Edible News + Notes: April 19, 2022
Things to Do
The Cowichan Craft Beer & Food Festival is coming back to Chemainus on Saturday, August 13th for the first time since 2017. The festival will feature local Vancouver Island and B.C. breweries, as well as local artisan food pairings. The final location and venue are still be determined, but ticket holders will be able to enjoy live music, tasting tokens and the opportunity to win a door prize.
The Denman Island Home and Garden Tour will be taking place June 11–12. Every two years, the tranquil island throws open its garden gates, inviting the public to enjoy a rare, up-close look at the creativity, skill and passion Denman residents pour into their properties. All proceeds go to the Denman Conservancy Association, a Registered Charity which, with the support of this Tour, has protected over 700 acres of Denman Island.
On Saturday, August 6th, head over to another island for another drink experience: The Galiano Wine and Beer Tasting Festival will feature beer and wine from both B.C. and around the world. Plus, enjoy some tasty finger food, a silent auction and some local art.
The opening bell at 10am on Saturday, May 7 will ring in Moss Street Farmers Market's 31st summer season. Victoria's premier farmers market, Moss Street Market operates year round, with over 30 local, organic farmers and another 100+ crafters, artisans, bakers, food and drink vendors, distillers, brewers, and vintners, and more.
Places to Try
Bare Bones Fish & Chips in Port Alberni was purchased by Vishal Dewl and local Indigenous Chef, Lance Dodding last year. They’ve taken the fish & chip joint and brought delicious new offerings to their 100% gluten-free menu like house-smoked salmon tacos to the menu. They are collaborating with local breweries and wineries while revitalizing their unique location, which used to be a church.
Intuition Kitchen offers small group catering and private chef services on Vancouver Island. Chef Diana - Lynn Newson is passionate about creating delicious ways to help you fuel your body. Take the stress out of figuring out what to cook for dinner by enjoying her nutrient-dense meals. Fill your freezer with soups and easily reheated items, or simply consult with her on creative ideas to get you re-inspired.
Photo from Intuition Kitchen Facebook page
Things to Know
Springford Farm is launching a new "Farmer's Blend" coffee, custom made for them by Coyotes Coffee in memory of Colin Springford—their founder, father, husband, grandpa and friend. Net proceeds from every purchase of a bag of Farmer's Blend will be donated directly to the Springford Family Foundation.
Royal Roads University has revealed a new food garden that will serve both as a lab for students as well as a sustainable source of food for the Colwood neighbourhood. It will feature crops destined for the foodbanks and community organizations, and will later also include fruit/nut trees, a root cellar and farm stand, as well as an Indigenous edible and medicinal garden.
Congratulations
Pastry chef Kate Cram, owner of Wild Poppy Market and Old Town Bakery in Ladysmith,m is expanding her empire by her new ownership of the beloved Cold Front Gelato. We have no doubt she and Geoff will bring their incredible talents and skills to the gelateria and continue to provide their customers with delicious frozen treats. (Photo, left, from Cold Front Facebook page.)
Well done to the Atlas Café, who will be featured on the Food Network’s show Big Food Bucket List on April 30th with host John Catucci, where they will be featuring the incredible bounty of the island and surrounding sea in their dishes.
Congratulations to Samuel Harris, who has recently accepted the Head Chef position at the iconic restaurant Cafe Brio in Victoria. The restaurant has been known for its regional, seasonal slow food and rustic fine dining for 25 years, and Harris will be a great addition to the team. (P.S. Look for a fun interview with him in our soon-to-hit-shelves Design issue!)
