VancityAsks | VancityAsks.com

Author Archives: VancityAsks

Top 5 Breakfast Buffets in Vancouver

April 2, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

Well, this is an unusual list isn’t it? What use would you have to read about the best breakfast buffet in Vancouver?

Personally, I’m a huge sucker for breakfast buffets. It combines being Singaporean where food is culturally celebrated and enjoying hotel breakfast buffets growing up. I figured if it’s such an experience and enjoyment, you would too…or maybe not. Regardless, what better motivation to wake up early on the weekend than to indulge yourself with some delicious eggs, bacon, and coffee?

Most brunch and breakfast buffets you find in Vancouver today are founded within hotel restaurants. Now, this won’t do by Anthony’s Bourdain standards (who apparently avoids hotel buffets) and unfortunately the hotel buffets in Vancouver are not liken to the Grand Hyatt in Singapore…still, I’m hopeful these five suggestions will pass the grade.

Here are five of the best breakfast/brunch buffet in Vancouver (that still exists; it’s getting rarer to find brunch buffets in Vancouver these days).

1) Globe @ YVR – Fairmont YVR: The Globe @ YVR has found it’s way back onto our lists again. This time, we’re giving it the #1 spot for the best breakfast buffet in Vancouver.

The spread for breakfast at Globe includes smoke salmon, fruit, frittatas, breakfast meats, waffles and an omelet station among other things. Fairly ordinary fare for an extraordinary breakfast however what really edges Globe @ YVR to the top for the best Vancouver breakfast/brunch buffet is their floor to ceiling runway views.

Globe @ YVR is an award winning restaurant where you can enjoy your breakfast at YVR airport in elegance while you catch views of planes landing and taking off behind the backdrop of the sea (and a little bit of mountain).

The Fairmont always tries to outdo their breakfast experience. The Globe@YVR makes for a great breakfast buffet option in Vancouver.

Hours – 6:00 AM to 11:00 (M-F) & 12:00 (Sat-Sun)

Price – $32.00 per person

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/globeyvr-the-fairmont-vancouver-airport-vancouver-airport-richmond

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g181716-d684941-Reviews-Globe_YVR-Richmond_British_Columbia.html

Address: 3111 Grant McConachie Way, Vancouver, BC V7B 0A6

2) Oru – Fairmont Pacific Rim: The Fairmont hotels are infamous for their decked out breakfast buffets. It’s like the Grand Hyatt buffets of Vancouver.

The best part being, most of their hotel bookings, specifically at Fairmont Pacific Rim, includes free breakfast with your stay; however, if you’re not planning on shelling hundreds for a stay at Fairmont hotels, you can still enjoy their breakfast spread for $36 per person. ($38 per person for brunch).

It seems a lot for breakfast but it’s well worth the price tag. The spread includes house-made breakfast sausage, house-made turkey sausage, house-made BACON, eggs, fresh pastries, cold spread like smoke salmon, and fruits.

Add on to that a Benny Bar and you got a five star breakfast buffet. Most places have an omelet station but Oru at the Fairmont Pacific Rim takes it further with a Benny Bar. A chef will freshly craft you a egg Benedict made to order. Not just any eggs Benedict either, you got selections like Pac Rim “Benny” with real dungeness crab meat, better than your California roll. (which despite it’s name, was actually invented in Vancouver by Tojo’s).

Hours – 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM Monday to Fridays, 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM Saturdays and Sundays (Brunch Buffet starts at 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM)

Price – $36 per person for breakfast, $38 per person for brunch

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/oru-fairmont-pacific-rim-coal-harbour

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d1880310-Reviews-Oru_Cuisine-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9

3) Oceans 999 – Pan Pacific Hotel:

As far as buffet goes, Oceans 999 is better known for their Sunday brunch or Opera buffet although it’s also worth a visit for their breakfast buffet.

Oceans 999 makes it onto the #3 best breakfast/brunch buffets for good reason. Their spread of high quality breakfast foods will fuel your day right. You have eggs Benedict, made to order omelets, big sausages, bacon, smoke salmon, waffles, a variety of juice, smoothies, and fresh fruits among other things. While the pricing at Oceans 999 may be high, the restaurant really emphasizes on quality ingredients and great service.

This Canadian themed restaurant sits right by the waterfront at Canada Place in the Pan Pacific Hotel; enjoy great sea views with your breakfast. It is well worth the experience placing Oceans 999 breakfast and brunch buffets #3.

(Oceans 999 was formally known as Cafe Pacifica before its recent re-branding. The food, views, and service remain equally phenomenal – if not better. Go try it out for yourself.)

Hours – 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM Mondays to Sundays, Brunch on Sundays at 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM.

Price – $29.50 per person

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/cafe-pacifica-pan-pacific-vancouver-downtown-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d683100-Reviews-Cafe_Pacifica-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 999 Canada Pl #300, Vancouver, BC V6C 3B5

4) Arc Restaurant – Fairmont Waterfront: We’re back with another Fairmont brand hotel at #4. The Arc Restaurant is pricey but it has some incredible options for a breakfast or brunch buffet.

While the Arc Restaurant may not have the views like Cafe Pacifica (Oceans 999) or Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant, it does have good breakfast spread and even better service for a breakfast buffet.

You’ll find fresh honey comb from their own bee keeping operations to go with your freshly baked bread. This goes along with your standard spread for a breakfast buffet of fresh fruits, pastries, eggs, and meats.

It’s well worth the visit even if to taste the fresh honey!

Price – $32.00 per person

Hours – 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM Saturday and Sunday.

