Not bad for a headline, eh (how can you tell I’m a Canuck)? There’s a method to my madness and it will all come together in a messy lump at the end of the post, just like most of my pie crusts!
Last Thursday, Mark and I jumped into the Volvo and burned rubber to the big city (Vancouver, duh!). It’s been a while since I’ve given myself time to go on a grown-up field trip, which is always such a good shake up for the creative right side of my brain (take that left side analytical, logical stick-in-the-mud!).
We stopped in at Belle’s Cafe for a coffee to go and I stupidly passed up an opportunity to inhale one of these beautiful pear tarts crafted by their pastry chef…so far this fieldtrip sucks!
Don’t worry, I started to making smarter choices by the time I arrived at the mecca of all meccas for foodie aficionados–Gourmet Warehouse. If you’ve never been, don’t be put off by the dodgy, “lock your doors” location on East Hastings off Clarke drive (yes, it’s just south of the docks). It’s full of the most magical cooking equipment and ingredients! Where else are you going to find the most coveted bacon lip balm and sexy canning jars?
If you love to cook, this is the place to hang out. I never get tired of trolling the isles here. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come here hunting for birthday cake ideas and ingredients. You want chocolate…they’ve got chocolate. You want a bazillion types of sprinkles…they’ve got gazillions!
I even did some Christmas shopping. Shhhhh…don’t tell my sister!!! Guess which one I’m going to buy for her.
Now it’s time to head downtown to check in with our techie genius consultant, Rob Stocks from Idealever (developed the Nicole Jane Home website) for an ego-boosting cheer leading session (Rob is just good for the soul). We met at Medina Cafe, a fabulous restaurant on Beatty Street (right next to sister restaurant, Chambar–another amazing restaurant).
photo source: Medina Cafe website
My mouth is watering just thinking about the Boulettes I had (spicy moroccan meatballs in a roasted vegetable sauce with houmus, raita and grilled foccacia). While I sipped my drink du jour–chilled chardonnay (I know…boring). Mark and Rob enjoyed a couple of their specialty beers.
We staggered out of Medina (If I could have undone my waistband without scaring everyone, I would have!) and I spotted Provide across the street. It was love at first sight in this lovely home decor boutique! They carry gorgeous high-end pieces that you can’t easily find in other shops. I met one of the owners, Robert, who was gracious enough to allow me to take some pictures to share with you. I fell in love with the gorgeous felted wool shopping bags and “bloom” tables designed with cast resin tops and salvaged tree stump bases!
To round off the day, we stopped in at Fieldstone’s on the way home. It’s my favorite french bakery in Ocean Park (our neighborhood). I was still sulking about not eating the pear tarts, so I indulged in one of their cinnamon buns of pure buttery bliss!!! Ha! Take that diet!!!!
Looks like a great day in the big city! Yum on those pear tarts! Love the tree stump tables with resin tops. Very creative, funky and practical. I really like stump coffee tables but the ones I usually see are too small to hold much more than a cup of coffee. These are a great way to incorporate that natural look with a practical (larger) top.
Ahh, I was at Gourmet Warehouse on Saturday. That place is dangerous! Had to restrain my spending there. Great find of the store Provide. Had not heard of it. Will have to check it out. Looks great. Loving anything felt these days so will check out those bags. Thanks!
Mmmmm amazing post! Looks like fun đŸ™‚
I gotta watch what I say with you bloggers! It was great to catch up. Next time you are at Gourmet Warehouse, track down Rick for his balsamic vinegar taste test. Just be ready to part with $40+ for a nice bottle.