Vancouver Magazine September/October 2025 by APG + CWM

CREATIVES AT HOME

An intimate glimpse into the personal spaces—and welding workshops, kitted-out trailers and sculpture gardens— of Vancouver’s artists and innovators

Artist Marie Khouri pulls up a seat on

HOMES TO RENT OR OWN IN BURNABY

Celebrate 23 Years of Style

Vancouver’s Largest Contemporary Furniture Destination

1275

1275 W 6th Avenue

604.730.1275 COQUITLAM

1348-C United Blvd.

Coquitlam BC, Canada

Coquitlam

604.529.6868

Culture 18 20 16 22 26 11

SO FUN CITY

Fall is here! And with the changing of the seasons comes a rush of arts and culture events.

SHOP HOP

Shopping for jeans is actually a joy (no, really!) at this quartet of Vancouver denim boutiques.

ON THE RISE

Shivajothi merges precision tailoring with gender-fluid self-expression.

THE HAUL Collective Will may be closed, but founder Randa Salloum’s style lives on.

AT ISSUE

Icy winters. Forest fires. Tarrifs. How will the B.C. wine industry survive it all?

KNOW-IT-ALL

Do we really need two different passenger ferries in False Creek?

Psychedelic cumbia and salsa ensemble Empanadas Ilegales are ready to party— discover the band and more merrymakers in our fall arts preview, page 11.

On the cover: Artist Marie Khouri at home in Kerrisdale.

WELCOME HOME

Herschel Supply Co. co-founder Lyndon Cormack invites us for a peek inside his personal workspace (and kitted out guest trailer) on his Deep Cove property.

29 PERSONAL SPACE

We’ll admit it: it’s fun to snoop. Which is why every year we invite ourselves over to poke around the spaces of Vancouver’s most interesting people, and, every year, we get a chance to show you exactly what we found behind closed doors. Inside the truly personal, ever-inspiring spaces of artist Marie Khouri, designer Claire Saksun and creative entrepreneur Lyndon Cormack.

43 REAL WEDDINGS

If you’re planning a B.C. wedding this year, we’re here to help, with the lowdown on the latest cake trends, the hottest suit styles and the details behind a charming double-wedding weekend you’ll wish you’d been invited to.

TACO WEEK

Why limit yourself to Taco Tuesday?

HAWAII FOOD FEST

A food festival worth braving the border for.

BEST THING I ATE

Selene’s Greek twist on brunch is a gamechanger.

WINE LIST

Canadian alternatives to your fave U.S. bottles.

THE VANMAG GUIDE

It’s time to stop being scared of the tailor.

ceo and group publisher Ryan Benn

group vp , publishing and operations Nina Wagner

editorial

vice president , content Anicka Quin

editors - in - chief Stacey McLachlan ( Vancouver ), Darcy Matheson (BCBusiness), Anicka Quin (Western Living)

senior editor Mihika Agarwal (BCBusiness)

managing editor , food and culture Kristi Alexandra

managing editor Dani Wright (on leave)

assistant editor Kerri Donaldson (Vancouver, Western Living)

wine and spirits editor Neal McLennan

contributing editors Frances Bula, Melissa Edwards, Alyssa Hirose, Matt O’Grady

editorial interns Victoria Brzezinski-Szadzianis, Vivian Chong, Irene Chuang, Anjini Snape, Xiao Qing Wan email mail@vanmag.com

digital

vice president , digital Darcy Matheson

digital marketing manager Rebekah Ho

brand partnerships/digital copywriter Sandrine Jacquot

design

creative director Jenny Reed

art directors Stesha Ho ( Vancouver ), Edwin Pabellon ( BCBusiness )

advisory council

Angus An, Maenam; Patrick Barron, Telus; TC Carling, Covenant House; Victoria Emslie, Nicola Wealth; Peter Jackman, Terminal City Club; Carol Lee, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation; Carol Liao, UBC Peter Allard School of Law; Matt McClenaghan, Edgar Developments; Jennifer Murtagh, Maturn; Gary Pooni, Pooni Group; Audrey Plaskacz, Bosa Properties; Greg Zayadi, Rennie Group

sales representation

vice president , sales Anna Lee

senior media specialists Brianne Harper, Mira Hershcovitch, Sheri Stubel

program lead and sales coordinator Victoria Nwaeze mail sales@canadawide.com

u . s . sales specialist Hayes Media Sales tel 602-432-4868 email lesley@hayesmediasales.com

production / administration

group vp , education and administration Jane Griffiths

group director of operations Devin Steinberg

director of circulation Tracy McRitchie

manager , hr and administration Fiona Cochrane

executive assistant & event producer Julie Fisher events and office manager Julia Jarman production manager Kim McLane production associate Natasha Jayawardena production support technician Ina Bowerbank customer service Kelly Kalirai

finance

group vp , finance Conroy Ing, CPA, CMA vp of finance Sonia Roxburgh, CPA, CGA accounting Terri Mason, Eileen Gajowski

tel 604-299-7311 fax 604-299-9188 web vanmag.com email sales@canadawide.com

Adventuring with Whole Foods

Food, at its core, is beautifully simple. Good quality, whole ingredients can be transformed into something wild and magical when flavours collide. It awakens the senses, transports us through space and time, and turns the ordinary into the extraordinary. It taps into our deepest emotions and reminds us of who we are and how we love.

Choosing whole foods doesn’t mean going without. It means leaning in and getting curious. It means trading the processed and predictable for naturally delicious and playful. A chance to explore colour, texture, and flavour at their peak, alive with the taste of season and story.

A cut of meat you’ve never tried, a fruit rind you thought was trash, or a homemade sauce so good, it becomes your new signature. Cooking this way invites play and discovery, and it keeps your mind wildly aware and your connection to the natural world beautifully intact.

300 + PAGES I HARDCOVER I LARGE FORMAT

120 STUNNING WHOLE FOOD RECIPES

HOME AGAIN

In addition to being editor-in-chief of this fine publication, I’ve also been on the editorial team at our sister mag, Western Living, for over a decade. So I’ve been lucky to write about hundreds of absolutely stunning Western Canadian homes in my career—Point Grey mansions owned by famous hockey players, multimilliondollar Okanagan dream homes, renovations of legendary West Coast modern houses—and I’ve interviewed designers who will spend $300,000 on the right sofa without batting an eye.

What have I learned (besides the fact that you can never have enough storage)? No matter the budget, no

matter the square footage: the most interesting homes come from the most interesting people.

Beautiful furniture and architecture are only part of what makes a space appealing (though if someone wants to give me a B&B Italia sofa I would absolutely not complain). It’s the stories behind the design choices—and the people who make them—that get me fired up.

I love knowing the origins of that quirky painting on the wall (your long-lost uncle?! really?!). I want to pore over the selection of books on the shelf (please tell me you also hated Normal People). Who knit that throw blanket? Why is there a collection of Snoopy figurines on your vanity? What was happening in your life when you thrifted that neon-green vintage armoire?

When people embrace and celebrate the stories of their lives, their spaces inherently reflect that, whether they’re curating the design details themselves or working with a professional who knows how to let their clients’ personalities shine through.

These are the kinds of homes we seek out for Vanmag’s regular Personal Space column. And this month, for our Homes Issue, I’m thrilled that we get to showcase a supersized collection of very cool, very personal spaces. Sometimes the properties are as grand as the dreamy residences featured over in WL, and sometimes they’re cozy, compact Railtown townhouses, but just like in our big sister magazine, these are stories that dare you to dream about what home can be.

P.S.: If you know of a captivating home for a future edition of Personal Space, I want to know about it! I’m at smclachlan@canadawide.com, eagerly awaiting my next hundred home-story assignments.

STACEY McLACHLAN

editor - in - chief

smclachlan @ canadawide . com | @ stacey mclachlan

Coming Up Next Issue

The 2025 Vanmag Wish Book There’s never been a better time to support homegrown businesses, and our annual guide to holiday giving and receiving puts local brands, retailers and makers front and centre.

I Love the Nightlife

From hidden dance clubs to essential cocktail crawl stops to the most raucous dinner party destinations, this is how to keep the good times rolling after the sun goes down.

behind the scenes

Work of Art

It was hard to pick just one key spot to photograph during our shoot at Marie Khouri’s beautiful west-side home. Photographer Tanya Goehring couldn’t help but snag a few shots in front of Khouri’s sculpture work out in the backyard.

CULTURE

PREVIEW BIG ARTS THE

Back to school, back to work, back still peeling from that accidental face-nap at Kits Beach—yep, fall’s almost here. But if turning your back on summer feels tough (sorry, poor word choice), our super-sized So Fun City Big Arts Preview is here to help with four calendars full of can’t-miss events— film screenings, art exhibits, big-name standup comedy, outdoor concerts—basically, everything exciting enough to make you want to put on real pants.

by Kerri Donaldson

Out Late with Comic Joanne Tsung

Vancouver standup comic and writer Joanne Tsung shares her top spots for shows (and post-show cravings).

E Best-Kept Dessert Secret

My absolute favourite dessert spot is Winter Bear on Denman. It’s one of the best bingsu places I’ve been to, especially their mango cheesecake bingsu. They use piped cheesecake instead of those nasty frozen chunks that hurt my teeth—bonus points if you can catch a sunset afterward.

E Late-Night Comfort Spot

Congee Noodle House at Main and Broadway is always my go-to. They used to be open later, but since the pandemic, they’ve only been open until 10 or 11 p.m. The order is salt-andpepper fried tofu, beef flat rice noodles and the Hong Kong-style lemon iced tea.

E Favourite Comedy Venue

I love China Cloud in Chinatown for many reasons, but that large stage and those comfy couches create the right kind of vibe, you know?

E Weirdest Standup Venue

I’d say the weirdest spot I’ve done comedy in is Hero’s Welcome on Main. I love that venue, but my goodness those flags! I looked like I was getting my Canadian citizenship—I almost broke into the anthem after my set.

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS

GREEN ROOM: GREAT OUTDOORS COMEDY FESTIVAL

WHEN September 12 to 14

WHERE Stanley Park COST From $69

Mulaney, Kreischer and Cummings serve belly laughs under cedar canopies. Picnic blankets, porta-potties, zero roofs.

WANDA VISION: WANDA SYKES

WHEN September 26

WHERE Queen Elizabeth Theatre

COST From $52

Emmy-winning Sykes serves sharp, no-nonsense humour and piping-hot takes. Like therapy, but cheaper and with way more laugh-crying (as opposed to, well, cry-crying).

1 DEADPAN SOCIETY: EMILY CATALANO

THRONE SHADE: RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE: WERQ THE WORLD TOUR

WHEN October 15

WHERE Queen Elizabeth Theatre COST From $74

A royal visit fit for a Queen (E Theatre, that is). Lizzie might be on most of our $20 bills, but RuPaul’s queens are here to get theirs. This monarchy werqs hard and slays harder—which is more than we can say for a certain nepo-king.

MURDER SHE WROTE: AN EVENING WITH LOUISE PENNY

WHEN October 29

WHERE Chan Centre for the Performing Arts

COST From $79

Canada’s crime boss (of fiction) talks murder, mystery and The Black Wolf—her 20th Inspector Gamache book. Like your favourite true-crime podcast, but IRL.