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/arc-bar-fairmont-waterfront-downtown

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d6510624-Reviews-ARC-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 900 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L5

5) Notch8 – Fairmont Hotel Vancouver: Well, there are already three Fairmont Hotel breakfast buffets on the article, why not make it four. Notch8 is well deserving of the recommendation just as they are known as well for their annual Valentine’s Day chocolate buffet (yum!). It seems to be the perfect replacement to Cloud 9 (next best brunch buffet restaurant will be Ground 7. ? Kidding, we may actually jump from 8 to 2… that is, H2 Rotisserie & Bar. It is too new a place at the moment to recommend as well, Westin Bayshore may also be slated for redevelopment but we’ll see how it goes.)

Notch8 has one of the BEST food quality you will find at buffets especially if you’re coming for their weekend brunch buffets. There are many chef stations where you can get your food customized to your liking, a stark contrast to most buffet food. Named after a train’s top speed, the restaurant is also conveniently located in the heart of downtown Vancouver at 900 West Georgia Street.

The spread at Notch8 Restaurant & Bar is very diverse for a breakfast buffet but quality is where it counts at Notch8. If you’re looking for a weekday breakfast buffet to treat yourself or a weekend brunch buffet to unwind and enjoy the finer things of life then Notch8 Restaurant & Bar should be considered for it’s delicious breakfast buffet in downtown Vancouver. The location as mentioned is especially convenient. The interior design of Notch8 is set matching to its name’s origin with artifacts of a train (train booths and painting). Unfortunately, despite its unique interior design, there is no spectacular views to be had as at Oceans 999. Here’s a tip, the desserts (while exceptionally good) don’t often get replenished in the buffet so help yourself to desserts early. Check out their brunch buffet as well especially for one-time events like Father’s or Mother’s day. On Valentine’s Day, Notch8 Restaurant & Bar will host a chocolate room buffet which is a unique experience (floor to ceiling chocolate – even the walls are chocolate).

Price – $34.00 per person

Hours – 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM Saturday and Sunday.

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/notch8-restaurant-bar-the-fairmont-hotel-vancouver-downtown

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d8114031-Reviews-Notch8_Restaurant_Bar-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 900 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6

More Brunch/Breakfast buffet in Vancouver:

There are several other great breakfast and brunch buffet that are worth mentioning.

Dockside Vancouver

YEW Seafood + Bar

Hendrick’s Restaurant

H2 Rotisserie & Bar

Updates: Occasionally, we update the article for one reason or another to maintain relevancy ensuring we always find the best of Vancouver. Here you’ll find a short catalog of any changes for transparency and curiosity.

~ May 10, 2018…

Added Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s Notch8 to our best breakfast buffet content in replacement of Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant (sad it’s no longer in Vancouver – probably the only breakfast buffet with a view in the sky) which was closed as the Empire Landmark Hotel (where Cloud 9 was located) is being demolished to build new condos.

Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant – Empire Landmark Hotel: Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant is located on the 42nd floor of the Empire Landmark Hotel. While the breakfast spread may not be spectacular, dining on the 42nd floor for $19.95 is an experience in itself.

The Empire Landmark Hotel is in the West End with an unmistakable rounded top. This is where the Cloud 9 Revolving Restaurant sits.

As far as the breakfast buffet goes, you have your standard fare for hotel breakfast buffet with a variety of meats (bacon & sausage), scrambled eggs, french toast, pastries, fresh fruits, and coffee.

Enjoy great view of Vancouver downtown from the 42nd floor with your breakfast or brunch. Note that while the restaurant will not be revolving during breakfast times, you’ll still enjoy a magnificent experience (if it’s sunny in Vancouver).

Hours – 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM Monday to Sunday (from May 3rd)

Price – $19.95 per person

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/cloud-nine-west-end-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d683790-Reviews-Cloud_9_Revolving_Restaurant_Lounge-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 1400 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1B9

Services

Best Notaries in Vancouver

March 30, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

Are you looking for a notary services in Vancouver? If you need certified true copies, contracts, agreements, purchase of a business, power of attorneys, will preparation, and attestations then a Vancouver notary public is your bid. If you’re looking to buy or sell your home, a notary public can also assist with handling the sale much like a lawyer might. Many legal offices can also provide these services as well although you may prefer going with one of these public notaries for cost and service.

Here’s a full list of services that a BC notary can provide:

http://www.notaries.bc.ca/resources/showContent.rails?page=Services%20BC%20Notaries%20Provide

There are no shortages of notaries in Vancouver. You’ll find well over 70 notary public offices in downtown Vancouver alone. It can be an over whelming choice.

Still, don’t just hire any notary public services. It’s important to carefully consider which you hire for your administrative and notary services. While it may be best just to find one nearest to you for convenience, as with any occupation and field there are varying levels of service quality, pricing, and individuals. When it comes to contracts and notarizations, you don’t want any errors or headaches in the process.

Here are some individuals who had the unfortunate experience of picking a bad notary:

“I incurred a few hundred dollars in penalties and interest charges in order to fix this situation, including getting a 2nd bank draft when the numbers she gave me were incorrect. “ – Anna L.

“I used Pat Wright for the purchase of two properties. She screwed up both transactions. I’m extremely well organized and gave Pat very comprehensive files complete with a detailed reconciliation…..yet she still managed to screw up the transaction.” – Terry R.

“On the statement of charges, there was a fee of nearly $400 listed as “Other fees”. When I asked about it, they brushed me off and told me they will obtain details of the fees later.” – James A.

As much as “BC Notaries” association states that notaries are esteemed members of the public who uphold to the highest standards of integrity and trust, you’ll find that there are plenty of the public who have had unpleasant experiences with notaries.

