Taco Shack
1937 Cornwall Ave.
Vancouver (just over the Burrard st. bridge)
604.736.8226
www.tacoshack.ca (coming soon)

I like variety. I like options. I like to customize. I'm not picky...all the time, but I do like getting what I want. Taco shack appears more California meets Mexico then vice versa. Sometimes a Mexican craving can be fulfilled with sufficient substitutes. Meet The Taco Shack. It is simple, fresh, casual, and fast. What I like about it also slightly turns me off too. I like that I can watch my food being assembled just the way I like, but I hate watching laytex gloved men dish up my dinner through a plexi glass viewing platform. It reminds me of my old subway days, which I'm happy to say are long gone. I can appreciate a fast food lunch like the rest of them, but if we are paying almost $20 for a meal, I want to feel like I'm dining not stuffing in combo platter B before I head back to the classroom.

The menu is simple. Choose your vessel (burrito, quesidilla, taco etc), meats (or veg), and the rest is customized by you. I like to challenge my chef to maximize their creativity, as it is always evident they have tried and tested every combination they could imagine. I don't appreciate skimpy, and skimpy they are not. They happliy load on whatever 'extra's' you want (even expensive toppings like cheese and guacamole). The Taco's are what makes this place. Funny how they got their name. I got one beef, one fish, and one chicken. Apart from a slight fishy flavour with the fish taco, they all melt into one undefined taco. It is sad to say, but I am used to the 'U' shaped crunchy taco of my childhood, therefore when I was presented with an open playing field of ingredients I was a little stunned. I think they leave them open to show off all the yummy inerds, but it might be because they are oh so petite too. Regardless, just roll up your sleeves, set aside your pride, apologize to you date, and go for it. Juice will be running down your arm, but let it happen.

These taco's are crunchy, sweet, tangy, fresh, and spicy (but only if you please). Grab a trio ($7.50 aprx.) and walk 10 steps to Kits beach. Don't forget a yummy (sweet) Mexican pop to wash it all down.



(This is a photo of my boyfriend Cam with his game face on ready to go to town!)

Abigail's Party....indeed

Abigail's Party
1685 Yew St (2 blocks up from Cornwall)
604. 739. 4677
http://www.abigailsparty.ca/

This cozy 20(ish) seat restaurant in trendy kits hits the spot for a tasty, reasonably priced brunch option. I am always on the lookout for new brunch spots that offer something a little bit different from the ordinary 2 eggs any style. I don't mind paying a little bit more, but I'd like the chef to put a spin on a classic. Abigail's does just that. Cam and I decided on this as a treat to ourselves for having to eat frozen pizza the night before (such a tough life). I had been warned about the long lines, but we ventured in on a holiday Monday at about 10am. We had no trouble getting seated right away, and there were a few more empty tables waiting for hungry, hungover kities.

I have issues when it comes to breakfast/ brunch. I want both sweet and salty on my plate. (on a side note, I love cafe Zen for this reason. I can get half a benny and half an order of waffles for practically the same price as 1 entree. warning: it is a lot of food!) Anyway, because this sweet/salty dilemma is a disorder of mine, I am constantly trying to convince Cam to order the opposite so that we can share. The 'S' word really gives him the chills. He somehow thinks that he is losing out...I haven't figured out how to convince him that it is brilliant idea! Anyway, he didn't go for the Belgian Waffles with bourbon maple syrup and brandied mascarpone crema for $9.95 (add free-range turkey sausage, double-smoked crispy bacon or Canadian bacon for $11.95). Instead, we disbanded and both went with the stronger salt craving. I had a delicious bowl of everything good in the world. I've been told that Bison meat is a very lean option when it comes to the red-meat variety. I forget to look for it when I am grocery shopping, but it caught my eye on the menu. Here is how the menu describes my dish....just try to say no to it...I dare you! "Bison Short Rib Hash: Tender, slow-cooked bison short ribs, fresh baby spinach, caramelized onions, fresh herbs, red new potatoes and two poached eggs, topped with freshly made hollandaise and served with mullti-grain toast $12.95. Hello?! You had me at tender... Well, it tasted as amazing as it sounds! I was trying to be good, so I got the hollandaise on the side. Not sure why I even bother as I was using my cold toast as a vessel to get every last morsel out of the bottom of the ramekin.

If I see the words chorizo, double-smoked, or guacamole, I know in an instant that Cam is a goner. He chose my 3rd choice; California Dungeness Crab Cakes Eggs Benedict with fresh guacamole $12.95. He added a side of Canadian bacon for $2.75. Instead of an english muffin, they made perfect muffin shaped crab cakes that the medium poached eggs sat on top of. He reluctantly gave me a bite, but I wanted MORE.

