#VancouverRestaurants

Lumiere Cafe opening second Kitsilano location

Lumiere Cafe clearly has a fondness for West Broadway. Earlier this year, their first location celebrated its first birthday on West Broadway at Cambie Street. Now, they are already expanding to a second location, also on West Broadway.

Signs are up at 2815 West Broadway in Kitsilano, alerting the community to a new cafe opening soon. The original location is at 521 West Broadway.

Lumiere Cafe is a relative newcomer to the city’s coffee scene. They roast their own beans and offer a variety of baked goods and coffee shop fare. Their goal is to create “an elevated cafe experience” for customers. With warm weather incoming, they also provide a selection of iced options.

The coffee comes from various sources, while the food options include a fusion of typical, yet fancy, coffee shop items with Japanese influences. Their offerings range from chocolate to salted egg yolk croissants, hazelnut matcha cookies, sandwiches, and muffins.

Moreover, their beans are available for purchase, either for home brewing or wholesale. Previously, 2815 West Broadway displayed signs for a Thirstyyy convenience store that may not have ever opened. Prior to that, it was a Change Lingerie store.

The upcoming cafe aims to blend quality coffee with unique food options, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors. Transitioning from their first successful year at Cambie Street, Lumiere Cafe is set to make its mark in Kitsilano. Keep an eye out for the grand opening and prepare to enjoy their distinctive offerings. The new location promises to be a vibrant addition to the West Broadway scene, continuing the trend of excellence established by the original cafe.

As Lumiere Cafe expands, it brings a touch of sophistication and innovation to the coffee culture in Vancouver. Be sure to visit both locations and experience their exceptional coffee and delicious treats.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Fondue and Piano lounge opens in retro Kitsilano diner

Longtime Kitsilano breakfast and brunch spot Sunshine Diner now has an evening sibling. Inevitable Fondue and Piano Lounge opened in April, using the same space as the decades-old diner. Run by Jessica Pantsios and her husband, who has owned Sunshine for over 30 years, Inevitable introduces a new concept for the retro dining space. Fondue and Piano lounge.

“We turned the restaurant into a completely different platform. It’s a night-time vibe; it’s a completely different concept.” The concept, as the name suggests, features live piano performances each night Inevitable is open. The menu switches to small eats and fondue, both cheese and chocolate.

Previously, they tried opening Sunshine in the evenings, but Jessica says it was never successful for dinner service. Having enjoyed fondue in places like Whistler and noticing a lack of this warm, gooey Swiss dish in the city, they decided to pursue it. At the same time, there is a lack of live music in Kitsilano, Jessica notes.

Given that they both enjoy fondue and live music, and seeing an opening for something new in Kitsilano, they decided to create Inevitable as an evening counterpart to Sunshine.

“It’s this personal but unique and amazing experience we created together,” she says.

The name is personal, too. It comes from a comment Jessica made to her now-husband decades ago while they were dating.

“I told him it would be inevitable we would end up together,” she says, adding that they are married with two children.

They have partnered with local pianist Peter Tam on the music program. Sometimes he performs, and other times he organizes other performers. Fondue and Piano lounge.

Jessica says they have been surprisingly busy, though unevenly.

“We just want to make people happy and want them to come out,” she says.

Inevitable is open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each Thursday to Saturday at 2649 West Broadway.

Photo by angela pham on Unsplash

Kitsilano’s Best Patios

Kitsilano might be the best place to enjoy a patio in the summer, thanks to its proximity to the beach. Whether you want to take in ocean views or make a quick pit stop before heading to the shoreline, here are a few patios worth checking out in Kitsilano. Kitsilano’s Best Patios.

First, soak up the sun at Las Margaritas on the patio, which features some kitschy Mexican charm. While enjoying a slushy margarita, you can admire terracotta fixtures, blossoming flowers, and Mexican-inspired art. Plus, they offer one of Vancouver’s most extensive tequila menus.

Next, Romer’s Burger Bar on West Fourth is a must-visit. You can always tell when warm weather is coming because Romer’s starts to build out its patio. Impressively, they rebuild their patio every spring to utilize the parking lot next door. Need another reason to visit? This patio is famously dog-friendly.

Then, head to Chewies Smoke & Oyster Bar, a popular spot just a few blocks from the beach. Locals know Vancouver has a great selection of oyster bars, and Chewies is one of the best. Guests can enjoy freshly shucked oysters on the wrap-around patio for as low as $2 each during happy hour!

Additionally, the Boathouse is a Kitsilano staple, gloriously located right on the beach. Found on the second floor, the patio overlooks the shoreline, making it a great spot to watch folks stroll by, play beach volleyball, or take a cold plunge.

For a completely different vibe, visit Local, known for its casual beach atmosphere and famous oceanfront patio. Located across from Kitsilano Beach Park, this giant patio is a popular spot for group activities and lively evenings. Ski shots, mimosa towers, and party pitchers without glassware are just some of the fun options on the menu.

In conclusion, Kitsilano offers a variety of patios perfect for soaking up the summer sun and enjoying the beach atmosphere. Whether you prefer Mexican charm, dog-friendly spaces, fresh oysters, beach views, or lively group activities, Kitsilano has a patio for you. Kitsilano’s Best Patios.

Photo by Charlota Blunarova on Unsplash

Sneak peek inside The Pie Hole’s new Kitsilano location

Late last year, The Pie Hole announced it would close its Kitsilano location due to the landlord terminating the lease. Fortunately, the shop quickly found a new home just a few minutes’ drive from the original location. Now, as it gears up to open, we got an exclusive sneak peek inside. Sneak peek inside The Pie Hole’s new Kitsilano location.

Upon entering, the store’s interior bursts with retro flair. You’ll see old-school signs, neon lights, and a mural painted by owner Jenell Parsons. Furthermore, the decor exudes nostalgia, with much of the furniture recycled from previous storefronts. For instance, some countertops come from the now-closed Kitsilano location at 1864 W 4th Avenue, Vancouver. Additionally, some light fixtures hail from the original Fraser store. Consequently, these elements combine to create a brand-new store literally built from its previous locations.

Excitement fills the air as The Pie Hole prepares to open its doors on Sunday, April 21, at 9 am. To celebrate this special occasion, the first 100 customers will receive a free 4-inch pie with their purchase.

Moreover, the new location is ready to welcome pie lovers with its unique charm and delicious offerings. As you step inside, the retro vibe immediately transports you to a nostalgic era. Specifically, the vibrant neon lights and vintage signs create a warm and inviting atmosphere. One standout feature is the mural painted by owner Jenell Parsons, which adds a personal touch that reflects the shop’s character and creativity. Additionally, the recycled furniture and fixtures tell a story of the shop’s journey and commitment to sustainability.

The excitement continues with the grand opening celebration. Therefore, mark your calendars for Sunday, April 21, at 9 am. Arrive early to be among the first 100 customers and enjoy a free 4-inch pie with your purchase. This generous offer is a perfect way to start your day with a delicious treat from The Pie Hole.

In summary, The Pie Hole’s new location promises a delightful experience with its retro decor, recycled elements, and mouthwatering pies. Don’t miss the grand opening celebration and the chance to savour a free pie. Ultimately, The Pie Hole is ready to welcome you to its new home, where nostalgia and deliciousness await. Sneak peek inside The Pie Hole’s new Kitsilano location.

Photo by Alex Lvrs on Unsplash