Even still, you may run into several dishonest reviews online without your best intentions (unlike VancityAsks.com 😉 – typically you only can trust the consistently bad reviews without doing further fact checking.) If a business has faked reviews, we have automatically removed it from consideration for dishonesty. Reviews are diligently checked for truthfulness and validity.

Make sure you find a right notary office for your real estate, power of attorneys, and notarization needs who will provide a reputable standard of service. Note as well that notary service prices are not standardize so each notary office will charge their own fees as they choose.

Thankfully at VancityAsks.com, we’re going to help you find a great Vancouver notary public for your needs. Here’s what we’re looking for: (1) excellence service (2) availability (3) prices. Any of these proven notary public offices in Vancouver will serve you well.

1) Yoshida Notary Public: The Yoshida Notary Public office is located right downtown at 900 Howe Street, conveniently besides the law courts and UBC Robson.

In regards to availability, Mr.Yoshida, as you will find cares about his clients. He goes out of the way to fit your schedule. Mr.Yoshida office is open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM or Saturday from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM. If you cannot make it within those time-frames you may wish to email Mr.Yoshida to inquire if his schedule permits an alternate time. It seems that this man works hard to get work done for his clients.

Where price concerns, Notary Public prices differ by individual notary offices and services rendered. For the services, I required, Mr.Yoshida prices were right about the standard I had been quoted elsewhere. It’s best you contact their offices to inquire about your notary needs and quotes. (Curtis Yoshida can be contacted via email at (curtis@notarydowntown.ca)

Finally with service, the service I experienced at Yoshida Notary Public was impeccable. Curtis Yoshida was approachable and considerate. Curtis Yoshida is an individual who is personable and friendly. This matters as you want someone who listens and attentive when handling your documents or notary public services.

Address – 212 – 938, Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1N9

Contact – curtis@notarydowntown.ca

More reviews – https://www.yelp.ca/biz/yoshida-notary-public-vancouver

2) David Watts Notary Public:

David Watts Notary Public runs as a four man team offering traditional Notary Public services while specializing with real estate transactions and conveyancing. Their offices are conveniently located right outside waterfront Center at 675 W Hastings Street.

Mr.Watts boasts about providing “Over the Moon– Thrilled” notary services and in part we believe it. Peruse his LinkedIn profile to see the accolades and recommendations from individuals who have enjoyed the notary public services provided by Mr.Watts and his team at David Watts Notary Public.

Address – 675 W Hastings St #1602, Vancouver, BC V6B

Contact – david@davidnotary.com

More Reviews – https://ca.linkedin.com/in/davidwatts

3) Brosgall Legal Services

In BC, everyone lawyer is also a notary public but not every notary public is a lawyer. Brosgall Legal Services is also a lawyer office but they specialize in providing a lot of notary public services at prices you’d expect from a Notary Public in Vancouver.

Brosgall Legal Services is hemmed by Adam Brosgall with his educated but approachable demeanor. Born and bred Vancouverite. There can be significant benefits to having a lawyer handle the sale or purchase of real estate especially if the transaction takes a complicated turn. It would be useful having Adam Brosgall with his experience as a lawyer to assist in such situations.

Brosgall Legal Services provides competitive pricing on notary public services. It’s also conveniently located right across the law court as well. Their office is open Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Address – 938 Howe St #716, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1N9

Contact – adam@brosgall.com

More reviews – https://www.yelp.ca/biz/brosgall-legal-notary-services-vancouver

4) Deprez and Associates Notary Public:

Deprez and Associates Notary Public is located on Alma street on the way to UBC, Deprez and Associates Notary Public is easily accessible if you’re in Point Grey or Vancouver central.

You get the perception they truly care about their customers base on the consistent positive comments others have shared about Deprez and Associates. You can likely trust his team with your notary public needs base on the fact-finding we’ve done.

Address – 2515 Alma St, Vancouver, BC V6R 2C1

Contact – filip@notarydeprez.com

More Reviews – http://bit.ly/DeprezReviews

5) Bell Alliance:

Bell Alliance is a law office that is known for charging notary public prices for services that a notary public can do (such as real estate transactions). They also do well in immigration law and have an excellent reputation in Vancouver for customer service.

If you’re looking for notary public services, you should consider getting a quote from Bell Alliance to see if they fit your needs.

Address – Suite 201 – 1367 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V6H 4A7

Contact – info@bellalliance.ca

More Reviews – http://bit.ly/BellAllianceReviews

Notarize Documents free at your bank:

Note as well, if you’re looking to get a simple document notarized. Most banks (specifically TD Bank) have notary public on staff who will be able to notarize your document. It’s free.

http://tdbank.intelliresponse.com/index.jsp?requestType=NormalRequest&source=6&id=1714&question=Does+TD+Bank+offer+notary+public+services

There’s a TD branch right by Pacific Centre at 700 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1A2

Do you need a Lawyer or Notary Public?

Looking to buy or sell a home? Consider if a Notary Public is right for you, here’s more resources you may be interested in. For home purchases, it may be best to engage a lawyer. You’re already spending tens of thousands in real estate agent fees and hundreds of thousands is on the line. You would want someone who has the legal experience and training even if for the peace of mind. With this said many individuals choose to transact their real estate deal through a notary public still.:

https://vancouverradiorealtor.wordpress.com/2011/08/07/what-is-the-difference-between-hiring-a-lawyer-vs-a-notary-public-on-real-estate-closing/

Conclusion: We hope you found this list of Notary Public offices in Vancouver to be useful. I’m confident it’ll save you a lot of time finding a reliable notary public you can count on. We’ve gone through almost 70 different notary public offices in our search and filtered out the ones with reliable reviews and recommendations. I’m confident, we’ve found some of the top notary public in Vancouver. Reliable options for notary public.

