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The ‘57 Packard consisted of tender roasted chicken, flavourful bacon, fresh basil, caramelized onions, Gorgonzola, mozzarella and creamy pesto. It was a really creamy pizza with a touch of sweetness from the caramelized onions.
As for the Mo Town, it consisted of sausage, pepperoni, bacon, smoked ham, mozzarella, bolognese and marinara. This was a heartier and more traditional pizza. It was also easy on the sodium, which I appreciated considering all the meat lover toppings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fat Pie Pizza overall did not disappoint when it came to pizza. I love how we were able to choose half/half as well and I wish we had more stomach room to try their other pizzas! I will definitely be back, just too bad it is almost 2 hours away from me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Buttery and flaky crust </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Lots of filling in the pizza</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Rewards program</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Appetizers we ordered were meh</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Not a big deal, but happy hour prices were not applied lol</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FAT PIE PIZZA</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1015 Harris Avenue Bellingham, WA 982258</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone 360 366 8090</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://fatpiepizza.com/">https://fatpiepizza.com/</a></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d84231.22406005459!2d-122.57375538750853!3d48.720277875450954!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e0!4m0!4m5!1s0x5485a2222b8f6201%3A0x3a6f44f73e4bba5d!2sFat+Pie+Pizza%2C+1015+Harris+Ave%2C+Bellingham%2C+WA+98225%2C+USA!3m2!1d48.7202991!2d-122.5037153!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1549416362263" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-27679120693081371752018-09-07T09:59:00.000-07:002018-09-07T11:16:51.037-07:00HILLTOP DINER CAFE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Literally between the Langley and Aldergrove border situates Hilltop Diner, a diner that has been around for over 60 years! Hilltop Diner was featured on You Gotta Eat Here! and filmed in popular movies such as The Butterfly Effect (which I recall enjoying and watched a few times!) and TV series, Supernatural.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We arrived after 11:00am so their speciality breakfast dishes were over, however the classic breakfast such as eggs, ham and sausage run all day.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">VANILLA MILK SHAKE $7.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Milkshakes are always a must order at whenever you are at a diner so we ordered a vanilla milkshake. The milkshake was significantly on the sweeter end and creamy, but not as "thick" as I personally prefer. It lacked that "hard" ice cream texture.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">HILLTOP BURGER $15.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Going for Hilltop's signature burger, it consisted of a 5oz beef patty, double smoked bacon, grilled mushrooms and onions, lettuce, tomato and pickles with gooey cheese. The burger was on the leaner side, the mushrooms gave it some earthiness and the crispy bacon tasted great, but overall the beef was really dry due to cut of meat. If I were to nit pick, I personally prefer slices of bacon rather than diced too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead of fries, we opted for a side of soup for an additional $3.00. The beef and potato soup exhibited depths of flavour, was very hearty, and tasted better than the burger.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">MUSHROOM MOZZA BURGER $13.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Another burger we tried was the Mushroom Mozza that consisted of beef, mushrooms, molten mozza cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomato and pickles. Similar to the Hilltop Burger, the beef was once again on the dryer side. The side of fresh fries on the other hand tasted great - pillowy and fluffly on the interior although they were not the crispy variation.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">THE MOUNTAIN BURGER $20</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Last of the burgers is one of the two Walk of Fames, the Mountain Burger. If you finish this or the Everest Burger, you get your picture taken and posted on their wall. This burger consisted of two 5oz housemade beef patties, a homemade pork patty, double smoked bacon, in-house ham, fried egg, onion rings, mushrooms, mozza, cheddar and processed cheese with homemade BBQ sauce along with hand-cut french fries!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This massive burger held up very well. The beef and pork patties were lightly seasoned and on the leaner as well as dryer side, but the fried egg had a perfectly runny yolk. The addition of lettuce and tomato brightened up the burger well and provided some moisture while the in-house ham was neither too dry nor salty. There were also hits of earthiness from the mushroom once again, texture from the crispy onions rings, smokiness from the bacon, and the BBQ sauce did not overwhelm.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">BANANA PIE $7.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, enough of the burgers! Hilltop Diner is known for their in-house pies so of course we ordered a few. First up and trying something out of my comfort zone, banana pie (I am not a fan of banana in dessert). The filling was smooth, fluffy and had a controlled level of sweetness. There were also strong hits of banana and the crust was crispy.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">APPLE PIE $7.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next up is a classic apple pie, which again had a perfect level of sweetness. The crust also adhered to the pie throughout each bite and was very flaky. And on top of that, the thick and chunky apple slices were well seasoned and cinnamony.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">COCONUT CREAM PIE $7.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The last of the pies is the coconut cream, which was very light and fluffy. Both the banana pie along with the coconut cream were bang on in textures and flavours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hilltop Diner is known for, well, diner food, and the burgers we ordered as well as the pies are not a true representation of the restaurant. With that said, the burgers were on the drier side and not as enjoyable as if the beef was juicy. The pies on the other hand tasted great, we saw plenty of people grab pie on the go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Great pies</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Extensive menu</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Authentic diner atmosphere</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Burgers could be more moist</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Staff was indifferent</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>HILLTOP DINER CAFE</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">23904 Fraser Hwy Langley BC V2Z 2K8</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone 604 514 9424</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.hilltopdiner.ca/">www.hilltopdiner.ca</a></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d83635.65436729998!2d-122.63178853391476!3d49.074967711669835!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x5485cebd9478eebd%3A0x8dd27c7f32b14a07!2shilltop+diner!3m2!1d49.0749889!2d-122.5617489!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1533912521190" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-32335092883977303562018-08-04T10:50:00.000-07:002018-08-04T10:55:58.480-07:00OZ KOREAN CUISINE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5zs7VQMWaNQ/W2W5jxChy_I/AAAAAAAAM_w/wvgoaAOmiCM1aY6V8CkdvOUVl4DfZJhFQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5zs7VQMWaNQ/W2W5jxChy_I/AAAAAAAAM_w/wvgoaAOmiCM1aY6V8CkdvOUVl4DfZJhFQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8848.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oz Korean Cuisine is one of the newer chimaek eateries in Coquitlam serving Korean fried chicken and food with alcohol. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes from fried chicken, rice cakes, soup and dumplings to barbecue meat and katsu don.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">PRO TIP: Oz Korean offers free underground parking at the back of the restaurant and the password is 1171.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">DDUCKOCHI $5.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All the dishes arrived fairly quick and the first item we tried were the skewered rice cakes. The rice cakes exhibited a perfect level of chewines - neither too mushy nor stiff and the sweet chili sauce paired well. There were also hits of sweetness and a medium level of spiciness, I loved the flavours! The rice cakes were so addictive!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGvLL81uhZE/W2W5kyScbjI/AAAAAAAANAA/7lGruL5YeM09EkdaK8mUumojxzK3mGKRQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGvLL81uhZE/W2W5kyScbjI/AAAAAAAANAA/7lGruL5YeM09EkdaK8mUumojxzK3mGKRQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8868.JPG" width="640" /></a></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DEEP FRIED SQUID $12.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To contrast with the rice cakes, the crispy fried squid was very light, puffy and airy, resembling shrimp chips. At first I wanted the typical crispy exterior and chewy squid, but I got used to this.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHbtYfI0a3w/W2W5jksJPEI/AAAAAAAAM_o/Y-WoCn_-TbgOOcX1STsUcthNVk7rUCdkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHbtYfI0a3w/W2W5jksJPEI/AAAAAAAAM_o/Y-WoCn_-TbgOOcX1STsUcthNVk7rUCdkACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8862.JPG" width="640" /></a><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BBQ RIBS LA $15.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Moving towards a Korean staple, barbecue meat, I am a huge fan of galbi ribs over LA cut because I have never experienced tasty LA ribs before. However these were pretty darn good, the ribs were well marinated with soy sauce, exhibited a hint of sweetness and tasted tender as well as juicy. The ribs tasted so delicious on its own and usually I NEED char, but it was good without.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Mb0wrm7Lt4/W2W5lW2sgLI/AAAAAAAANAE/KNiDUu-xcCwTZHXG8l4z326J4pyrnaH6wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Mb0wrm7Lt4/W2W5lW2sgLI/AAAAAAAANAE/KNiDUu-xcCwTZHXG8l4z326J4pyrnaH6wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8870.JPG" width="640" /></a></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>HALF AND HALF FRIED CHICKEN $21.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Up next is the impressive chicken, half fried and half fried with dakgangjeong. The crispy chicken was well rendered where the skin adhered to the skin after each bite, and was not greasy one bit. Moreover, the juicy chicken tasted great on its own fried or with the sweet chili sauce. Personally I always find dakgangjeong a bit overwhelming, but this had just enough sweetness as I did not find it overbearingly sweet. The fried chicken won me over as the seasoning was flavourful and on point though.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Q_YMhgCVA/W2W5km2nB9I/AAAAAAAAM_4/F-csl0-yyC017Hg2QnyxUeAkfQRy1Fa0QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Q_YMhgCVA/W2W5km2nB9I/AAAAAAAAM_4/F-csl0-yyC017Hg2QnyxUeAkfQRy1Fa0QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8864.JPG" width="640" /></a></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BOSSAM $17.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Last of the proteins is the bossam, which was probably the best I have had. The slices of pork belly literally melted in the mouth and appeared truly slow simmered. The pork was also well seasoned and exhibited a touch of sweetness. Good bossam is so hard to find in Vancouver, thank you Oz Korean!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>KIMCHI FRIED RICE $9.50</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To conclude our meal with another great dish is the kimchi fried rice. All the ingredients were properly fused together and this was not just a quick toss as there were strong notes of kimchi and blended flavours. The rice also exhibited a nice chewiness and had a perfect texture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All the dishes we ordered at Oz Korean were delicious! I could not stop raving about this restaurant after my first visit and have you seen the prices? Korean food is known to be on the pricier end unless you are dining with a group of four, but the prices at Oz Korean are a lot cheaper than usual. So with good food and cheap prices, of course I had to revisit and try more items on the menu!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CRSHHIKGneg/W2XHFWBYJZI/AAAAAAAANAw/QqZfH50JUHseR7h1_sR1LXolMzAsH3G0gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CRSHHIKGneg/W2XHFWBYJZI/AAAAAAAANAw/QqZfH50JUHseR7h1_sR1LXolMzAsH3G0gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8825.JPG" width="640" /></a></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>TENDERLOIN KATSU DON $12.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Continuing to cover more items on the menu, the katsu was fried where it was crispy although it was also very oily. On top of that, the batter was not adhered to the tenderloin and the meat was dry as well as crumbly and tasted unappealing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>HALF AND HALF BONELESS CHICKEN $21.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The opposite of dry and unappealing is the boneless chicken which was crispy and juicy. Also similar to the first visit, the fried chicken seasoning was on point and the sweet chili sauce had the right balance of sweetness. I was not really a fan of the really small pieces though.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TnJ9yggg1o/W2XHFe4qHAI/AAAAAAAANA0/loHzae3FVIY5WmisbrFzo7G3z61NOY74wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TnJ9yggg1o/W2XHFe4qHAI/AAAAAAAANA0/loHzae3FVIY5WmisbrFzo7G3z61NOY74wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8826.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DDUKBOKKI $10.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Up next is a different rice cake dish than our first visit and we added cheese for an additional $2.00. The saucy and bouncy rice cakes were very savory and exhibited depths of flavor, which included a hint of sweetness. There were also a few rice cakes thrown in! I am loyal to my dduckochi though, those skewers are a must order!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EHIIJ36QVXs/W2XHGVuiPHI/AAAAAAAANA8/d8U8FvX6njgdT-SU9lcQl-zOlisWiCccwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1071" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EHIIJ36QVXs/W2XHGVuiPHI/AAAAAAAANA8/d8U8FvX6njgdT-SU9lcQl-zOlisWiCccwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8828.JPG" width="640" /></a></span>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">SEAFOOD PANCAKE $17.00</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Going for another carb plate, the pancake exhibited a crisp exterior but was very starchy. In addition, the center was not fully cooked through and was raw.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rljybRz0nzA/W2XHF3z0wGI/AAAAAAAANA4/vsm0O1xYaHU27DTZWi36nQACe7sw67iqACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rljybRz0nzA/W2XHF3z0wGI/AAAAAAAANA4/vsm0O1xYaHU27DTZWi36nQACe7sw67iqACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8827.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>JAPCHAE $15.00</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As much as I wanted to order the kimchi fried rice again, I also wanted to go for noodles just to cover more of the menu. The chewy sweet potato noodles were fused together with vegetables and tender beef. There were hits of sesame oil as well as sweetness, but lacked some wok heat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">In the end, our first visit at Oz Korean was significantly more positive than the second visit. And as usual, there can be hits and misses with restaurants. Overall the value is good for what you get and when the food tastes good, its REALLY good.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Good prices</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Well above average food on the first visit</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Hit or miss</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>OZ KOREAN RESTAURANT</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1190 Pinetree Way Coquitlam, BC V3B 0J5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone 778 941 8633 </span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OZ-Korean-Cuisine-203727836700816/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">https://www.facebook.com/OZ-Korean-Cuisine-203727836700816/</span></a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d83285.76787502666!2d-122.86374732617762!3d49.28245583420729!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x54867f317c400001%3A0x666f1ced9bf985e9!2soz+korean+restaurant!3m2!1d49.282477!2d-122.7937077!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1533341581927" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-31595506053231091942018-08-02T10:18:00.001-07:002018-08-09T10:29:29.888-07:00TRATTORIA BURNABY<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">One of the three Trattoria restaurants under the Glowbal Restaurant Group is located in Burnaby on Kingsway street in the same building with Element Vancouver and GoodLife Fitness, across from Crystal Mall. Trattoria Burnaby is know for their in house pasta, pizza, and a more casual family friendly atmosphere compared to sister restaurant Italian Kitchen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Walking in, you cannot miss the circular bar at the center of the restaurant. There are both tables and booth seats surrounding the bar, patio tables outside, and more seating arrangements on the second floor. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Pro Tip: $13 Tuesday pastas and happy hour runs from 2:00pm to 5:00pm and 9:00pm to closing every day, including weekends! Happy hour menu consists of $5 feature drinks, antipasto for $9.95 and pizza at $12.95.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>TRATTORIA SPRITZER $9.75 AND WHITE SANGRIA $9.75.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Beginning with a couple of drinks, the refreshing Trattoria Spritzer consisted of aperol, chamomile infused honey and pink grape fruit topped with prosecco. This appeared to be one of healthier choices with the whole honey and grape fruit, and was really boozey - I liked it! As for the white wine sangria, it was a lot milder (like bland) and consisted of peach snapps, honey, pineapple and apple juice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BURRATA AND PROSCIUTTO $18.95.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Onto the food and starting with an antipasto, the plate included prosciutto di parma, pesto, marinated tomatoes and forno bread. The prosciutto was buttery and paired well with the tasty and garlicky pesto, which was great on the crispy and fluffy forno bread. As for the burrata, it was average in my opinion and I personally prefer an outer shell with it. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">ARANCINI $12.50.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The next appetizer we tried was arancini stuffed with wild mushroom, parmesan, smoked scamorza, roasted garlic and carrot puree. These balls were lightly battered, crunchy and perfectly fried. However the rice was soft rather than chewy and almost borderline mushy. The flavours were also on the lighter side and could have used some more mushroom in my opinion. I have to say Piva Italian serves one of the best arancini!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">CRAB AND LOBSTER RAVIOLI $24.95.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The last of the appetizers is the crab and lobster ravioli. And honest to truth, the ravioli was one of the best I have ever had! </span><span style="font-size: large;">The large pieces of ravioli were al dente and had a firm bite.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> In </span><span style="font-size: large;">addition, the pasta was stuffed with plenty of crab and lobster.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">And on top of that, the </span><span style="font-size: large;">sundried tomato pesto with mint and basil gremolata was so rich and creamy. The pesto tasted delicious!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CARNE E PESCE PLATTER $30.95/PERSON.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Moving to the entree, we went for the platter that consisted of sweet pea risotto, tiger prawns, ahi tuna, New York striploin and chicken picatta. I always see some sort of entree platter at every GRG and this was my first time ordering one. Honestly I have always avoided the platters because I feel like it would not be worth the price, but I was wrong!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The portion was generous and a great way to sample a variety of items especially for two people. First up, the sweet pea risotto was light and creamy with chewy and firm arborio. Next, the sauteed tiger prawns were really garlicky (which I loved), bouncy and just cooked - perfectly done. As for the seared ahi tuna, it was well seared and medium rare, but very salty, we could not have more than a bite. Moving forward, the steak was a bit more medium than medium rare as requested, but still tender and tasted great with the chimichurri. In addition, the bed of cauliflower underneath the steak exhibited a nice crunch. Last on the platter was the chicken picatta, where the white meat tasted tender and exhibited a hint of tang that did not overwhelm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>ZEPPOLE AL CIOCCOLATO $8.95.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Wrapping up lunch with warm and fresh out of the fryer Italian style donuts, these were lightly fried and not too greasy. The donuts had hint of chocolate inside and were the perfect way to end our meal.</span><br />
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Overall Trattoria Burnaby has always been one of my preferred GRG restaurants. The prices are reasonable if you like the dishes you ordered and the lobster and crab ravioli is highly recommended. My quick go-to ravioli has always been Cactus Club's butternut squash + prawns, but now I am liking the lobster + crab more! Plus, it was the sundried tomato pesto that won me over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Al dente pasta</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Tuesday $13 pastas</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Happy hour menu</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Very minor execution issues</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- You have to know what to order here</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*<i>Beverages and food were compensated*</i></span><br />
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<b>BURNABY TRATTORIA</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4501 Kingsway Burnaby, BC V5H 2A9</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone 604 424 8779</span><br />