SAVING GRACE: TAYLOR TOMLINSON: THE SAVE ME TOUR

WHEN September 19 to 21

WHERE Queen Elizabeth Theatre COST From $55

Three Netflix specials, one CBS mic-drop as host of After Midnight—Tomlinson’s serving up razor-sharp comedy, existential dread and hilarious cries for help.

WHEN October 19

WHERE Biltmore Cabaret COST From $40

Awkward pauses and punchlines from a Conan-approved queen of quiet comedy.

Catch Tsung and other hilarious comics on season two of Killjoy Comedy, streaming now on OUTtv.com

Empanadas Ilegales’ Best Vancouver

Day

Local genre-defying psychedelic cumbia and salsa ensemble Empanadas Ilegales describe their dream Vancouver day.

A.M.: Morning Fuel

We start the day with a strong coffee and something delicious from 1 Bench Bakehouse (their baked goods are unreal). For Italian-style sandwiches and espresso, it’s Renzullo’s but if we’re craving a greasy spoon/diner vibe, it’s off to Truck Stop for the chicken cutlet or the Trucker Special. No regrets.

NOON: Swim, Sand and Empanadas

We’ll usually escape to water: Lynn Valley for a river swim or 2 Wreck Beach for a more, ahem, bohemian afternoon. If we’re lucky, we’ll find the Peruvian señora selling homemade empanadas down at Wreck—lunch, sorted.

P.M.: Cruisin’ for a Micro-Brewsin’

3 Storm Brewing is a must for a truly gritty pint—think pineapple pilsner or whatever wild experiment’s on tap. It’s Vancouver’s oldest microbrewery and definitely still the weirdest, in the best possible way.

LATE NIGHT: Buns and Fun

We might hit band rehearsal then grab burgers at nearby 4 Red Truck Beer. After that, it’s all about finding the vibe: someone’s house, a secret show, maybe a warehouse party.

Follow on Instagram: @empanadasilegaless

Their highly anticipated third album, Sancocho Trifásico, is out now—along with the new music video for “Bailecito de Mord.”

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS

BREAKFAST CLUB: JAPANESE BREAKFAST

WHEN September 1

WHERE Orpheum Theatre COST From $94

Fresh off a new album, with possibly one of the best titles ever: For Melancholy Brunettes (and Sad Women). It’s your chance to cry in public without the weird looks.

COMFORTABLY NUMB: LINKIN PARK

WHEN September 21

WHERE Rogers Arena COST From $228

On their From Zero world tour. Millennial dads, get ready to rock!

1 HOG WILD: BLACK REBEL MOTORCYCLE CLUB

WHEN September 23

WHERE Commodore Ballroom COST From $72

BRMC is firing up the engines for Howl’s 20th anniversary—dusting off leather jackets and reminding you that, yes, 2005 was that long ago. Feel the nostalgia... and probably some level of backache.

OLD MAN YELLS AT CROWD: NEIL YOUNG AND THE CHROME HEARTS

WHEN September 6 and 8

WHERE Deer Lake Park COST From $120

Canada’s rock grandpa returns— save the earth, relive your youth, try to forget how much your knees hurt.

MR. FREEZE: ICE CUBE

WHEN September 20

WHERE Pacific Coliseum COST From $79.50

The N.W.A lyricist and West Coast rap legend is headed to Canada’s version of the West Coast on his Truth to Power: Four Decades of Attitude Tour and is bringing the party.

SOUL EN ESPANOL: NATALIA LAFOURCADE: CANCIONERA TOUR

WHEN September 27

WHERE Chan Centre for the Performing Arts

COST From $99

Latin music legend Natalia Lafourcade makes her Vancouver debut with just her voice, her guitar and 18 Latin Grammys’ worth of goosebumps.

MANE EVENT: DISNEY’S THE LION KING

WHEN Until September 14

WHERE Queen Elizabeth Theatre

COST From $10

Puppets, Pride Rock and a few hours of blissful hakuna matata from your kids.

FRINGE BENEFITS: VANCOUVER FRINGE FESTIVAL

WHEN September 4 to 14

WHERE Granville Island

COST From $16 per show

Eighty-seven unjuried, uncensored indie theatre shows (and their posters) set to take over Granville Island—anything goes!

5 1

OUT AND ABOUT: VANCOUVER QUEER FILM FESTIVAL

WHEN September 11 to 21

WHERE Various venues COST From $7

Celebrate transformative

2SLGBTQIA+ films and unforgettable after-parties, and—if you’re more into couch vibes—stream the magic online B.C.-wide from September 22 to 28. Queer cinema hits different in sweatpants.

MUSE CLUES: THE DARK LADY AT BARD ON THE BEACH

WHEN Until September 19

WHERE Douglas Campbell Theatre

COST From $35

Who was Shakespeare’s secret muse? Hint: she’s tired of being just a footnote. A witty, feminist reimagining of Elizabethan literary drama—romance, rivalry and poetic shade included.

4 6

SCREEN LEGEND: KUROSAWA AKIRA RESTORED

WHEN September 14 to November 2

WHERE The Cinematheque COST $15

Six stunning restorations from Japanese master Akira Kurosawa—including iconic films like Ikiru, Yojimbo and Throne of Blood. Samurai swords, existential dread and cinematic genius.

MÉTIS CALL: YOU USED TO CALL ME MARIE

WHEN September 25 to October 12

WHERE BMO Theatre Centre COST From $78

Part epic love story, part Indigenous history lesson, this worldpremiere play by Tai Amy Grauman spans 95 years and four Métis love stories—with the same two souls meeting and reuniting across eras.

How to Survive as an Indie Filmmaker in Vancouver

Low-budget brilliance, bizarre workarounds and sneaky tricks from Geoff Manton, the co-founder of community-building nonprofit group Filmable.

Tips for stretching a shoestring budget without snapping? It’s all about your collaborators. When your team believes in you and your vision, they’ll show up—budget or no budget. Great vendors and resources are abundant here, but a passionate team opens doors.

Top location for filming without permits or angry neighbours?

Always try to get permits—the city is genuinely helpful (plus, flashing that permit to a nosy neighbour is deeply satisfying). If not possible, respect is everything. Keep noise and disruption minimal, anticipate concerns and always leave locations better than you found them—no burning bridges!

Strangest DIY workaround on set?

I’ve subbed in for missing actors (no Juilliard training, but I can deliver!); built a DIY haze machine with plastic tubes, fans and prayers; and backed up a towable generator trailer publicly—zigzagging included, but mission accomplished!

Three secret weapons that should be in every indie filmmaker’s gear bag?

Interpersonal essentials: learn everyone’s name, be genuinely helpful and do the unglamorous tasks (yes, even garbage pickup). Bonus: a well-timed Mott’s Fruitsations snack pack—unsponsored, but highly recommended.

• Overused location? Queens Avenue in New West. Beautiful, yes. Neighbours exhausted? Absolutely.

• Worst filmmaking cliché? Wistful characters emoting in misty Pacific Northwest forests. It’s very us—but let’s diversify.

• Indie buzzword to ban forever?

Casting on a pizza-and-IMDbcredits budget?

Pizza helps, IMDb credits are great, but clear communication, honest intentions and compelling roles are what truly attract talented actors. They need to feel safe and creatively respected, even on micro-budgets.

Best place for Vancouver networking without the cringe?

Filmmaking is all about trusted collaborations—but building those relationships can be tough in Vancouver. Filmable bridges that gap with casual networking events, mentorship workshops and industry panels, connecting filmmakers to grow a strong community.

Great local resources for firsttime filmmakers?

Creative BC’s “Creative Pathways,” GEMS for mentorship, CMPA’s producer program, Pacific Screenwriting Program, and the Run N Gun fest— each a fantastic gateway to building your network.

One essential non-film-related survival skill for a Vancouver indie filmmaker?

Two essentials: gentle persistence and secure collaboration. Stay topof-mind by gently but consistently showing up—at events, coffee dates, volunteering—and always aim to be helpful. And when collaborating, be the person you’d want to work with: a supportive listener who respects creative vision.

“Festival darling”—can’t we aim for “commercial and critical success darling”?

• Finish the sentence: “You know you’re a Vancouver indie filmmaker when…” You’ve shot overnight at Riverview and faced that spooky hallway bathroom walk alone. Character-building stuff.

LIGHTNING ROUND PET PEEVES

(THE

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS

CLAY NATION: TWO MUST-SEE CERAMIC SHOWS AT THE VAG

WHEN Until November 9

WHERE Vancouver Art Gallery COST $29

It’s clay days at the VAG! Dive deep into B.C.’s ceramic scene with Written in Clay: From the John David Lawrence Collection, then lose yourself in oversized, surreal ceramic creations at Otani Workshop: Monsters in My Head

CRAFTOPIA: VANCOUVER ETSY CO.’S FALL POP-UP

WHEN September 27

WHERE Robson Square COST Free

Shop local, get crafty, eat snacks, buy handmade soap—like shopping the online version of Etsy, but maybe you’ll make a few friends along the way.

JUST DOUGH IT: ITALIAN PIZZA-MAKING CLASS AT IL CENTRO

WHEN October 20

WHERE Il Centro

COST $107

Give Uber Eats a break— you’re about to master dough tossing, sauce slinging and crust whispering at this three-hour pizza-palooza. Bonus points: it’s BYO wine-friendly.

BRICK YEAH: ARTEMIS SPACE

ADVENTURE WITH LEGO BRICKS

WHEN To April 6

WHERE Science World

COST From $35

Blast off with massive LEGO rockets, race rovers across lunar terrain and build Mars habitats— just don’t forget to let your kids try, too.

Triple Threat

SOCIAL CLIMBER: VQC X MEC MEETUPS

WHEN September 18

WHERE MEC Vancouver COST Free

A monthly queer climbing hang. No climbing skills needed... but snacks? Essential. (Okay, snacks aren’t required, but emotionally, yes.)

1 HAUS PARTY: HARVEST HAUS OKTOBERFEST

WHEN October 3 and 4

WHERE PNE Forum

COST From $30

Bavarian beer-hall vibes, bratwurst and bench-dancing aplenty, plus probably a boot of beer? We don’t know what an Oktoberfest is.

SFU’s new Gibson Art Museum combines a trio of existing galleries into something greater than the sum of its parts.

SFU gallery director Kimberly Phillips is ushering in a bold new era with the Marianne and Edward Gibson Art Museum—officially consolidating their three existing spaces into one ambitious, accessible home for art that blurs boundaries.

“We designed from the inside out,” says Phillips of the new gallery, which opens September 20. Located right off the main Burnaby campus bus loop, the single-level, 12,000-square-foot building features a central “hearth” lounge (complete with electric fireplace and horseshoe couch) that doubles as gallery and gathering space—like it’s your most cultured friend’s living room, but with art.

Phillips emphasizes that this museum isn’t your typical white cube. With two-foot-deep window seats, flexible “edge spaces” and an art studio that flows into an outdoor courtyard, the design invites curiosity and interaction. “Accessible, porous spaces encourage people to spend different kinds of time,” she says, noting that the gallery is built for everyone—students, librarians, parents, faculty, young children, grandparents.

The inaugural show embraces this vibe. Phillips and her team commissioned 12 artists to participate in Edge Effects, exploring questions of boundaries and porosity that are geographic, cultural and ecological. Interactive exhibits include a community sound project by Burnaby elementary students and a commissioned, semi-permanent hearthpiece by Cindy Mochizuki.

