Comox Buzz

The Comox Valley Farmers' Market is one of the top markets in BC.

March 01, 2012 – COMOX VALLEY

Spring is fast approaching with the buds developing in the trees and bulbs starting to pierce the tundra. Many edible items will follow and what better place to find them then at the Comox Valley Farmers Market. Look to enjoy music while picking up local groceries for the family, check out www.comoxvalleyfarmersmarket.com for info. Also, look for the outdoor venues to spring into action as the weather warms. Mt Washington Resort is always a good time for the family and boasts great spring skiing. Life on the island is amazing, the best way to get ready for beach season is get out and be active. Try something new like cross country skiing or snowshoeing for a challenge. Visit the website at www.mountwashington.ca for all the resorts great spring packages. Visit Sushi-Mon on the slopes of Mt Washington and in the village of Cumberland. Good nourishment when riding the hill or biking the trails. Have a look at www.sushimon.ca for locations and hours.

In downtown Courtenay the Butcher’s Block has spread into the front space of the store. You’ll find sides for your steak and other accompaniments to go with dinner. House made sausages and other treats, www.thebutchersblock.ca for all the operations details. The Courtenay VQA Store is the place to find a bottle of BC wine this spring, with over 400 bottles to choose from and new releases showing up daily. Tastings and classes are available; take your party in and let Cindy and her staff entertain and educate the wine connoisseurs. Tap intowww.courtenayvqawines.com for important dates and about their wine selection.

Martine’s Bistro is a great place to enjoy an evening with someone special, locally provisioned and internationally inspired. Plan your night out at www.martinesbistro.com and enjoy the art being shown along with your dining experience. Ahra Sushi has opened for lunch, dinner and take-out from 727G Anderton Road in Comox. Owners Lisa Park and Susan Lim and chef Daisung Cho host this bustling operation graciously. Get ready to enjoy noodle bowls, rice bowls and sushi.

With the fair weather approaching I like to prepare for patio season, the best way to do this is get out and enjoy a few patios. First on my list is the Black Fin Pub, with sweeping views of Comox Harbour and the Beaufort Range. Settle in with the locals; enjoy some great food and local craft beers on the tap. Look into www.blackfinpub.com for menu and hours, also look for a bistro to open under the pub in another anticipated opening in the Valley.

Heading up Island looking for adventure, The Strathcona Lodge offers as much fun as a family could have. Fun in the trees, on the water and in the mountains all accompanied with nourishing healthy meals made from scratch. This experience is not to be missed, plan a trip for you or the whole family and get ready for an amazing getaway. Go to www.strathcona.bc.ca for information on dates and adventures awaiting you. Get your garden started and see you on the beach.  —By Eli Blake