<a href="https://www.glowbalgroup.com/trattoria/trattoria-burnaby.html"><span style="font-size: large;">https://www.glowbalgroup.com/trattoria/trattoria-burnaby.html</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next to Production Way skytrain station in Burnaby, Rod's Kitchen and Grill closed its doors and made room for another breakfast and lunch eatery. Foodies on Board is an unassuming all day brunch restaurant serving sous vide poached eggs, in house protein (bacon, ham and Italian sausage) and focuses on a healthier way of cooking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To start off, these healthy pancakes tasted great. Every bite had a nice aroma from the caramelized milk and you get the texture from the shredded coconut along with chia seeds. What made it even better was the maple syrup and chocolate hazelnut drizzle! As for the texture, the pancakes were a touch dense as the only leavening agent was whipped egg whites, which I personally did not mind since flavours and textures can be different compared to what we are used to when we use natural food products.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SOUS VIDE POACHED FREE RANGE EGGS $9.95.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The next plate on the table is what I believe Foodies on Board should be known for, their sous vide poached eggs! We decided to try a Belgian waffle (additional $1.00) as well as the hash browns (additional $1.95) rather than the traditional English muffins. I love how you can mix and match and do not have to order two of the same items!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The crispy Belgian waffle topped with wild BC salmon (additional $1.00) had a generous rich and buttery hollandise. On top of that the spinach, lemon caper and cream cheese complimented the salmon well despite that the salmon was on the saltier side. As for the highlight, it was the perfectly executed sous vide egg - honestly the egg could not be any more perfect!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second "benny" we ordered consisted of house cut hash browns topped with arugula and in house cured smoked bacon. The crispy hash browns exhibited a fluffy interior and was well seasoned with garlic and paprika. Moreover, the crispy bacon was perfectly executed - slow cooked, smokey without overwhelming and well rendered. To brighten up the plate, there is also a slice of dragon fruit, pineapple, grapes and blueberries. Yum!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>FOODIES HASH BROWNS BOWL $12.95.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The last breakfast item we ordered was a bowl of house cut potatoes similar to the hash benny and we added another perfect sous vide egg ($1.00?). The hash was noticeably a lot crispier compared to the benny and there was a nice smokiness from the house sausage and cheese. The sauteed onions, peppers and tomatoes complimented the hash as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE GARDEN SMOOTHIE $6.95.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We finished off breakfast with a smoothie blended with kale, spinach, celery, bitter melon, honey dew, banana and pineapple juice. This was a great smoothie, smooth and not too icey. I hope Foodies on Board can offer fresh pressed juices in the future.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Foodies on Board is a great find in Burnaby! The health conscious restaurant carefully prepares their food and focuses on locally sourced produce. I cannot wait to come back to try other items as well as the lunch menu. In addition to the restaurant, Foodies on Board offers catering as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Friendly staff</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Healthy conscious food</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- In house cured protein</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- All day brunch</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Salmon was salty</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">FOODIES ON BOARD</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3290 A Production Way, Burnaby BC V5A 4R4</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Phone 778 682 0388</span><br />
<a href="https://www.foodiesonboard.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">https://www.foodiesonboard.com</span></a><br />
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<br />Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-81638689003037857252018-07-16T11:32:00.000-07:002018-08-09T10:28:37.263-07:00THE ELLIS<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alongside many of the restaurants in the West End and within a walking distance from Kitsilano beach sits one of the newer gastropubs, The Ellis. What lead us to The Ellis was Vanfoodster's Burger Challenge and we figured why not go for a whole meal? This was a big deal for me because if it was not for the burger challenge, I most likely would not have given this restaurant a try since I am neither the type to head to a bar or gastropub for snacks or a meal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we walked in, I was impressed by the interior and atmosphere. The restaurant looked chic, bougie and literally what you would find if you Googled gastropub.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>TOGARASHI SPICED WINGS ($12.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We started off with a bowl of perfectly fried wings. Crispy, juicy, and the skin was well rendered. The wings were on the lighter tasting side however and could have used some more togarashi and flavour in my opinion, but nevertheless still perfectly fried.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>VEGETABLES ($7.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next up was an amazing bowl of vegetables. Seasoned with roasted garlic chilli and lemon, the caramelized broccoli and cauliflower exhibited a nice crunch and the Brussels sprouts were cooked perfectly. There was so much flavour in this bowl!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>GRILLED OCTOPUS ($13.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Continuing with the theme of perfect vegetables, these were nicely charred as well and tasted great. As for the octopus, it was a touch on the softer side. Not mushy, but very soft and lacked that nice chewiness and snap. However there was plenty of spice, tang and creaminess from the chorizo buttermilk sauce.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE MEDITERRANEAN ($17.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now for the main purpose, the entry for the burger challenge was one pork and one beef patty on a p</span><span style="font-size: large;">oppy seed brioche with roasted peppers and onions, ricotta and provolone cheese, pickled chilies and dried tomatoes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fresh and soft poppy seed brioche held the burger well and captured all the meaty juices from the beef. The beef patty exhibited a nice char and the roasted peppers, pickled chillies and provolone were a great addition, but we could have done without the pork as it was dry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POUND O' MUSSELS ($18.00) AND FRIES ($4.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Every order of a burger or sandwich comes with a side of fries, which were crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. The fries soaked up the double smoked bacon, talisman ale, butter and winter herbs broth well despite that the beer was not fully cooked down. In addition, the buttery and tender mussels were a touch overcooked and not juicy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>HICKORY SMOKED SIDE RIBS ($25.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Last up was my favourite item from the evening, their signature (declared by me) house smoked hickory side ribs! We could smell the smokiness from across the room before the ribs arrived at the table. The barbecue sauce was filled with spices and was not too sweet while the ribs were tender and still meaty, they had bite. The ribs also came with more of those crispy fries, fresh coleslaw and a side of the addicting barbecue sauce with layers of flavours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BEIGNETS ($10.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For dessert we ordered a plate of mini beignets and tried all the sauces, berry, peanut butter, chocolate and lemon curd. All the sauces were point on and did not taste overly sweet. Moreover, the light and fluffy beignets resembled Chinese egg puffs and were a touch wet inside, but still good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Ellis overall served well executed food especially for a gastropub. I mean, the food was better than many restaurants I have been to and the ribs are my definition of perfection. The hickory smoked ribs are definitely one of my Top 3 Best Ribs in Vancouver.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Perfect ribs</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Quality food</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Like usual in the area it may be hard to find parking</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>*Burger was compensated*</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE ELLIS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2204 York Avenue Vancouver, BC V6K 1C6
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<span style="font-size: large;">Phone (604) 428 2456</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.theellis.ca/" target="_blank">https://www.theellis.ca</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Across the street from the famous Gastown Steam Clock (literally) and in the heart of Gastown, Downtown Vancouver situates a west coast cuisine restaurant Water St. Cafe. The restaurant has an Italian influence as well and offers pasta made from scratch. However, we were here to take advantage of their happy hour menu and to try as many plates as we could! Happy hour at Water St. Cafe runs 7 days a week (yes, including weekends!) from 3:00pm to 5:00pm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The atmosphere at Water St. Cafe is very bright and inviting. Outdoor seating is available now that patio season has arrived and there are private rooms upstairs for larger parties.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>TABLE BREAD AND WHIPPED BUTTER.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The house made focaccia exhibited a light crispy crust, which was well salted along with a soft crumb. This was definitely one of the better table breads I have had at a restaurant.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>ANTIPASTO BOARD ($24.50).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The first appetizer we tried was the antipasto board that included garlic butter prawns, calamari fritti, warm mixed olives, cannelloni bean hummus and crostini. The buttery and garlicky prawns were perfectly cooked and exhibited a nice bounce. As for the calamari with fried jalapeño and a garlic aioli, it was well seasoned, lightly battered and tasted tender. Also despite that the calamari was cold, it still tasted good (like one of the Top 5 Calamari I have had). Last up on the plate was the hummus with more of that house made focaccia, but grilled! Oh man, this was way better than the table bread as it was grilled, drizzled with evoo and salted even more. The hummus had a great consistency and was not aggressively seasoned. This was a solid plate. Oh the olives, tasted great as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BISON CARPACCIO ($14.50).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next up is the pink peppercorn crusted Canadian bison sprinkled with shaved parmesan, a generous but not did not overwhelm drizzle of truffle aioli, topped with crispy capers and arugula. This was probably the best bison carpaccio I have ever had! The bison tasted fresh and tender, and the truffle aioli provided that oomph and butteriness. The crispy capers gave it a nice texture as well as a salty component and the addition of arugula was refreshing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>WEST COAST CRAB CAKES ($15.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Continuing on with the appetizers is the crab cakes that consisted of pacific rock crab, baby shrimp, preserved citrus, fennel, arugula and saffron aioli. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The crab cakes had a perfectly light and crispy exterior and was filled with fluffy and meaty crab meat. The saffron aioli did not overwhelm and complimented the crab cakes as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BEET AND ARUGULA SALAD ($11.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now on to something on the lighter side, the salad consisted of salt roasted golden and red beets, pickled beet puree, baby arugula, pistachio and goat cheese. This was a fun and healthy salad, there was a good balance of acidity and fruity flavours and it was not overdressed. The toasted pistachios added some nuttiness and goat cheese tasted great.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SMOKED BC SALMON PLATE ($14.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Last of the appetizers is the smoked salmon and maple salmon candy. The smoked salmon tasted fresh and easy on the salt, which paired well with a spread of the dill cream cheese and crunchy crostini. As for the candied salmon, there was a great texture and the maple did not overwhelm. This was another solid appetizer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How can have I never been here before? Oh right, I always assumed Water St.Cafe would be a tourist trap. Well, they have totally proved me wrong! From the tasty food to the great staff, I honestly cannot wait to try their dinner menu and pasta.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Great food and staff</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- 50% off during happy hour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Happy hour runs 7 days a week from 3:00pm to 5:00pm</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Calamari was cold</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">WATER ST. CAFE</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">300 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B6</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">www.waterstreetcafe.ca</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone (604) 689-2832</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For those of you who have never heard of Green Leaf Cafe, it is a very popular Japanese restaurant located in Kitsilano. The Japanese restaurant specializes in aburi sushi (flame seared pressed sushi), is known to be a cheaper alternative compared to Miku and Minami (creators of aburi sushi) and they recently opened a second location in Burnaby near Lougheed Mall.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Burnaby location is a lot more spacious compared to the restaurant in the West End and has an inviting atmosphere. There are a few Japanese restaurants in this area and considering that Green Leaf is newly renovated, it is definitely the restaurant with the nicest decor as well as more modern dishes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SCALLOP OSHI ($12.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Scallop, fish egg, oshi sauce, black pepper. Starting on the left is the scallop oshi sushi, which is a favourite of mine due to its creaminess and butteriness. And the addition of a tiny crunch from the masago. I also appreciate that Green Leaf diced large scallops rather than use baby scallops.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nsMH7jyXLik/W0bEy9QRBmI/AAAAAAAAM5E/3EA0gGx6oyQ30miQrwq-QxcONs-iHpzSgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCF4974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nsMH7jyXLik/W0bEy9QRBmI/AAAAAAAAM5E/3EA0gGx6oyQ30miQrwq-QxcONs-iHpzSgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCF4974.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>MACKEREL OSHI ($12.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sweet vinegar seasoned mackerel, house made miso sauce, green onion. Up next is the saba oshi sushi, another favourite of mine! I loved the fattiness and richness from the saba itself, and the green onion to cut some of the grease.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SALMON OSHI ($10.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Double layered Atlantic salmon, oshi sauce, jalapeño. Last of the oshi sushi is the salmon. If compared to the Vancouver location, the salmon oshi tasted a lot greasier and less creamy. The salmon was fully cooked and was my least favourite out of the three. It was the least aburied too and could have used a touch more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>UNI SEA URCHIN BIBIMBAP RICE ($18.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fresh local sea urchin, mushroom, house made seasoned seaweed sauce. I actually ordered the uni linguine, but received this instead. The bibimbap had a plentiful amount of sweet and full pieces of uni (no loose and small pieces here!), delicious mushrooms that provided some texture in this creamy bowl of yumminess and the rice was perfect. I am really picky with rice and this was spot on - soft, fluffy and chewy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>YUZU DUCK BREAST LINGUINE SOUP ($10.50).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Linguine, slow cooked sous vide duck breast slices in yuzu dashi broth. The soup exhibited a nice clear broth along with a hint of yuzu, and the al dente linguine tasted great although the duck was a touch on the chewier side.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CHARCOAL GRILLED BBQ EEL RICE ($15.00).</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">BBQ eel, greens, unagi sauce. This was the least favourite dish. The unagi was overcooked and chewy, and some portions of the rice were really hard as if it was scraped off the bottom of the rice cooker. However the sauce did not overwhelm and the rice bowl was not salty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BEEF YAKI UDON ($10.50).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Stir pan fried beef udon. The yaki udon was well cooked and exhibited a nice chewiness, which paired well with the buttery and tender beef. It was overall on the saltier side though.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Green Leaf Cafe is a great addition to the Lougheed Mall neighbourhood in Burnaby because there are not many above average Japanese restaurants there in my opinion. Actually <a href="http://missvancouverpiggy.blogspot.com/2014/03/hanamori-sushi.html" target="_blank">Hanamori</a> is great, but most of the Japanese restaurants in the area focus on value such as Sushi Garden or Sushi & Roll. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Plus Green Leaf has a variety of dishes!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">POSITIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Tasty aburi sushi</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- More options that other Japanese restaurants especially in this area</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">NEGATIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Those looking for quantity and value</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Green Leaf Sushi: Burnaby Location</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">9604 Cameron Street Burnaby, BC V3J 1M2</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone (604) 444 9802</span><br />
<a href="https://www.greenleafcafebc.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">https://www.greenleafcafebc.ca</span></a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d83335.07641484217!2d-122.96847142726793!3d49.253254330968254!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x54867830bcf68a27%3A0xf17d5c35330d7c16!2sGREEN+LEAF+CAFE!3m2!1d49.2532755!2d-122.8984318!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1531365014377" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-21522672078412307202018-05-24T07:43:00.001-07:002018-08-09T10:24:17.903-07:00ORTO ARTISAN PASTA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Orto Artisan Pasta is a cute little Italian restaurant in North Vancouver offering pasta made from scratch. The restaurant is on the smaller side and reservations are only accepted for parties greater than six. However the parking lot is transformed into a patio for outdoor seating and you can sit in the garden. The garden where vegetables are grown for their kitchen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before arriving on a Sunday evening, I was advised through the phone that there will be no wait as long as we sit at the patio. Guaranteed. We ended up waiting 30 minutes though and it was disappointing to see that the same table which was available when we first arrived at the restaurant was the same table we were seated at. I get hangry way too easily...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>ROSE, PROSECCO, MINT ($9.00?)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Starting off the evening well, this was a great drink. Highly recommended. And I don't recommend alcoholic beverages often.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>WAGYU BEEF CARPACCIO ($14.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When all the appetizers arrived, we started with the carpaccio. The slices of wagyu were very lean, chewy, not very marbled and the worst cut I have ever had.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BAD DOG BREAD WITH CARAMELIZED ONION BUTTER, BLACK BEAN TAPENADE, EVOO ($7.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next up is the <a href="http://baddogbread.com/" target="_blank">Bad Dog Bread</a> from a local bakery in North Vancouver, which we didn't intend on ordering because at $7.00 I would've honestly preferred in-house bread. Although when our server asked if we wanted bread after placing our order... why not? This may not be a true representation of the bread because we didn't purchase it directly from the bakery, but it wasn't the best. The crumb was dry and the crust was tough. As for the accompaniments, the tapenade was well salted and the fluffy along with buttery onion butter tasted great. The evoo was very flat and could've used some salt imo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>ZUCCHINI FRITTERS ($6.00). </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The following appetizer is not the type of Italian zucchini fritters I had hoped for and resembled zucchini tempura more. The zucchini was a touch overcooked, almost mushy and the batter wasn't crispy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2dp7J__41FI/Wwa5SPvqsUI/AAAAAAAAM3I/k4Y-wH_sNfEuPLeJbyNr_IrhWM1N1sOUwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2dp7J__41FI/Wwa5SPvqsUI/AAAAAAAAM3I/k4Y-wH_sNfEuPLeJbyNr_IrhWM1N1sOUwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5986.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CAULIFLOWER FRITELLA ($6.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The last of the appetizers is the cauliflower, which tasted great. I loved that the pesto exhibited a good balance of acidity and it wasn't too salty. I hate to sound like a broken record, but again a touch too soft (although not as mushy as the zucchini).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SQUID INK TAGLIONI, CRAB, SCALLOP AND PRAWN ($25.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Moving to the pastas, the taglioni lacked a squid ink flavour and the pasta was clumpy along with mushy. For the best squid ink pasta itself, I have to recommend <a href="http://missvancouverpiggy.blogspot.ca/2014/11/la-terrazza.html" target="_blank">La Terraza</a> for such great flavours. In general I can understand why restaurants may be hesitant on using more squid ink in case it's off putting for some palettes, but unfortunately this was just bland.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As for the seafood, there were mild hints of flavours but the proteins were overcooked. Stiff prawns (but buttery, yum) and scallop, and literally not much crab meat throughout the pasta. I appreciated our server for insisting us to pack this home when we paid for the bill, but it really wasn't the best.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>PAPPARDELLE BOLOGNESE ($19.00).</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Continuing along is the bolognese without much meat sauce. Since pappardelle is a lot thicker than taglioni, it wasn't as clumpy or mushy. The pasta was a touch cooked past al dente as well, but still better than the former.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On top of the little amount of meat we had, there was a hint of spice and a nice meaty flavour, but we would've liked more sauce. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>RICOTTA RAVIOLI WITH PEA SHOOTS, LOVAGE BUTTER AND IKURA ($20.00).</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The last and best dish from the evening goes to the ravioli! The well executed ravioli was bang on. Al dente ravioli with a burst of creaminess and a perfect level of saltiness from the ikura. I mean, even without the ikura it would've tasted great. Great flavours on the lovage butter too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the end, </span><span style="font-size: large;">I had really high expectations for Orto whether it was myself that hyped the restaurant or the Yelp reviews I read. Okay, well honestly it was a photo I saw online featuring their pasta with black shaved truffle. After seeing that one photo, I KNEW I had to come here. Unfortunately it was only a feature and there were no features on the evening we went. In regards to the service, I can't believe there was no service. All the appetizers arrived at once (I would've liked the bread first considering it took a long time for the appies to arrive), no finished plates were cleared so no table space was available when the pastas came out, and no one asked how the food was. Not one single person asked how our meal was. I love the concept of Orto's outdoor garden and housemade pasta, but neither the food overall nor experience was positive enough for me to revisit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Great ravioli</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Housemade pasta</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- No service</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Majorty of the dishes were overdone</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Orto Artisan Pasta</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1600 Mackay Road North Vancouver, BC V7P 2M</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone (604) 929-0203</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://ortoartisanpasta.com/" target="_blank">https://ortoartisanpasta.com</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d83217.10888683047!2d-123.17200592465942!3d49.32309573875168!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x548671cd63562971%3A0xf6e8aa51f45b12b4!2sorto+italian!3m2!1d49.323116899999995!2d-123.1019663!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1527172534785" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-91179649996998490632018-04-02T10:39:00.002-07:002018-08-09T10:27:15.225-07:00GOODBOWL<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My gym membership is located in Richmond and I dread looking for a post work out meal (especially when dining alone!) because the city offers a vast selection of Chinese, Shanghainese, Szechuan and Korean restaurants, AKA delicious food but not the best option health conscious/sodium wise. Most of the time after an early work out I feel like eating on the healthier side too and how much food can one order at an Asian restaurant? Although at the same time, I don't want something as healthy as Japanese food since I usually crave for beef and chicken rather than seafood after a work out. The life of a high maintenance diner is complicated isn't it?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So when Goodbowl reached out to me, I was excited to give them a try once I found out their eatery is all about fresh and high quality produce. We are talking about AAA Angus beef, free run and hormone free chicken, and Sukura pork!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Goodbowl is located in Richmond on </span><span style="font-size: large;">Alderbridge Way and Garden City Road, in the same plaza with Walmart Supercentre. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Their concept is you build your own bowl (Kid's $6.95, Regular $9.95 and Large $12.95) with your choice of rice (jasmine, harvest or wild rice) or noodles, select your vegetables, pick your protein, choose your sauce, and watch your food cook in front of you. It's very similar to Mongolian style cooking, but a ton healthier considering the quality, amount of vegetables, and their specialty sauces (which are actually healthy).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What I love about Goodbowl is that you get an UNLIMITED amount of vegetables, whatever fits in the bowl is yours. I love my vegetables and when I hear the word unlimited, I go crazy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Their selection of protein includes AAA Certified Angus beef, free run/grain fed/ hormone free chicken, Sakura pork, and tofu. Adding a free run egg will cost $1.95, prawns $3.95, or extra meat $2.95 (regular bowl) and $3.95 (large bowl). The prices here are very reasonable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Asides from fresh and high quality produce, Goodbowl stands out because their sauces are created by Chuck Currie. He is known for his work with Cactus Club, Earl's, Joeys and Whitespot.</span><br />
