Vancouver Buzz: January | February 2017

Living in Vancouver at this time of year you can’t avoid the rain (or snow), unless you stay inside all the time but then you miss so much! A perfect place to stop in for brunch or an afternoon snack is Nero Belgian Waffle Bar at its new location at Seymour and Nelson. It’s a great and convenient location to stop in and warm up with both sweet and savoury options. The Heaven waffle is an aptly named strawberry paradise.

nerowafflebar.com, @nerowafflebar

1002 Seymour St., Vancouver

Medina Cafe opened up in a new location and we arrived to a long line as they typically do not take reservations. At Medina you should step outside of the box for a brunch other than the basic bacon and eggs. Try the breakfast cassoulet or paella and you will not be disappointed! And even if you are full don’t skip the mini liege waffles! Check out Medina Down Under: An Australia Day Wine Dinner on January 26th.

medinacafe.com, @medinacafe

780 Richards Street, Vancouver

Victoria’s restaurant, Jam Cafe opened in Cafe Medina’s old location and Vancouver is very excited about this! It’s a busy spot. There is a line outside even on a Tuesday afternoon, but it moves quickly. The portions are very generous with pancakes the size of my head! It’s perfect comfort food for a cool and damp day and the selection of “coffee with a kick” drinks will keep you warm.

jamcafes.com/vancouver, @jamcafeyvr

556 Beatty Street, Vancouver

Cacao a new progressive latin restaurant opened in Kitsilano where the Epicurean Caffe Bistro had been for over 20 years. Chef Jefferson Alvarez is finally in charge of his own kitchen where he can show his passion for latin flavours and dishes. Brunch is more traditional with breakfast selections and some risottos and pasta dishes. Dinners have a fusion of latin flavours and ingredients. Brunch is offered Tuesday to Sunday and dinner Wednesday to Saturday by reservation.

cacaovancouver.com, @cacaovancouver

1898 West 1st Avenue, Kitsilano

Finally! The weather changed allowing for a beautiful walk on the sea wall ending up at the new Peaked Pies location on Denman Street with a delicious Aussie flavour. Originating in Whistler, Peaked Pies serves a variety of savoury pies including the traditional Aussie pie and The Hopper, which is made of kangaroo. Any pie can be peaked which means adding mashed potatoes, mushy peas and gravy or you can add any of these individually, for an additional cost. I wouldn’t recommend it for the sweet pies though.

peakedpies.com, @PeakedPies

975 Denman Street, Vancouver

Dalina Kitchen & Grocery opened early December and offers a selection of premium and everyday items. Dalina’s espresso bar is reminiscent of an Italian café, where their signature roasts have been created by over 3 generations of Italian roasters. The espresso is enough to keep you coming back everyday, with a selection of milks and waters on tap. There is also a wide selection of pastries, sandwiches and hot dinner specials for meals on the go.

dalina.ca, @dalinavancouver

687 Main Street, Vancouver

 – Text & Photos by Jennifer Carter