Beyond checking through the 70 notary public, we also scrutinized the 5 on the list. Before listing a notary public on here, we’ve not only diligently searched each notary public history (and past corporate experiences), we also checked the legitimacy of reviews you see online.

To compile this list of Notary Public in Vancouver, much effort has gone into diligently checking each listed entity. You can contact these notaries in Vancouver confidently knowing hours of fact-checking and online searching have been done.

Thank you for reading this article on VancityAsks.com as we discover some of the best notaries in Vancouver. We hope you found this notary public information article useful. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please use the comment form bellow to submit them. Also, if you would like to recommend a notary public, please comment bellow us well! We’d be glad to hear your recommendation and experiences. If you found this list helpful, please consider to share your experience in our comment section bellow after engaging your notary public so others can benefit from your experience.

Disclaimer: The writer of this article has no formal legal experience. The content on this page does not constitute as any legal advice but represents the opinions of the writer provided as-is and with no warranties.

Food

Best Donuts in Vancouver

March 19, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

Sometimes your sweet tooth wants some carbs and that’s when donuts are your perfect pick. Yet, if you’re going to cheat on your diet and pluck up those calories, you may as well do it for something worth it. As Dr. Leslie Tay of the ieatishootipost blog in Singapore likes to say, “don’t waste your calories on yucky food”.

Here are five places you can indulge yourself with the best donuts in Vancouver:

1) Cartems Donuterie: Cartems is without a doubt, hands down, the best donut Vancouver has to offer. It’s a cool donut shop in Gastown at 534 West Pender. The small nook is nestled between some shops.

The Donuterie is known for their unique flavors like the infamous Canadian Whiskey bacon or the one I’ll be trying next time, “triple chocolate threat”.

The ingredients at Cartems are source as locally as possible among other things. Beyond their upbeat logo is also a friendly person happy to strike up a conversation and make you feel welcome as you enjoy your cup of coffee and savor the $3 donut in their small but brightly colored shop.

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/cartems-donuterie-downtown-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/cartems-donuterie-vancouver-4

The infamous Cartems’ Canadian Whiskey Bacon. I think this is what I got the last time I went. Picture from Cartems Donuterie

A view inside Cartems Donuterie. This shop is typically busy with events.

Taking a look outside Cartems Donuterie. It’s a small and unassuming shop with good donuts. Photo from Google Maps

Address: 534 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1V3

2) Lee’s Donuts: It seems like a really unassuming store by an exit at Granville Island market but don’t be mistaken, these donuts are easily the best in Vancouver.

You have your typical honey dip, chocolate, and maple glaze – the staples. Although there are also more flavors like honey dew, Bavarian cream, or dutch chocolate. Fancy! I think once I even tried their maple, bacon doughnut about two or three years back? Anyways, the point is that Lee’s Donuts have been esteemed as a fine donuts establishment for a long time, well before Cartems and Lucky’s came about (as great as they are).

There may be the occasional times you end up get a room-temp donut though if you come in the peak periods, the donuts are typically freshly fried and incredibly delicious. Service is typically good.

Lee's Donuts at Granville Island is Vancouver's number 2 best donuts.

Lee’s Donuts as displayed at Granville Island. Picture from Lee’s Donuts.

Lee's Donut in Granville Island Market sign

Lee’s Donuts is located in Granville Island right by the second entrance to the Granville Island Market. Picture from Lee’s Donuts

Delicious Vancouver donuts, the best in Vancouver

Enter here for delicious donuts!

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/lees-donuts-granville-island-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/lees-donuts-of-granville-island-vancouver

Address: 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9

3) Lucky’s Donuts: Lucky’s Donut is a product of 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters which is also on our list for the best cafe in Vancouver. The donuts ring in at about $3.50, much like Cartems. They have a coffee and donut combo running at $5 for 12 oz of freshly brewed caffeine with any doughnut of your choice.

Once again liken to Cartems Donuterie, Lucky’s Donuts are infamous for their unique and extravagant flavors such as Creme Brûlée, salted caramel, PB&J, or how about apple bacon fitter?

Lucky Donuts once again emphasizes on natural ingredients for donuts that are freshly made throughout the day. Who could complain with that? They found their start on twitter in June 2012 after years of intent and months of construction as noted on their website to build out the artistic location where Lucky’s Donuts is right now on Main St.

Their coffee aren’t that bad either, so we hear 😉

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/forty-ninth-parallel-cafe-luckys-doughnuts-mount-pleasant-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/luckys-doughnuts-vancouver-2

Lucky Donuts at Vancouver BC specialty donuts

How’s this for themed donuts? Delicious Sakura donuts only at Lucky’s Donuts in Vancouver, BC.

Glorious donuts at Lucky’s Donuts. How about starting your day with one and a freshly brewed cup of 49th parallel coffee only $5.

Outside Lucky’s Donuts store in Vancouver, BC. Can you believe this use to be a laundromat? Courtesy of Google Earth.

Address: 2902 Main Street Vancouver, BC V5T 0C1

4) Duffin’s Donut: In Vancouver, there aren’t many places you go for a late night supper. That is unless it’s Duffin Donuts.

Duffin’s Donuts is a unique establishment in Vancouver that serves donuts along with Chinese food, Mexican food, and a host of other cuisines on their diverse menu…24 hours! Their menu may even be as international as Vancouver. To imagine they offer this 24 hours, round the clock is quite an achievement, well deserving of our top 5 list for the best donuts in Vancouver.

While the donuts are good, they aren’t the fancy types like Cartems or Lucky’s. You may as well grab your bubble tea and Chinese take out while you venture to this shop at the cross roads of Knight and 41st Street. The exterior and shop itself may have seen better days, but the heart and soul (the food) is still on par.