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<h3>
GOOD WATER ($2.95)</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Refillable still or sparkling water </span><span style="font-size: large;">infused with pineapple, cucumber and oranges. Light and refreshing.</span><br />
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CHICKEN SALAD ($11.95)</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Starting with the chicken salad, it's currently a trial item at Goodbowl and I hope it's here to stay! Loaded with oranges, apples and pears along with broccoli, red peppers and spinach, it's definitely packed with vitamins. The well caramelized chicken tastes juicy and I personally eat my salads with no dressing, which works as long as you have the right ingredients in my opinion.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Having salads with no dressing is also recommended by Goodbowl to promote healthier eating. There is a dressing for those who consider it a must need though, a light zesty tangy ginger vinaigrette.</span><br />
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CHICKEN/WILD RICE/BIG SHAWN'S MIX/EGG.</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now onto the stir frys and off the current Top 5 mixes is the Big Shawn's, a sauce consisting of Thai red curry, Hunan and coconut lime leaf. The fluffy wild rice soaks up the delicious creamy curry and exhibits a hint of tanginess and spiciness. The juicy chicken is also well cooked and seasoned (sesame oil, kosher salt and Madagascar pepper), and the perfectly fried egg has a nice crispiness on the bottom. I highly recommend the Big Shawn's mix. And to add an egg.</span><br />
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CHICKEN/NOODLES/AJ'S MIX.</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Another sauce off the current Top 5 is AJ's mix, which contains teriyaki, chipotle coconut and Hunan. There is a medium level of spiciness, juicy chicken once again, and you can really taste the coconut. AJ's mix is another one of my favourites. The noodles taste really good as well as creamy and I love how there is a plentiful amount of vegetables!</span><br />
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ANGUS BEEF/NOODLES/MISO MAPLE.</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Canada meets the far East with Japanese miso, maple syrup and a hit of chilli and garlic. The smokey and caramelized beef has a medium level of spiciness and this is the spiciest dish out of the four (keep in mind we asked for 2 hot peppers for every plate). The miso flavour is a bit lost in the dish and I would have liked some more sweetness from the maple if anything, but keep in mind Goodbowl focuses on healthy eats.</span><br />
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ANGUS BEEF/WILD RICE/TERIYAKI/EGG</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">The teriyaki sauce was recommended and at first I was hesitant because it can get extremely sweet, including at authentic Japanese restaurants. In this case however, Goodbowl's teriyaki sauce is very light, consisting of 70% real pineapple juice (not from concentrate). Pair a light teriyaki sauce along with another perfectly fried egg, a variety of vegetables and wild rice, makes a healthy and satisfying dish. The beef is a touch dry here compared to The Miso Maple beef, but still good nevertheless.</span><br />
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ORANGE, SPINACH, CARROT AND BEETS ($5.95/juice)</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Continuing the theme of healthy eats, Goodbowl offers cold pressed juices! Pressed to order.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes fresh pressed juices can taste flat, but the ones here don't. I don't often get juices because I have a juicer at home and make my own concoctions, but at $5.95/juice the price is very reasonable. They also offer $3.95 antioxidant Pomegranate shots.</span><br />
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ENERGY BITES ($1.25/1, 3/$2.95, 6/$4.95)</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ending the healthy meal with some energy bites, these are made with oats, natural peanut butter, flax seed, chocolate chips, honey and chia seeds. I would recommend getting these on the go as a healthy snack or to reduce your stomach hungers throughout the day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Overall I enjoyed Goodbowl. From the open atmosphere, properly executed and quality food to the great prices, it'll definitely be a go to for me after a work out in Richmond.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>POSITIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Food is actually healthy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Fresh and high quality produce</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Prices are reasonable</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEGATIVES</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Not for those who are used to heavy meals</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>*Beverages and food were compensated*</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>GOODBOWL</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1630 - 4791 Mcclelland Road Richmond, BC V6X 0M5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone (604) 244-0766</span><br />
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Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-45772953273214938052016-08-31T17:04:00.004-07:002016-08-31T22:25:38.980-07:00The Old Spaghetti Factory : New Westminster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tSG0idertfU/V3WpYXMViQI/AAAAAAAAMRU/zO9VbI8wUrQekwYG1BPKUHs9Bshh-puLACKgB/s1600/IMG_4070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tSG0idertfU/V3WpYXMViQI/AAAAAAAAMRU/zO9VbI8wUrQekwYG1BPKUHs9Bshh-puLACKgB/s640/IMG_4070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">SPAGHETTI FACTORY + SOURDOUGH BREAD pretty much sums up what the Old Spaghetti Factory is all about.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I cannot think of many above average restaurants in New Westminster off the top of my head and when trying to find a restaurant for dinner that is neither a pub or chain establishment around 8:00p.m., it is a pretty tough choice. So after circling around the city we decided to try the Old Spaghetti Factory on pure nostalgia. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>COMPLIMENTARY SOURDOUGH BREAD</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When the bread arrived, my face literally dropped. What happened to the sourdough?! Obviously I inquired about it and apparently the supplier of the amazing sourdough went out of business!! I was so disappointed! Jaw dropped and all. As for the table bread, this was more like a ciabatta than sourdough. The bread was fresh, soft crumb and exhibited a light crisp exterior, but it was nothing compared to the sourdough before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BELLINI ($5.75)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For the Old Spaghetti Factory, the bellini was not too bad. Asides from the drink being a touch icier than usual, it was not too sweet and you could taste the alcohol.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CHICKEN WINGS, HOT SAUCE ($9.85)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The hot sauce on these wings tasted great, practically perfect! A Southern hot sauce that exhibited a lot of tang, vinegar, flavour and the level of spiciness did not overwhelm. The wings tasted juicy as well despite that they were a touch soggy in certain areas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>STEAMED MUSSELS, White wine, garlic and tomato broth ($9.55)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating 2/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The steamed mussels were not as good as the wings since they were overcooked, chewy and rubbery. The mussels were on the smaller side too. The broth on the other hand tasted great and flavourful, where you could taste the brininess and the tomato did to overwhelm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CLAM CHOWDER SOUP ($2.50)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Included with every entree is a choice of salad or chowder and of course I selected the chowder, which was a splendid decision. The creamy and hearty chowder had a nice consistency, a mild clam flavour and you could even taste the bacon in the broth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CALAMARI FRITTI, Lightly floured and seasoned calamari served with tzatziki dip ($8.95)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating 3.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Another appetizer we ordered is the calamari, which exhibited a light crispy batter that was not greasy one bit. Moreover, the squid tasted tender and the buttermilk batter was well seasoned. The tzatziki could have used more tang and pickle however as it tasted fairly average.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BAKED FRENCH ONION SOUP ($2.50)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5/5</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A must order for a friend of mine is always the french onion soup whenever it is available, and as for myself I find them only average. Perhaps I have never had a <i>really </i>good one yet? The soup had a mild onion flavour and a light, but yet rich soup base and it tasted neither salty nor overwhelming. I personally prefer a lighter onion flavour, which do not mistaken for bland! In addition to the soup base, there was a generous topping of mozzarella despite that it tasted rubbery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEW YORK STEAK, 8oz served with sautéed mushrooms and marinara sauce ($18.30)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fortunately this was not my entree as the steak and spaghetti was very disappointing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The New York steak was overcooked rather than medium rare as requested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>EXTRA SAUCE ($0.99)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In regards the spaghetti, the noodles were overcooked and not properly drained which explained the excess amount of liquid. On top of that, the tomato sauce tasted like a simple classic red sauce, but there was no flavour and it tasted very bland. Honestly no different than what you would get at a Hong Kong style cafe restaurant.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When the new steak arrived, the restaurant definitely made up for it. The steak tasted juicy and exhibited lots of char. In fact, the steak was executed better than what I have had at Joey or <a href="http://missvancouverpiggy.blogspot.ca/2016/08/milestones-coquitlam-location.html" target="_blank">Milestones</a>, but only because of the well charred exterior. However despite the juicy steak and char, the steak itself tasted powdery and had a dry finish. Perhaps due to low turn over?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>CHICKEN ALFREDO WITH MUSHROOM AND MARSCAPONE, Sauteed chicken pieces and bacon in creamy Alfredo sauce and mixed with wild mushroom and mascarpone cheese ravioli ($15.50)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 4/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Of course my entree was THE best even though the ravioli was a bit past al dente. The ravioli had a rich mushroom and earthy filling while the creamy and butter sauce tasted delicious!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In addition, the white chicken tasted tender and complimented this rich and heavy (in a good way) ravioli. The bacon just topped off this pasta dish overall. Just writing about this right now makes me crave it so bad... but damn, why that bread supplier have to go out of business?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SPUMONI ICE CREAM</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">To end this carb loaded (actually it was not even carb loaded!) meal, spumoni ice cream is served with every pasta or entree dish. If only the ice cream tasted just as good as some of dishes though.. because the ice cream was not edible. The ice cream was practically all ice and it was not appealing to finish.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Overall the Old Spaghetti Factory exceeded my expectations from the wings, chowder, calamari and ravioli to our friendly server. I am still disappointed about the "sourdough" bread that honestly resembled ciabatta however. But if I am ever craving the aforementioned dishes, I would revisit whenever I am in the area. In regards to the service, our server was extremely friendly and honest about what to order or pass on. He was also attentive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">POSITIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Large selection</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Delicious ravioli</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Mostly above average food</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Friendly and personable server</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">NEGATIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- No more sourdough bread!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Lots of frostbite on the ice cream</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Spaghetti and steak was not good</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Food: 3/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Service: 4/5</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">THE OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY : NEW WESTMINSTER</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">50 8th St, New Westminster, BC V3M 3N8</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">TELEPHONE (604) 524-9788</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.oldspaghettifactory.ca/" target="_blank">www.oldspaghettifactory.ca</a></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/the-old-spaghetti-factory-new-westminster" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about The Old Spaghetti Factory, New Westminster and other Restaurants in Metro Vancouver"><img alt="The Old Spaghetti Factory Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/16618054/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d41710.91801948299!2d-122.94767720205961!3d49.20184238854788!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e1!4m0!4m5!1s0x5485d86e2440cb21%3A0xe216b5a28ce125ce!2sspaghetti+factory+new+west!3m2!1d49.2017916!2d-122.9126579!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1472687650108" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-7262904956544982792016-08-29T11:58:00.002-07:002016-09-10T11:26:19.749-07:00Milestones : Coquitlam location<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Would you believe that I have never been to any Milestones restaurant before?! Cactus Club, Joey and The Keg have always been my preferred chain restaurants and for some reason Milestones has never really appealed to me. The same goes with Moxie's.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOHl7YIBDsM/V3XijWo45NI/AAAAAAAAMUc/MUF2JEtD5wcKWaNG8ikE1yX5PRoQ7HENACLcB/s1600/IMG_2982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOHl7YIBDsM/V3XijWo45NI/AAAAAAAAMUc/MUF2JEtD5wcKWaNG8ikE1yX5PRoQ7HENACLcB/s640/IMG_2982.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Like many chain establishments, Milestones can hold a large capacity of diners and there a</span><span style="font-size: large;">re are plenty of booth seating arrangements. The service for a chain restaurant was surprisingly disappointing though. The hostesses did not appear friendly and it was hard to find servers, especially during a slow dinner service. On two occasions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DRY CREOLE CHICKEN WINGS ($13.50)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So on the first occassion, we ordered these amazing wings and unfortunately they are no longer on the menu! We were disappointed to discover the wings were gone on our revisit becuase they</span><span style="font-size: large;"> were delicious! The wings arrived fresh off the fryer, exhibited a crunchy batter and tasted moist. In addition, the wings were flavourful and the seasoning was on point. I wonder why Milestones removed this off them menu?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SICILIAN MUSSELS ($15.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Another item that Milestones no longer offers is the Sicilian mussels. The garlicky w</span><span style="font-size: large;">ine broth tasted light and had as mild creaminess, it was actually not too bad. Neither salty nor bland. The mussels on the other hand were overcooked, some tasted chewy and a few even rubbery. This was a shame since the broth itself was a 3/5.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10oz NEW YORK STRIPLOIN ($31.50)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The steak is aged for 35 days and includes a side of vegetables (zucchini, onion, bell peppers) and a baked potato with sour cream and chives. The side of vegetables were not that great, overcooked and salty. The baked potato however was fresh, buttery and did not taste dry. There was also a generous amount of real cheddar.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qmyXMB51TA/V3V8lOTIh0I/AAAAAAAAMME/kXePBtDFBrU4i5hbi9kcSf-wS5Jp4iRZACLcB/s1600/DSC04113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1qmyXMB51TA/V3V8lOTIh0I/AAAAAAAAMME/kXePBtDFBrU4i5hbi9kcSf-wS5Jp4iRZACLcB/s640/DSC04113.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As for the highlight, the New York steak</span><span style="font-size: large;"> was executed to a perfect medium rare as requested and tasted juicy. Also d</span><span style="font-size: large;">espite the lack of a charred exterior, the quality of steak was b</span><span style="font-size: large;">etter than Joey and Mr.Mikes in my opinion.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wcv4CVZcIu0/V3V8b7m6CxI/AAAAAAAAML4/PsIoi3ij8ksRwoTR0tcWHjaV4hi0L27hQCLcB/s1600/DSC04111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wcv4CVZcIu0/V3V8b7m6CxI/AAAAAAAAML4/PsIoi3ij8ksRwoTR0tcWHjaV4hi0L27hQCLcB/s640/DSC04111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BRAISED BEEF SHORT RIBS ($28.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Surprisingly a dish that tasted better than we expected was the short rib, which was fairly flavourful. The au jus did not overwhelm, was not salty, and the short rib was mostly tender throughout. Just a touch stringy where the leaner meat was. As for the same vegetable side as the steak, it was not that great. The buttermilk mashed potatoes were very bland, dry and not buttery at all too.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0xoktqEkm8g/V8e58ijYxsI/AAAAAAAAMVw/Nr4IGvO0sdcQl0wk1h6JUd3egXeUHyNjACLcB/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0xoktqEkm8g/V8e58ijYxsI/AAAAAAAAMVw/Nr4IGvO0sdcQl0wk1h6JUd3egXeUHyNjACLcB/s640/image.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BUTTERNUT SQUASH RAVIOLI </b></span><b style="font-size: x-large;">($18.50)</b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Another dish that is no longer available on Milestones menu is the butternut squash ravioli. I only wanted to order this because Cactus Clubs' butternut squash ravioli is a-m-a-z-i-n-g. Milestones' ravioli just had too much going on... The heavy tomato sauce tasted one note and overwhelmed the flavour of the butternut squash rather than complimented</span><span style="font-size: large;">. As for the goat cheese and spicy glazed pecans, I liked them on its own and felt it did not really add anything to the ravioli. The ravioli itself however was</span><span style="font-size: large;"> good, cooked</span><span style="font-size: large;"> al dente and had a rich butternut squash filling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was disappointed with Milestones overall because of the overcooked mussels and vegetables, lack of char on the steak, and the heavy but one note tomato sauce for the ravioli. Milestones did not have that "wow" factor to any of the dishes excluding the wings and when considering the</span><span style="font-size: large;"> same price point as Cactus Club, Joey or The Keg, the aforementioned chain restaurants provide better food. In regards to the service, it was very non-chain restaurant. By non-chain restaurant, I mean that no one checked up on us or provided drink refills.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There</span><span style="font-size: large;"> was a revisit however because </span><span style="font-size: large;">for those who know the Coquitlam dining scene well, there are not many restaurants</span><span style="font-size: large;"> to visit. But honestly it was because of Milestones new menu that lured me in, they had me at the words <i>crab</i> lettuce wraps and butternut squash ravioli with <i>crab sauce</i>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>MILESTONES CAESAR ($6.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1.5oz Smirnoff No.21 vodka, fresh citrus, Mott's clamato, horseradish, traditional spices, 8 spice rim, skewer of pickled vegetables. The caesar was on the watery side, but you could taste the spices.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDuI24zkSNI/V3V_ll7dQ8I/AAAAAAAAMNM/fIgYojADJ0U2z_xH8JjgWKgINrCqwnTjQCLcB/s1600/DSC05226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDuI24zkSNI/V3V_ll7dQ8I/AAAAAAAAMNM/fIgYojADJ0U2z_xH8JjgWKgINrCqwnTjQCLcB/s640/DSC05226.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">CRAB LETTUCE WRAPS, Crab, citrus Asian slaw, pineapple aioli serviced in crisp romaine leaves </span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">($11.75)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This appetizer was very messy to eat</span><span style="font-size: large;"> as the leaves did n</span><span style="font-size: large;">ot hold well and were floppy so realistically only half the amount of ingredients remained in the leaf and there was not much crab meat to begin with. There was an abundant amount of crispy noodles compared</span><span style="font-size: large;"> to the crab meat too, which overwhelmed the taste and texture of the wraps. I mean you could feel the texture of the crab meat, but there was no flavour and the ingredients tasted bland. This is overpriced and poorly executed in my opinion.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-KtLAhq7vs/V3V_ljZJN8I/AAAAAAAAMNI/4kGPlHmrYWg8RZZpRuJM1H--JCXdd9QlgCLcB/s1600/DSC05227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-KtLAhq7vs/V3V_ljZJN8I/AAAAAAAAMNI/4kGPlHmrYWg8RZZpRuJM1H--JCXdd9QlgCLcB/s640/DSC05227.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">ROASTED BEET AND GOAT CHEESE SALAD ($13.75)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Consisting of r</span><span style="font-size: large;">ed and golden beets, wild baby arugula, kale, quiona, blueberries, goat cheese, spiced pecans and fig balsamic vinaigrette, the sloppy presentation did not make the salad look appealing. They had me at beets and goat cheese, but there was such a small portion of the latter. Moreover, the consistency of the overly sweet fig balsamic vinaigrette </span><span style="font-size: large;">resembled syrup. The beets however were well cooked and I enjoyed, especially since I had a craving.