Worth a listen: Hopsin (The Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E. Hastings Street)
In town straight from Los Angeles is the multi-talented Hopsin for one night only (Saturday starting at 8PM). Having headlined more than 60 shows locally and internationally alone, Hopsin is one of hip-hop’s most up and coming acts with a style similar to wave-maker Eminem. Tickets are $25 for this 19+ event.
Recently Opened: TWB – The Wine Bar (1167 Marinaside Cresent)
Having quietly opened in late December, TWB has recently (and officially) announced full service at its newly-designed 30-plus seat Yaletown wine bar on the water. Oenophiles can rejoice at the fact that 50 wines are sold by the glass with a dozen different wines on tap. In addition, reserve list wines are also available (order it by the glass and simply pay 20% of the bottle price). TWB also offers a menu filled with Mediterranean/French tapas treats that are sure to satiate with full meals also available.
Worthy Cause: YYoga Free Workshops benefit for BC Children’s Hospital (January 13th)
If ever there was a reason to try your hand at yoga, this Sunday’s day-long (9AM – 4:30PM) series of free workshops is definitely it. Locally owned and operated YYoga and Tonic Lifestyle Apparel are aiming to connect with the community for a great cause: supporting BC Children’s Hospital through collected donations. Grab a mat and head out to catch one of five different sessions with various yogis. Register in advance, suggested donation is $10 minimum.
Now open: Finch’s Market Cafe (501 E. Georgia Street)
After much anticipation (and a few construction setbacks as per the nature of this business), Vancouver’s beloved ultimate lunch destination, Finch’s, has opened up their second location. Find this new cafe in the Strathcona neighbourhood with an expanded selection of offerings. A new market-style concept features all the usual, delectable fixings and plenty of artisan foods to go, such as local organic produce, baked goods and ice cream. Pick up all of these goodies and more – that is if you’ve still got room after chowing-down on one of their signature baguette sandwiches.
Shop: Shop Local Monthly Market (January 13th at the Artech Gallery, 336, East 1st Ave)
On the second Sunday of every month, this local market sets up shop for a full day (11AM to 4PM) of inspired shopping in support of local designers, small businesses and musicians. It’s free admission and hosted by Artech Gallery featuring a rotation of different vendors in a unique ‘Culture Crawl meets Farmers Market/Craft Fair’ way. .
Coming Up: Taste BC (January 15th at Pan Pacific Hotel – 999 Canada Place)
Mark your calendar and buy your ticket to attend this year’s wine-minded event. Each year (for the past 19 years), locally-owned Liberty Wine Merchant Company has hosted this outstanding fundraising event that benefits the Oak Tree Clinic at BC Children’s Hospital. This 19th annual celebration of food and wine pits BC’s best beer and wine producers alongside fine foods and artisanal tastes. Live music, prizes and silent auction help to round out the night. Tickets start at $49.99 and are available here:.
Photo courtesy The Wine Bar/Philippe Roulston Photography