If you can’t decide between Chinese food or donuts, then your pick is Duffin’s Donuts because you never know when you might want fried chicken, donuts, hot tortas, and bubble tea in one go!

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/duffins-donuts-kensington-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/duffins-donuts-vancouver

Duffin's Donuts Sprinkled Vancouver Donuts

Ohhh Sprinkles! Delicious Vancouver donuts at Duffin’s Donuts by 41st and Knight street

Fried Chicken at Duffin's Donuts in Vancouver

If you’re going to grab some donuts, you may as well do it right with some fried chicken?

Duffin’s Donuts – A Vancouver establishment inclusive of the rain clouds. Truly Vancouver.

Address: 1391 E 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5W 3R9

5) Outpost’s Mini Donuts: Outpost’s Mini donuts is out of the way at Stevenson but while you’re there, grab some fish n chips from Pajo’s or pizza from Steveston Pizza Co.

Outpost’s Mini Donuts will allow you to reminiscence the hot summer nights at the PNE when Vancouver’s weather wasn’t so depressing. It’s the bite you go for when you want to remember what Vancouver can be like. No, in reality, we listed Outpost’s Mini Donuts because they had bacon in their mini donuts! That’s a plus by any standards (though it isn’t kosher)

Outpost’s donuts puts a unique twist to the traditional mini donuts you see at carnivals and events. The cake donuts come in seasonal flavors (which at the moment includes Lemon, Bluberry, Boston Cream, Raspberry Chocolate, and Coconut). The prices here are much easier to digest; it’s only $7.50 for a baker’s dozen (13) and $4.75 for half a dozen.

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/outpost-mini-donut-co-steveston-richmond

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/outpost-mini-donut-company-richmond

Outpost Mini Donuts are known for their unique flavors to the traditional cake-based mini donuts. Photo from Outpost Mini Donuts

Outpost Mini Donuts cinnamon donuts are the 5th best donuts in Vancouver

Outpost Mini Donuts Traditional cinnamon sugar mini donuts in Vancouver

Exterior of Outpost Mini Donuts as Vancouver best donuts

Outpost Mini Donuts are located in Stevenson, right by the Fisherman’s Wharf. See the mini donuts here.

Address: 12240 Second Ave #110, Richmond, BC V7E 3L8

There you have it, the best donuts in Vancouver as rated on VancityAsks.com. It’s pretty much a consensus that these are the best donuts in Vancouver (#1-4 namely).

As far as fancy donuts goes you don’t have many choices in Vancouver. Thankfully there’s Tim’s and you know we like giving away Tim Hortons gift cards on this website because we enjoy Tim Horton’s so much (how can you not? It’s like a Canadian staple especially if you grew up in the East). Their donuts are not half that bad also.

Share your feedback or suggestions in the comments bellow!

Random Fact – Ever wondered why Baker’s Dozen was 13? Where did it come from?

Here’s your answer: “King Henry III was so irked by the problem that he implemented a new law to standardize the weight of a loaf—selling puny loaves could result in beatings or jail time. Since bakers wanted to stay on the right side of the law, one common trick was to give 13 loaves to any customer buying a dozen”

http://mentalfloss.com/article/32259/why-bakers-dozen-13

Looks like Subways could learn a thing or two. Never really liked Subways myself anyways.

It’s a donut, but it’s not:

Here are two stores that you may be interested in trying out if you’re looking for Vancouver’s best donuts. They aren’t really donuts so we couldn’t put them on the list but they fit the bill:

Swiss Bakery – Hands down the best cronut in Vancouver. It was initially the brainchild of a New York baker, Dominique Ansel back in 2013. It’s what happens if a donut and a constant had a child; you got the best of the fluffy, buttery texture of a croissant with the sweet-tooth toppings of a doughnut. The name cronut is actually even trademarked by dominique so Swiss Bakery calls theirs a frissant. I care not the name so long as it’s good.

Swiss Bakery Frissiant as Vancouver best donuts.

Chocolate heart shape frissant which is basically Vancouver’s version of a donut+crossiant breeding.

Address – 143 E 3rd Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 1C7

Chewy Junior – Ah Chewy Junior. You see this store all over Singapore at City Hall Raffles shopping center and most other major shopping centers. It’s pretty much like a chewy donut but better. You have the crisp crunch on the outside with a chewy center (not like under cook dough but uniquely satisfying) typically with a creamed filling. It’s great if you’re looking for a doughnut with a little more bite. Not really a donut but still deliciously hits the spot. Thankfully it has made it’s way around to Vancouver at 508 West Cordova Street right outside Waterfront station to your left.

It looks way better in person BTW. Give Chewy Junior a visit at 508 W Cordova.

Address – 508 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6B

Food

Best Singapore food in Vancouver

March 16, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

Singaporeans in Vancouver, you can rejoice. I think we’ve categorized all the Singaporean/Malaysian Restaurants in this post and ranked the top 5. List will continue to be updated.

Being originally from Singapore, I know Singaporeans have two national hobbies (1) eating (2) shopping. (and this is not an exaggeration. Take this from NUS website, “Shopping, watching movies and dining are said to be Singapore’s national pastimes.”)

Here’s your ultimate list of Singaporean food in Vancouver – wasn’t hard writing at all.

First off, if you’re looking for good Singaporean food in Vancouver, I suggest you skip Banana Leaf. You’re over paying for food that isn’t representative of Singaporean or Malaysian cuisine. This is the list of REAL Singaporean food in Vancouver.

If you’re Singaporean or if you’re interested in Singaporean cuisine in Vancouver, read on, because you will not be disappointed!