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xgwBS3-wEcA/V3V_10RgNrI/AAAAAAAAMNc/TYH1dJneV6c8B_5ADw_9M8LuiwnHZoa4gCLcB/s1600/DSC05228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xgwBS3-wEcA/V3V_10RgNrI/AAAAAAAAMNc/TYH1dJneV6c8B_5ADw_9M8LuiwnHZoa4gCLcB/s640/DSC05228.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10oz SLOW ROASTED PRIME RIB WITH MASHED POTATOES ($29.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prime rib at Milestones is supposedly a signature dish and sells out fast, so of course we had to order this.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> I believe the prime rib was sold out the first time we came here too. The prime rib is served with herb jus, creamed horseradish, crisp buttermilk onion strings, seasonal vegetables and choice of mashed potatoes, golden fries or quinoa pilaf (mashed potatoes in this case). The prime rim was more medium than medium rare (we requested for medium rare) and the steak tasted dry as well as chewy, including the fattier portions. The mashed potatoes however tasted very buttery and delicious! For the same price though, of course The Keg is a better choice for prime rib in my opinion.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xdLv5mdBn4/V3V_1E6-Q7I/AAAAAAAAMNY/jPKPqxNMankTacstlfoda8tbYCBBJ2VFgCLcB/s1600/DSC05229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xdLv5mdBn4/V3V_1E6-Q7I/AAAAAAAAMNY/jPKPqxNMankTacstlfoda8tbYCBBJ2VFgCLcB/s640/DSC05229.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BUTTERNUT SQUASH RAVIOLI WITH CRAB SAUCE ($19.75)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">With an alluring description of c</span><span style="font-size: large;">rab sauteed in a <i>lobster butter sauce tossed with pan fried butternut squash ravioli, red onions, roasted mushrooms, tomatoes, spinach</i>, I honestly went out of my way just to revisit Milestones! The ravioli however was not very good as it was overcooked and soft rather than al dente.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MjnhpQniJjU/V3V_z5ay_XI/AAAAAAAAMNU/1TehrG-LWxsw_yyuePyS4_p0Tae7p3tbQCLcB/s1600/DSC05231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MjnhpQniJjU/V3V_z5ay_XI/AAAAAAAAMNU/1TehrG-LWxsw_yyuePyS4_p0Tae7p3tbQCLcB/s640/DSC05231.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">On top of that, there was a heavy tomato base once again (not as bad as the first visits' of course)</span><span style="font-size: large;"> and not much of a crab or lobster flavour at all! The ravioli is very overpriced when you factor in the lack of quality and poor execution, especially when considering $19.75 is the same price as what good Italian restaurants have to offer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the end, I will probably never visit Milestones again. I mean to be honest, I have considered trying a different location based on convenience such as when I am Downtown and literally do not know what to eat.. but what are the actual dishes that are above average?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">POSITIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Wings were really good!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Better quality steak than Joey and Mr.Mikes</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">NEGATIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Food is not that great</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Lack of service at this location</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Long waits during peak hours like most chain establishments</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">MILESTONES GRILL + BAR : COQUITLAM LOCATION</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2745 Barnet Highway Coquitlam, BC V3E 1K9</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone (604) 552-7983<br /><a href="http://www.milestonesrestaurants.com/" target="_blank">http://www.milestonesrestaurants.com/</a></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/milestones-coquitlam-coquitlam" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Milestones, Coquitlam and other Restaurants in Metro Vancouver"><img alt="Milestones Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/16619327/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d41646.25117097603!2d-122.84462070156489!3d49.278468303710646!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e1!4m0!4m5!1s0x548678ce87541a41%3A0x2f9e745f66bc7b35!2smilestones+coquitlam!3m2!1d49.2784176!2d-122.80960139999999!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1472496949876" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-26011468303659611482016-07-01T19:48:00.000-07:002016-07-02T06:06:32.555-07:00Arc Restaurant : Fairmont Waterfront<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D2Q0qlEP8kU/V3RAUXtks3I/AAAAAAAAMJ4/ICE2sia_KsIMpfcVPByxinTJ67PKx-H6QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D2Q0qlEP8kU/V3RAUXtks3I/AAAAAAAAMJ4/ICE2sia_KsIMpfcVPByxinTJ67PKx-H6QCLcB/s640/IMG_4120.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is quite rare for me to find more than three dishes that I truly want to try at a non-Asian restaurant so when I took a peak at Arc's menu at Fairmont Waterfront, I was quite excited! Chowder, tartare, bone marrow and foie gras all sounded good to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The atmosphere was fairly loud as there was live music playing at the bar and it did not really give off a fine dining vibe as the music was neither relaxing nor soft. We did not mind however since we were not here to celebrate a special occasion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2014 HAIDA GWAII SEAFOOD CHOWDER, Ocean wise shells and fish, smoked bacon ($16.00)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 4/5</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Buttery, rich, creamy and flavourful chowder</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Plenty of large pieces of seafood and well executed, just cooked and not a second over</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Comparable to Forage's award winning chowder and I have never said that about another restaurant's yet! I h</span><span style="font-size: large;">ighly recommend this!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6trWL-jkFUk/V2imPhNyTmI/AAAAAAAAMGI/nUUTtsMBo0AzDrVaF4XgNxZrlD03PE1sQCLcB/s1600/DSC04423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6trWL-jkFUk/V2imPhNyTmI/AAAAAAAAMGI/nUUTtsMBo0AzDrVaF4XgNxZrlD03PE1sQCLcB/s640/DSC04423.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BEEF TARTARE, Capers, shallots, house mustard, cured egg yolk, house baked bread ($16.00)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5/5</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Good quality, well chopped and tender tasting beef</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Some portions have a hint of mustard while majority does not</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Too much onion that overwhelms the flavour of the tartar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Bread does not taste properly stored and is more on the dry/stale side (but is not stale)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Choice of bread overwhelms the texture and flavour of the tartar as well, but it may have been because the bread did not taste fresh</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DWeaNbqlhYA/V2imPFpyT3I/AAAAAAAAMGE/42Sy3Rn3tI4-mtFx65RqKHsAV6u1bGL0ACLcB/s1600/DSC04424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DWeaNbqlhYA/V2imPFpyT3I/AAAAAAAAMGE/42Sy3Rn3tI4-mtFx65RqKHsAV6u1bGL0ACLcB/s640/DSC04424.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">COMPLIMENTARY BREAD ROLLS, BUTTER AND TOMATO JAM</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Garlic and rosemary bread rolls</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- A bit disappointed the rolls did not arrive before the appetizers</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Rolls did not taste fresh or were not properly stored and taste stale (actually tasted stale, unlike the previous bread)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Staleness aside, buns tasted on the bland side</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Tomato jam did not really work for me, but it has a heavy flavour for those who prefer this</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GScl_7e39xA/V2iv7jcTAMI/AAAAAAAAMHU/UmqEDG-X4ZcQNflZwqAOE0ugGQ2KTFOTwCLcB/s1600/DSC04427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GScl_7e39xA/V2iv7jcTAMI/AAAAAAAAMHU/UmqEDG-X4ZcQNflZwqAOE0ugGQ2KTFOTwCLcB/s640/DSC04427.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>ROASTED BONE MARROW, Parsley, preserved lemon, pickled shallot ($13.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Fatty bone marrow</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Bread has a nice smoky flavour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Could taste more of the rich fattiness if the bread were crispier</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyJxvz6QPoU/V2imqDKkYuI/AAAAAAAAMGk/cPnVhUWhgyMrITXU2_LYMDEhQfyD4jrRgCLcB/s1600/DSC04425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyJxvz6QPoU/V2imqDKkYuI/AAAAAAAAMGk/cPnVhUWhgyMrITXU2_LYMDEhQfyD4jrRgCLcB/s640/DSC04425.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SEA URCHIN RISOTTO, Aged biodynamic rice, sea urchin botarga, house cured lardo, preserved lemon ($16.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Off the daily menu</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Requested for the risotto to be served as a side with the entrees, but it was delivered with the appetizers (funny because I even complained to our server about how many restaurants disregard my request... yet it was overlooked)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Light and cheesy flavour that did not overwhelm</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Non existent uni flavour however, only the color of uni is present</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Rice undercooked and tasted powdery in the centre</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7BgTh0z3Ao/V2imqCcqcaI/AAAAAAAAMGg/y7E0vpAlJjEQ8Myb8l3Eun4kfKeVYwpSgCLcB/s1600/DSC04429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7BgTh0z3Ao/V2imqCcqcaI/AAAAAAAAMGg/y7E0vpAlJjEQ8Myb8l3Eun4kfKeVYwpSgCLcB/s640/DSC04429.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DUCK FOIE GRAS, Peanut butter and jelly, raspberry, peanut, banana ($22.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Oily and very soft crostini</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Jelly was very overwhelming</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Can taste richness of foie gras, but even the addition of a hint of jam overwhelmed</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Carmalized banana tasted extremely sweet and the sweetness overwhelmed the foie gras</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Gives off the vibe that banana and jam were added to a dish to make it playful or to make it sweeter for a child to eat </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After having a cramped table because all the appetizers arrived at once, the entrees arrived shortly and our server did not replenish our cutlery. Replenishing the cutlery is not necessarily a big deal to me, but it was in this case because I had a lot of jam on them. And because this is a Fairmont establishment.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwkzSao7Yss/V2imp62HVOI/AAAAAAAAMGc/G9EfC1J4tmwRUFqPhnUOjGWnWd4eeSLtACLcB/s1600/DSC04430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwkzSao7Yss/V2imp62HVOI/AAAAAAAAMGc/G9EfC1J4tmwRUFqPhnUOjGWnWd4eeSLtACLcB/s640/DSC04430.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">DUCK BREAST, Romanesco broccoli, kohlrabi, black garlic, wild mushroom broth ($28.00)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Crisp skin that adhered to the meat</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Very moist, tender and juicy breast</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Wild mushroom broth was delicious, provided layers of flavour and complimented the meat (which was quite bland on its own)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Not evenly rendered however and some parts were chewy with fat in-between</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Cauliflower was a highlight! Well prepared and roasted, very flavourful!</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CtCSS0TsysY/V2im2J4S9YI/AAAAAAAAMG0/X-ivF-muAu8GMkLlActY_-7Kzlje4z7yACLcB/s1600/DSC04431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CtCSS0TsysY/V2im2J4S9YI/AAAAAAAAMG0/X-ivF-muAu8GMkLlActY_-7Kzlje4z7yACLcB/s640/DSC04431.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>PAN ROASTED SALMON, Spiced pumpkin, pumpkin seed puree, popcorn broth, Tokyo turnips ($28.00)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Perfectly seared and crispy skin</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Salmon was moist and flaky, but of course dry and chewy towards the thinner end portion</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Well seasoned and tasty vegetables, all of them!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Puree and broth were flavourful, so buttery and complimented the salmon</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMzvhKa7hmM/V2im6W2xDPI/AAAAAAAAMHA/btXdLmARXMs1nsElLR0zirA_8AmawikjACLcB/s1600/DSC04433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMzvhKa7hmM/V2im6W2xDPI/AAAAAAAAMHA/btXdLmARXMs1nsElLR0zirA_8AmawikjACLcB/s640/DSC04433.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">WARM OKANAGAN CHERRY CRUMBLE, Oatmeal crumble, house-churned burnt honey ice cream ($14.00)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Perhaps our server knew that we were disappointed and felt rushed because all the appetizers arrived at once and none of the cutlery were replenished since she offered a birthday dessert</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Perfectly executed crumble where it was neither too hard nor soggy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Use of actual cherries where you can taste the natural tartness</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Dessert overall on sweeter side, but not too sweet</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Perfect ice cream, which is a good choice for dessert! House churned, soft and creamy, good quality and did not melt fast</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u_hbDhjooC8/V3RAQCt2jAI/AAAAAAAAMJw/zUbXAUzV7i4akyNliQf8ORKlN4irD3SmACLcB/s1600/IMG_4105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u_hbDhjooC8/V3RAQCt2jAI/AAAAAAAAMJw/zUbXAUzV7i4akyNliQf8ORKlN4irD3SmACLcB/s640/IMG_4105.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Arc Restaurant gives the impression that it is more casual than fine dining from the loud music to the lack of service, which I did not mind because we were not here to celebrate a special occasion. It bothers me quite a bit however when the service is lacking at a fine dining establishment especially when there are only three seated tables on a slow evening, despite that t</span><span style="font-size: large;">he staff were genuine and friendly whenever we needed waved them down. We were also offered a birthday dessert! As for the food, it was either above average or a miss and the prices are reasonable... but there is better for the same price.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">POSITIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Friendly staff</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Birthday dessert</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Amazing chowder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">NEGATIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Service was not attentive</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- All the appetizers arrived at once</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Food: 2.5/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Service: 2.5/5</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">ARC RESTAURANT : FAIRMONT WATERFRONT</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">900 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone: (604) 691-1818</span><br />
<a href="http://www.fairmont.com/waterfront-vancouver/dining/arc-restaurant/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">www.fairmont.com/waterfront-vancouver/dining/arc-restaurant/</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/arc-bar-fairmont-waterfront-downtown" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about ARC Bar - Fairmont Waterfront, Downtown and other Restaurants in Metro Vancouver"><img alt="ARC Bar - Fairmont Waterfront Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/16617576/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a> <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d83277.28240648433!2d-123.18368185427965!3d49.28747980639958!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x54867182c1f5e6b7%3A0x3a5010e1c9d8571d!2sarc+waterfront!3m2!1d49.287389!2d-123.113642!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1466477064426" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-78204900295232040732016-06-29T10:54:00.002-07:002016-06-29T12:46:35.878-07:00Liu Yi Shou Hot Pot Restaurant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C1fOEFyS-4M/V3HemV4wGsI/AAAAAAAAMHo/3nznVE4eHnsP4WW1ViscTGDhdQVZNzJgwCLcB/s1600/DSC05110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C1fOEFyS-4M/V3HemV4wGsI/AAAAAAAAMHo/3nznVE4eHnsP4WW1ViscTGDhdQVZNzJgwCLcB/s640/DSC05110.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">After a few unsuccessful Japanese restaurants at this particular location on Robson Street, I hope Liu Yi Shou Hot Pot is here to stay! Chongqing Liu Yi Shou is a popular chain in China and the establishment highly focuses on quality. The first Chongqing Liu Yu Shou chain to open in B.C is Thumbs Hot Pot restaurant in Richmond, which I have not visited yet and would not be opposed to now. The restaurant is also a la carte rather than all you can eat.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sz2hcfm9yxI/V3Pa5pHcCGI/AAAAAAAAMJg/ULM_icPKCf8ETmSuBzP5kzQkHFQqQJPiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sz2hcfm9yxI/V3Pa5pHcCGI/AAAAAAAAMJg/ULM_icPKCf8ETmSuBzP5kzQkHFQqQJPiQCLcB/s640/IMG_2521.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And of course previously renovated to suit a barbecue restaurant, it is well ventilated and there are plenty of spacious booth table seating arrangements.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h5gi95zKKBs/V3PYO7koXcI/AAAAAAAAMJE/LtpTItdMd44PlwCSbaWao_DZ62yBRnvZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h5gi95zKKBs/V3PYO7koXcI/AAAAAAAAMJE/LtpTItdMd44PlwCSbaWao_DZ62yBRnvZwCLcB/s640/IMG_2526.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">To top it off, there is an amazing sauce bar for only $2.50!</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o622EIlBXGY/V3PYaykAFcI/AAAAAAAAMJM/gz5V9EXL0Hcg1e63ylJoT0rFYyMUz5UmQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o622EIlBXGY/V3PYaykAFcI/AAAAAAAAMJM/gz5V9EXL0Hcg1e63ylJoT0rFYyMUz5UmQCLcB/s640/IMG_2525.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And a large selection of garnishes.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCvcoVLBtKk/V3PYg2HobgI/AAAAAAAAMJU/Isa5Mw8wqdALSLV53HPRCpINcnm9SoklQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCvcoVLBtKk/V3PYg2HobgI/AAAAAAAAMJU/Isa5Mw8wqdALSLV53HPRCpINcnm9SoklQCLcB/s640/IMG_2524.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, and even WATERMELON!</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0wr6s2IECOI/V3Hep5xVCUI/AAAAAAAAMHw/42160j3KKMIQmQPF6shWb8XquwMgTReAwCLcB/s1600/DSC05112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0wr6s2IECOI/V3Hep5xVCUI/AAAAAAAAMHw/42160j3KKMIQmQPF6shWb8XquwMgTReAwCLcB/s640/DSC05112.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Soup bases run from $9.95 - $13.95 and specialities from $21.95 - 35.95. For those who are new to hot pot or cooking, the restaurant provides a list of how long it takes to cook the ingredients too (a first for me to see in Vancouver).</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AE3vR3wWtiU/V3HfKSWAY-I/AAAAAAAAMIY/qJEacbwzbpElByBytDU_Lypia6LIQTCgQCLcB/s1600/DSC05117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AE3vR3wWtiU/V3HfKSWAY-I/AAAAAAAAMIY/qJEacbwzbpElByBytDU_Lypia6LIQTCgQCLcB/s640/DSC05117.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SPECIAL PORK RIB ($13.95) AND SPECIAL SPICY STYLE ($12.95)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 3.5/5</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Love birds, two different soup bases (price reflects higher soup base)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Special pork rib broth has a rich pork bone flavour along with a nice settled herbal taste and is one of the better soup bases I have had</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Special spicy style soup base has a medium level of spiciness as requested and is fairly flavourful as well. There are layers of flavour and it is not just a plain spicy soup base</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ueALb7ZPlS4/V3Hepm5uF_I/AAAAAAAAMHs/TvV9T0_7Re84SstDKXkaHUfumBYLP0gLgCLcB/s1600/DSC05113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ueALb7ZPlS4/V3Hepm5uF_I/AAAAAAAAMHs/TvV9T0_7Re84SstDKXkaHUfumBYLP0gLgCLcB/s640/DSC05113.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SLICED ANGUS BEEF ($18.95)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 4/5</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Tender, fatty and buttery</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Good quality meat</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Worth the price</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TxymRyz8F1o/V3He2mM7uOI/AAAAAAAAMH8/ERoGA3TYIlowZIvA6U8ioJPnoq3KHOVDQCLcB/s1600/DSC05114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TxymRyz8F1o/V3He2mM7uOI/AAAAAAAAMH8/ERoGA3TYIlowZIvA6U8ioJPnoq3KHOVDQCLcB/s640/DSC05114.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> TOFU SKIN ($3.95)</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hq1o36iv4iE/V3HfAkxbtQI/AAAAAAAAMII/k13CL0eVvJI_8sCRStMky_B7CY3N1pknwCLcB/s1600/DSC05115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hq1o36iv4iE/V3HfAkxbtQI/AAAAAAAAMII/k13CL0eVvJI_8sCRStMky_B7CY3N1pknwCLcB/s640/DSC05115.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SLICED SHORT RIB ($13.95)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating 4/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Tender and fatty</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Good quality meat</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Slices are thinner compared to the angus cut and not as buttery</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Still worth ordering for variety</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OmE0BTEGvE4/V3HfKFwdBaI/AAAAAAAAMIU/zMQf3gDQzVMoARBMNx1hA_UbFiyfHhBiQCLcB/s1600/DSC05118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OmE0BTEGvE4/V3HfKFwdBaI/AAAAAAAAMIU/zMQf3gDQzVMoARBMNx1hA_UbFiyfHhBiQCLcB/s640/DSC05118.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SELECTED LAMB ($13.95)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 4/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Also have sliced lamb option for $8.95</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Tender, thick and buttery slices of lamb</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Can tell the meat is of good quality and tastes better than at all you can eat restaurants</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>ENOKI MUSHROOM ($5.95), </b></span><b>FRESH OYSTER MUSHROOM ($5.95), </b><b>QUAIL EGG ($5.95), </b><b>SPINACH ($4.95), </b><b>CHRYSANTHEMUM ($5.95), </b><b>FRESH BAMBOO SHOOT ($5.95)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Vegetables are thoroughly rinsed</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Good portions for a la carte price</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Fresh bamboo shoots, which is rare to find at a hot pot restaurant!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SjVBPsycXCs/V3HfWvLbjrI/AAAAAAAAMIw/gF7QdL706787c_G7sbD6uTJKTBpA4p5eACLcB/s1600/DSC05121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SjVBPsycXCs/V3HfWvLbjrI/AAAAAAAAMIw/gF7QdL706787c_G7sbD6uTJKTBpA4p5eACLcB/s640/DSC05121.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DEEP FRIED BUNS ($5.95)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 1/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Over fried</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Extremely oily</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Crunchy and hard on the bottom</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>GREEN ONION PANCAKE ($5.95)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Rating: 2/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Not pan fried enough</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Soggy despite the bits of char</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Oily and not even in the good way</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Not worth ordering in my opinion</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Liu Yi Shou Hot Pot is high on my list of restaurants to revisit because the quality of food (especially the meat) is noticeably better than other hot pot restaurants! Moreover, the food quality is much better than other higher priced la carte restaurants such as Landmark at Garden City Hot Pot. Also despite that the prices are a la carte which results in paying more compared to all you can eat, the prices are very reasonable. In regards to the service, the staff were very friendly and attentive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">POSITIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Open until 12am</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Reasonable prices</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Good quality ingredients</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Attentive and friendly service</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Best sauce station for hot pot</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Better than Garden City and Landmark</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">NEGATIVES</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">- Pricer than all you can eat</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Food: 4/5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Service: 4/5</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LIU YI SHOU HOT POT RESTAURANT</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1542 Robson Street Vancouver, BC V65 1C2</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Telephone (778) 379-3977</span><br />
