Notable Now: Vancouver
Recently opened: Famoso Pizzeria
Vancouver’s growing collection of pizzerias is showing no signs of slowing with the recent opening of Alberta-based Famoso on Commercial Drive. Offering diners a fast-casual atmosphere and selection of authentic Neapolitan pizza, antipasti, sandwiches and more, Famoso melds the simplicity of quick and simple counter ordering (for those on the go) with the convenience of a full service restaurant. With several more locations set to open in BC this year, Famoso might be worth biting into. 1380 Commercial Drive.
Just opened: Meat & Bread (second location)
Celebrating the much-anticipated opening of their second location, popular sandwich spot Meat & Bread brings deli-style creations closer to the boardroom at their new downtown Pender Street Location. With four signature sandwiches offered daily, a weekly vegetarian option as well as soup and salads, this spot is bound to draw people away from their desks. 1033 West Pender Street
Vancouver Craft Beer Week (May 18 – 26)
Just in time for the long weekend, Vancouver welcomes the 3rd annual Craft Beer Week to town with nine major headlining events happening around town with more than 60 different breweries involved. To accompany this, beer-aficionados can purchase tickets to more than 36 different events taking place at various neighbourhood venues around town.
Night Markets are Back (starting May 18 & 19)
This weekend marks the return of several favourite Lower Mainland Night Markets: Chinatown Night Market on Keefer Street in Vancouver and the Summer Night Market located on Vulcan Way in Richmond. Explore traditional Asian snacks, handicrafts, authentic cuisine, live performances and more. New for 2012, look for The Richmond Night Market to set up shop next to the River Rock Casino (next to the Bridgeport Station of the Canada Line).
Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair (May 18 to 21)
More than 77,000 people attended this event last year and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. The 124th annual Country Fair will give even more excuses to Vancouverites looking to dust off their boots and don a cowboy hat even Wayne would approve of. With an outdoor entertainment stage, Extreme Sports Zone hosting the first ever World Round-Up Freestyle Skateboarding Competition, largest Midway in the BC and a BBQ Cook-Off competition worth $10,000, this Rodeo offers something to everyone. 6050A-176th Street.
Upcoming: Rick Hansen Foundation Celebration 25 (May 22)
Extend the long weekend festivities and purchase tickets to celebrate the 25th anniversary end to Rick Hansen’s successful Man In Motion World Tour. Performances and special guest appearances by top-tier Canadian talent include: David Suzuki, Sarah McLachlan, David Foster, Jann Arden, The Canadian Tenors, Marianas Trench, Johnny Reid and many more. Tickets cost $25. This event takes place at Vancouver’s Pacific Coliseum starting at 7:30pm.