Being a foodie was in part how VancityAsks.com was started. I like food so much, we wanted to share the BEST food Vancouver has to offer for whatever cuisine or tastes. (since Vancouver is such a multi-cultural city with so many delicious experiences).

So without further ado, let’s get to finding the best Singaporean food in Vancouver.

Some things you have to try with Singaporean food in Vancouver is (1) Chicken rice (2) Laska (3) Prata – this is actually Malaysian food.

1) Mamalee Malaysian Delight:

Formally known as Cafe D’lite and now rebranded as Mamalee Malaysian Delight. It’s located in Kitsalino and serves up some delicious authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice! (Dare I say, better than many chicken rice I’ve tasted in Singapore.)

We’ve ranked it at #1 as the best Singaporean food in Vancouver because they do so well at their specialty – Hainanese chicken rice. It’s like a hawker concept where one hawker store will do really well in a certain dish and only serve that dish. It’s certainly worth a visit though I’ve yet to try their curry or deserts.

What’s good: Chicken rice, Laska

What’s bad: Nothing that I’ve tried so far.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/mamalee-malaysian-delight-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/mamalee-malaysian-delight-kitsilano-vancouver

Vancouver Hainanese Chicken Rice at Mamalee Malaysian Delight

Hainanese Chicken Rice at Mamalee Malaysian Delight – VancityAsks.com’s pick for the #1 Best Singaporean food in Vancouver

Pan Mee at Mamalee Malaysian Delight in Vancouver

Malay Spicy Pan Mee at Mamalee Malaysian Delight in Kitsilano

Vancouver Singaporean Laska Food at Mamalee Malaysian Delight

Singaporean/Malaysian Laska at Mamalee Malaysian Delight. Look at the nostalgic marbles! (remember those marble games?)

Address: 3144 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2H3

2) Hawker Delight: Hawker Delight is quite the delight. It’s right on Main street and has been one of the long standing Malaysian/Singaporean restaurant/take-out in Vancouver. Very friendly people and fast service. The restaurant is typically pack during lunch and dinner.

The prices are incredible as well for Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver. Go give this fine establishment of Singaporean food in Vancouver a visit if you would like to try good char kway teow.

What’s good: Char Kway Teow

What’s bad: Not really bad but laska was average. Their tofu skins can be skipped too.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/hawkers-delight-deli-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/hawkers-delight-riley-park-little-mountain-vancouver

Address: 4127 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P6

3) Penang Delight:

Penang Delight is an excellent Malaysian restaurant in Vancouver that’s definitely worth a visit. They have several branches across Vancouver for good reason.

The food comes out fast, hot and delicious. It’s not really specifically Singaporean food in Vancouver. (in contrast, even though Bean Sprout chicken is technically Malaysian food in Vancouver, it still has a lot of familiar Singaporean dishes. In reality as mentioned, both cuisines are very similar. Most restaurants advertise or serve a fusion of Malaysian and Singaporean or even Thai.)

The prices are slightly higher relative to Hawker Delight, and they added sugar to their Penang prawn noodle soup. Other than that, it’s good Penang food.

What’s Good: The prawn noodle soup is so good.

What’s Bad: None so far.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/penang-delight-cafe-vancouver-2

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/penang-delight-cafe-marpole

Address: 1316 West 73rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6P 3E7 (other location at 3885 Rupert St,)

4) Kaya Malay Bistro: Kaya Malay Bistro is a nice, small restaurant near west Broadway. It’s rather modern with a drink menu along with their food. Food is rather authentic Malaysian/Singaporean food in Vancouver. It’s certainly worth visiting.

Their condiments for the hainanese chicken rice is quite on point. As you will hear from Anthony Bourdain (who infamously endorsed Tain Tain Chicken rice in Singapore – and ever since the line up has been incredible), the condiments with Hainanese chicken rice is very important.

The prices are very reasonable for an eat-in restaurant and certainly lower than Banana Leaf Vancouver. They have also participated in Dine-Out Vancouver.

Yes it seems most Singaporean food in Vancouver are actually Malaysian restaurants if you’ve noted that observation by now. There’s always this debate between Malaysian and Singaporean food; we prefer to enjoy the food.

What’s Good: chicken rice, roti canai

What’s Bad: rendang beef, mango

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/kaya-malay-bistro-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/kaya-malay-bistro-fairview

Address: 1063 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6H 1E2

5) TBD
We’re still looking for the Best Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver. I’m sure it’s coming 🙂

Other mentions: Singaporean food is so hard to find. Here are some other Singaporean/Malaysian restaurants and eateries you can try out in Vancouver. Let us know your thoughts and opinions.

John 3:16 Malaysian Food: It’s good Singaporean and Malaysain food in Vancouver but they are currently closed. Food is authentic and family style but smaller portions.

Address: 8151 Anderson Rd #170, Richmond, BC V6Y 2V9

Prata Man: When I arrived in Vancouver, I remember Prata Man distinctly being a great establishment of Singaporean food. The Hokkien mee was their specialty despite the name, Prata man. Now however, this eatery has really declined in quality and in food safety. It’s still worth a visit to try their Hokkien mee but do note the store is not very clean. Go for their prata or chicken rice while you’re there as well. It’s right in Richmond near Bridgeport station.

Address: 9060 Capstan Way, Richmond, BC V6X 1R4

Laska King: Laska King is located in East Hastings, not the prettiest neighborhood in Vancouver. They have good laska however and been around for quite some time. It’s a Burmese and South East Asian eatery serving up laska and other dishes like roti canai (prata – different ways of calling the same food).