<a href="https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/liuyishou-hotpot-robson-downtown-vancouver" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Liuyishou Hotpot Robson, Downtown and other Restaurants in Metro Vancouver"><img alt="Liuyishou Hotpot Robson Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/18324532/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a> <br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d5204.671491977068!2d-123.13665177212752!3d49.28898271732786!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x5486718791b65c55%3A0xd056cfaf1bc9cced!2s1542+Robson+St%2C+Vancouver%2C+BC+V6G+1C2!3m2!1d49.2889828!2d-123.1322744!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1467222530389" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-61727632185778914312016-06-02T11:19:00.002-07:002016-06-02T14:17:05.750-07:00Browns Socialhouse : New Westminster location<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O0sI4azJMs0/V1BIMDdDrKI/AAAAAAAAMFo/L5M0qcvlXosHOgOt6TtNZljpB-Gjf9hDwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O0sI4azJMs0/V1BIMDdDrKI/AAAAAAAAMFo/L5M0qcvlXosHOgOt6TtNZljpB-Gjf9hDwCLcB/s400/IMG_2706.JPG" width="400" /></a>Having no sense of food direction in Coquitlam, Burnaby and New Westminster and coming up blank for a restaurant to try, Browns Socialhouse did not seem like a bad option. When Browns Socialhouse first came to Vancouver, my thoughts were very meh. Cactus Club and Joey are still on the top of my list for preferred chains and Browns, Milestones and Moxies are the ones I told myself that I am not in a rush to try. So finally after a few years, why not Browns?</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gzxyl5xTudc/V1BIVLwYH5I/AAAAAAAAMFs/Zln2SAQCWToOaH0cLl2IRrm_Y-qh5PYSgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gzxyl5xTudc/V1BIVLwYH5I/AAAAAAAAMFs/Zln2SAQCWToOaH0cLl2IRrm_Y-qh5PYSgCLcB/s400/IMG_2695.JPG" width="400" /></a>Located at the Brewery District in New Westminster with floor to ceiling wall windows and two patios with a fire, I am already interested in atmosphere. Most of the time the atmosphere is not really all that important to me, but it was really nice having the whole patio to ourselves and sitting right in front of the fire where it kept us warm. We had the best seat at the restaurant and lots of privacy! Or I guess I mean lots of peace because diners have a really clear view of the patio from the inside.</div>
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BELLINI 1oz, Lamb's white rum, sparkling wine, sangria, peach schnapps ($6.00).</div>
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Rating: 3/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9orEneJBPo/V1BE1uycG5I/AAAAAAAAME4/fs_NGqr6CzkWnAMqTHWJdeiBmdPw9lImACLcB/s1600/DSC05123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9orEneJBPo/V1BE1uycG5I/AAAAAAAAME4/fs_NGqr6CzkWnAMqTHWJdeiBmdPw9lImACLcB/s400/DSC05123.JPG" width="400" /></a>A touch on the noticeably sweeter than usual side, the bellini is well prepared and comes with a fuzzy peach. </div>
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BASIL GRAPEFRUIT 2oz, Polar ice vodka, triple sec, fresh basil, fresh pressed grapefruit juice ($9.00).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4orGoLvP2Cs/V1BEtKJ0CUI/AAAAAAAAMEw/autX46D4WCYZc2Jrdh9CrW7khjou_l88ACLcB/s1600/DSC05124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4orGoLvP2Cs/V1BEtKJ0CUI/AAAAAAAAMEw/autX46D4WCYZc2Jrdh9CrW7khjou_l88ACLcB/s400/DSC05124.JPG" width="400" /></a>Starving and hoping the food would arrive rather than a second drink, the Basil Grapefruit is good. The fresh pressed grapefruit makes a huge difference for me as I prefer raw juice and everything about this drink is quality. The drink only has a touch of sweetness as well.</div>
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CLASSIC HOT WINGS ($11.75).</div>
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Rating: 3.5/5.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCA9-1c_4kk/V1BE0LEKHbI/AAAAAAAAME0/FP3ImuTpPDomqnTKZbKJZVwMEmdgU0b9ACLcB/s1600/DSC05127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCA9-1c_4kk/V1BE0LEKHbI/AAAAAAAAME0/FP3ImuTpPDomqnTKZbKJZVwMEmdgU0b9ACLcB/s400/DSC05127.JPG" width="400" /></a>At first the wings look average at best because they are not evenly tossed, but they taste juicy and exhibit a medium level of spiciness. The exterior is a touch dry as well as crunchy/chewy and the hot sauce is one dimensional however.</div>
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THAI CHICKEN AND RICE SOUP, BOWL ($5.25).</div>
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Rating: 3/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qGYXoMgjj6k/V1BE_QoRfbI/AAAAAAAAME8/RW-gDD3644sbkzTxSaZ-vM0MmQcIdqnaQCLcB/s1600/DSC05128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qGYXoMgjj6k/V1BE_QoRfbI/AAAAAAAAME8/RW-gDD3644sbkzTxSaZ-vM0MmQcIdqnaQCLcB/s400/DSC05128.JPG" width="400" /></a>Heavy and rich without overwhelming, the Thai Chicken and Rice soup is hearty. There is a nice curry flavour along with a hint of spiciness and it really hits the spot overall, despite that it is on the oilier side.</div>
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CRISPY CALAMARI AND JALAPENOS ($12.95).</div>
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Rating: 3.5/5.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mza9kcQb-0U/V1BFOsNp_xI/AAAAAAAAMFI/qj0G_N-TF2snIcwFxN0Kaw-TCmu3uMZggCLcB/s1600/DSC05129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mza9kcQb-0U/V1BFOsNp_xI/AAAAAAAAMFI/qj0G_N-TF2snIcwFxN0Kaw-TCmu3uMZggCLcB/s400/DSC05129.JPG" width="400" /></a>The calamari has a light crispy batter and tastes very tender, not chewy one bit. The seasoning is more salty than flavour however. As for the tzatziki, it is pretty flavourful and exhibits a hint of spiciness. The salsa on the side is tangy and rich on its own, but I do not really prefer it with the calamari.</div>
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LIME PEPPER GRILLED HALIBUT, Scallion, cilantro cabbage slaw, chipotle sauce, pickled red onion ($12.50).</div>
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Rating: 2/5.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dvY6Huyunuc/V1BFHlQabWI/AAAAAAAAMFA/K3v_hgqqu28ug4S2zLWdz-ZbRA3XA6DgQCLcB/s1600/DSC05131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dvY6Huyunuc/V1BFHlQabWI/AAAAAAAAMFA/K3v_hgqqu28ug4S2zLWdz-ZbRA3XA6DgQCLcB/s400/DSC05131.JPG" width="400" /></a>Forgetting to add the $1.50 guacamole, the halibut tacos are extremely bland. The halibut is not overcooked, but could have been more moist and the chipotle lacks flavour. The chipotle is light, tangy and well salted, it just also tastes bland. In addition, the large amount of slaw and picked red onion overwhelms the flavour of halibut. As for the salsa on the side, it provides some flavour but that flavour comes from the sauce itself and does not compliment the tacos. The tacos still taste bland.</div>
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6oz TWO HANDED PUB BURGER, Havarti cheese, special sauce, smoked bacon + POUTINE ($2.00).</div>
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Rating: 3/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--RPsIJxx-3g/V1BFNl4dXAI/AAAAAAAAMFE/4UkWaD1ruZ4mAqKKIYhnlGk814NiiMNhwCLcB/s1600/DSC05139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--RPsIJxx-3g/V1BFNl4dXAI/AAAAAAAAMFE/4UkWaD1ruZ4mAqKKIYhnlGk814NiiMNhwCLcB/s400/DSC05139.JPG" width="400" /></a>The sort of moist hand formed patty lacks some char and does not taste juicy, but the bacon makes up for it. The smoked bacon is very flavourful without tasting salty and the tomato compliments the burger well. The burger overall is more on the dry side and is not as good as other chains'. I like how the brioche buns are not greasy one bit though! As for the side of poutine, the fries are more soft than crispy and the gravy is extremely thick. The thick gravy does not taste salty or overwhelming, but the consistency is a bit off putting. In regards to the curds, there is a fair amount and is not bad.</div>
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TAHITIAN TUNA, Wasabi mayo, cowgirl salad, almond rice ($16.95).</div>
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn0dFVb7tEA/V1BFvyRYtxI/AAAAAAAAMFU/pNxHGRpx5tQ7L_1orB5C0_P0-nNFvwWDACLcB/s1600/DSC05141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn0dFVb7tEA/V1BFvyRYtxI/AAAAAAAAMFU/pNxHGRpx5tQ7L_1orB5C0_P0-nNFvwWDACLcB/s400/DSC05141.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Tahitian Tuna is perfectly and evenly seared, tastes of good quality and is fresh. Underneath is the wasabi mayo, which does not taste very strong and is sort of there only to provide moisture in my opinion. I would have preferred a more flavourful aioli. The highlight however is the almond rice! Fluffy, fragrant, extremely flavourful and topped with toasted almond flakes, the rice is delicious!</div>
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HOUSEMADE KEY LIME PIE, Fresh whipped cream, coconut graham cracker crust ($7.25).</div>
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nt5PAKAChQM/V1BFw0oh-hI/AAAAAAAAMFY/udPNlo7bXWINrWNMHZuF-ofTrKDOlfz2ACLcB/s1600/DSC05143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nt5PAKAChQM/V1BFw0oh-hI/AAAAAAAAMFY/udPNlo7bXWINrWNMHZuF-ofTrKDOlfz2ACLcB/s400/DSC05143.JPG" width="400" /></a>Housemade desserts at a chain are always a must order for me, especially the key lime pie at Cactus Club and the apple pie at Joey! As for Browns, the smooth and fluffy key lime pie tastes flavourful and is neither too tart nor sweet. The portion appears to be on the smaller side compared to Cactus Club and Brown's twist is that they offer a coconut graham crust.</div>
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Browns Socialhouse overall is an above average restaurant with pleasant and welcoming staff in a relaxing atmosphere. However with other options such as Cactus Club where the calamari, burger and key lime pie tastes better as well as Joey that offers a better burger and tuna salad, Browns would not be my first choice. With that said, there are a few other items I want to try at Browns just so I can say I have (also because of the inviting ambiance and friendly staff).</div>
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POSITIVES<br />
- Above average food<br />
- Welcoming, friendly and attentive staff<br />
- Great atmosphere especially in our case<br />
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NEGATIVES<br />
- Bland tacos<br />
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Food: 3/5<br />
Service: 4/5<br />
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BROWNS SOCIALHOUSE NEW WESTMINSTER<br />
296 East Columbia St New Westminster, BC V3L 0E3<br />
Telephone (604) 553-0440<br />
<a href="http://brownssocialhouse.com/brewery-district/" target="_blank">http://brownssocialhouse.com/brewery-district/</a><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10422.852753451472!2d-122.8927186!3d49.2249662!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x598485d25f22dd36!2sBrowns+Socialhouse!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1464891556079" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe><br />Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-17689911599740520592016-04-29T13:20:00.001-07:002016-04-29T15:04:32.495-07:00Provence Marinaside<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1BEJY9rlSE/VyOxaIOVrqI/AAAAAAAAL4g/aCLjeoHF2nUKsMwLYQX1zgSH26nZsM6EgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1BEJY9rlSE/VyOxaIOVrqI/AAAAAAAAL4g/aCLjeoHF2nUKsMwLYQX1zgSH26nZsM6EgCLcB/s400/IMG_1149.JPG" width="400" /></a>Restaurants with a view are not my first choice of establishments to visit anymore when it comes to dining out because I am biased and believe the food may not be great, such as the Boathouse chain, Top of Vancouver, Fraiche, Seasons in the Park, Sandbar and Horizons. So when my friend wanted to try Provence Marinaside located in Yaletown and with a view of False Creek, my initial reaction was meh... Well, it was more like could we try Bella Gelateria next door instead? Okay fine, it was more like a beg instead of a suggestion!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FATuCOMVi00/VyO2D9BM5JI/AAAAAAAAL4w/31SVltfbEdELqzI43MuW9mWScpMYDa_1ACLcB/s1600/IMG_1144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FATuCOMVi00/VyO2D9BM5JI/AAAAAAAAL4w/31SVltfbEdELqzI43MuW9mWScpMYDa_1ACLcB/s400/IMG_1144.JPG" width="400" /></a>Trying to be selfless however, Provence Marinaside was fine and we came here for lunch. When we entered the restaurant, we were a bit put off because the hostess kept her back facing towards us and seemed very indifferent. No worries though since all the servers we encountered including the manager was very personable and friendly. Given the option of patio or indoor, we chose the latter since it was chilly out. The atmosphere at Provence Marinaside is casual, laid back and inviting. </div>
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COMPLIMENTARY BREAD AND BUTTER.</div>
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Rating: 3.5/5</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gi5Ch4nGow/VyIryhzeHhI/AAAAAAAAL1Q/MFyUNmCOiSUajDU-T11JJ8k24nRcr8SPgCLcB/s1600/DSC04979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gi5Ch4nGow/VyIryhzeHhI/AAAAAAAAL1Q/MFyUNmCOiSUajDU-T11JJ8k24nRcr8SPgCLcB/s400/DSC04979.JPG" width="400" /></a>To start off, we received a basket of fresh and warm baguette along with focaccia bread. I had a huge craving for bread and butter and this killed it!</div>
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STEAMED MUSSELS, "Garlic, white wine, onion, cream and fresh herbs, garlic crouton" ($14.00).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bbhWaFbv3Mc/VyIryEY2KPI/AAAAAAAAL1M/T9x5MvZPUloDVaY_PGaJvXcTZrHXDdkzgCLcB/s1600/DSC04980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bbhWaFbv3Mc/VyIryEY2KPI/AAAAAAAAL1M/T9x5MvZPUloDVaY_PGaJvXcTZrHXDdkzgCLcB/s400/DSC04980.JPG" width="400" /></a>The fresh and plump mussels taste juicy and perfectly cooked, not a second over. In addition, the sauce is REALLY good. Rich, creamy and flavourful, we do not care the mussels are on the smaller side. As for the side of crouton, I love it. It is really garlicky, exhibits a hint of spice, crumbles in the mouth and is not too crunchy.</div>
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CRAB AND SHRIMP CAKES, "Frisee sald and spring onion aioli" ($18.00).</div>
Rating: 2.5/5.<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZ4u897fIZ8/VyIrqzjxbcI/AAAAAAAAL1I/uWc0RmUlwFgn_TPtk0uQV4Ufqf-ugwQjgCLcB/s1600/DSC04983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZ4u897fIZ8/VyIrqzjxbcI/AAAAAAAAL1I/uWc0RmUlwFgn_TPtk0uQV4Ufqf-ugwQjgCLcB/s400/DSC04983.JPG" width="400" /></a>Available on the dinner menu as an appetizer, this is the lunch entree version we ordered as an appie. The crab cakes are well formed and not too stiff, but are also more wet than moist. The cakes have a compressed texture rather than fluffy despite the good amount of crab meat and are a touch more seared than what I would have liked, which resulted in a chewy exterior. In addition, the small baby shrimp are overcooked and taste rubbery.<br />
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CRAB AND LOBSTER BAMBOO RICE, "White wine butter sauce, snap peas, tomato, fresh herbs" ($27.00).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EnTFcah4NUo/VyIr1k36U4I/AAAAAAAAL1U/NXGzAnKhea0DW0Wz9bfry4UOp2DyS3AygCLcB/s1600/DSC04985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EnTFcah4NUo/VyIr1k36U4I/AAAAAAAAL1U/NXGzAnKhea0DW0Wz9bfry4UOp2DyS3AygCLcB/s400/DSC04985.JPG" width="400" /></a>Coming from someone who was against ordering this dish, I love it. The bamboo rice is well executed, tasting soft and chewy - pretty much perfectly cooked! The rice tastes so good that I could have had it on its own with that rich, buttery, creamy and flavourful sauce. The sauce is definitely the star of this plate and makes me forget about the fluffy crab and bouncy lobster meat, which are of course delicious as well. Usually I eat only have protein or seafood and leave the carbs behind, but this rice and sauce... man so good!</div>
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SEARED SMOKED SABLEFISH, "Grilled tomato, spinach, cornmeal crusted eggplant, yellow pepper coulis" ($36.00).</div>
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dw_EAnVrL-o/VyIr6BUTS2I/AAAAAAAAL1Y/zrAryXpFIg4QlSnAtvLJVOU4opr1Vjl3wCLcB/s1600/DSC04986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dw_EAnVrL-o/VyIr6BUTS2I/AAAAAAAAL1Y/zrAryXpFIg4QlSnAtvLJVOU4opr1Vjl3wCLcB/s400/DSC04986.JPG" width="400" /></a>Struggling to find something I like on the lunch menu, I inquired if we could order off the dinner menu and am fortunate the manager okay'd it because the sable fish is delicious. The sable fish like the entree above is perfectly prepared, tasting moist, flaky and melts in the mouth while exhibiting a crisp skin. Moreover, there is a nice smokey flavour that does not overhwhelm and the pepper coulis compliments the seafood. I also like the addition of spinach underneath. As for the eggplant, I wish I read the menu description because I do not prefer the addition or texture of the corn meal.<br />
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Provence Marinaside exceeded my expectations and the food is well executed from the perfectly cooked mussels and sablefish to the flavourful (but yet not too heavy) sauces. The prices are also reasonable and the dishes are of good portion. In regards to the service, the servers and managers were welcoming and inviting. There are not many restaurants in Vancouver that I would go out of my way to revisit unless it was for a special occasion based on someone else's choice, but I would come back to Provence Marinaside to try their dinner menu.<br />
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POSITIVES<br />
- Friendly staff<br />
- Above average food<br />
- Good value for portion and location<br />
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NEGATIVES<br />
- Indifferent hostess<br />
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Food: 3.5/5<br />
Service: 3/5<br />
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PROVENCE MARINASIDE<br />
1177 Marinaside Crescent Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y3<br />
Telephone (604) 681-4144<br />
<a href="http://www.provencemarinaside.ca/" target="_blank">www.provencemarinaside.ca</a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m23!1m12!1m3!1d83301.19183631276!2d-123.18968962651866!3d49.27332283319188!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m8!3e6!4m0!4m5!1s0x548673d76e591a77%3A0x446882b27d682a94!2sprovence+marinaside!3m2!1d49.273343999999994!2d-123.11965!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1461961711228" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-18578823878768338402016-04-22T17:31:00.000-07:002016-04-29T15:04:48.588-07:00Kirin Seafood Restaurant 玉麒麟海鮮酒家 : City Square location Dinner<br />
Kirin Se<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zarx3lmWz0/VUmFjrewDmI/AAAAAAAAK2o/fTjxqoToVxE/s1600/DSC02152.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zarx3lmWz0/VUmFjrewDmI/AAAAAAAAK2o/fTjxqoToVxE/s1600/DSC02152.JPG" width="400" /></a>afood Restaurant used to be known as <i>the</i> Chinese restaurant for fine dining, before restaurants like Peninsula at Oakridge Centre and Chef Tony in Richmond surfaced. Apart from being known as a fine dining establishment, the Kirin chain is known for their peking duck (or should I say used to be...) so when my sister and her friend had a craving, I suggested to come here. Let me get this straight however, I suggested Kirin not because their peking duck is amazing... but because everyone should try Kirin's just to say they have.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilTSYREljfc/VUmFtIHx3WI/AAAAAAAAK2w/15_7BGkaTts/s1600/DSC02153.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilTSYREljfc/VUmFtIHx3WI/AAAAAAAAK2w/15_7BGkaTts/s1600/DSC02153.JPG" width="400" /></a>The most convenient Kirin restaurant for us to try would have been the one on Alberni Street in Downtown Vancouver, but that is the worst location I have been to - service and food wise, on multiple visits! So this brings us to Kirin on West 12th, which is another location I do not prefer because of their lack of service unless you are here with your family and the food is just not that good. The best Kirin I have been to is the location in Richmond, from the atmosphere and service to the food quality.<br />
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PEKING DUCK ($42.80).<br />
FIRST COURSE, "Peking duck skin with crepes".<br />
Rating: 1/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JuoskKGxp9I/VUmFyi_5mwI/AAAAAAAAK24/Jc_VAC0xMNo/s1600/DSC02157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JuoskKGxp9I/VUmFyi_5mwI/AAAAAAAAK24/Jc_VAC0xMNo/s1600/DSC02157.JPG" width="400" /></a>The first course of peking duck is the skin, which is poorly executed. It is an embarrassment for any higher priced restaurant to serve the skin with thick and coarse hair that was not bothered to be removed. More than occasionally some restaurants do not bother with fine hair, but in this case the hair is very coarse and left on a large portion of the duck. Keep in mind this is "Kirin" too.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nq44u-IWnkE/VUmF7MZjuxI/AAAAAAAAK3A/Pq-XmHDwFWs/s1600/DSC02160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nq44u-IWnkE/VUmF7MZjuxI/AAAAAAAAK3A/Pq-XmHDwFWs/s1600/DSC02160.JPG" width="400" /></a>In addition to the hair, only a few slices of skin are crisp and majority are on the softer side. There is plenty of inedible fat that remained on the skin as well and not the melt in the mouth kind. The skin exhibits a nice golden hue however. As for the crepes, they are easy to chew and not too elastic even though there was not enough, which we did not mind because we left at least five slices of skin behind.<br />
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SECOND COURSE, "Peking duck meat with lettuce wrap".<br />
Rating: 3/5,<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghjoEhZedJc/VUmGA6Hr1II/AAAAAAAAK3Q/zwHiw4Tal24/s1600/DSC02161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghjoEhZedJc/VUmGA6Hr1II/AAAAAAAAK3Q/zwHiw4Tal24/s1600/DSC02161.JPG" width="400" /></a>For the second course of peking duck, the minced meat tastes tender as well as juicy and there is a crunchy element to the dish from the celery, carrot and watercress nuts.<br />
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SAUTEED FRESH SCALLOP IN SZECHUAN STYLE SPICY SAUCE ($24.80).<br />
Rating: 2.5/5.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LKo8On-3OQ8/VUmGHzAEe1I/AAAAAAAAK3Y/Psc6U-gjnYY/s1600/DSC02163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LKo8On-3OQ8/VUmGHzAEe1I/AAAAAAAAK3Y/Psc6U-gjnYY/s1600/DSC02163.JPG" width="400" /></a><span style="text-align: center;">Fo</span><span style="text-align: center;">r some reason the restaurant cheaped out and there are only six scallops. The scallops are perfectly cooked however, tasting tender and not a second over. On top of that, the crunchy asparagus tastes juicy and there is a sweet chilli bean spiral sauce flavour along with a hint of spiciness.</span><br />
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SPICY SZECHUAN GREEN BEANS ($?).</div>
Rating: 2/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K-0DQVMrg2o/VUmGMU9MzLI/AAAAAAAAK3k/vCT4gYbUtLo/s1600/DSC02164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K-0DQVMrg2o/VUmGMU9MzLI/AAAAAAAAK3k/vCT4gYbUtLo/s1600/DSC02164.JPG" width="400" /></a>The string beans are mediocre, limp, lack wok flavour and taste salty rather than spicy. I appreciate how the green beans are not prepared the same as the scallop dish, but it is neither spicy nor Szechuan.</div>
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COMPLIMENTARY RED BEAN SOUP.</div>
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Rating: 2/5.</div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oqaSv-dHT0/VUmGLg-1tkI/AAAAAAAAK3g/yYXt-SBJI7c/s1600/DSC02166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oqaSv-dHT0/VUmGLg-1tkI/AAAAAAAAK3g/yYXt-SBJI7c/s1600/DSC02166.JPG" width="400" /></a>Wanting to order more dishes but put off by the peking duck, we ended dinner with a complimentary bowl of red bean soup. The red bean soup has a mild flavour and a hint of dried tangerine peel. The consistency is not too thick or goopy too, but the flavours could have been stronger.
