April: Up Island News

“The French say; “you never grow old at the table”, so let’s sit down, savour wonderful food together- and stop time.”

April 6th is a special day for long time resident McLean’s Specialty Foods in the Old Quarter of downtown Nanaimo. This day marks 25 years of providing locals and travellers alike with the best selection of hard to find gourmet goodies available. From imported and local cheeses and charcuterie to sauces, stocks, pickles, British imports and vinegars – there’s something for everyone. Place an order for pick up, and stop in for a lovely lunch – if you time it right! Be extra sure to stop in on The Big Day for some extra special celebrations. www.mcleansfoods.com

Qualicum Beach is the proud home of the West Coast Food House, and it’s helping put the seaside community on the map for lovers of good food. This new place is operated in part by Ashley Martz, owner of the much-loved and heavily patronized Tidal Taco Shack. The West Coast Food House seems destined to follow in the Taco Shack’s footsteps, if the past few months are any indication. The restaurant has plans for ‘special’ nights and features like buckets of seafood such as the delicious Coconut Curry Mussels on the menu so put it on your radar and drop by next time you breeze through Qualicum. Website

After two months of intense construction, The Kingfisher Resort and Spa along with owner Bill Brands and Executive Chef Nyle Petherbridge are pleased to profile the extensive transformation of the old Breakwater Restaurant, to unveil AQUA Bistro & Wine Bar and their new fine dining establishment Ocean7 Restaurant. The new AQUA Bistro & Wine Bar will feature creative casual shared plates paired with fine wines and signature cocktails, while Ocean 7 Restaurant will focus on West Coast seafood, grain fed meats and fresh organic produce from local valley growers and purveyors. Your culinary experience will be unparalleled with unique creations in a spectacular setting – on nice sunny days two large garage doors will open beside the fireplace onto the patio where you can enjoy a local libation as you gaze across the water, stopping time for as long as you desire. www.kingfisherspa.com

– BY KIRSTEN TYLER