Address: 2546 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K

Tropika: Tropika is actually quite good south east Asian food in Vancouver. It’s worth visiting for a dining experience; these are restaurants much like Banana leaf rather than the typical take out, small eateries or cafes for other Singaporean food in Vancouver.

Address:

(1) 2975 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2V7

(2) 5300 No 3 Rd #322, Richmond, BC V6X 2C7

Coco hut: Coco Hut is another Singaporean food store in Richmond. Their chicken rice is lacking flavor but their menu prices seem well. I can’t comment about their other food but reviews appears to be worth visiting.

Address: 8388 Capstan Way #1118, Richmond, BC V6X

Spoon Kitchen: Spoon Kitchen we have seen several times on Groupon. It’s not authentic Malaysian/Singaporean food in Vancouver but it does give a fairly good taste of Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai food. I hear portions are small relative to the prices. It’s rather near downtown and worth checking out if you got a Groupon.

Address: 1909 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M7

Mui Garden: Mui Garden is a Hong Kong style cafe (as we mentioned earlier that a lot of these HK cafe seem to serve certain Singaporean/Malaysian dishes) which actually serves up fairly decent Hainan Chicken Rice and curry. It’s worth checking out but not specifically a Singaporean restaurant in Vancouver.

Address:

(1) 4265 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P8

(2) 5797 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5P 3W5

(3) 5960 Minoru Blvd, Richmond, BC V6X 4J4

City 1 Cafe: City 1 Cafe is another Singaporean food restaurant in Vancouver. It’s located on the 25 bus route near Cambie in a strip mall besides Safeway and TD bank. It’s Ok food. It’s not actually ran by Singaporeans or Malaysian (it was bought over apparently) but Cantonese. Food understandably is not as authentic and sub par.

Address: 954 W King Edward Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2E2

Ipoh Bean Sprout Chicken:

It’s quite an undiscovered Singaporean/Malaysian food eatery. If you’re looking for cheap and good Singaporean food in Vancouver, then Bean Sprout Chicken is your bid.

Go to the food court in Crystal Mall (quite like a hawker center) and checkout their menu as you savor delicious Malaysian and Singaporean food in Singapore.

Lemak (malay word for fatty but actually implied as rich in flavor) laska is around $7-$8 (rather than paying $15 at Banana Leaf ). Most of the food is rather authentic. They don’t make their own prata however so give that a skip.

Prices are reasonable and food is good. Do not go here for a date or for service. Most the times I’ve been greeted very grudgingly even with a courteous smile myself. (and I can confirm it wasn’t the rainy weather affecting their moods). Still, I can put up with some bad service for good food 🙂

What’s good: Char Kway Teow, Hor Fun, Penang Prawn Mee, Curry puff,

What’s bad: Prata (avoid)

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/ipoh-bean-sprout-chicken-burnaby

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/ipoh-bean-sprout-chicken-central-burnaby

Address: 4500 Kingsway #2127, Burnaby, BC V5H 2B1

Conclusion:

There typically isn’t a conclusion paragraph with VancityAsks.com articles but I didn’t want to make you read so much before getting to the list of best Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver (since I suspect you were already drooling at the thought of the flavor pack explosions in your mouth.)

So I copied some paragraphs at the start, and pasted it here as the conclusion 🙂 Remember, re-use, recycle, and reduce! We are a green city after all.

I have tried most Singaporean food in Vancouver (one thing you can ask any Singapore expat that they miss about Singapore is FOOD. They have daily debates about the best food at “hawker centers”…if you want to strike up a conversion with Singaporeans, truly just talk about food. You’ll be surprise how passionate some Singaporeans can be about their food….and their neighbors, to be politically correct.)

For years, I’ve been dishing out my recommendations for the best Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver to every Singaporean I met whether they wanted it or not. Now, it’s your turn. Thankfully since you’ve volunteer read this article, I’d suppose you want to. Singaporean cuisine is truly an experience not to be missed; if you cannot make it to Singapore (uniquely Singapore), these are possibly your next best option to tasting Singaporean food.

Singaporean food incorporates many cultures and cuisines as Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and races much like Vancouver. It’s also good to note that many foods you find in Singapore can also be found in Malaysia and Indonesia or Thailand. Hence it’s not exclusively Singaporean food in Vancouver but Malaysian & Singaporean food in Vancouver. There honestly isn’t too much difference between the dishes in these two countries with some modifications and taste on certain recipes – for example the laska in Singapore is more creamy, coconut taste like a thai curry whereas Malaysia’s Penang laska is the sour and salty version.

Singapore has also strict regulations for their food (even hawker food) so it’s prepared more health/safety regulated meaning it leaves out some traditional additives that may previously be used. Dr. Leslie Tay would be able to tell you more about how the “hor fun” in Singapore compares to Malaysia. Hor Fun is basically fried rice noodles in delicious stock.

There are also many restaurants that serve a few Singaporean/Malaysian dishes but we’ve focused on those that are specifically intended for food in this geographic region. You’ll find that many HK cafes serve Laska with steamed chicken (and they do taste good)

If you’re Singaporean in Vancouver reading this article, I hope we’ve helped you edge off your cravings.

Bonus:

BKK Jerky – this is Singaporean style Jerky in Vancouver. Freshly made with full beef/pork slices. Tastes pretty good actually.

Prima Foods – For those of you who want to savor Singaporean dishes in your own home, TnT and many asian grocery stores are beginning to carry packaged Singaporean food in Vancouver.

For example, Prima Laska Instant noodles, Chicken rice seasoning packets, even Bak Kuh Teh soup packets!