The gallery promises rolling three-season programming: think kid-friendly maker labs, “drink and draw” date nights, screenings, performances, lectures—and yes, an artist-programmed snack kiosk (and gift shop, of course). It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, ideal for planned weekend pilgrimages... or a convenient stop on your epic hill hike. 8888 University Drive, gibson.sfu.ca

The Jean Scene

Trying on pants sucks—but here’s a quartet of shops that make the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans a little less painful. by Caroline Mitchell

THE STORE GO FOR THE ESSENTIAL PAIR j

Decade Studio 100–88 W 8th Ave., decadestudio.com

jSource small-batch jeans made from 100-percent cotton denim, tested on what designer Molly Spittal calls “real bodies, not just fit models.”

The relaxed Kit trouser ($273) is made from breathable denim, with a classic, subtly sculpted barrel-leg fit that’s cropped at the ankles.

Duer 1757 W 4th Ave., duer.ca

“Performance denim” is designed to accommodate all the biking, hiking, strutting and parkouring that makes up your active Vancouver lifestyle. The technical fabric is used for cuts both trendy and classic: no one needs to know you’re actually a committed jock.

The stretchy, comfortable Relaxed Taper ($139) jeans (complete with reinforced gusset) are the company’s best seller.

House of Jewels 953 Nicola St., houseofjewelsboutique.com

jAn afternoon of trying on jeans that doesn’t make you want to hurl yourself into English Bay afterward? Yes, please. Owner Nadene Bottin is fantastically helpful and will dig through denim options to find the right fit.

Pistola’s Jaydn denim in Chateau ($320) is the low-slung palazzo pant of your dreams.

Dutil 303 W Cordova St., dutildenim.com

jNerd out over denim here. The Gastown shop has built a reputation as the spot for premium jeans. With options that range from Levis to boutique Canadian brands like Naked and Famous, your new fave pair is hiding in the racks somewhere.

Made from lightweight Japanese selvedge denim woven on vintage shuttle looms in Okayama, the relaxed Naked and Famous Strong Guy ($268) fit is fashiongeek approved.

We Got the Pleat

Shivajothi’s gender-neutral clothing blends radical design with traditional technique.

by Alyssa Hirose

For Vancouverite Sujitha Shivajothi’s Sri Lankan parents, gorgeous saris and precisely pressed suits were always in regular rotation. “My mom and dad were very fashionable,” the designer says, “so, for me, fashion was always something I was drawn to.” She recalls a childhood memory of almost ironing out a critical crease in her father’s trousers: “He was like, these things are here for a reason.” That early lesson of intentionality—and meticulous devotion to tailoring and pleating—comes through in her own eponymous brand, Shivajothi. But, unlike the traditional suit-orsari binary, every piece that comes out of her Strathcona-based studio is gender-neutral.

“I love being Sri Lankan, but it is a very gendered culture,” Shivajothi shares. As a kid, she never gravitated toward dresses or skirts (in fact, growing up, she was more likely to dip into her father’s closet for a cozy cardigan). From launch in 2020, she has devoted her brand to defying categorization. That said, her asymmetrical jackets, flared dress shirts and bold-shouldered “flight suits” are categorically cool. The fact that everything is made in-house (and most items are made-to-order) only makes these statement-makers more special. Take the Pixelated Cameo coat, for example: the thick, double-faced

EDITORS’ PICK

wool requires hand-stitching, and each one takes around 65 hours to complete.

The designer’s passion for construction, reverence for craft and commitment to gender inclusivity has been recognized by Maclean’s and on the runway at New York Fashion Week. And because the Shivajothi brand is such a small operation, she’s able run it with sustainability at the forefront.

“I work with really high-quality and deadstock fabrics, and I don’t overproduce—I only make what I can sell,” she says. For buy-local devotees who love style with a story, this is a brand to watch: Shivajothi’s unique handmade wares and (perhaps hereditary) attention to detail are, without a doubt, a labour of love.

Do the Twist Both the Asymmetrical ivory dress shirt (top, $495) and the Denim Crisscross jacket (centre, $365) are classic pieces elevated with an intruiging spin, thanks to designer Sujitha Shivajothi (left).

The 100-percent wool Crochet Flower shacket ($440), shown here in black, was part of Shivajothi’s third capsule collection show.

A SIP OF SPAIN

Extend summer in the city and pair your favourite tapas with Segura Viudas Cava Brut.

Alfresco dining and entertaining outdoors don’t end on August 31. In fact, there’s something to be said about spending a September summer evening sipping bubbly on the patio (or on a tiny Vancouver apartment balcony if you’re like me), enjoying small bites while basking in the sun

This is the best way to keep the sunshine going through the autumn months: Socializing and sharing food over a glass of wine—European style. Instead of breaking the bank on a plane ticket to Barcelona, bring the Mediterranean summer vibe to Vancouver through the Spanish tradition of tapas and cava with Segura Viudas.

Tapas, those small, shareable plates, are designed for socializing—much like cava, often enjoyed during celebrations and casual gatherings. Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine made through a méthode traditionnelle-style process, is naturally refreshing, making any September evening feel just like a long summer night in July (minus the harsh summer heat).

In Catalonia, where cava originated, enjoying tapas with a chilled glass of sparkling wine is more than just a meal—it’s a savoured moment. Plus, Segura Viudas’ crisp acidity and fine bubbles make it incredibly versatile with food.

There’s a Segura Viudas cava for every

Find Segura Viudas Cava Brut at BCLiquor at: bcliquorstores.com/product/158493

Socials: Segura Viudas Ca (@seguraviudasca) | @seguraviudasca

tapa. The clean, citrusy profile and excellent bubbles of the Brut pairs well with classic Spanish tapas like patatas bravas (a favourite), marinated anchovies (boquerones), garlic shrimp (gambas al ajillo) or Manchego cheese. Creative culinary types can even experiment with their own locally inspired, seafood-forward tapas like smoked salmon, oysters and scallops to find the perfect pairing with Segura Viudas cava.

The summery, shareable social experience of tapas is enhanced by the fresh flavour of bright fruits and subtle floral notes of the Segura Viudas Cava Brut, bringing European Mediterranean sips to the city. Whether it’s a backyard brunch, a beach picnic or an evening dinner outside, it’s an easygoing yet elegant option. The natural acidity and brightness make it a great match for seasonal dishes like grilled vegetables, fresh seafood and summer salads.

This bubbly is festive, but never fussy. For the discerning host, this sophisticated luxury is also highly accessible: Segura Viudas’ cava combines both quality and tradition at affordable prices. The Segura Viudas Cava Brut ($20.99 at BCLiquor), can be saved for celebratory moments or equally enjoyed on a casual outdoor evening catching up with friends.

The Haul

Randa Salloum makes her living from having great taste. Her vintage and consignment boutique, Collective Will, sadly closed recently, but it was always a treasure trove of curated finds, responsibly made pieces and thoughtfully tailored housebrand jackets. Here are the goods Salloum adds to her own home when she’s not busy helping Vancouver’s most fashionable people find their new favourite look.

1. La Glace Ice Cream

This is the best ice cream in Vancouver, hands down. No matter what flavour you choose, it’s going to be a hit. My husband and I look forward to their seasonal releases and it’s a highlight of our long walks together. $18 for a pint, laglace.ca

2. Sundays Movie Night

Couch

There is no place I love more than the couch. We purchased it a couple of years ago and have never

looked back. I put high value on my rest and reality TV, so this was a no brainer. I dare you to not fall asleep after 10 minutes. From $3,440, sundays-company.ca

3. Dark Tortoise Kuboraum Mask G2 Glasses

This was my very first pair of adult frames and I receive loads of compliments every time I wear them. They’re a bold take on rectangular frames and make every outfit pop. $699, theoptical boutique.com

This is the only candle I will choose without smell testing. Each scent is fresh and works in every room of the home. Not only do they make excellent gifts, they also have a refill program. Plus, they’re made in Vancouver. $26, roamthe brand.com

5. MAC Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick in 540 Thanks, It’s MAC This shade is that final touch before I’m out the door. It gives me an

effortless no-makeup look with a little oomph. $33, maccosmetics.ca

6. Sterling Silver Vimeria Petal Huggies Earrings

These made-in-Vancouver silver earrings have served me so well for everyday wear. I’ve worn them to every type of occasion I can think of, and as someone who is low maintenance with my personal style, it’s a plus that I can sleep and shower in them. $130, vimeria.co

7. White Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Flats

These are an investment piece! I was pleasantly surprised with how much wear I’ve gotten out of them and how comfortable they are. They look brand new after three years of wear and go with unlimited outfits. $837, holtrenfrew.com

9. Fable Flute Glasses

We received a set of four as a gift when we got engaged and have since added 16 more to our collection. We

love hosting parties and cheersing with our friends—it helps that they’re shatterresistant. $125 for four, fable.com

8. Collective Will Re-Worked Cropped Blazer

This is part of our upcycled collection and is a hero piece in my wardrobe. I feel sharp, stylish and sustainable in it and get so much pleasure when I see others wearing theirs. $125, shopcollective will.com

We’ve been chatting with our BC community, and here’s what we learned

DINING HABITS: DID YOU KNOW THAT 72% OF VANCOUVERITES DINE OUT 1-2 TIMES A WEEK ?

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: We love the great outdoors! WALKING is Vancouver's favorite outdoor activity ( 87% ), followed by HIKING ( 53% ) and PICNICKING ( 39% ).

WHAT MATTERS TO US: Vancouverites are passionate about the cost of living , healthcare , and affordable housing . Are these topics important to you too? Now we have a question for you! What generalizations or stereotypes do people make when they find out you're from British Columbia?

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN 1 IN 5 $100 VISA GIFT CARDS

Liquid Courage

Frozen vines, wildfire smoke and a splash of politics—B.C. wineries are having a challenging year. Here’s why it’s never been more important to drink local.

by Hazel Love

They say bad luck comes in threes—and if you asked a B.C. winery, they might be feeling extra superstitious this year. They’ve endured a brutal winter, a smoky summer and a political trade war that’s shaken up the bottle shop shelves. But despite the chaos, the industry isn’t just surviving— it’s adapting, innovating and asking locals to raise a glass to its resilience.

The past year has tested the resolve of B.C. producers. A deep freeze and a political ping-pong match with Canada’s southern neighbour have left wineries bruised but more determined than ever to pour some great wine. Last year’s record-breaking cold snap wiped out nearly an entire vintage, leaving the province’s wine producers with more than just a bitter taste in their mouths.

“From Vernon to the Similkameen, the crop loss was almost 95 percent,” says Paul Sawler, chair of Wine Growers British Columbia and vice president of sales for Dirty Laundry Winery in Summerland. Dirty Laundry’s expected 450-tonne grape yield dropped to under a single tonne. “It was gone,” he says.

Poplar Grove Winery, another key B.C. producer, suffered similar losses. “We usually harvest 600 tonnes,” says Chris Holler, general manager and vice president of the family-run business. “In 2024, we harvested just 10.”

To help local producers stay afloat, the province intro-

duced an emergency measure allowing B.C. wineries to import grapes from outside the province, including from Washington and Oregon, without incurring the usual steep fees. The program, which labels these wines as “Crafted in B.C.,” offers a lifeline to producers, who won’t

be able to harvest their own grapes until their vines are replanted and mature.