There is an online option to make a reservation, through open table, but when I tried for 9:30 I was told the only opening was for 10:30. They obviously limit the online bookings as to allow for walk in guests. If you are going with 3 or more, I would definitely make a reservation, especially on the weekend. Come patient, leave comfortably full!

I know the whole point of this endeavour is to find great spots where two can dine for under $30, and Abigail's party (without the add on's) just cuts the bill....barely.












Bison short rib hash ($12.95)















Dungeness crab cake Egg's benedict ($12.95)

Golden Train Express Vietnamese Cuisine (aka Thai Spicy...read on)

4530 West 10th avenue
604.677.6981
24 hours
Cash only

The neon sign yells "Thai Spicy". We aren't sure why, as there is nothing Thai about this spot. It is as Vietnamese as they come. My brother introduced us to GTE (I hate abbreviating, but it's necessary here) a year ago as he worked close by in UBC. The first time we went with my mum, unbeknownst to her, she ordered the spiciest dish on the menu, and suffered through the sweat and tears until she was practically licking the bowl. As adventurous as I am with food, once I find my dish, it really tests my ambition to try something new. GTE attracts all kinds. The majority of the patrons are young, UBC students, but it attracts families and locals all the same. I don't think I have ever seen two people work so hard in a restaurant in my life. The dozen or so times I have been here, I have always been served by the same worn out, tired waitress, and there is always the same looking chef in the back too. I would like to think that we would be on a first name basis by now, but I'm pretty sure this is a habitual restaurant for a lot of locals.

Animal activists beware, if you have issues with many large, anxious fish crammed into one loud tank in the middle of the restaurant, this place might not be for you. I am in no way ashamed of this delicious restaurant, but I have a hard time introducing it to a lot of friends due to the tacky decor, multiple TVs teetering from handmade wall mounts, and the general neon feel. My focus has always been, and will always be about the food, which is why I will always come back.

Whatever the season, I always have a hankering for Vietnamese. It may be the idea that I am getting a healthy meal, or the fact that I am not interested in the guilt associated with a dine out splurge. I have tried many a pho (even though I have been told that is is pronounced "fa", I will die saying "fo" as I am too far gone to accept the change) in Vancouver, and their "Satay" rare beef pho ($6.00) is gorgeous. It is a deep, rich broth swimming with lime, cilantro, onion, and real beef stock. It is on the spicy side, but there are many 'original' pho varieties that are tame and familiar. I add extra veggies which overwhelm the bowl, but a small will absolutely fill me up. This is definitely the winter option. The rest of the year has me craving #68. I can only describe this as a simple combination of a spring roll, lemongrass beef, noodles, and tons of veggies, happily nestled together in a floral, plastic bowl. The simplicity reminds you of a salad, but it has so much going on, that you are completely satisfied. This is also a good option when you are too impatient to wait for your pho to cool down enough to enjoy without singeing your throat. If you are in a rush, you can sit, order, eat, and pay within 30 minutes. I like to make jokes about how long we've had to wait (all of about 4 minutes), but the waitress is long gone before I get to the hilarious part where I roll my eyes....

They have an array of imported juices, which taste really good paired with a spicy meal. No alcohol here, but a refreshing orange slice and fortune cookie compliment a very reasonable meal.

Very easily...two can dine for under $20! That is almost unheard of in this fancy neighbourhood. Give this place a try, you won't be disappointed. If you have an easily distracted boyfriend, I'm afraid you'll be enjoying the company of the active fish as their are multiple tv's on various local channels.

enjoy...

Khai Thai To Go - wine, blanket, and dog required

Khai Thai To Go

(emphasis on the 'to go')

Location: 2184 Cornwall Ave. (intersection near arbutus)
Phone: 604. 677. 6767
Price: average for 2: $22

The search is still on for the perfect Pad Thai in Vancouver. I have tried many, but haven't been completely satisfied with any of them. (On a side note, if you are ever in Montreal, Cuisine Bankok, serves THE best pad thai at a whopping $7.50. It is in a food court, but the flavours and authenticity are incredible). Khai's claim to fame, in my opinion, are their curries. I have tried the pad thai twice and have will probably not order it again. It is quite blan, and a little too 'healthy' tasting for me. A good pad thai has to have depth and complex flavours, which their creamy curries do have. All of their main dishes range in price from $8-10. When I go with my boyfriend, we order one noodle (which has only ever been the pad thai) and one curry. Both the red (penang) and green curries are gorgeous. A bit of a weird way to describe them, but they are...They have rich flavours of coconut, thai basil, and fish sauce, but are balanced with a sweet, creamy texture. Khai gives you the option of ordering either white or brown rice. I thought I was a very traditional white rice eater until we paired our green curry with the brown rice option. The sauce absorbes into the rice, just as I like it, and the flavour of brown rice is much deeper and nuttier than simple white rice. It might be an illusion, but I think you get fuller faster on brown rice, therefore giving you an even better value for your dollar. The curries are paired with your choice of chicken or tofu, and chicken has been my choice both times. They fill the bowl with hearty pieces of lean chicken and a variety of perfectly cooked vegetables. I made the mistake of opting for the 'spicy' option. I know I can handle my heat, but spicy here is too spicy for my liking. A medium spice option gives you all the kick you need!