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P8klDn1qOlo/VUmFi8g7XsI/AAAAAAAAK2g/YzQGa6aj9mA/s1600/DSC02156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P8klDn1qOlo/VUmFi8g7XsI/AAAAAAAAK2g/YzQGa6aj9mA/s1600/DSC02156.JPG" width="400" /></a>Dinner at Kirin was a disappointment overall because of the peking duck. As for the other dishes, it is unfair to rate a restaurant based on only a few plates, but hey, what can you do when you lose your appetite and do not want to order more food? In regards to the service, the staff are friendly but it is hard to wave someone down even when the restaurant is not so busy.<br />
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POSITIVES<br />
- Friendly staff<br />
- For those who like the "atmosphere"<br />
- Prices are not as high compared to newer Chinese fine dining restaurants<br />
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NEGATIVES<br />
- Very mediocre food<br />
- One of the worst Kirin locations<br />
- Peking duck should not have been served<br />
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Food: 2.5/5<br />
Service: 3/5<br />
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KIRIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 玉麒麟海鮮酒家<br />
#201 555 West 12th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5Z 3X7<br />
Telephone (604) 879-8038<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10415.276506436117!2d-123.1163726!3d49.2608741!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xf691cd077a1690b6!2sKirin+Restaurant!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1461961764943" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-10374628799076992742016-04-14T17:20:00.000-07:002016-04-29T15:04:54.935-07:00BiBo Pizzeria : Richmond Location<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bAEqEGuC8hc/VxAbFJFUzsI/AAAAAAAAL0o/TthVAIYUT8I-PMul4c6DVjH5qi7X30p-wCLcB/s1600/IMG_8328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bAEqEGuC8hc/VxAbFJFUzsI/AAAAAAAAL0o/TthVAIYUT8I-PMul4c6DVjH5qi7X30p-wCLcB/s400/IMG_8328.JPG" width="400" /></a>BiBo Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant specializing in Neapolitan style pizza and focuses on using fresh and natural ingredients along with straight from Italy products. The first BiBo restaurant to open is on West 4th in Kitsilano and their second location is at McArthur Glen in Richmond, where <a href="http://www.shermansfoodadventures.com/" target="_blank">Sherman</a> and I were invited to visit along with Nick and <a href="https://vanfoodies.com/" target="_blank">Joyce</a>. There are not many restaurants at McArthur Glen too, only BiBo and Neptune Noodle Restaurant. In addition, there are not many Italian restaurants in Richmond!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WrdabiqzY88/VxAbBD-5MvI/AAAAAAAAL0k/EFF5O3zPQTUMnPBgALQ-KjWSCuRqCZVYACLcB/s1600/IMG_8330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WrdabiqzY88/VxAbBD-5MvI/AAAAAAAAL0k/EFF5O3zPQTUMnPBgALQ-KjWSCuRqCZVYACLcB/s400/IMG_8330.JPG" width="400" /></a>Walking in, the interior is bright, spacious and the high ceiling helps with the ventilation. There are a couple of long communal tables, a large bar, tables on the other side of the restaurant and of course a wood burning oven.</div>
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TAGLIERE DI SALUMI E FORMAGGI, "Wood platter of selected premium Italian cured meats and cheeses served with focaccia" ($20.00).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4mx2vPtRLyU/VxAYiPDlTDI/AAAAAAAAL0E/wNrJdANaH-AwxYonyGlTXENeCqi_2-omACLcB/s1600/DSC04591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4mx2vPtRLyU/VxAYiPDlTDI/AAAAAAAAL0E/wNrJdANaH-AwxYonyGlTXENeCqi_2-omACLcB/s400/DSC04591.JPG" width="400" /></a>The selection of cured meat includes the thick, meaty and firm salame piacentino, the neither too salty nor chewy coppa piacentina, the soft and not too salty mortadella and the good quality prosciutto parma. In addition, the marinated porcini mushrooms and artichokes are tasty with a hint of saltiness.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2qaZ3si0PY4/VxAYdgXB7GI/AAAAAAAALz8/7wVs5lW_3KMVz0-cdstFDgVNxQaqn7s7QCLcB/s1600/DSC04589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2qaZ3si0PY4/VxAYdgXB7GI/AAAAAAAALz8/7wVs5lW_3KMVz0-cdstFDgVNxQaqn7s7QCLcB/s400/DSC04589.JPG" width="400" /></a>As for the selection of cheese, the parmesan has a heavy flavour, the asiago tastes really good with the honey and the fontina is smooth along with cheesy. The platter also includes focaccia, which is REALLY good. The focaccia exhibits plenty of char and is light, fluffy, crisp and well seasoned.</div>
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NEAPOLITAN PIZZA, "Mozzarella, pancetta and onions" ($?).</div>
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Rating: 3/5.</div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vTh0W6aBDuQ/VxAYd84OsvI/AAAAAAAAL0A/v-h7S9k2Mes079T-b3efwnXaneU_ZuCSQCLcB/s1600/DSC04593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vTh0W6aBDuQ/VxAYd84OsvI/AAAAAAAAL0A/v-h7S9k2Mes079T-b3efwnXaneU_ZuCSQCLcB/s400/DSC04593.JPG" width="400" /></a>BiBo's Neapolitan style pizzas run from $16.00-$20.00 and the one we received is not on the menu, consisting of mozzarella, pancetta and onions. The pizza overall is well executed where there is plenty of smoky char, the centre is soft (but not soggy) and there is plenty of ingredients providing a cheesy flavour along with a salty component from the pancetta.<br />
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BRUSHETTA, "Toasted homemade bread with a selection of tapaenades and toppings" ($12.00).</div>
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Rating: 1.5/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7UqdD1H-yaU/VxAYxGbt_KI/AAAAAAAAL0M/04c5D-t6T0Y15E43oymhwND2yTodGDqxgCLcB/s1600/DSC04597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7UqdD1H-yaU/VxAYxGbt_KI/AAAAAAAAL0M/04c5D-t6T0Y15E43oymhwND2yTodGDqxgCLcB/s400/DSC04597.JPG" width="400" /></a>Served on toasted homemade bread with a generous amount of tomato, onion, basil, olive oil and a slice of fresh mozzarella and drizzled with balsamic vinegar, the brushetta is not that good. The crumb absorbs a lot of moisture so the bread tastes unappealing soft, squishy and dense. The toppings are not well seasoned either, the tomatoes taste bland and does not save the wet bread. We ended up picking the toppings off and enjoyed the slice of fresh mozzarella.</div>
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TAGLIATELLE AI FUNGHI, "Fresh handmade tagliatelle pasta in a creamy sauce with Italian porcini mushrooms" ($18.00).</div>
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Rating: 2/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cKes_cqDl-Y/VxAYq6r2I3I/AAAAAAAAL0I/lGyJ3Ra3kFgDifMskIhP7jwC2vOg3y53QCLcB/s1600/DSC04599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cKes_cqDl-Y/VxAYq6r2I3I/AAAAAAAAL0I/lGyJ3Ra3kFgDifMskIhP7jwC2vOg3y53QCLcB/s400/DSC04599.JPG" width="400" /></a>Up next, the tagliatelle tastes fresh and is not clumped up, but the pasta is a touch overcooked and past al dente. As for the very basic cream sauce, it is creamy but not flavourful. I kept referring to this pasta to something that would be on a children's menu and could not understand why Sherman kept insisting his pasta was very heavy. After a glance around the table however, every plate looked different! Sherman's tasted the creamiest, Joyce's had the most flavour, Nick's tasted a touch better than mine but still bland, and mine was just straight up bland.</div>
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TAGLIATELLE ALLA BOLOGNESE, "Fresh handmade tagliatelle pasta with bolognese sauce" ($16.00).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGj6Sg8ISNc/VxAYxH2qcjI/AAAAAAAAL0Q/DJV_qCDM2KE2fZ1q4bxitJfNJd49-B1mACLcB/s1600/DSC04601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGj6Sg8ISNc/VxAYxH2qcjI/AAAAAAAAL0Q/DJV_qCDM2KE2fZ1q4bxitJfNJd49-B1mACLcB/s400/DSC04601.JPG" width="400" /></a>Wanting a variety and to make up for the cream sauce tagliatelle, we asked to try a red sauce and ordered the bolognese. This was a good choice because the pasta tastes significantly better and not bland at all. The bolognese tastes very light where you can taste the natural flavours from the tomato and is a basic red sauce. I say red sauce because the bolognese does not taste as hearty or meaty compared to other restaurants' that I prefer and tastes more like a basic tomato sauce.</div>
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SCALOPPINE DI VIETOO, "Veal slices dredged in flour, with Italian porcini mushrooms" ($22.00).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ysr3eNL1Uxo/VxAY1CJ_PVI/AAAAAAAAL0U/1VYr3hZw4rcKJh7DyMKOqjNTC0ZlTknawCLcB/s1600/DSC04603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ysr3eNL1Uxo/VxAY1CJ_PVI/AAAAAAAAL0U/1VYr3hZw4rcKJh7DyMKOqjNTC0ZlTknawCLcB/s400/DSC04603.JPG" width="400" /></a>The veal entree is served with a choice of salad or potato, but we tried both. The potatoes exhibit a crisp exterior and taste soft, but do not have much flavour despite the shown rosemary. Moreover, the arugula with shaved carrot and tomato salad is missing dressing. As for the highlight of the entree, the veal tastes tender but dry and there is a hint of gaminess. The au jus is acidic and tart however, but we could not taste the mushrooms and the flavours are one dimensional.</div>
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BiBo Pizzera in Richmond is a a bit disappointing overall because the food started out great until we got to the brushetta. I would give the Kitsilano location on West 4th a try however because I sort of have a gut feeling that the food usually tastes better than what we experienced. When I visit the Kitsilano location, I would order the carpaccio di bresola, montanara and crudo pizza, ravioli and gnocchi pasta, beef ribeye and of course tiramisu!</div>
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POSITIVES</div>
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- Quality ingredients</div>
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- Above average pizza</div>
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- Great platter and focaccia</div>
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NEGATIVES</div>
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- Pastas are not that great</div>
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- Some dishes are average at best</div>
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Food: 2.5/5</div>
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Service: N/A</div>
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BIBO PIZZERA : RICHMOND LOCATION</div>
1067C – 7899 Templeton Station Road Richmond, BC V7B 0B7<br />
Telephone (604) 279 8889<br />
<a href="http://www.thebibo.com/" target="_blank">http://www.thebibo.com</a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10428.803437888366!2d-123.1401907!3d49.1967491!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x7d83bc44b169e128!2sBibo+Pizzeria!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1460693400067" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-33454909160889157202016-04-08T09:12:00.002-07:002016-04-29T15:05:00.850-07:00Coast Restaurant : Cocktail Hour<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Se4iXIFcg/VwfMYbp7DqI/AAAAAAAALzs/T-q3E8c6-DomjGPn99Avb9jpwMwiA37Qw/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Se4iXIFcg/VwfMYbp7DqI/AAAAAAAALzs/T-q3E8c6-DomjGPn99Avb9jpwMwiA37Qw/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a>Coast is my favourite Glowbal Collection restaurant and the reason as to why will sound pretty silly. It is my favourite restaurant out of the collection because the hostesses are very well trained! Every time I pass by Coast or before entering, the hostesses always smile and say hello every single time. Every. Singe. Time. Including whenever I am only passing by and have no intention of dining at the restaurant. Yet I can never say the same for <a href="http://missvancouverpiggy.blogspot.ca/2014/03/black-blue.html" target="_blank">Black + Blue</a> or Italian Kitchen, including when I have plans to dine at those restaurants! Weird right? I honestly love the hostesses at Coast.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CR-Nj-2cEAs/VUI09yNfwiI/AAAAAAAAKv0/bTSYQCFyBPY/s1600/DSC02082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CR-Nj-2cEAs/VUI09yNfwiI/AAAAAAAAKv0/bTSYQCFyBPY/s1600/DSC02082.JPG" width="400" /></a>Another reason as to why I prefer Coast is because of the atmosphere, which has a lot of potential to be more extravagant. Coast has a private dining area, lounge, seafood bar at the centre of the restaurant, heated patio seats and two floors. The dark blue tiffany seats allure me the most and I feel like it adds a feminine touch making it a great restaurant choice for a girls night out. My sister and I dropped by after work to try Coast's Cocktail Hour however, which offers a selection of food at 50% off.<br />
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MALPEQUE ($3.50), READ ISLAND ($2.85), KUSSHI ($3.70), JOYCE POINT ($2.75) AND SAWMILL BAY ($2.95).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Y3iLYzOThQ/VUI2mN2p6iI/AAAAAAAAKw8/7QlLn2UyVzQ/s1600/DSC02092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Y3iLYzOThQ/VUI2mN2p6iI/AAAAAAAAKw8/7QlLn2UyVzQ/s1600/DSC02092.JPG" width="400" /></a>My sister wanted to try a variety of oysters and went with the Malpeque, Read Island, Joyce point and Sawmill. The oysters are nicely presented and our server informed my sister which was which and she took her time explaining. As for myself, I ordered the Kusshi oysters that taste fresh, juicy, plump and sweet (my sister prefers less sweeter oysters). All the oysters are properly prepared as well, which resulted in us ordering more.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ud4Dskzf6Rg/VUI0-AEbsxI/AAAAAAAAKv4/LD9CX7dwR6A/s1600/DSC02086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ud4Dskzf6Rg/VUI0-AEbsxI/AAAAAAAAKv4/LD9CX7dwR6A/s1600/DSC02086.JPG" width="400" /></a>I remember seeing pre-made sushi rolls and nigiri during late lunch services before and I am glad to see that these are prepared to order!<br />
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TORO NIGIRI ($4.95).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BaDUIIsFFNA/VUI1HtJF2HI/AAAAAAAAKwM/C0JLfivsuNY/s1600/DSC02093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BaDUIIsFFNA/VUI1HtJF2HI/AAAAAAAAKwM/C0JLfivsuNY/s200/DSC02093.JPG" width="100" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_IwMbWirjHM/VUI1C9Ark-I/AAAAAAAAKwE/yKSIh8rl9kk/s1600/DSC02087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_IwMbWirjHM/VUI1C9Ark-I/AAAAAAAAKwE/yKSIh8rl9kk/s1600/DSC02087.JPG" width="400" /></a>The toro tastes fresh, fatty, buttery and melts in the mouth! The rice on the other hand is a touch too firm and there is not enough vinegar. In addition, the nigiri is too loosely formed and falls apart. But hey, no complaints because the toro tastes fresh and I have been to many authentic Japanese operated restaurants that charge the same price due to the "authenticity" and the freshness is not there.<br />
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AKA MAGURO($5.50).<br />
Rating: 3/5.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-drHMOwkKQRA/VUI1JUzYAdI/AAAAAAAAKwU/efGf2M8Lsz0/s1600/DSC02088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-drHMOwkKQRA/VUI1JUzYAdI/AAAAAAAAKwU/efGf2M8Lsz0/s1600/DSC02088.JPG" width="400" /></a>The cut of red tuna served is of good quality and the proper portion, but the dry and a touch too firm rice makes the nigiri overall average.<br />
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FISH & CHIP CONES, "Tempura cod, Japanese tartar sauce" ($9.95).</div>
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Rating: 3.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zmnUTLpiqYQ/VUI3ZqE1xNI/AAAAAAAAKxE/szrAiCqDN3I/s1600/DSC02089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zmnUTLpiqYQ/VUI3ZqE1xNI/AAAAAAAAKxE/szrAiCqDN3I/s1600/DSC02089.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Fish & Chip Cones are very well prepared, taste wise and visually. The crispy (but not too crunchy) juicy cod tastes meaty and there are plenty of soft crunches from the masago. On top of that, the Japanese style tartar sauce is fairly flavour and rich without overwhelming. The watercress also adds a refreshing flavour, the rice tastes fresh and soft (better than the nigiri), and the soy paper adds to the whole cone. These cones are something I would order on a regular basis!</div>
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LOBSTER POUTINE, "5oz Atlantic lobster tail, smoked bacon, sunny-side up egg" ($22.95).<br />
Rating: 3/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r-Jc5UCNiJ0/VUI2KnVZUSI/AAAAAAAAKww/g82GKa4il9U/s1600/DSC02098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r-Jc5UCNiJ0/VUI2KnVZUSI/AAAAAAAAKww/g82GKa4il9U/s1600/DSC02098.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Lobster Poutine is a heavy and satisfying dish! The crispy fries are perfect, neither soggy nor too crunchy and there is a good amount of buttery as well as bouncy lobster meat in the poutine. In addition, the rich gravy tastes flavourful and not salty one bit. The plentiful amount of smoky bacon provides that extra flavour throughout the poutine as well. If anything, the egg could have been a bit crispy on the bottom.</div>
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CIOPPINO, "Shell fish, local fish and crab legs, yukon gold potatoes, herb tomato broth" ($36.00).<br />
Rating: 3/5.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3EWJZSoVbNU/VUI2E0mHyZI/AAAAAAAAKwk/SuXRXiKFvJg/s1600/DSC02103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3EWJZSoVbNU/VUI2E0mHyZI/AAAAAAAAKwk/SuXRXiKFvJg/s1600/DSC02103.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Cioppino is well executed from the juicy mussels, good amount of diced fish that tastes tender and not a second overcooked to the soft potatoes. The light broth also exhibits a hint of tartness and the natural flavours from the seafood is apparent, although it could have been more rich and stronger.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsWKsKQuzxY/VUI0w0fxLII/AAAAAAAAKvs/r6HVoci68zY/s1600/DSC02083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsWKsKQuzxY/VUI0w0fxLII/AAAAAAAAKvs/r6HVoci68zY/s1600/DSC02083.JPG" width="400" /></a>Cocktail Hour at Coast provides a good opportunity to try a selection of dishes at 50% off and for you to decide whether the restaurant is worth revisiting for lunch or dinner. As for myself, I personally prefer having lunch rather than dinner at Coast because my expectations are usually higher for dinner. The highlights overall at Coast for cocktail hour are the fresh and well prepared oysters, toro nigiri and fish & chip cones. On this visit our server was great too, friendly and attentive.</div>