“We partnered with family farms just a few hours across the border who are doing exactly what we’re doing up here... we’ve all become friends,” says Holler. For wineries like Poplar Grove, the Crafted in

B.C. program isn’t just about sourcing fruit—it’s about saving jobs, keeping staff working and maintaining a connection with their customers. Without visibility on store shelves, Holler says, wineries risk losing hard-earned loyalty. And once a customer moves on, it can be difficult to win them back.

Problems Piling Up (Clockwise from left) Vineyards along Okanagan Lake; a raging wildfire in Kelowna; a lush, green Kelowna vineyard in better times; the B.C. Government removes all American liquor from store shelves in response to U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

a wine that represents a time and a place. And that place is the Okanagan.”

Then came the next shakeup: a provincial ban pulling U.S.-made wines from government liquor store shelves in response to Trump-era tariffs. Sawler says that Summerland wineries ran a large-scale poll among wine club members. Fortunately for producers, customers still seem happy to buy wine made with grapes from across the border, motivated by a broader desire to support Canadian businesses.

“It was overwhelmingly the sentiment that ‘we will support the wineries we love to make sure they can get back on their feet next year.’ Luckily, the product is very, very good,” says Sawler.

Though the grapes are American-grown, every step of production—fermentation, bottling and marketing—is proudly Canadian.

Poplar Grove, like many others, opts for full transparency: its new Crafted in B.C. wines clearly state “Washington-grown, made in B.C.” on the label. “It’s Canadian know-how, Canadian hands,” says Holler. “That wine is really a Canadian product.”

Meanwhile, some boutique producers—like Nichol Vineyard in Naramata, whose losses were substantial—say that sourcing U.S. grapes isn’t part of their mandate, even in the worst of times. “Business is as bad as it can be; we didn’t make any wine last year,” says Matthew Sherlock of Nichol. “But we don’t see buying grapes from the States as what we do. We completely understand why some did. We farm land in Canada to make

The buy-local momentum that surged during COVID appears to be carrying through the trade dispute, giving wineries an extra boost. “People are still voting with their dollars,” says Holler.

Local tourism is also on the rise, with many cancelling U.S. trips in favour of staycations. For wineries like Nichol, it’s a cruel irony: the summer boom they desperately need has arrived, just when they have the least to offer. “I’ve heard we’re seeing 80 percent occupancy rates all the way through August,” says Sherlock, comparing this summer to 2021 travel-ban numbers.

“Which is great, except I have very little wine.”

Nichol is now replanting its historic syrah vineyard— the first of the grape ever planted in Canada—with new vines. It will be six long years before they can bottle syrah again. “We went through the five stages of grief over the winter,” says Sherlock. “When you’ve done a harvest 17 years in a row, not doing it is weird.”

And if that didn’t already seem like enough for B.C. winegrowers to contend with, there’s also wildfire season. While smoke exposure during the growing season has become a real concern for winemakers, Jeff Guignard, CEO of Wine Growers British Columbia, says the frustration lies not just in the winemaking, but also in how fires affect tourism—a vital part of the wine economy.

“When we have a wildfire in one area of the province, some folks just assume all of

“We don’t see buying grapes from the States as what we do. We completely understand why some did. We farm land in Canada to make a wine that represents a time and a place. And that place is the Okanagan.”

— Matthew Sherlock of Nichol Vineyard

the Okanagan valleys are on fire and they’ll start cancelling trips,” says Guignard. “That’s frustrating because most of the province is healthy, and the air quality is good.”

Not every smoky summer results in smoke-tainted wine, but growers are taking proactive steps. From increasing leaf coverage on the

canopy to rinsing vines with misting systems, producers are learning how to shield grapes from haze. Some harvest by hand to better assess fruit, while others test juice early to detect smoke compounds. “It’s just something you have to think about in a way that we didn’t think about, perhaps, in the past,” says Guignard. On the production side, some wineries have shortened maceration times or used costly filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis, to reduce the impact of smoke. Others blend affected grapes with unaffected lots, or repurpose them into brandy. Sometimes, a smoky note can even become a feature. “I had a pinot noir which had this lightly smoked flavour at the very end of the palate,” Guignard says. “It was perfect with barbecued beef.”

The issue has prompted collaboration across the industry. Winery associations are

working with the B.C. Wine and Grape Council, while research continues at UBC Okanagan to improve longterm strategies. “You can’t control nature,” Guignard says. “But we’re collaborating more than ever, trying to manage it better each year.”

In Vancouver’s restaurants, sommeliers are using this moment to spotlight local wine in a bigger way. At Glowbal Restaurant Group, corporate wine director Sarah McCauley spent the past year juggling limited stock and shifting consumer expectations. “Even the biggest wineries in the Okanagan are boutique on a global scale,” says McCauley. “They’re small and vulnerable.” Her team has doubled down on exclusive local offerings, pouring rare finds like Martin’s Lane Simes Vineyard Pinot Noir and fresh, Island-grown bubbles from Unsworth Vineyards.

“These wines are a snapshot of a place and time,” McCauley says. “There’s no better time than now to show our producers that we see them and we hear them.”

Despite the setbacks, optimism runs deep among B.C.’s winegrowers. Both Sawler and Holler note how adversity has sparked overdue changes in farming practices. At Poplar Grove, they’re replanting damaged vineyards with hardier varietals such as pinot noir and chardonnay, and adopting more sustainable techniques to withstand future climate extremes. If nothing changes—nothing will change. “We can’t just keep doing the same thing,” says Holler.

Grape Expectations Poplar Grove

Winery (pictured here) is pushing forward despite the slew of industry challenges.

MORE THAN MODERN: HOW BOSCH KITCHEN APPLIANCES

ENHANCE FORM AND FUNCTION IN A WHISTLER HOME

Bosch’s smart appliances elevate the functionality of this modern kitchen while seamlessly integrating into a Whistler home design by LRD Studio

Harmony with nature, clean lines and seamless connection between the outdoors and indoors—these are the West Coast Modern principles that formed the basis of Panorama, a Whistler home design by Lauren Ritz of LRD Studio.

“We aimed to create a home deeply connected to its surroundings, where architecture and landscape work together to form a unified, immersive experience,” says Ritz, principal interior designer and owner of LRD Studio.

Ritz and her team took inspiration from Whistler’s natural surroundings. The mountains, forest and austere rock face are reflected in the kitchen’s oak and honed stone—along with an abundance of natural light to frame the views. “The warm, earthy colour palette of wood and stone creates a calm, cohesive atmosphere,” says Ritz.

This welcoming and elevated modern kitchen is more than just beautiful. It’s

highly functional, with appliances to match—a necessity for a family home.

“Bosch appliances suit the client’s lifestyle by combining ease of use, efficiency and consistent performance,” says Ritz.

The kitchen features the Bosch 800 Series Combination Oven 30’’, a dual-oven that seamlessly incorporates smart technology and the Bosch 500 Series Gas Cooktop 36’’ Stainless steel with five high-efficiency burners.

“These appliances stood out for their advanced technology, precise flame control and versatile cooking modes,” Ritz notes. “They support quick, everyday meals as well as more elaborate cooking, allowing the client to spend less time managing appliances and more time enjoying their home.”

Ritz and the team at LRD Studio thoughtfully considered these appliances as part of the overall design process for Panorama in order to elevate the space’s performance with-

out overshadowing the architectural beauty and interior design. “Technology is integrated discreetly to enhance function without disrupting the clean, modern aesthetic,” says Ritz. The oak millwork, for example, was custom crafted to fit around the appliances, so they fit seamlessly into the cabinetry.

“At LRD Studio, we emphasize thoughtful, lasting design inspired by our connection to the Sea to Sky region,” notes Ritz. Bosch’s commitment to quality, sustainability and timeless design closely aligns with LRD Studio’s design values. Bosch’s reliable reputation was a big plus for their clients.

For Ritz, Bosch’s reliable performance, sleek aesthetics and sustainability make them the perfect fit for LRD Studio design projects which focus on high standards and design values.

Experience Bosch’s designs in person by booking a personalized product consultation at one of the Bosch Canada showrooms in Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver: boschhome.ca/en/kitchen-planning/showrooms

@boschhomecanada

bosch-home.ca/en/

PHOTOS BY EMA PETER

What’s the Difference Between the Aquabus and False Creek Ferries?

Two competing passenger ferry empires, one famously unswimmable body of water: who will rule?

I’ve personally never done it, but if pop culture is any indication, avenging your father is a time-honoured tradition. (I prefer to use my free time to work on my badminton serve—to each their own.)

From to Hamlet to the animated Lion King to the live-action Lion King, protecting Dad’s legacy is a classic narrative trope—one that you can witness in real life in Vancouver, among the beautiful, filthy waves of False Creek. Is it

appropriate to say “drama alert” for a story that’s 40 years old? Let’s find out.

boy hasn’t fantasized about this special day?), Pratt just wasn’t ready for the commitment. Just a few years into the venture, he sold his shares to McInnis.

The ferry tale might’ve been over for the Pratt family—if his exit hadn’t opened up an opportunity for his son Jeff to take the (boat) wheel in his wake (water pun). Young Jeff and wife Margot picked up where ol’ Pops left off, opening up their own competing ferry service, called Aquabus, in 1985.

by Stacey McLachlan illustration by Ane Arzelus

False Creek Ferries started in 1981, running between Granville Island and a dock on the downtown side. It was the brainchild of Brian and Laura Beesley, who bravely believed that boats could transport people across the water. While the history books will remember their contributions to civic water transit, I’m going to need you to forget their names immediately because they sold the company in 1982 and will not continue to be part of this story.

The new owners of this fleet of four vessels were George McInnis and George Pratt, who believed that when it came to business, double the Georges might just mean double the profits. The duo petitioned the city to install docks along False Creek long before it became the bustling condotopia it is today. But while running a small private ferry service should’ve been a dream come true (what little

The two warring sea-transport families would go on to spur each other to new heights of scenic transit service. For commuters and weary passengers too bloated from sampling cheese at Granville Island Market to walk to Science World, the competition has turned out to be a blessing. Aquabus operates 14 rainbow-clad vehicles; False Creek Ferries has grown its own fleet to 17 vessels over the years. Both companies have vessels designed by naval architect Jay Benford, both depart every five to 15 minutes, both share docks. Very contentious stuff, obviously.

While the companies hit many of the same stops on their routes, FCF and Aquabus have some important distinctions. False Creek Ferries goes a little bit farther, venturing to westward docks at Vanier Park and the West End’s Aquatic Centre. Though Aquabus’s routes are fewer, all of its vessels can handle bikes, wheelchairs and strollers. You can remember the difference with this easy rhyme: If it’s Bard on the Beach you seek, take a False Creek Ferry, you geek. If you want to support a Daddy’s boy, the Aquabus will bring you joy.

DESIGN A KITCHEN THAT WORKS FOR REAL LIFE

Smart kitchen design is all about the details. Built-in inserts keep everything in its place. A hidden coffee bar simplifies your morning routine. Thoughtfully chosen finishes bring warmth and sophistication together, like slim Ethos doors in natural-stained solid walnut paired with warm brass hardware. This Merit Kitchens space shows that beauty and function belong together.