Because Khai is situated directly accross from Kits beach, it seems logical to bring a blanket, your dog, and a bottle of wine, and some paper cups to hide your wine. There is the option to dine in, but it seems crazy to me when you could sit by the beach instead. My nights at Khai were in the middle of the summer, but I wouldn't hesitate to bundle up and head to the beach in the middle of november with a warm bowl of spicy curry of course!

I'm sorry Khai, but the hunt is still on for that perfect pad thai...stay tuned.

Mexicali - Dunbar special

Mexicali

Location: 4424 Dunbar street, Vancouver (near the intersection of w.41st)
Phone: 604.731.6517
Price: Lunch for 2: $5-7, dinner for 2: $18-25

I often have strong cravings for Mexican food, but what I crave is the fresh lime, chipotle, and guacamole. Like Thai food, I haven't been able to find MY place in Vancouver where I can call my own. Mexicali just happens to be in my neighbourhood. In an area where relatively inexpensive dining is unheard of, this little murial ridden mexican spot stands alone. I like to know that the individuals cooking my food have something in common with the cuisine. I may be judging here, but I have a feeling the owners/ cook are about as Mexican as I am Chinese. Non the less, the food seems to resemble the Mexican kind...after all, what do I really know about Mexican cuisine. Anyway, this place suits us just fine...for now. The lunch specials (which you can order anytime of the day) are incredibly inexpensive. (I always want to say cheap, but it makes it sound cheap). The specials are enough of a meal to fill my boyfriend up, and come with all the fixings. I'm not sure where tater tots ever became Mexican, but in this little joint they are everywhere. I complain, but they do taste quite good dipped in their homemade salsa and sour cream. The "lunch special" is completed with a slushy limonata. This is SO good. They squeeze a fresh lime wedge into a slushy lime drink. It always hits the spot. If you are dining with 3 or more people, opt for a pitcher of limonata as it is a better value than ordering it individually. I have tried a few different dishes here. What seems to be the most harmless is the Rondondo roll-up ($6.00), which is available in beef or chicken. The two times that I have had this I have choosen chicken. They are generous with the chicken, and they use lean, big pieces. I am use to having a mash-up of chicken 'bits' in most inexpensive meals, but Mexicali is generous and healthy with their chicken. The rondondo roll-up is VERY simple, so if you have picky eaters this is a great option. A grilled tortillia is filled with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, (minimal) grated cheese, chicken or beef, and a side of sour cream and salsa.

TEMAKI SUSHI - neighbourhood special!

I am not an adventurous sushi eater. I love almost everything I try when I'm dining on sushi, but when I think about cost vs. satisfaction, I always lean towards the rolls! Tamaki sushi is warm, friendly, and consistently delicious!

Name: Temaki Sushi
Location: 2-2156 W. Broadway (almost at the corner of Arbutus)
Phone: 604. 738. 4321 (I've memorized this number...wow)
Payment: Cash, Visa, MC
Price: Up to $30 for 2
Alcohol: YES
Hours of availablity: Closed Sundays. Mon-Sat Lunch: 11:30am - 3:00pm/
Dinner: 5:00pm - 10:00pm. Holidays: 5:00pm - 10:00pm

Talk about a neighbourhood favorite. I am not the first to say that Vancouver has its pick of sushi spots around town. No matter where you are in the city, you can always find some aspect of Japanese cuisine to enjoy. Temaki has been MY spot for years. I have watched them grow from a tiny 4 table hole in the wall, to a knock-down-the-wall spacious restaurant. The owner team consists of a brother (head chef) and sister (operation manager). The other dozen or so individuals who work here never stop moving. They are efficient, polite, and Japanese. There is something immediately authentic about the staff. I think it's the Japanese welcoming statement they give you when you walk in the doors. (I still haven't fiured out what they are saying, but I do enjoy hearing it. I think it goes something like, "Hey you white girl...Welcome back") I always expect them to remember me (because I am here almost once a week), but I think I am part of a HUGE cult following that call Temaki a regular.