There’s plenty of variety here nowadays. You can even get your Malaysian white coffee or 3 in 1 coffee at TnT these days. There’s also a very close variety of Singaporean pineapple tarts in TnT Vancouver if you fancy some pineapple tarts – nothing quite as good as those glory pineapple tarts in Singapore however.

Alongside, TnT has been carrying frozen prata for some time. You need to be able to cook it on a hot pan and fluff it up before serving though.

We’ve also address prices more in this blog post than any other previous best-of Vancouver articles because Singaporeans love a good deal 🙂 Now this is hear-say. (no reference for this comment but personal experience haha)

Food

Best Cheap Sushi in Vancouver

February 13, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

It’s been three months past the new year and you realize, you’re a little behind your new year’s resolution to eat healthier and maybe shed a few pounds.

Sushi is both healthy and delicious. Protein, omega-3 and carbs perfectly combined together to a light and nutritious meal. Buzz words in health.

So let’s catch you up with your new years solution. Here are five sushi restaurants or take-outs in Vancouver that’s affordable and yummy.

There are hundreds of sushi places in Vancouver so choosing which one can be difficult; especially when the collteral of bad sushi is an upset stomach, you don’t want to risk your chances. Here are some of the best cheap sushi in Vancouver so you can enjoy good sushi on a friendly budget. Be surprise at the deals you find in Vancouver for sushi. Your wallet and stomach will be happy you found this on VancityAsks.com

1. Yamato Sushi:

I walk by this the other day and it looks very unassuming store nestled between a Chinese restaurant and another sushi store (Jako Sushi). There was a prominent flyer outside promoting 24 pieces at $5.95. Normally that would scare you but if it’s Yamato Sushi, you give it a try.

You won’t be disappointed with the pricing and the sushi is moderately acceptable. If you’re looking for cheap sushi in Vancouver then don’t miss out on Yamato Sushi when you’re in Vancouver.

I suggest you go for take out as there’s nothing fantastic about the dining experience at Yamato. The thing about cheap sushi is the affordability and quality of the food rather than the dining experience. Many of these are take out places or small dining areas to keep the cost lower.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/yamato-sushi-restaurant-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/yamato-sushi-downtown-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d2229488-Reviews-Yamato_Sushi-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address:

2. Broadway Sushi:

Broadway Station Sushi in Vancouver doesn’t win an award for the freshest sushi in Vancouver but it certainly is competitive for the location, convenience, and costs.

You can get a combo for just over $8 which includes miso and two rolls. It’s good for a quick bite on the go with your commute, maybe before catching the crowded 99 to UBC.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/broadway-station-sushi-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/broadway-station-sushi-kensington

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d4851863-Reviews-Broadway_Sushi_Station-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 1638 Broadway E Suite 101 Vancouver, BC V5N 1W1

3. Hoshi Sushi:

Hoshi Sushi is not fine dining. It’s a small restaurant in Vancouver (Kitsalino area) that’s consistently packed especially during peak periods. They serve up delicious Vancouver sushi and sashimi but also dish up a variety of excellent cooked food options.

It’s not precisely the place you’d go for the best sushi in Vancouver. Why is it listed #3 for our list of best sushi in Vancouver? At VancityAsks.com we try to feature the BEST of Vancouver although we appreciate there can be various ways to define best. Hoshi Sushi has garnered a reputation for good sushi and good prices.

Hop on over to savor fresh sushi for during your lunch break. Hoshi Sushi Vancouver is listed #3 on our list for the quality product and good prices.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/hoshi-sushi-japanese-restaurant-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/hoshi-sushi-kitsilano

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d5086979-Reviews-Hoshi_Sushi_Japanese_Restaurant-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Beautifully arranged sushi from Hoshi Sushi in Vancouver. Our #3 pick for the Best Sushi in Vancouver Hoshi Sushi in Vancouver has excellent rolls. Delicious salmon roll from Hoshi Sushi in Vancouver. #3 Best sushi in Vancouver for it’s quality and value.

Address: Go for some tasty sushi at 2825 Broadway W Vancouver, BC V6K 2G6

4. Shabusen Yakiniku house:

Shabusen Yakiniku House is located on the second floor of 755 Burrard Street right in the middle of downtown. This is likely the best sushi/BBQ buffet in Vancouver as well.

For just under $15 at lunch, you can enjoy a variety of Sashimi, Nigiri Sushi, and sushi rolls. There’s also an add on for all you can eat Korean BBQ (about $2). Incredible value and the food is actually pretty good as far as buffet goes. You’ll be surprise how fresh their sashimi actually is. (for buffet standards. Nothing compared to Sushi Bar Maumi)

The place is typically packed so be sure to make a reservation if you can. Shabusen is definitely deserving of the #4 spot for the best cheap sushi in Vancouver. It’s so good, it’s made it’s way by word of mouth all the way to Port Coquitlam.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/shabusen-yakiniku-house-vancouver-3

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/shabusen-yakiniku-house-west-end-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d708889-Reviews-Shabusen_Yakiniku_House-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 755 Burrard Street Suite 202 Vancouver, BC V6Z 1X6

5. Matsuyama Sushi Richmond:

Matsuyama Sushi Richmond is one of Richmond’s secret spot for good and cheap sushi. It’s a little out of the way from Vancouver but their supper menu provides good food at a good price.

Matsuyama also has a nice dining area beyond it’s good food.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/matsuyama-japanese-restaurant-richmond

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/matsuyama-japanese-restaurant-central-richmond

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g181716-d1220597-Reviews-Matsuyama_Japanese_Restaurant-Richmond_British_Columbia.html

Address: 8500 Alexandra Road Suite 110 Richmond, BC V6X 3L4

Other Mentions:
– Jako Sushi:
– BC Sushi:
– Shiro