OPEN HOUSE

By the Editors |

Step inside the inspiring personal hideaways, sculpture workshops and custom kitchens where our favourite Vancouver creatives do their best tinkering, thinking and birthday-cake baking.

by Tanya Goehring

Photography

Home Body Herschel Supply Co.

co-founder Lyndon Cormack has filled his Deep Cove home office with finds from plenty of other Vancouver brands—like these quintessential Bocci lights.

LIVED-IN LA LA LAND

LHerschel Supply Co. co-founder Lyndon Cormack designs his Deep Cove home with entertaining in mind—complete with guest cabin.

By Kristi Alexandra

yndon Cormack is no stranger to entertaining—and apparently that runs in the family. The co-founder of Herschel Supply Co. warns us that the day before our shoot (at the mid-point of sweltering summer) his teen daughters had thrown a daytime dock party, “so things might be a bit messy.”

The home—by the way—is not at all “messy.” It’s tidy, but it’s also eclectic, and not lacking for personality. As Cormack would say, it’s lived-in. Bright pops of colour decorate the main house— hundreds upon hundreds of Bocci light fixtures, some hanging fibre art fixtures, brightly coloured rugs laid upon the slate tiles. The home is fashionable, and it’s functional. And we couldn’t expect any less from Cormack, who built

Working It

The home office, which is a separate structure just steps from his house and trailer, is an intentional escape. “It’s still close, but it lets me leave the house,” he says. “I built a fireplace in here. It is pretty amazing: a crackling wood fireplace. It’s all cozy and warm. When I get on Zoom calls, quite often people think I have a fake background.”

Well Worn Cormack ordered two matching 1970s leather chairs from 1stDibs, an online marketplace for luxury antiques and furniture. He wanted to make sure the chairs, which came from Italy, had already been well-loved. “I was drawn to the kind of patina that tells a story, something that already had a life before it landed here.”

All Aflame Fire is one of Cormack’s key motifs. “We burn through seven cords of wood a year,” he says. “We have fires on in the mornings and at night, and we burn lots of wood, and it’s just this house that is glowing with crackling wood all the time… I think that the nature part of me is like: start a little fire in the morning when the kids are getting ready for school. It’s kind of my ideal life.”

Shine a Light

Bocci light fixtures can be found in almost every corner of the house, and Cormack says there are more than 300 of the colourful bulbs at this point. It helps that Cormack is friends with Bocci founders Omer Arbel and Randy Bishop, the creative forces behind the lighting empire.

an entire brand around utility with style. “I mean, I’m very used to my own house,” Cormack laughs. “But when people come over it’s like—‘What is this place?’ There’s something about it that makes people stop.”

In fact, he’d loved the home years before he bought it from goldsmith Susan MacDonald—he’d been a guest at the annual Woodlands Regatta hosted on the property. The gathering has been going strong for more than 115 years in this small, forest-wrapped cove of around 80 homes. “[Susan] was very involved in the build,” Cormack says—the artist had added a welding studio and quirky, one-of-a-kind design flourishes throughout the home. “When I bought it, I saw artistry already embedded.”

So when Cormack purchased the home for his family 11 years ago, instead of gutting the space, he leaned into a concept he returns to often in design: layering. “I didn’t want to erase what was here,” he says. “I wanted to add to it.” That meant decor, but also expanding the property, like creating a cabinlike personal workspace and a homey guest trailer. “This might not be my house forever, but whoever owns it next will add their own layer. That’s what makes a space evolve.

Trailer Park Boy

What’s new on the sprawling four-acre property is the recently built guest and office area, anchored by a 1953 Spartanette trailer, once the most luxurious trailer you could buy, Cormack says. “Made by aircraft manufacturers after World War Two, it’s fascinating to see how that craftsmanship transitioned into something for everyday enjoyment,” says Cormack. His version now acts as a cozy, midcentury guest space, complete with—of course—architectural Bocci lighting in the bathroom, a lounge and sleeping quarters.

Rinse and Repeat

“I love design rigour,” Cormack says. “If you love a material, use it. Repeat it. It creates familiarity.” Clear cedar wraps not only the decks surrounding the trailer, but also the sauna, ceramic studio and, partially, the fences. The effect: a unified identity that makes this multi-structure property feel whole.

THE DEEP COVE DIARIES

Being in close proximity to Deep Cove is certainly a plus for Lyndon Cormack, whose waterfront abode connects easily to the main strip of the town. A bonus? He doesn’t even have to drive to get there. He just jumps on his boat from the 1,600-square-foot deepwater dock and heads “downtown.”

A’HOY

Admittedly, Cormack is a co-owner of the building that houses A’hoy, and it’s another spot where he shows off his excellent taste. “We sell everything from Pendleton towels to Aesop soap,” he says. You’ll also find table and homeware, decor and, of course, some Herschel Supply Co. goods. 4391 Gallant Ave., ahoygoods.com

HONEY’S

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. This buzzy, homey café serving up housemade brunch and lunch (or even simple coffee and doughnuts to go) has been a Deep Cove neighbourhood staple since 1996, and Cormack has found himself here more than a few times—often stuck in the lineup out the door. Locals know it’s worth the wait. 4373 Gallant Ave., honeydoughnuts.com

DIP CO. SANDWICH

You won’t find a better (or more “monster”) lunch in the Lower Mainland, and Cormack is a fan of these hefty Italian-style sandwiches. Sure, they might run you up to $20, but the Delicioco (Italian mortadella and Florence salami, ricotta cheese sauce and greens) is just the beginning of this stacked menu. 4381 Gallant Ave., dip-co.ca

LANGUAGE ARTS

Sculptor Marie Khouri speaks Arabic, French, Spanish, Italian and English, but her art-filled Kerrisdale home is beyond definition in any dictionary.

By Alyssa Hirose

If you’re lucky enough to explore the gallery-like home of Marie Khouri— watching natural light dance across pristine marble sculptures, exploring the wiry floral wall hangings and intricate charcoal topographies of her Middle Eastern hometown—you might assume that the artist herself is just as perpetually polished. But tiptoe down the basement steps and you’re likely to find Khouri in all her steampunk glory: outfitted in a gas mask, taking a blowtorch to a molten piece of bronze, surrounded by shards of offcuts, bits of Styrofoam, hacksaws and duct tape. Her well-worn overalls are coated in drips of hardened wax from casting models, and she admits to constantly shedding like a candle as she buzzes around her workspace.

Because, while her work is beautiful, meaningful and meditative, Khouri is hardly precious about it. She jokes about her first career as a translator after growing up in a multilingual family (“I was lazy; I picked a career that just came into my hands as I was born”) and is similarly lighthearted about her

Even Khouri’s large public works have a hand-formed vibe, and she demonstrates why by holding a tiny model: each curve nestles neatly into the line of her thumb or the shape of her palm. When those little clay models eventually become giant works of marble, her handiwork is still felt throughout.

Personal Touch

Say the Word

Her work I Love has lived in the Vancouver Art Gallery, Egypt and Paris, but the reference model (Let’s Sit and Talk) lives at home with Khouri. Arabic letters spell out the piece’s name, and call back to Khouri’s time working as an interpreter. “I’ve really done full circle in my life in the sense that I’ve gone back to words and to writing, to alphabet,” she says.

brief foray into drawing (“the teacher literally took me by the hand and said I should try sculpting”). She’s lived in this Kerrisdale house for two decades, and still remembers her family’s first impression: “It just felt like home the moment we walked in.” Now, with intentional spaces for Khouri’s favourite works and worksin-progress, it’s a living love letter to her artistic career—and the beating heart, naturally, is the shadowy, intimate basement studio teeming with clay and metal and glass. “It’s a space of deep solitude and creative intensity, where time seems to bend and focus sharpens,” she says. The giant ant figure that looms over her right shoulder is, of course, “a reminder to work hard.”

Model Behaviour

One wall of Khouri’s basement pays tribute to small-scale models of her public works of art, many of which have permanent homes in and around Vancouver (the mast-like Nautika is in Olympic Village and Cascade City—which looks like two distinct stainless steel figures when viewed from different angles—is in Richmond).

Looking Sharp Khouri’s topographical charcoal works serve as a memory project, mapping out meaningful places in her life. In each one you can find a signature single nugget of bronze shining out from the craggy black surface.

The Great Outdoors Khouri says creating public art is like “using the cityscape as your gallery.” Works like Les Fleurs du Mal (inspired by the deconstructed petals of flowers) complement the natural environment while making a bold visual statement.

Puzzle Out

This work, MiKado, is composed of strips of bronze over a black mirror and may defy the old-school “don’t touch the art” rule: the pieces can be moved around and reconfigured.

(Carefully, obviously— this is a Jenga tower you don’t want to tumble.)

ART OF GOLD

5 tips for collecting art from artist Marie Khouri 1

Learn About the Artist

Take time to research the artist’s background and creative path. Understanding their story will deepen your appreciation and help you see why their work connects with you.

Look for Rarity and Quality Seek out rare works or small editions—these often hold or increase their value over time. But remember: rarity alone isn’t enough; the work should also feel meaningful to you.

3 Never Buy Just to Match the Couch Avoid choosing art only because it complements your decor. Great art can transform a space on its own terms, not just blend in.

Buy from Reliable Sources

Purchase art from reputable galleries, established dealers or directly from the artist. This ensures authenticity and supports the creative community.

5 Buy What Speaks to You Don’t feel pressured to follow trends or buy something just because it’s fashionable. Trust your instincts—if a piece moves you, that’s reason enough to bring it into your home.

SMALL WONDER

Well Loved

The Brazilian modernist armchair is another vintage find, very much in line with Saksun’s warm, casual work.

“I don’t love that showroom feeling.

And the people I work with don’t love that either.

And that’s why we find each other. We love things that are lived in a little bit,” she says.

At home in Railtown with designer Claire Saksun, in the centre of all the action.

By Stacey McLachlan

As the third train of the morning blitzes down the track under her window, designer Claire Saksun barely reacts. After two years of living in her compact and charming Railtown townhouse, she doesn’t notice the clanging of the engine anymore. “Sometimes it feels like The Busy World of Richard Scarry over here, between the trains and the sea planes and the cranes out there,” she says with a laugh, gesturing to the views of the North Shore Mountains and the bustling docks. “It’s every form of transportation you can think of.”

Despite all the excitement out the window, the interior of this angular, oddball townhouse has been programmed by Saksun, who has her master’s in architecture, and partner Ryley Zucca (a wine importer who also studied architecture) to be a hub of calm and comfort. The fact that two designers live here is apropos: the block was developed years ago by a group of UBC architecture

Dine Time

A huge mortar and pestle (“A cacio e pepe machine— we mostly just use it to grind peppercorns,” Saksun jokes) sits on a wooden countertop that acts as both an extension of the counterspace and a table come dinnertime. “We really debated when we were programming the space: do we prioritize the dining space, or the living space?” says the designer, who loves to host. Ultimately, they made the kitchen and living area the stars of the show, choosing a table just big enough to accommodate four stools for a “snacky, intimate dinner.” The rooftop patio is now the spot for bigger dinner parties, with room for a long table alongside the couple’s plant pots.