What I like to order: It has become my goal to order at least ONE new item every time I go. My most recent visit prompted me to try the Hamachi (Yellow tail tuna) Nigiri at $2.00/each. It was gone before I knew it. But I do remember that I liked it. I am still trying to find the balance between soy sauce and wasabi. I can never get the ratio perfect. I have recently discovered the tuna world. Whether it is tuna tail or tuna belly, I love it. I thought tuna came in one form and one form only, which is what you get inside a classic "tuna" roll. This is not the case. I always found that "type" of tuna too mushy and lacking flavour and texture. If you are willing to spend a little bit more, you too will discover the delightful world of tuna.
Sorry, what I like to order: Without looking at the menu; Chef's roll - $7.95. This roll is larger than most with 8 bite-sized pieces. It is a colourful, crunchy, sweet roll. There are bits of tempura goodness and fresh sweet mango inside and decorated with thinly sliced tuna on top. The final result of this roll relies heavily on the sweetness of the the mango, it truely makes the roll complete! I doubt a traditional Japanese roll consists of mango, but it really works here (think about pinapple on your pizza!!) As a healthy start we usually share the seaweed salad a.k.a Gommae. This is a small mountain of cold, cooked spinach carefully adorned with sweet sesame sauce (tastes like light peanut butter) and crunchy seasame seeds. YUM. Our other roll favourites include the Negitoro (which isn't on the menu, but they will make it for your without any hesitation), chopped scallop roll, spicy salmon roll, and the Kamikaze (cream cheese, avacado, crunchy cucumber, tempura bits, and salty smoked salmon grazing the top of each piece - think bagel and cream cheese without the bagel....)
If I am dining alone, which for the record I'm not very good at. I stare at people and am very self-concious (obviously something I need to work on), then I like to order the Tuna Tetaki Salad. This fresh salad offers you warm lightly seared tuna, sweet miso dressing, and crunchy fresh daicon. It's healthy without thinking you are being healthy. I think this is THE only salad I have ever ordered in a restaurant (also something I need to work on).

SERI MALAYSIA - My personal favorite Malaysian restaurant

I hate picking favorites, but I can't hold back with this Malaysian phenom. My brother and sister-in-law must be recognized and praised for finding this hole-in-the-wall treat. I think they found it through anothers recommendation. Apparently this is the ONLY way to dine in Vancouver.....word of mouth!

The Restaurant: SERI MALAYSIA
Location: 2327 E. Hastings, Vancouver V5L 1V6 (Intersection - Just west of Nanaimo st.)
Phone: 604. 677. 7555
Payment: Cash ONLY (lots of nearby banks)
Average cost of meal for 2: $25.00

The Review:
My family and I can't get enough of this gem. The atmosphere and decor need a major face lift, and some soft music wouldn't hurt either. Often you will walk in here and wonder why you have an overwhelming need to cough. It's because of the fresh chilli's they use in most dishes. You can sit wherever you want. At most times of the day you have your pick of the restaurant. They usually notice that you are there after about 10 minutes, and then present you with the menu's and a much needed jug of water. I have a horrible tendency to order what I already know that I love....'the usual'. It is fun when you go in a larger group because this gives you the opportunity to try lots of items! Everything is shared at this place. As good as everything is on it's own, there are SO many different dishes to taste and try. Like any restaurant I have my favorite dish. At Seri Malaysia, it is definitely the Beef Rendang. This is a rich stew-like curry that has been simmering on the stove for hours (or at least it tastes like it has). The flavours are deep and complex, with a strong emphasis on garlic and spice. It is best paired with plain rice. Another dish that we always order is the Char Kway Teow, with your choice of beef, chicken, or seafood. All options are fine, but I think the chicken is the best. This is a thick, flat noodle dish made with dark soy (darker in colour than taste), belacan (dried shrimp paste), garlic, ginger, and sugar. The sauce absorbs into the noodles, making it extremely flavourful. Growing up in Asia gave me the opportunity to try all of these dishes with the greatest of authenticity. Seri Malaysia is the closest thing to actually being in the hawker stalls in KL. If you are looking for a lighter meal, this isn't the place for you. My mum's favorite has to be the roti canai. This is a light, flaky pastry dish often ordered as an appie. It comes with a rich curry dipping sauce (which happens to be the same sauce as the Chicken curry - another great dish). This is definitely an item that is shared because even though it is light and flaky, it is fried and crisp. It is one of those items you use to to soak up all of the 'left over' sauce left on your plate. You might need a work out the morning after this meal, but whatever extra weight you are carrying around after this experience is well worth it!

If you are in a rush, this isn't always the most effecient restaurant. If you walk in and there are already a few tables sitting down NOT eatting, you better be patient. I can't emphasize enough that this meal is well worth the wait!