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POSITIVE</div>
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- Fresh seafood</div>
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- Happy hour prices</div>
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- Welcoming hostesses</div>
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- Properly shucked oysters</div>
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NEGATIVE</div>
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- Formation of nigiri can be better</div>
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- Service is a miss depending on who your server is</div>
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Food: 3/5</div>
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Service: 3.5/5</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">COAST RESTAURANT</span><br />
1054 Alberni Street Vancouver, BC V6Z 2V6<br />
Telephone (604) 685-5010<br />
<a href="http://www.glowbalgroup.com/coast/" target="_blank">http://www.glowbalgroup.com/coast/</a><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10410.239194322507!2d-123.1231543!3d49.2847379!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x403b5fb55a4b8508!2sCoast!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1460693523725" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-39375217586701460872016-04-06T11:19:00.000-07:002016-04-29T15:05:11.680-07:00Cafe Salade de Fruits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2d2hR_vMCg/Vv_yCpYcUXI/AAAAAAAALzE/_TClLYrtspUDvbfD_p8P6X2ae7xJLy22A/s1600/IMG_8750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2d2hR_vMCg/Vv_yCpYcUXI/AAAAAAAALzE/_TClLYrtspUDvbfD_p8P6X2ae7xJLy22A/s400/IMG_8750.JPG" width="400" /></a>Tucked in the French Cultural Centre on West 7th is a casual French bistro serving good quality food with fine dining service, Cafe Salade de Fruits. For a few years now I have heard a lot of about the bistro such as the prices are reasonable, mussels are a must order and the place is small so make sure to make reservations. Fortunately arriving out of the blue on a weeknight reservations were not needed! I still recommend reservations however since there are not many seats.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXhrbSvi4CY/VwBDk1d_ZYI/AAAAAAAALzY/DcxfMq5m_Bgsh6HYsZg030moJBTVdrczw/s1600/IMG_8763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXhrbSvi4CY/VwBDk1d_ZYI/AAAAAAAALzY/DcxfMq5m_Bgsh6HYsZg030moJBTVdrczw/s400/IMG_8763.JPG" width="400" /></a>Cafe Salade has a homey and inviting atmosphere from the friendly staff with authentic thick French accents to the dim lighting. When you walk in, you notice the high ceiling immediately along with the brick wall above the kitchen and the wooden tables along with chairs. After seating, our server took our order and when we asked if she could make sure not all the dishes are sent out at once, she responded, "why would anyone ever do that?". And I was like girl... every restaurant always does that to us! So I knew we were off to a great start for dinner already.</div>
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COMPLIMENTARY BREAD AND BUTTER.</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ldp7OSVd554/Vv_rUjV_5lI/AAAAAAAALyY/lDw7Pn9fgo4r-ReYDBAm15QACCJUBR1Mw/s1600/DSC04650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ldp7OSVd554/Vv_rUjV_5lI/AAAAAAAALyY/lDw7Pn9fgo4r-ReYDBAm15QACCJUBR1Mw/s400/DSC04650.JPG" width="400" /></a>The slices of baguette are only okay, the crumb is soft, fluffy and fresh but the crust is very chewy. I appreciate our server for bringing more bread later on though to accompany the appetizers. The second plate of bread tasted better too since it was warm.</div>
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GRILLED TIGER PRAWNS ($14.00).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJn9yTSUUIo/Vv_rUqK0gnI/AAAAAAAALyc/YVNIS9Zi3n4lDgpGCsBppOXB4DYyxE6PQ/s1600/DSC04651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJn9yTSUUIo/Vv_rUqK0gnI/AAAAAAAALyc/YVNIS9Zi3n4lDgpGCsBppOXB4DYyxE6PQ/s400/DSC04651.JPG" width="400" /></a>The large butterflied tiger prawns have a nice charred smoky flavour and are just cooked (not a second over) resulting in a nice bounce along with snap. I love how Cafe Salade actually serves tiger prawns as stated on the menu! I have been to so many restaurants that advertise tiger prawns on the menu and honestly serve regular prawns, not cool.</div>
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ESCARGOT WITH GARLIC AND BUTTER SAUCE ($11.00).<br />
Rating: 3/5.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ShdCFRrmdRE/Vv_rUlf456I/AAAAAAAALyU/xcDMbdrpP9QyXYBgOpIAgqJSu3jdPdB3g/s1600/DSC04652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ShdCFRrmdRE/Vv_rUlf456I/AAAAAAAALyU/xcDMbdrpP9QyXYBgOpIAgqJSu3jdPdB3g/s400/DSC04652.JPG" width="400" /></a>Bathed in a rich and garlic butter sauce are the tender escargots. The flavours are a touch on the lighter side and something seemed to be missing, but I could not pin point it.</div>
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DAILY SOUP, TOMATO AND OXTAIL SOUP ($8.00).</div>
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xEdIkhFyIQ/Vv_rVOzs-pI/AAAAAAAALyg/loTHzRtqtQALUbA-Xejy9tBT6HkE52Vow/s1600/DSC04653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xEdIkhFyIQ/Vv_rVOzs-pI/AAAAAAAALyg/loTHzRtqtQALUbA-Xejy9tBT6HkE52Vow/s400/DSC04653.JPG" width="400" /></a>Coming from a person who prefers chowders, heavy cream bases and never orders tomato soups at a restaurant, the tomato and oxtail soup is really good! The soup is hearty, rich and very flavourful. Moreover, the oxtail is slow cooked and tastes tender. This is a very generous portion too and we enjoyed the soup so much that we asked for a couple to go. The portion is probably only half the size for take out though, which is disappointing (although still worth it!).</div>
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MUSSELS AND FRITES, WHITE WINE, CREAM, SPICES ($21.00).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCSLAsp1blA/Vv_rVWMfwGI/AAAAAAAALyk/bEidWMh0qTcElmsoe3c_4iQdk1bsuwhQA/s1600/DSC04656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCSLAsp1blA/Vv_rVWMfwGI/AAAAAAAALyk/bEidWMh0qTcElmsoe3c_4iQdk1bsuwhQA/s400/DSC04656.JPG" width="400" /></a>This is the regular size Mussels and Frites that is served as an entree, but we ordered this as an appetizer. There is also an option of adding chorizo and tomatoes for an additional $2.00. The large and juicy mussels are perfectly cooked and have that natural sweet finish. The sauce however is a touch on the lighter side and unfortunately even tastes a bit watery. The fries on the other hand are amazing! The lightly salted fries have a crisp exterior while exhibiting a nice fluffiness on the inside and remained crisp even by the time the plate left our table.<br />
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DUCK BREAST BLACK CURRANT SAUCE ($28.00).<br />
Rating: 3/5.<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ScPgCX-np2c/Vv_rVgFy7II/AAAAAAAALyo/zM3TT-2wNdUA9XBm0Lo5I0sJebnxcY92A/s1600/DSC04657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ScPgCX-np2c/Vv_rVgFy7II/AAAAAAAALyo/zM3TT-2wNdUA9XBm0Lo5I0sJebnxcY92A/s400/DSC04657.JPG" width="400" /></a>The thin slices of duck breast taste buttery and tender, but majority of the pieces that are a touch more rare than medium rare in the centre are on the chewy side. As for the accompaniments, the black currant sauce is neither too sweet nor tart and the buttery, rich and heavy mashed potato tastes delicious.<br />
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TENDERLOIN STEAK AND FOIE GRAS ($38.00).<br />
Rating: 5/5.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tOnj8nJfGQ/Vv_rV-RMoWI/AAAAAAAALys/wct_kg6d3RcvdvBa_jJ8Kn-ueIzc_1vnA/s1600/DSC04658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tOnj8nJfGQ/Vv_rV-RMoWI/AAAAAAAALys/wct_kg6d3RcvdvBa_jJ8Kn-ueIzc_1vnA/s400/DSC04658.JPG" width="400" /></a>OH. MY. GOSH. THIS. IS. SO. GOOD! The tenderloin topped with a generous portion of foie gras is an explosion of flavours in the mouth! The richness from the foie gras adds to the buttery and tender steak that results in so many flavours especially when considering that the tenderloin is the most bland cut of meat. In addition, the steak exhibits lots of char and is well executed. Cafe Salade's steak with foie gras tastes a lot better than the one I have tried at <a href="http://missvancouverpiggy.blogspot.ca/2014/02/le-crocodile.html" target="_blank">Le Crocodile's</a>.</div>
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DAILY SORBET ($8.00).</div>
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhuukFGhg0s/Vv_rWJUjeTI/AAAAAAAALyw/XCeoS1wolLARhQxlkIbuaFMlHk30sIk5Q/s1600/DSC04660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhuukFGhg0s/Vv_rWJUjeTI/AAAAAAAALyw/XCeoS1wolLARhQxlkIbuaFMlHk30sIk5Q/s400/DSC04660.JPG" width="400" /></a>The daily sorbet on this visit is blood orange, which has a nice tart, tang and rich flavour. The consistency is also spot on being creamy and not icy one bit. Cafe Salade's sorbet is well executed and definitely a Top Three where Blue Water's is as well. And there is no third on my list yet!</div>
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Cafe Salade de Fruits is one restaurant where I truly feel welcomed! The staff are genuinely friendly and actually want you to have a good meal whether you are here for brunch, lunch or dinner. I cannot remember the last time I truly felt appreciated at a restaurant and it may have been <a href="http://missvancouverpiggy.blogspot.ca/2014/09/amici.html" target="_blank">Amici's</a>, which was a long time ago. Moreover, our server wiped down the table when needed, replenished cutlery in-between meals and asked how each dish was. It may sound silly to rave about such simple things, but a few fine dining restaurants that I visited within the same week of the bistro did none of the above. Even the owner and the cooks said goodbye. As for the above average food, I declare the steak with foie gras and sorbet a must order!</div>
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Food: 3.5/5</div>
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Service: 5/5</div>
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POSITIVES</div>
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- Good prices</div>
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- Staff that cares</div>
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- Above average food</div>
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NEGATIVES</div>
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- Smaller restaurant (make reservations)</div>
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CAFE SALADE DE FRUITS<br />
1551 West 7th Avenue Vancouver, BC V6J 1F1<br />
Telephone (604) 714-5987<br />
<a href="http://www.saladedefruits.com/" target="_blank">http:/saladedefruits.com</a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10414.326568054441!2d-123.139829!3d49.265375!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x5b760e0fd9c9b03f!2sCafe+Salade+de+Fruits!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1460693593059" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-9505558053847099452016-03-19T14:38:00.002-07:002016-04-29T15:05:25.168-07:00Angie's Malaysian Eatery<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pOa-NlrPP3E/Vu2OosuwPaI/AAAAAAAALxc/Y4MnVndNpoQgynvM8dzQZHiXPLIR63PRw/s1600/DSC03175.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pOa-NlrPP3E/Vu2OosuwPaI/AAAAAAAALxc/Y4MnVndNpoQgynvM8dzQZHiXPLIR63PRw/s400/DSC03175.JPG" width="400" /></a>Angie's Malaysian Eatery is a small family run restaurant where the
husband is the chef, the wife handles the front of the house and their
children help out whenever needed. The restaurant is small with less
than ten tables available and has a homey atmosphere, as if you are having dinner at a
friend's. From the fabric table cloths to how place mats are placed
underneath every plate, the little things add to the homey vibe.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7LQz9d4HDmA/VkEDT1Xgt-I/AAAAAAAALdg/BADYgCdrYdg/s1600/DSC03191.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7LQz9d4HDmA/VkEDT1Xgt-I/AAAAAAAALdg/BADYgCdrYdg/s400/DSC03191.JPG" width="400" /></a>A chalkboard menu is posted at the back of the restaurant with photographs attached and the owners also came by to show us pictures of each dish that the restaurant has to offer. On top of that, the owners provided a thorough description and were helpful in explaining what each dish was like, which we found helpful for those who are not familiar with Bruneian cuisine.<br />
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ROTI CANAL ($4.50).<br />
Rating: 4/5. <br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sQY4wzelIg4/Vu2OorqxNXI/AAAAAAAALxY/TTfoHilevv0Sr_SLEiqDxkiM2S92tQP-g/s1600/DSC03178.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sQY4wzelIg4/Vu2OorqxNXI/AAAAAAAALxY/TTfoHilevv0Sr_SLEiqDxkiM2S92tQP-g/s400/DSC03178.JPG" width="400" /></a>Starting with an appetizer, the roti is perfectly puffed up, exhibits a crisp exterior and there are
plenty of soft (not doughy) layers inside. The curry sauce is also
fairly rich, flavourful and has a mild spiciness.<br />
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SAMBAL VEGETABLES ($11.95).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r2aGm-2suUk/Vu2OosyJpdI/AAAAAAAALxU/xJ3QmhPkwUMx15-56VOVwF21iR4DlyRUA/s1600/DSC03179.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r2aGm-2suUk/Vu2OosyJpdI/AAAAAAAALxU/xJ3QmhPkwUMx15-56VOVwF21iR4DlyRUA/s400/DSC03179.JPG" width="400" /></a>We requested for spicy Sambal Vegetables and there is a perfect amount
of spiciness where it starts off at a medium level and gradually builds
to a stronger level. In addition, the string beans taste fresh, juicy
and are perfectly cooked. There is plenty of caramelized wok flavour
as well and the fried shallots add to that extra taste. The only downside
is that there is not much of a sambal profile and the vegetables taste
like basic wok fried string beans, despite being perfectly prepared.<br />
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HAINAN CHICKEN THIGH ($12.95. <br />
Rating: 2.5/5.<br />
This is the large<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNy9LNYIPw0/Vu2OpJdcKYI/AAAAAAAALxg/FusF6Y-PxroMxy2jDcWZHqLGBXPVnxFCw/s1600/DSC03180.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNy9LNYIPw0/Vu2OpJdcKYI/AAAAAAAALxg/FusF6Y-PxroMxy2jDcWZHqLGBXPVnxFCw/s400/DSC03180.JPG" width="400" /></a> version of the Hainan chicken that comes with two
legs. The chicken tastes tender and the skin is silky smooth while
adhering to the meat, but there is no Hainan flavour at all (tasting more like a simple poached chicken). As for the
accompanying sauces, Angie's provides a mix of a ginger and chilli
sauce. We prefer only the ginger sauce however, which tastes pretty good. The housemade sauce has a strong and sharp ginger flavour.<br />
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CHICKEN RICE ($2.00).<br />
Rating: 2/5.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IgooEmEA48/Vu2OpUSX1iI/AAAAAAAALxo/jXNC-wxpBUo79f8x6CiYbZ5syLC1cclfw/s1600/DSC03184.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IgooEmEA48/Vu2OpUSX1iI/AAAAAAAALxo/jXNC-wxpBUo79f8x6CiYbZ5syLC1cclfw/s400/DSC03184.JPG" width="400" /></a>Trying the Chicken Rice when ordering a Hainan chicken is always a must, but the rice is a touch too mushy and again lacks that Hainan
flavour. This is just basic rice in my opinion and could have
been more flavourful. <br />
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PULUT PANGGANG ($3.75).<br />
Rating: 2.5/5. <br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WlMffEliEDE/VkED21sziWI/AAAAAAAALeQ/fTFesnPeo1Y/s1600/DSC03185.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WlMffEliEDE/VkED21sziWI/AAAAAAAALeQ/fTFesnPeo1Y/s200/DSC03185.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bt8pzoHl-XQ/Vu2Opb4ndBI/AAAAAAAALxk/XB3eQjmbSmM8Fw0FRFJAHHfhdF9CqQdpQ/s1600/DSC03182.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bt8pzoHl-XQ/Vu2Opb4ndBI/AAAAAAAALxk/XB3eQjmbSmM8Fw0FRFJAHHfhdF9CqQdpQ/s400/DSC03182.JPG" width="400" /></a>The sticky rice is filled with coconut, dried shrimp and sambal, but there is not much flavour. This is probably where the home style version of the dish comes in as the flavours are noticeably lighter. <br />
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CURRY LAKSA ($8.95).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UH5NO_2KrXA/Vu2OpgVsa5I/AAAAAAAALxs/z2tyWdJ7EbYLE0sWSKHhnHCmwl17mgFVw/s1600/DSC03187.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UH5NO_2KrXA/Vu2OpgVsa5I/AAAAAAAALxs/z2tyWdJ7EbYLE0sWSKHhnHCmwl17mgFVw/s400/DSC03187.JPG" width="400" /></a>With all the dishes arriving fast and at once, the Curry Laksa was cold by the time we got to it. The laksa is prepared in a homestyle way where there is a nice creaminess from the coconut milk, but it lacks that rich curry flavour and velvey consistency. As for the minimal amount of ingredients, it includes tofu puff, boiled egg, sliced chicken and fish ball.</div>
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SERIA KOLOMEE, "Wet noodle with minced pork ($8.95).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8h3x0vmqnyI/Vu2Op2skCzI/AAAAAAAALxw/sc3kDyNO2hUh68bos6X2d1_oQN3yJ6phQ/s1600/DSC03188.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8h3x0vmqnyI/Vu2Op2skCzI/AAAAAAAALxw/sc3kDyNO2hUh68bos6X2d1_oQN3yJ6phQ/s400/DSC03188.JPG" width="400" /></a>The al dente noodles are nicely prepared, not too oily and the accompanying pickled
jalapenos are provided on the side to add a refreshing tangy profile.