Sense of Shelf

Saksun reached out to the woodworker who did Main Street’s beautiful Cultivate Tea shop to build a custom shelf for the space. “I sent him really rudimentary drawings; he gave me no feedback, and just showed up to install it and was like, ‘It’s done!’” she says with a laugh.

Sparkle and Shine

Windows in the kitchen display a collection of vessels: plates from Vancouver ceramicist Janaki Larsen, bottles from Paris. “They catch the light later in the day and refract patterns all over the kitchen,” says Saksun. Some of the bowls were made by Saksun herself: “I’m extroverted but I hit a breaking point where I just need a solitary craft.”

Give Me a Hand

“We like peculiar objects,” says Saksun. “Things with a story.” This hand chair (and a matching foot seat across the room) were discovered at a local shop called Visitor Goods. “The lore is that someone on Vancouver Island carved them with a chainsaw. So that’s what we’re going with.”

This chunk of rock and concrete was snatched from Saksun’s first construction site. “It’s such a stereotypical architect thing to do,” she says. “But the first time you go to a site and there’s a giant hole in the ground and 18 people building that thing you drew... you want to take a rock.”

professors as an academic project— developers had deemed the site too awkward—so each unit is unique, ambitious and the diametric opposite of the cookie-cutter condos found elsewhere downtown. The couple’s own four-storey home, for instance, is technically 1,184 square feet—but 484 of those are staircases. “It’s a really small footprint, but there are so many little nooks around here,” Saksun explains. “We have two window seats and two balconies and it feels like the biggest place I’ve ever lived.”

As you trek up to the living room from the landing, there are enough stairs to give you a bit of a thigh burn. The hike is worth it: you can scope out how Saksun and Zucca have optimized every one of those nooks, and how they’ve programmed the living space, pictured here, to feel downright ample (with enough room for a surprisingly chic play tower for their two cats, Gia and Hector). The couple renovated the kitchen when they first moved in—sleek charcoal-coloured cabinets pair with a beautiful soapstone counter, complete with a hidden coffee niche that perfectly fits the grinder—and they continue to chip away at other improvements piece by piece. “Renovations are never done. That’s what I’m learning,” says Saksun. “But isn’t that life? To never be done?”

Case Saksun’s mother is an artist. She normally sticks to painting, but recently she took up basketweaving—an early attempt sits on the floating Util credenza. The rug that hangs on the wall above is a gift from Zucca’s dad, who is an avid rug collector. (The one under the coffee table is also a pick from Dad.)

THINK SMALL

How

designer Claire Saksun makes the most of a small footprint.

Design for Your Lifestyle

“Awkward layouts are all about creating priorities that are specific to you because you can’t have it all in a small space,” advises Saksun. Is watching TV important to you, or having a gathering space? When you arrange your space in a way that focuses on the daily activities most central to your life, your home will work better for you.

Use Your Vertical Space

“We keep a light step stool under the sink and it is always coming out,” says Saksun. Keep your “once a week or less” items in your tallest cupboards, but don’t be afraid to use those spaces.

Mix and Match Storage

A combo of open and closed storage helps keep things visually interesting but also practical. “It’s not realistic to imagine that every object will be put away after use, so making sure that the ones you use most often have a deliberate place to sit out that doesn’t bother you is important,” advises Saksun.

Anchor Your Space

Items with more visual weight or noise can anchor the room and draw the eye, says Saksun—but it’s important that those pieces are multifunctional, too. “For us, that’s our big glass coffee table. It’s the heart of the room: we arrange all the chairs around it, it holds books and plants, we work on it during the day, and sometimes even eat at it. Having one piece that can flex between roles keeps things fluid and stops the space from getting cluttered with too many single-use items.”

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From the editors of magazine

Two weddings over one weekend offered creative couple Rebekah Ho and Josh Romyn a chance to have it all.

AS NICE

by CAROLINE MITCHELL

photos by JENAE SOMEDAYS

Yes, Rebekah Ho happens to be Vancouver magazine’s digital marketing manager—but we’re featuring her perfectly personal wedding for nonnepo-baby reasons, promise. She and her now-husband, comedian and Birds and the Beets manager Josh Romyn, tied the knot two years ago with two beautifully curated, deeply personal ceremonies that have us jealous we didn’t know her yet.

So consider this a chance for us all—readers and editors alike—to vicariously enjoy each of the little details that made the couple’s Vancouver-based celebration of love so unique. Over one weekend, they celebrated with their creative friend group at the enchanting Cecil Green Park House and also honoured Ho’s Chinese heritage with a tea ceremony at Grand Crystal Seafood Restaurant, surrounded by family. Here’s how the couple pulled off two uniquely beautiful days with minimal drama. (“Make sure to mention I wasn’t a bridezilla at all,” jokes Ho.)

ONE STOP SHOP Cecil Green House was the ideal venue for Ho and Romyn’s more personalized wedding day because it let them do everything under one roof. “I wanted my wedding to be my perfect day, which meant not waking up early and not spending any time in a car,” says Ho. “I just wanted to maximize time to hang out with people.” They got ready there, did their ceremony and photos outdoors and had the reception indoors.

TASTEFUL TOUCHES The couple rented decor from Bespoke to decorate the tables; the company also provided furniture for a lounge in the sunroom (that just so happened to make for a beautiful photo op). Haneu Haneu created custom vessels for the flowers from Petal Talk . “I wanted to them to be functional beyond just being vases,” says Ho. She and Romyn still use them as dishes and catchalls at home.

c COLOUR STORY The bridal party was given a colour palette, and each chose their own look. Rust reds, mustard yellows and tans brought a ’70s vibe to the group. Graphic designer and friend Ollie Warman did the “branding” for the day with a retro-cool vibe to match.

cLIVING MEMORY Ho’s veil was from Etsy, and is dotted with little pearls. She also wore some of her late mother’s jewellery, like a pearl necklace. Mom was also commemorated by a reserved seat at the ceremony, where Ho placed one of her dresses.

TIE ONE ON Romyn carefully thrifted the pieces for his looks from Burcu’s Angels and Woo Vintage, though he couldn’t quite find the “fat tie” he had in mind. A friend volunteered to sew one for him— dropping it off on their lawn out the car window as she zoomed to another event. Romyn’s shoes were from Solovair.

cPLAYING DRESS UP Ho had a total of three outfits for the Cecil wedding: the drapey Aesling dress for the ceremony was from Lovenote, with shoes from Alohas; her fitted reception dress was a vintage Vera Wang, sourced online from Montreal store Singulier; during the dance party, she slipped into a look from In the Mood for Love. “I wanted something sparkly and fun, something that felt like a party.”

THE TAKEAWAY There were sandalwood-scented Wicked Wax candles on every table and throughout the venue, giving the event a signature scent. Every guest took home their own candle as a thank-you gift.

FILM CREW In lieu of a photo booth, they put disposable cameras out on the tables, despite what they’d heard about the film often not turning out well. “Even the bad photos are good because they’re capturing the vibe. I loved developing these and seeing everyone’s moments because there’s so much you don’t get to be a part of in your wedding,” says Ho.

ccGLITZ AND GLAMOUR Vancouver jewellery designer Kara Yoo made matching wedding bands for the couple: two chains to symbolize how they’re linked together. Her engagement ring, meanwhile, was from Era design, and his was from Mondo Mondo. Ho’s earrings were from Ora-C, while the necklace was from Melanie Auld . Ho’s makeup was done by Iki Lee, with hair by Dylan Beatch

c IT TAKES TWO Dual ceremonies allowed everyone to get what they wanted out of the weekend. “I heard from a lot of people that the most stressful part of wedding planning is everyone’s input, so I decided to have a separate day for my dad to invite all the people he wanted,” laughs Ho. “But it was so nice to see so many people there for me and showing up because they really love him. It was really fun.” Her red dress is from Ochi Chinese Fashion in Chinatown; Romyn’s outfit is from Etsy

SWEET TOUCH When Ho and Romyn first met, she was working at an ice cream shop and he was a barista—so affogatos (espresso over ice cream) seemed like the ideal dessert to serve guests at their wedding to commemorate their union. The venue had some strict rules about which food vendors were allowed, but Ho wanted La Glace to be there so badly they decided to pay extra to make it happen. “It was my hill to die on,” she laughs. (Lalo-Li-Pop made their Hong Kong milk-tea wedding cake.)

(GRAND CRYSTAL PHOTO) NATALIE YOUNG

SUIT UP

Vancouver’s top tailors have spoken: it’s time to break out the classic looks and earth tones this season. by XIAO QING WAN

THE LOOK

1 KEEPING IT CLASSIC

PROS SAY: “Fall is a time where classic formal attire looks the best,” says Zahir Rajani, CEO and co-creative director at the Sartorial Shop. “Think about looking back at your pictures in 10 to 15 years— pick something you know you’ll be happy looking back at.”

WEAR IT: A traditional black suit with a bow tie, or even a tux, heats things up at a winter wedding.

THE LOOK

2 ONE WITH NATURE

PROS SAY: “Nature is always at the forefront of a fall wedding,” says Michael Mahood, owner of Martin Fisher Tailors. “Lean into the fall colours and the rich palette—cohesion in design is always important, and even more so in the case of a fall wedding.”

WEAR IT: Forest green or rust-coloured suits look just right in a rustic setting.

THE LOOK

3 CONTRAST IS KEY

PROS SAY: “For grooms getting married at garden-like venues, variations of cream, tan and beige have also been highly in demand,” notes Will Chen, senior stylist at Surmesur Custom Menswear.

WEAR IT: Warm up the winter with chic shades of white.

THE LOOK

4 MAKE A STATEMENT

PROS SAY: “Fall wedding outfits offer a unique opportunity to play with colour, layers and texture,” says Pat Cocco, master tailor at Seville Tailors. “A heavier weighted fabric, varying tones of colour and interesting textures can all play into a statement outfit for your wedding.”

WEAR IT: Velvet, flannel or tweed suits bring a little drama to the ceremony, if you dare.

THE LOOK

5 ACCESSORIZING IN

STYLE

PROS SAY: “Classic accessories like cummerbunds, tuxedo placket studs and suspenders are making a stylish comeback,” says Chen. “For those who want to add a touch of individuality, neckwear crafted from textured materials like wool or Shantung silk is a must.”

WEAR IT: Take a look to the next level with stylish accessories.

THE LOOK

6 CROWN JEWEL

PROS SAY: “With jewel tones and textured fabrics trending for fall and winter, groomsmen are looking to make bold statements with their suits,” says Cocco. WEAR IT: Rich ruby and emerald tones are ideal for the cooler months.

THE LOOK

7 DRESSED TO MOVE

PROS SAY: “Fit and comfort are key,” says Danny Bassi, founder of Modello Bespoke. “You want something that moves with you throughout the day—from ceremony to late-night dancing.”

WEAR IT: A breathable, structured fabric in a proper cut will always serve better than something light and flimsy. 2

LOVE AT FIRST BITE

Consider these inventive wedding cake trends for a celebratory dessert that takes the you-know-what. by

ANJINI SNAPE

Awedding cake is more than a simple post-ceremony dessert. It’s a focal point in your reception hall. It’s an Instagrammable photo-op. It’s literally all we are thinking about as you exchange your vows. (Love is beautiful, but so is contemplating whether we’re about to be digging into chocolate buttercream or red velvet.) If you’re ready to surprise your guests—and delight your own palate—with a wedding cake that wows, here are trending tastes to try, according to six of Vancouver’s busiest bakers.

