Six food and dining events
Ramen A Gogo
A new, independent ramen restaurant opened recently at 1443 West Broadway. In addition to regular tables and a rustic communal table, Q Go Ramen has a standup bar that faces the street—it’s meant for office workers who want to unfold their legs over a quick meal. The cheery spot serves three kinds of tonkotsu (pork broth) ramen ($7.50 to $7.95), and a vegetarian version is coming soon. It’s open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Tiki Comeback
On Halloween weekend (October 30 and 31), the revamped Waldorf Hotel (1489 East Hastings Street) is slated to reopen. A power trio of proprietors—restaurateur Ernesto Gomez (Nuba), architect Scott Cohen, and musician/producer Thomas Anselmi—will keep the spirit of the 63-year-old Waldorf, including the Tiki Lounge and its Polynesian art. The pub/beerhall will morph into the Restaurant at the Waldorf and the Café at the Waldorf under Vancouver-born star chef Ned Bell’s guidance. The restaurant’s focus will be French, Basque, and Latin American–influenced dishes.
Tea with That?
In partnership with the Tea Assoc iation of Canada, Vancouver Community College is now offering a tea sommelier certificate. The program begins September 21 and consists of eight three- to six-week courses. Topics include tea sensory development and evaluation, food pairing and menu design, and tea service training.
Keep the Sushi Coming
There’s a new all-you-can-eat Japanese restaurant, Taiko on Denman (689 Denman Street), in the upstairs spot once home to Yoshi Japanese Restaurant. Lunch is $13.95, dinner $23.95, and dishes are freshly made to order. Look for sushi, sashimi, gyoza, gomaae, udon, yakisoba, tempura, and plenty more, all prettily presented.
Taste of Mexico
Celebrating 200 years of Mexican independence, México Fest kicks off this Tuesday (September 7) and runs until September 17. Culinary highlights include a gala dinner ($80) on September 10 featuring a mariachi band at the Italian Cultural Centre (3075 Slocan Street). On September 11, a free Mexican fiesta will take place at Thurlow Plaza at the Vancouver Convention Centre (1055 Canada Place). Calli Restaurante Mexicano, Don Guacamole’s, La Taqueria, and Los Guerreros will be selling tacos, churros, and more.
Farmers Market Fundraiser
On September 26, RIPE will be the first event held in the new Creekside Community Centre (1 Athlete’s Way) at Vancouver’s Olympic Village. Family-focused, RIPE features an all-local, seasonal barbecue feast, live music, a silent auction, a live dessert auction, and activities for kids. Tickets are $60 each or $180 per family (two adults and two kids). Proceeds benefit Vancouver Farmers Markets. Get tickets at any local farmers market or www.eatlocal.org/ripe/.