The slice of barbecue pork tastes tender as well and not dry, but
another slice would have been appreciated. Underneath the fried shallots, there is a fair amount of ground pork and the seasoning overall is on the lighter side (a stronger sesame oil than pork/soy flavour).<br />
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K.K BUTTERMILK TIGER PRAWN ($13.95).<br />
Rating: 4.5/5<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U4yeRImKfEY/Vu2Op7eSRmI/AAAAAAAALx0/OY88m02m-7MA90MqakfIkKQYtpk1bQt_g/s1600/DSC03190.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U4yeRImKfEY/Vu2Op7eSRmI/AAAAAAAALx0/OY88m02m-7MA90MqakfIkKQYtpk1bQt_g/s400/DSC03190.JPG" width="400" /></a>Arriving last is the BEST dish of the evening. The tiger prawns have a
really rich caramelized flavour and taste spicy. On top of that, the
creamy and rich sauce has a nice velvety consistency and tastes really
good. The only disappointment is that the prawns are overcooked by a few
seconds and lack that nice bounce (tasting spongy). I would have
preferred no lettuce on the bottom too because it made it harder to grab
some of the sauce for the rice!<br />
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Angie's Malaysian Eatery serves home style food, so do not expect
extremely rich and heavy sauces. Of course with the exception of the K.K
Buttermilk Tiger Prawns, which I would grab for take out if I was in
the area. The food overall at Angie's is mostly above average, not heavy seasoned and the portions are reasonable for the price. Moreover, the presentation is fairly nice and you can tell the chef puts effort in the execution of food.<br />
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POSITIVES<br />
- Good portions<br />
- Reasonable prices <br />
- Mostly above average food<br />
- Homey atmosphere and friendly staff<br />
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NEGATIVES<br />
- Food came all at once <br />
- Some may prefer stronger flavours <br />
<br />
Food: 3.5/5<br />
Service: 3.5/5<br />
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ANGIE'S MALAYSIAN EATERY<br />
7355 Edmonds Street Burnaby, BC V3N 1A9<br />
Telephone (778) 398-0012<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Angiemalaysianrestaurant/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Angiemalaysianrestaurant/</a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10424.013307004892!2d-122.950027!3d49.219464!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x3ff38b5801bd8554!2sAngie's+Malaysian+Eatery!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1460693675880" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-91982015851432585712016-03-16T09:35:00.000-07:002016-04-29T15:05:32.457-07:00Shirakawa by Itoh Dining<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<u><b>RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED</b></u></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-19l7NAGuQU0/Vdsvb0j_KiI/AAAAAAAALLc/4CruxqbMVVo/s1600/DSC02502.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-19l7NAGuQU0/Vdsvb0j_KiI/AAAAAAAALLc/4CruxqbMVVo/s400/DSC02502.JPG" width="400" /></a>It is pretty evident that I fell off the blogging world for a while and writing about older restaurant experiences do not always work out, especially in this case because Shirakawa closed their doors. Shirakawa was a Japanese restaurant located in Gastown, Downtown Vancouver that offered modern and traditional cuisine. And of course the authenticity of the restaurant appeared to be a wow factor as well.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFAtBGpGEEQ/VdsveEtx8HI/AAAAAAAALLk/iLFm2sTEjM4/s1600/DSC02468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFAtBGpGEEQ/VdsveEtx8HI/AAAAAAAALLk/iLFm2sTEjM4/s400/DSC02468.JPG" width="400" /></a>Floor to ceiling glass windows, an open kitchen and the irezumi mural were my biggest eye catchers when I walked in to the restaurant. The atmosphere also makes Shirakawa one of those Japanese restaurants that are not on the top of my list to visit because I worry the quality is not there or the quality does not match the higher prices, but I decided to make a visit for lunch. You never know until you try right?</div>
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KAKI, "House-marinated, cooked oysters, on a bed of ume dressed onions, garnished with shiso" ($5.50).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w22717SKh7c/VdsvpxzR7fI/AAAAAAAALLs/t0WYYKshvl4/s1600/DSC02473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w22717SKh7c/VdsvpxzR7fI/AAAAAAAALLs/t0WYYKshvl4/s400/DSC02473.JPG" width="400" /></a>Served as a cold appetizer, the oysters had a nice slippery, silky and smooth texture from the marinade and the natural flavours were there. The ume dressed onions did not really do anything for me however.</div>
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KAKUNI, "Braised pork belly served with a sweet soy reduction and karashi mustard" ($8.00).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cVkKjuXd9k0/VdsvtyEZ9FI/AAAAAAAALL8/EBnyRuYx2eQ/s1600/DSC02478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cVkKjuXd9k0/VdsvtyEZ9FI/AAAAAAAALL8/EBnyRuYx2eQ/s400/DSC02478.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Kakuni was pretty good and you could tell it was actually slow braised, where the lean portion tastes tender (although a touch dry) and the fatty portion melts in the mouth. The karashi on the side tasted housemade too and had a nice spicy kick to it.</div>
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KISHU SOUR, "Bourbon, plum wine, orange, egg white, lime, plum bitters" ($13.00) AND COSMOSAKE, "Sake, cointreau, cranberry and yuzu juice" ($10.00).<br />
Rating: 3.5/5<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FAu6IbYDuJc/VdsvsujYbzI/AAAAAAAALL0/Bx6c7adJd3c/s1600/DSC02481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FAu6IbYDuJc/VdsvsujYbzI/AAAAAAAALL0/Bx6c7adJd3c/s400/DSC02481.JPG" width="400" /></a>Starting with the well prepared Kishu Sour that exhibits the nice texture of foamy egg whites, the drink was fairly strong and the mix of plum wine went well. I also appreciated the massive cube of ice as opposed to regular sized cubes. The Cosmosake on the other hand was a light, refreshing and fruity drink.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bfbzn013h1Y/Vdsv1nGkb1I/AAAAAAAALME/lILqvmTYc0w/s1600/DSC02482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bfbzn013h1Y/Vdsv1nGkb1I/AAAAAAAALME/lILqvmTYc0w/s400/DSC02482.JPG" width="400" /></a>After a couple of appetizers and the lengthy amount of time it took for the drinks to arrive, our selection of nigiri arrived shortly. We ordered the toro, hamachi, maguro, amaebi, wagyu and foie gras nigiri. As for the rice, we found the texture a touch on the harder side and not well seasoned. The rice could have had a stronger hint of vinegar overall.</div>
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TORO ($3.75) || Rating: 1.5/5.</div>
MAGURO ($4.00) || Rating: N/A.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YVqYmMan-ys/VdswGAOIblI/AAAAAAAALMc/gBu-EUIUxOU/s1600/DSC02487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YVqYmMan-ys/VdswGAOIblI/AAAAAAAALMc/gBu-EUIUxOU/s400/DSC02487.JPG" width="400" /></a>Beginning with the Toro Nigiri, it did not taste fresh, fatty or buttery. The toro tasted bland and dry, which was a huge disappointment considering the higher price and that Shirakawa is a Japanese operated establishment. Well in general it would be disappointing regardless of the aforementioned reasons. On top of that, we ordered Maguro Nigiri and received Albacore. I am not the type to send back dishes but I really wanted red tuna... so we mentioned this to our server who took it back to the kitchen.</div>
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To our surprise however, the sushi chef sent it back and stated this was red tuna. The albacore nigiri tasted fresh, but it was not maguro. To be fair however I posted this on Instagram, tagged the restaurant and the manager saw my post and removed it from the bill.</div>
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WAGYU ($5.00).<br />
Rating: 2/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mw2o1JxemKw/VdswCnuU9TI/AAAAAAAALMU/_C4m_9zZkfw/s1600/DSC02490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mw2o1JxemKw/VdswCnuU9TI/AAAAAAAALMU/_C4m_9zZkfw/s400/DSC02490.JPG" width="400" /></a>Continuing along, the Wagyu Nigiri could have been prepared more carefully as it was chewy and not flavourful.</div>
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HAMACHI ($4.00) || Rating: 3.5/5.</div>
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AMAEBI ($4.25) || Rating: 3.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TlTt7mfhc_w/Vdsv7CBVdJI/AAAAAAAALMM/BNCNpglJq3A/s1600/DSC02489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TlTt7mfhc_w/Vdsv7CBVdJI/AAAAAAAALMM/BNCNpglJq3A/s400/DSC02489.JPG" width="400" /></a>Carrying on to the better selection, the Hamachi Nigiri was great. The hamachi was as fresh as it could get and exhibited that nice burgundy trim. Moreover, the amaebi tasted fresh and sweet as well.</div>
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FOIE GRAS ($7.00).</div>
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Rating: 3.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XhPqPLuDSV0/VdswIfq2oDI/AAAAAAAALMk/BOo3pBE0G7s/s1600/DSC02491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XhPqPLuDSV0/VdswIfq2oDI/AAAAAAAALMk/BOo3pBE0G7s/s400/DSC02491.JPG" width="400" /></a>Ending the selection with the best, the Foie Gras nigiri fell apart but we did not mind so much because this was very well prepared. The generous amount of foie tasted rich, buttery, smoky and flavourful. To this date, I still have not found a restaurant that prepares foie gras nigiri as good as Shirakawa did!</div>
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GINDARA, "Saikyo miso marinated black cod, sauteed mushrooms and sundried tomato" ($15.00).</div>
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Rating: 3/5.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6TKtfxHSiKM/VdswOMIPYOI/AAAAAAAALMs/t2jM0SSz2Tc/s1600/DSC02492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6TKtfxHSiKM/VdswOMIPYOI/AAAAAAAALMs/t2jM0SSz2Tc/s400/DSC02492.JPG" width="400" /></a>The first entree to arrive was the buttery cod that exhibited a hint of miso and was perfectly cooked, not a second over. The sautéed mushrooms on the bottom were well prepared as well and flavourful. The Gindara was a very simple, tasty and light dish.</div>
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RISOTTO, "Grilled prawns, scallops, salmon served with snap peas and white cream risotto, finished with dried miso" ($20.00).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap06b-6PYco/VdswQmcbDVI/AAAAAAAALM0/cxJp4eYqRpA/s1600/DSC02500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap06b-6PYco/VdswQmcbDVI/AAAAAAAALM0/cxJp4eYqRpA/s400/DSC02500.JPG" width="400" /></a>The second entree we ordered was the risotto, where the texture resembled congee and was too soft. The risotto had a heavy creaminess however that my guest enjoyed (I found it too heavy). In regards to the seafood, the salmon was just cooked as well as flaky and the prawns exhibited a nice strong flame grilled charred flavour, but the scallops were overcooked, stringy, and lacked that caramelization.</div>
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The biggest disappointments at Shirakawa were that the toro was not fresh and the red tuna/albacore tuna issue. It would have been nice if the sushi chef owned up to his mistake rather than pulling a fast one on us. As for our server, she was friendly and polite despite trying to wave her down a couple of times when we were the only ones in the restaurant. </div>
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POSITIVES</div>
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- Nice atmosphere</div>
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- Really good foie gras nigiri</div>
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NEGATIVES</div>
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- Higher prices</div>
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- Toro was not fresh</div>
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- Maguro mistake</div>
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Food: 2.5/5</div>
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Service: 2/5</div>
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SHIRAKAWA BY ITOH DINING<br />
#115-12 Water Street Vancouver, BC V6N 1A5<br />
Telephone (604) 336-6918<br />
<a href="http://shirakawagastown.com/" target="_blank">http://shirakawagastown.com/</a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d10410.509324579101!2d-123.1048179!3d49.2834584!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xdd521bf78378ab71!2sShirakawa!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1460693710087" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>Miss Vancouver Piggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16689246448447288533noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6791811384699978204.post-74723823087907776922016-03-01T09:28:00.002-08:002016-04-29T15:05:43.764-07:00Sushi Loku<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HmJDpUljQ70/VtXQsyZgDGI/AAAAAAAALwM/oHl6XOWlN5k/s1600/Loku.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HmJDpUljQ70/VtXQsyZgDGI/AAAAAAAALwM/oHl6XOWlN5k/s400/Loku.jpg" width="400" /></a>Sushi Loku has been on my list of restaurants to try for the longest time, like two years! It is one restaurant where I have very high expectations for because after spending hours looking through every photo I could find on Zomato, Yelp and Instagram, I determined that Sushi Loku is one restaurant that will consistently serve fresh sashimi. From the sashimi to the nigiri and even the carpaccio that Sushi Loku offers, I could not find one slice of oxidized Hamachi. And hamachi is one type of sashimi where the freshness cannot be questioned because the color does not lie.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilAXKtm7VeU/VoXL3g0c-eI/AAAAAAAALjg/po-XUFytFLs/s1600/DSC03544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilAXKtm7VeU/VoXL3g0c-eI/AAAAAAAALjg/po-XUFytFLs/s400/DSC03544.JPG" width="400" /></a>So after sampling ten wine chickens to determine which restaurant offers the best for the <a href="http://chineserestaurantawards.com/" target="_blank">Chinese Restaurant Awards</a> of 2016, <a href="http://www.shermansfoodadventures.com/2016/01/sushi-loku.html" target="_blank">Sherman</a> and I headed to Sushi Loku for dinner. The restaurant is not very big and there are around less than fifteen tables. The seating arrangements are not cramped however and there are a a couple of seats by the sushi bar. A thank you to Sherman for taking some of the photos for me too!</div>
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COCONUT CURRY AND SOFT SHELL CRAB ($9.95).</div>
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Rating: 4.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-36V0kIWg2Io/Vo5_uIU83zI/AAAAAAAALm0/Y_SNKeIMJ2g/s1600/Soft%2BShell%2BCrab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-36V0kIWg2Io/Vo5_uIU83zI/AAAAAAAALm0/Y_SNKeIMJ2g/s400/Soft%2BShell%2BCrab.jpg" width="400" /></a>Knowing how I like my soft shell crab, I requested for the crab to be lightly battered with tempura (rather than the typical cornmeal crunchier batter that Korean restaurants use) and our server had no problem asking the kitchen. We also passed on the curry as well, which resulted in pretty much a perfect soft shell crab - juicy and meaty along with a crisp exterior and lightly seasoned.</div>
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ASSORTED SASHIMI, "Saba, Sockeye, Hamachi, Tai, Tuna and Atlantic" ($16.95)</div>
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Rating: 5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PeHdx6s4g0M/Vo6AtgAyY6I/AAAAAAAALm8/YVpn8GKFaoI/s1600/Sashimi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PeHdx6s4g0M/Vo6AtgAyY6I/AAAAAAAALm8/YVpn8GKFaoI/s400/Sashimi.jpg" width="400" /></a>FML my food instincts do not fail me here because every selection of sashimi is as fresh as it can get. To start, the sockeye tastes lean compared the slices of atlantic, which are fresh and buttery. Following, the hamachi exhibiting that burgundy trim tastes buttery, rich and sweet. Continuing, the tuna tastes fresh as well and the proper lower body portion is served where there is more extra flavour. As for the tai, I am not a fan in general so do not mind that the slices of sashimi are not as sweet as usual due to the cut. About that saba though, I wish there was an addition of green onion and/or ginger on top (but still good of course).</div>
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BEEF TATAKI ROLL, "Prawn tempura, avocado, crabmeat, seared beef, garlic chip, green onion, ponzu" ($7.50).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xPPu-J6qcs/Vo5_TbUwC0I/AAAAAAAALmU/jNHVKRGH9ec/s1600/Beef%2BTataki%2BRoll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xPPu-J6qcs/Vo5_TbUwC0I/AAAAAAAALmU/jNHVKRGH9ec/s400/Beef%2BTataki%2BRoll.jpg" width="400" /></a>The evenly rolled Beef Tataki Roll is well seared and exhibits a strong smokey flavour. The beef tastes tender and not chewy whatsoever and the fried garlic provides that extra flavour and crunch. In addition, the light and tangy ponzu sauce does not overwhelm. The Beef Tataki Roll adds multiples of welcomed flavours to the basic Dynamite Roll.</div>
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TORO ($1.60), HAMACHI ($2.00) AND UNAGI NIGIRI ($2.00).<br />
Rating: 4/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7d4dUjHghnA/Vo5_UM-jI4I/AAAAAAAALmc/QhdOsWv3fUU/s1600/Nigiri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7d4dUjHghnA/Vo5_UM-jI4I/AAAAAAAALmc/QhdOsWv3fUU/s400/Nigiri.jpg" width="400" /></a>Let me start off with the rice... So I personally love and I mean love, delicious rice in my sushi. More often than not the rice is very basic and you get the occasional "well seasoned" rice at a Japanese restaurant. But damn, the rice here is definitely on my Top 3 list and I do not even have a list yet! The rice is very well seasoned, flavourful yet not overwhelming, is a touch above room temperature and exhibits the perfect firmness where the nigiri does not fall apart. I cannot stress how good the rice tastes! The flavour of the rice makes a HUGE difference for me when having sushi! It just compliments the sashimi so much more.</div>
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Other than the rice... the toro and hamachi is as fresh as the sashimi can get. The toro tasting very buttery and fatty while the hamachi tastes rich. As for the thick and juicy unagi, the slices are seared but the smokiness is a touch too mild. But hey, better than many restaurants that just microwave the unagi!</div>
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PARADISE ROLL, "Mango, marinated tuna, rice, cucumber, avocado, lettuce, sesame sauce, ponzu" ($7.95).<br />
Rating: 2.5/5.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BbMB_dE86fA/Vo5_qdhLlwI/AAAAAAAALms/rT55FkQLCmw/s1600/Paradise%2BRoll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BbMB_dE86fA/Vo5_qdhLlwI/AAAAAAAALms/rT55FkQLCmw/s400/Paradise%2BRoll.jpg" width="400" /></a>I am a sucker for any sushi rolls with mango or soy paper... but unfortunately I am careless and overlooked the description because Sushi Loku only offers rice paper! So of course this results in a very chewy and unappealing texture. Think, an extra chewy salad roll without the peanut dipping sauce? As for the ingredients, the tuna tastes fresh and no end pieces are used, the mango actually tastes like mango despite being previous frozen, the avocado is fresh and ripe, and the sesame sauce is fairly rich.</div>
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ABURI OSHI SUSHI SALMON, "Salmon, jalapeño, avocado sauce on top with aioli and balsamic on top" ($11.95).<br />
Rating: 2.5/5.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SQiUEtz4QJo/Vo5_kZeC33I/AAAAAAAALmk/tlNGEF3CehE/s1600/Salmon%2BOishi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SQiUEtz4QJo/Vo5_kZeC33I/AAAAAAAALmk/tlNGEF3CehE/s400/Salmon%2BOishi.jpg" width="400" /></a>The texture of the rice is on point where it is soft and melts in the mouth while retaining its rectangular shape and does not fall apart, but the oshi is not seared enough. The oshi is lacking that seared flavour and there is a very heavy "excess jalapeño liquid" flavour that I am not very fond of. The oshi is neither buttery, smokey or flavourful and a better tasting aioli could have helped.</div>
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POSITIVES</div>
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- Friendly staff</div>
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- Perfect soft shell crab</div>
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- Sashimi cannot get any fresher</div>
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NEGATIVES</div>
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- Not a fan of the rice paper</div>
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- Oshi could have been more seared</div>
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Food: 3.5/5</div>
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Service: 3.5/5</div>
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Since I enjoyed Sushi Loku so much, I had to share my experience with a friend and made a revisit.</div>
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MISO SOUP ($1.25).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QChvLvwX5Ik/VoXLXqGSSqI/AAAAAAAALio/OjcwY1upCkQ/s1600/DSC03524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QChvLvwX5Ik/VoXLXqGSSqI/AAAAAAAALio/OjcwY1upCkQ/s400/DSC03524.JPG" width="400" /></a>The fairy light tasting Miso Soup is not memorable and you can tell this is the batch from lunch rather than dinner. I appreciate the soup is actually served hot though.</div>
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ASSORTED TEMPURA ($5.95).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKIWNTS8N6g/VoXLbrTssXI/AAAAAAAALi4/3b6wc7qGjHs/s1600/DSC03526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKIWNTS8N6g/VoXLbrTssXI/AAAAAAAALi4/3b6wc7qGjHs/s400/DSC03526.JPG" width="400" /></a>The selection of Assorted Tempura includes yam, zucchini, eggplant and a couple of prawns. The flaky and crispy batter is a touch on the heavier side on certain parts of the tempura and even taste a bit doughy. With that aside though, the tempura does the job and is not too greasy.</div>
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COCONUT CURRY AND SOFT SHELL CRAB ($9.95).</div>
Rating: 3/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B5QSHMqf9jE/VoXLYRJyhRI/AAAAAAAALis/RNBy2wZV36w/s1600/DSC03528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B5QSHMqf9jE/VoXLYRJyhRI/AAAAAAAALis/RNBy2wZV36w/s400/DSC03528.JPG" width="400" /></a>Unfortunately unlike the first time here, the soft shell crab has a thicker batter and is topped with arugula. When the plate arrived, I frantically removed the arugula ASAP because I worried the topping would result in soggy pieces of soft shell crab. The crab exhibits a crisp exterior but is very oily and the meat is not juicy like on the first visit. I also requested for the curry on the side just to sample the flavour and it tastes light, but very rich at the same time. I still prefer my soft shell crab as is with nothing else though!</div>
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BEEF TATAKI ROLL, "Prawn tempura, avocado, crabmeat, seared beef, garlic chip, green onion, ponzu" ($7.50).<br />
Rating: 2.5/5.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zU5-9rIxgcI/VoXLpJ7YMeI/AAAAAAAALjA/8UwBHlfof_k/s1600/DSC03529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zU5-9rIxgcI/VoXLpJ7YMeI/AAAAAAAALjA/8UwBHlfof_k/s400/DSC03529.JPG" width="400" /></a>Since the Beef Tataki Roll was really good the first time, I had to order it again. This time however the roll is not seared enough and the beef tastes chewy. There is a hint of smokiness though... but it could have been smokier for an aburi roll. I remember being pretty sad about this :(.</div>
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DELUXE ASSORTED SASHIMI, "Atlantic salmon, amaebi, hokkigai, hamachi, sockeye salmon, toro and tuna" ($21.95).</div>
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Rating: 4.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lvMOL71Tgg8/VoXLsKTB-hI/AAAAAAAALjQ/8p6EESHNJdg/s1600/DSC03533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lvMOL71Tgg8/VoXLsKTB-hI/AAAAAAAALjQ/8p6EESHNJdg/s400/DSC03533.JPG" width="400" /></a>This time around I ordered the Deluxe Assorted Sashimi and neither the selection nor the quality disappointments. The sashimi is as fresh as it can get and the selection is truly deluxe where it includes higher selections such as amaebi, toro and hamachi. It is truly disappointing when many restaurants offer a deluxe option and do not even include amaebi or toro. Moreover, the price of $21.95 is very cheap.</div>
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BEEF IRON GRILL, "Tepanyaki sizzling entree with rice, miso and hibachi styled vegetables ($9.95).</div>
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Rating: 2.5/5.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfYSO0hXagw/VoXLpLD3RkI/AAAAAAAALjE/RXQZlBhz7uQ/s1600/DSC03538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfYSO0hXagw/VoXLpLD3RkI/AAAAAAAALjE/RXQZlBhz7uQ/s400/DSC03538.JPG" width="400" /></a>The Iron Grill did not arrive sizzling and there is not much of a charred flavour from any of the ingredients, but the slices of beef taste tender. I personally would not order or recommend this though as I find it nothing special and would try a teriyaki instead next time.</div>
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HAMACHI ($2.00) AND TORO NIGIRI ($1.60)</div>
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Rating: 4/5.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xqMfcyfNZAw/VoXLyQz6VWI/AAAAAAAALjY/zgsnqlvzd5U/s1600/DSC03539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xqMfcyfNZAw/VoXLyQz6VWI/AAAAAAAALjY/zgsnqlvzd5U/s400/DSC03539.JPG" width="400" /></a>Consistent with the first visit, the rice for the nigiri is pretty much perfect and the hamachi along with the toro taste fresh. I only took a point off because we ordered hamachi rather than hamachi belly, despite that many people may prefer the belly more.</div>
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Sushi Loku overall is a Japanese restaurant that I will visit if I want fresh sashimi and well prepared nigiri. I cannot stress at how the prices are so reasonable too! As for the aburi items, it may be a hit or miss, which is why I would only come here for sashimi. Okay, that is a lie... I would order the Beef Tataki Roll again just because it was really good the first time around.</div>
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POSITIVES</div>
- Cheap prices<br />
- Friendly staff<br />
- Really good sushi rice<br />
- Fresh and quality sashimi<br />
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NEGATIVE<br />
- Seared items may be inconsistent<br />
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Food: 3/5<br />
Service: 3.5/5<br />
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SUSHI LOKU</div>
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592 East Broadway Vancouver, BC V5T 1X5</div>
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Telephone (604) 298-4403</div>
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<a href="http://www.sushiloku.com/" target="_blank">www.sushiloku.com</a></div>
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