KEEP THE SHAPE CLASSIC

Old is new again, it seems: Tanya Muller, owner and pastry chef at Le Gateau Bakeshop, says the vintage cake, a popular trend, is bound to impress. “The vintage Lambeth style—with its ornate piping and classic feel—is still going strong.”

…OR GO TOTALLY MODERN

On the other hand, more modern, abstract minimalist cakes are standing out, too. Eleanor Chow Waterfall, chef and owner at Cadeaux Bakery, is seeing couples go for “eclectic looking cakes of varying shapes and sizes,” giving a prize-worthy twist to the traditional tiered tower.

EMBRACE COZY FLAVOURS

The colder months have us craving flavours that are warm and comforting—think rich chocolate, pumpkin spice, cardamom and cinnamon. Momo Chen, owner and principal designer of Momo Chen Cakes, puts a unique spin on the

trend by “infusing traditional seasonal flavours with a distinctly Asian-inspired twist,” like brown sugar, black sesame, chestnut, milk tea and hojicha.

…AND MOODY HUES, TOO

Wintery whites aren’t totally melting away: soft, snowy tones are sticking around as a classic frosty frosting choice. But there’s room in a winter wedding to get a little cozy, too. Cassandra Curtis, owner of Cassandra Cake Co., describes the colour palettes of fall and winter wedding cakes as “cashmere sweaters,” as opposed to “spring and summer’s breezy sundresses.” Shades of burgundy, navy, forest green and magenta (staples of any autumn wedding Pinterest board) are weaving their way onto cakes.

TAKE IT NEXT-LEVEL WITH TEXTURE

Clear sugar flowers are having their moment this year. The glassy flowers give wedding cakes a “winter wonderland vibe,” says Behnaz Shafiee, chef, owner and lead designer of Joconde Cakes. “The clear

translucent flowers are reminiscent of ice and freezing temperatures.” To expand on the snowy forest look, many bakers are also incorporating woodgrain or bark textures into their designs.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN

Trends aside: the most important part of a wedding cake, of course, is that you actually like it. Each wedding cake baker encourages couples to choose a cake they love, no matter the month or the current trends. Dalana Fleming, owner of The Cake and The Giraffe, suggests following your heart (and taste buds). “If it’s a chilly December day but you love passionfruit... go for it,” she says. Despite all speculation coming from guests in the back row, it is your wedding cake after all. And sticking to your own style is always on trend.

TASTE

This month, we’re celebrating the city’s Mexican restaurant boom the only way we know how: by planning a week’s worth of taco parties. Still hungry after seven days of feasting on tasty tortillas? Read up on a must-visit food fest, your new favourite brunch dish, the best bottles for fall and everything else that’s filling us up.

Taco Party! Chicken mole and rajas con crema tacos pair perfectly with a hibiscus-and-mezcal cocktail at El Compa.

1 Monday Top-Notch Takeout from Machete

Taco ’Bout a Good Time

We’re serving up seven days of unbridled taco love. by Dani Wright

Sure, Taco Tuesday is iconic (alliteration alert!), but Vancouver’s taco scene is so hot right now that a single weekday simply won’t do. We have enough excellent Mexican options around town these days to create at least a week’s worth of very delicious dinner options. And, here, we’ve done just that—get ready to add Taco Monday, Taco Wednesday and all the rest of the days to your culinary calendar.

The slog of Mondays means we’re less interested in going “out out” and more interested in eating something that makes us feel nourished... while sitting on the couch and watching reruns of Island. For this, turn to Machete Ancestral Mexican Food, where the dishes feel healthy, the delicate blue corn tortillas are handmade and you can pick it up to take home. The pumpkin flower and chorizo tacos stand out among the regular offerings thanks to a balance of fillings and toppings (the red salsa is a must), but the tacos de canasta (basket tacos) are the secret star of the show. The popular Mexican street food features four tacos that are all steamed together, resulting in a softer texture. Machete’s version is filled with either chicharrón prensado or beans and topped with lettuce, cilantro, white onion, sour cream, cheese and guacamole. Also, do not skip the fresas con crema (strawberries and cream) for dessert—it’s one of the few places in the city that serves this traditional treat. 1007 Main St. | @machete.mhf

2 Tuesday

Pop-Up Al Pastor from Taqueria Chicatana

Taco Tuesday deserves the best, which is why on that classic day I’m heading to

Taqueria Chicatana, a pop-up taco bar that operates out of Chinatown’s beloved pizza joint, Thank You Pizza. The al pastor taco was number 20 on our list of 25 things to eat in Vancouver in 2025—and we stand by the claim that these handhelds are a do-not-miss delight. Achiote-seasoned pork and pineapple are piled high on a traditional spinning trompo and then sliced off once it’s just charred enough. When topped with onions, cilantro and avocado salsa it becomes a masterful example of salty-savoury-sweet-spicy perfection. 789 Gore Ave. | @taqueriachicatana

3 Wednesday

Beachside Birria from Jalisco

The West End’s Taqueria Jalisco opened its doors in summer 2024 and quickly gained a reputation for vibrant Mexican fare. The space is casual, but the tacos (and quesadillas, soups and burritos) are authentic and bursting with flavour—just what the middle of the week calls for. Do not miss the “Golden Taco”: a corn tortilla

stuffed with either carnitas, veggies or the best birria in town and then griddled until crisp and topped with white onion and cilantro. It’s made even better by ordering a side of birria consommé to dip into. 1180 Denman St. | @taqueriajaliscoo

4 Thursday

Cocktails and Chicken Mole at El Compa

Thursday night calls for a cocktail alongside tacos (we don’t make the rules! We just

Chupito

Chicatana

follow them!) which makes East Van’s newest Mexican restaurant, El Compa, the ideal location for libations and exquisite food. Pair a richly savoury pollo con mole (chicken mole) taco with the sweet-yet-floral “Mystico” (hibiscus and mezcal) or the subtle-yet-peppery rajas con crema (poblano peppers with cream) taco with a bright and spicy jalapeno margarita. The salsas and sides should not be overlooked, either: salsa macha here is fantastic, and the refried beans are luxuriously creamy. 1889 Powell St. | elcompayvr.com

5 Friday

Patio Party at Chupito

The original Chupito became a Gastown institution (and Michelin Bib Gourmand winner!) post lockdown, beloved as much for the hidden DTES outdoor patio as it was for its excellent cocktails. With its move to South Cambie, the patio party carries on next to La Taqueria, with inventive drinks from Vanmag ’s Bartender of the Year (and Chupito co-owner), Tara Davies, and a seafoodforward menu from chef Maria Ponce. Start with creamy, zesty ceviche de coco and

wash it all down with a La Punta (mezcal, ancho reyes poblano, ginger tepache, lime and sage), and then it’s time for the main event: whole fried sea bream with sofrito, salsas negros and chipotle, served with garlic aioli, mango xnipec—a fresh Yucatán-style salsa—and corn tortillas. More cocktails should follow, obviously: a taco this good deserves to be toasted. 2450 Yukon St. | chupito.ca

6 Saturday Combat the Hangover at Baja

Racing

Saturday is for good vibes...

and possibly nursing a hangover from a little too much fun on the Chupito patio the night before. That’s where Baja Racing comes in. The cure for what ails you is, of course, more tacos, and alongside the authentic Baja Sur-style fish and shrimp options you’ll find a jovial crowd watching a soccer game or live music. Tacos here are just what the doctor ordered: fresh, crisp (but light as air) and topped with a creamy, crunchy slaw—all on a house-made tortilla. If you’re not quite ready for another taco just yet, they serve up some mean “hangover remedy” beverages, too. Made with Clamato, salsas and tequila, they make for a great alternative to caesars. 3364 Cambie St. | bajaracingsportsbarbc.com

7 Sunday

Taco Brunch at Ophelia

Sunday brunch is meant for luxuriating, and Ophelia is the ideal place to fend off the “scaries” and indulge a little. The brunch menu features many taco options, but the best of the bunch is the taco de arrachera y bone marrow. A soft and pliable flour tortilla is griddled with cheddar cheese until crispy and then topped with tender grilled skirt steak, cilantro, creamyyet-spicy serrano aioli and a massive roasted bone packed with marrow. But if making decisions feels like more of a Monday thing, the trio de tacos means you can try carnitas, cochinita pibil and al pastor without having to turn on your analytical brain. 165 W 2nd Ave. | opheliakitchen.ca

Ophelia

Taqueria Jalisco

Machete

Baja Racing

Paradise Found

What makes a Maui dream vacation even dreamier? A beachside food festival, of course. by Stacey

The sunset makes the sky look like a melting Creamsicle, turquoise water sparkling below. Palm trees shimmy in the soft, warm breeze alongside softly flickering tiki torches. I can’t see any, but there are definitely sea turtles lounging somewhere along the meandering Kā‘anapali Beach boardwalk, chilling out to the sound of a Bruno Mars song being tickled out on a ukulele by some random musician. It’s pretty much postcard perfect, but I have to admit, there’s one little thing that could make this idyllic Maui night better: fresh Hokkaido scallops in a zippy herbal citrus jus hand-plated by a James Beard-award winning chef. I’m just a simple girl with simple needs, really. Thankfully, I’m in the right place to make this indulgent dream come true— specifically, the line in front of chef Roy

Yamaguchi’s tent on the great lawn at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa, where a sprawling raw bar awaits. And when I’ve had my fill of snacking on fresh seafood while soaking up the ocean views, I’ll move on to one of the many other delicious options here at the Grand Tasting night of Maui’s Hawaii Food and Wine Festival. There’s fennel seed-crusted ahi tuna to my left, crispy French toast topped with chive crème fraîche and golden caviar to my right. I’m still a little bit sandy from my earlier excursion to Kū’au Beach Park down the road, and yet I’m about to spend an evening sampling my way through dishes from some of North America’s most impressive fine dining stars. Have there ever been this many Michelin-star chefs on one island? Is it safe to concentrate this much culinary talent in one spot with

McLachlan

so many sharks and volcanos nearby? Good thing I put in some serious time snorkelling this afternoon—I’m going to need my appetite.

Each fall, acclaimed chefs and mixologists head to Hawaii to strut their stuff (and catch a few waves between services) over three weekends across the islands. I’m here to check out Maui’s verytasty itinerary, and I’m not the only one at the festival who calls this island their fave.

Chef Celestino Drago from the acclaimed Drago Centro in L.A. tells me he’s made the pilgrimage 14 times, and Last Chef Standing winner Marcel Vigneron considers the island his second home. It’s not hard to see why these all-star chefs would jump at the chance to participate: firing up the grill alongside their best culinary buddies on one of the most

THE DEETS

The 15th annual Hawaii Food and Wine Festival runs October 24 to 26 in Maui; hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com

beautiful beachfronts in North America doesn’t exactly sound like a tough day on the job. (Plus, sportier attendees and chefs can sign up for the annual golf and pickleball tournaments that are also part of the fest.)

