Get geared up post-work on Friday and head out for a bit of inventive comfort food at the raved-about Homer Street Cafe. Who doesn’t love a nice big glass of vino accompanied by a selection of charcuterie and handcrafted cheese, followed by mouth-watering rotisserie chicken and all the ‘modern’ fixings? Grab a spot on their quaint streetfront patio, or hustle up to the bar for a prime vantage point.
Next, given that you’re essentially in the heart of all the Yaletown action, why not check out the scene at Pierre’s? Killer cocktails await, as does some pretty stellar people watching. We love the upscale vibe, interesting mix of patrons and pumping music that sets a seriously playful scene perfect for helping YPs unwind after a hectic week of work.
If neither of these close-to-home options appeal, then make your way out to the Fraser Valley on Friday to catch the Cork & Keg’s Wine, Beer and Food Festival taking place. Now celebrating its third year, Cork & Keg is a great way to explore a multitude of culinary, craft beer and wine-minded offerings all in one night.
Get geared up Saturday morning, grab a java fix and breakfast snack at Notable go-to Nelson the Seagull, and get outside to enjoy some fresh fall air. If you haven’t yet ventured over to the North Shore to test your athletic stamina by cruising up either the Grouse Grind or Deep Cove’s Quarry Rock, make a point of doing so this weekend. There’s simply nothing quite like some quality ime outdoors on the west coast come autumn – leaves are just starting to turn, air is ever-so-crisp and the views are all the more worth savouring.
Saturday evening offers up the Lab Art Show courtesy of Glitz Entertainment, featuring a collection of expressions including film, music, painting sculpture, acting, dance, fashion and animation. This unique event is notable as it’s a truly open-minded venue meant to entice attendees the opportunity to showcase their own talents through networking. Note to self: check your ego at the door.
If you haven’t been out to the Food Cart Fest that has taken up residence in Vancouver’s False Creek/Olympic Village spread (minutes away from the Cambie Canada Line Station), this Sunday afternoon marks your last chance for the season. Work up an appetite and bike your way over as more than 20 different trucks await to satiate. Add to the mix DJs on site, live entertainment, a craft marketplace and great opportunities to socialize, you’ve got the day made.
Also taking place on Sunday are both the Harvest Festival (at Strathcona’s McLean Park) and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Mid-Autumn Moon celebration. Both offer a great culinary and cultural fix guaranteed to help fill up your lazy Sunday agenda just. Grab snacks, partake in a food-friendly seminar and nab fresh-picked goods to fill that fridge of yours at the market – or enjoy a sampling of ceremonial tea, Chinese traditions and utter Zen vibes. The choice is yours. Om.
Top photo courtesy Grouse Mountain