Maui certainly isn’t lacking for food options outside of the festival weekend, of course. Beyond the ubiquitous coconut shrimp and mai tais (though I’ve certainly happily consumed plenty of both since touching down), you’ll find top-notch dining peppered among more touristy spots down the Kā‘anapali

Beach walkway—wood-fired pizzas at Monkeypod; seafood-forward, Asian fusion at Japengo. But the festival’s Saturday night grand tasting offers an extra-special opportunity for food-loving beach bums—myself very much included. As dusk turns to night and the string lights and stars trade off with the sun

Hope You’re Hungry

(Clockwise from far left) The 2024 Hawaii Food and Wine Festival at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa; the festival grounds; steaks being grilled; braised pork shoulder all’arrabbiata by chef Angela Tamura; chef Ori Menashe bringing the heat; chef Celestino Drago; chef Roy Yamaguchi’s raw bar; grilled Caledonian prawns by chef Ori Menashe.

to light up the scene, I weave through revellers, each of them glowing from happiness and heat. Most are holding a glass of crisp Italian white in one hand and a mini plate of beef agnolotti from chef Michele Belotti of San Francisco’s Riccilli in the other: a balancing act I can get behind. Inspired, I detour for a fizzy gimlet—gotta stay hydrated!—before grabbing Caledonian prawns from the grill (chef Ori Menashe is heating things up over the coals). Hands full, I contemplate how lucky I am to experience such a beautiful feast in such a beautiful place. I don’t need to remind anyone about how the world shut down in 2020, but that hasn’t been the only time that travel to Maui has been uncertain lately: in 2023, wildfires; in 2025, a trade war. Even in paradise, I know nothing is guaranteed— so I’m taking every bite here, steps away from the sand, with an extra serving of gratitude right now.

It’s a sentiment I see among my fellow over-eaters the next afternoon, too,

Meat You Out Back

(Clockwise from top left) The Backcourt BBQ at the Royal Lahaina heats up; the impressive Bloody Mary bar; chef Timon Balloo; tender lamb kofta gyro; food comes hot from the grill here.

STAY HERE

FOR THE PERFECT POOL

The Westin

The Westin’s pool is, in our humble opinion, the best on the Kā‘anapali strip (multiple waterslides and a grotto to please both kids and the young-at-heart), and it’s within walking distance of all of the festival’s events. Crazy comfy beds are the best for food-coma naps and too-much-sun siestas alike. Rooms from $540 USD. marriott.com

FOR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOME BASE

The Whaler Resort

With a full kitchen and suites with multiple rooms, the Whaler is a comfortable home base if you’re travelling with a crew. It’s not the fanciest spot on the block, but it’s clean, cozy and stocked with all the home-away-from-home essentials—including in-suite laundry. Two-bedroom suites start from $829 USD a night. thewhalerresort.com

down at the historic Royal Lahaina. The chefs have rolled out of bed and over to the grill for Sunday’s big Backcourt BBQ brunch on the grass behind the charming bungalow suites.

Despite the late night on Saturday, they’re all laughing and smiling—hard not to when the soundtrack is crashing waves and reggae, I suppose. Though everyone’s got their sunglasses on (sun safety is a must, even for the most dedicated gourmands), I can tell from the lower half of their faces that they’re all just as thrilled to be here as I am. We’re sampling truly

incredible lamb kofta gyro and Koreanstyle tuna tataki in one of the world’s most stunning locations, after all: if there’s a better prompt to be mindful and present and grateful, I’m not sure what it is.

I visit chef Timon Balloo (chef/owner at the Katherine in Fort Lauderdale),

who’s grilling up oysters and topping them with wild mushrooms and yuzu shoyu, and then hit the Bloody Mary bar to overdo it with garnishes (double prawns? Don’t mind if I do!). Smoke and spice catch in the tropical breezes that waft through the buzzing crowd. This is the good life.

Belly full of mahi mahi, I’ll eventually return to the usual Maui activities: snorkelling, sandcastles, poolside beers, accidental sunburns, day trips to finally see those sea turtles with my own eyes. But even once I’m back home in Vancouver I have a feeling that this has been a meal—no, an experience—that’s going to fill me up for a long time.

BEST THING I ATE

by Stacey McLachlan

A HASHBROWN BY ANY OTHER NAME

I don’t mean to generalize, but the Greeks aren’t necessarily known for their brunch—in North America at least. (True, there might be a wealth of Greek omelettes out there, but I’m talking about the full brunch experience combined with a fully Greek experience—and all on offer from 10 a.m.) But over in Hastings-Sunrise, Selene deftly proved to me that a Mediterranean morning meal can—and should— be embraced.

There’s plenty to love on the new brunch menu here (pistachio honey toast features whipped pistachio ganache and crunchy toasted coconut), but the star is—as it is in so many breakfasts in so many parts of the world—the potato. The dreamy patatokeftedes are a Greek take on the fritter, crispy on the outside but creamy on the inside thanks to a roux of kefalograviera cheese. Drag these beautiful bites through the bed of tangy tzatziki for maximum impact and ponder whether you’ll feel joy eating traditional hashbrowns ever again. My personal new brunch philosophy, at least, is that it’s all Greek to me. 360 Penticton St., seleneagn.com

Bring the Heat

Yes, you’ll find curries and tandoori here in the meticulously decorated Desi Indian Lounge , but the tasting menu at the downtown spot is where executive chef Bal Ajagaonkar (formerly of Sula) really shows his skill: think crispy beetroot croquettes, Karwari-style prawns nestled in the pleasant heat of a chili coriander sauce alongside fennel salad, and creamy chikoo panna cotta for dessert. desilounge.ca

Opened January 2025 | 1355 Hornby St.

La Dolce Vita Folietta is the newest sister restaurant to Maxine’s, Tableau and Homer St. Cafe, and the East Van room is an Italian dream. In the chic, wood-panelled bistro, find prosciutto and mozzarella tastings (!), handmade pasta (don’t miss the terrific trottole con agnello) and a feast of a ragu that serves four. Buon appetito! folietta.com

Opened June 2025 | 1480 Nanaimo St.

Caffeinated in Kits

The Instagram famous Cowdog coffee bar just opened its second location, and, as it turns out, the iconic strawberry matcha iced lattes delight the Kitsilano crowd as well. Go on a weekday to avoid lines and actually get a seat in the warm, minimalist room alongside the cool kids. cowdog.coffee

Opened May 2025 | 1927 W 4th Ave.

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THE WINE LIST

by Neal McLennan

Quails’

As it stands right now, you’re going to have a tough time getting a bottle of Russian River pinot from California, but this flagship bottle from Quails’ Gate makes a great substitute, ticking all the Cali boxes, with ripe cherries and notes of cola. There’s a vein of acidity here, though, that keeps exceptional balance going. It’s great now, but this wine has the structure to easily age a decade.

Superlative Subs

It’s been quite a year, no? Weather events, tariff turmoil, empty shelves... and that’s just the wine world. But let’s not dwell on all the chaos. It’s autumn, and the harvest is a time to reflect on our gratitude for all we do have, like an amazing, tenacious community of winemakers who are building something special here on home soil. Whatever’s going on out there in the world, at least we’ve got plenty of hometown heroes to turn to for a little pick-me-up. So with that in mind, we’re going all-Canadian with our picks this issue, featuring stellar, locally produced wines that sub in seamlessly for famed international bottles. Pour yourself a glass and let’s toast the fact that there’s still so much to be grateful for in our own backyard.

We have no boeuf with our French amis and their luxurious champagne, but we’re living in a golden time for B.C. bubbles. Case in point: this glorious bottle from Fort Berens, all chardonnay, all restrained elegance but with a mouthfeel and fine mousse (that’s the quality of those little bubbles) that will have you thinking of Reims (and loving that you saved $50, to boot).

2018, $41

No that’s not a typo—yes, this wine is from 2018, and yes, it’s only $41. In the past few years, Meyer has solidified its place as one of the elite chardonnay producers in B.C. and, vintage in, vintage out, there are never any duds. So if you like the flavour profile of a Pouilly Fuissé but the consistency (and price) of B.C., here you go. And they have a selection of library wines—like this one—on their site that is unprecedented in this province. Dive in now.

THE READ Three Cheers

When local bartender Kaitlyn Stewart won the Diageo World Class competition in 2017, she went from local luminary to international star overnight. Since then, she’s traversed the globe consulting on cocktail programs, and now we get the benefit of all these gigs in her new book Three Cheers, which takes 55 familiar drink recipes and gives you three different takes—classic, a new twist and a zero-proof option—to suit whatever shindig you’re throwing. Available October 7.

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Gate Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir 2022, $60

Fort Berens Blanc de Blanc 2022, $35

Meyer Family McLean Creek Road Chardonnay

How to Get Clothes Tailored

Industry experts give their best advice (read this if you don’t know a stitch about sewing). by Alyssa Hirose

Hemming and hawing over getting your pants tailored?

If you put the “stress” in seamstress, it’s best to seek help from sewists, designers and style experts. We asked Vancouverites Megan Bain (owner and tailor at Megan Bain Softgoods Design), Zahir Rajani (CEO and creative director of the Sartorial Shop) and Katelyn Woodburn (owner and designer at Street and Saddle) to iron out the details.

tailoring in mind, Rajani suggests paying special attention to the neck and shoulder areas, which are the most difficult to alter. “Likely, you won’t be able to do much,” he says.

Altering shouldn’t cost more than buying.

Know what good tailors are made of.

Woodburn advises scrolling through Google reviews when seeking a new tailor, and Rajani suggests asking lots of questions to evaluate if they’re a good listener. Bain recommends specialists: suit shops for suits, gown shops for formal wear, and so on.

Visit your tailor IRL for an accurate price estimate.

“We can’t quote a job based on a picture,” explains Bain. She notes that tailors need to see and feel the garment to determine how it’s constructed (and how much alterations will cost).

Think hard about irreversible changes. It can be stressful taking a treasured item to a stranger, and Rajani advises asking your tailor if it’s possible for the job to be undone: “If it can’t, opt for an outcome which allows you to have some room for error… baby steps are always best.”

A custom sleeve is great bang for your buck. The cost of tailoring varies widely depending on the project, but the insiders tell us that the perfect sleeve length is a costeffective alteration that can make a huge difference.

Neck and shoulders are tall orders.

If you’re considering purchasing an ill-fitting item with

“It’s never worth paying more for tailoring than you did for the garment itself,” says Rajani. Woodburn adds that cheap materials are tricky for sewists: “I would not recommend doing any costly alterations on fast fashion.”

sewist. Wool, cotton and linen all get a thumbs-up.

You might just alter your self-esteem.

Tailoring your clothes guarantees you a custom fit, and odds are, you’ll like what you see in the mirror. “Every body has a unique shape,” says Woodburn, “and getting clothing tailored to fit you can be a huge confidence booster.”

The Price of Perfection

Here’s how much average alterations will cost at your local tailor.

Taking in the waist of pants $30

…Unless you really love the piece.

Then again, clothes that are solidly made shouldn’t be counted out just because you got a great deal. “Paying $150 to make that $10 thrifted jacket into your new favourite go-to item is absolutely worthwhile,” says Woodburn. “Think about what this piece means to you, instead of how much you paid for it.”

Quality matters.

Our experts agree that natural, wellconstructed materials are the best candidates for tailoring—keep synthetics away from your

Replacing a jacket’s front zipper $60-$70

Replacing buttons $5-$10 a button

Hemming pants $15-$30

Tailoring a suit jacket $50$150