Monthly Archives: September 2010

09.14.10
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Chef Dave Higgins and his New Venture

 

Chef Dave Higgins passed along word of his plans to open a deli in September in the Happy Valley Market. He wants to offer a take-out option for families seven nights a week, and his plan is to use fresh local ingredients. The menu for the takeaway will alternate daily with meat pies, lasagna, pizza and shepherds pie. He’s estimating the price for a meal for four might be $19.95.

Higgins recently exhibited his talent at the Goldstream Station Market’s zucchini show-off. And he’ll be cooking for the 4th Annual Harvest Supper at Colwood’s Church of the Advent (September 26, 2010). Tickets are $15 for adults and they can be purchased at the Goldstream Station Market. It’s a good opportunity to taste some of Chef Higgins’ work. But hurry, the supper sells-out every year.

Update (July 8, 2011):
Chef Dave Higins is currently employed at the Basilico Ristorante & Lounge at 832 Goldstream Avenue in Langford.

09.14.10
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Smoken Bones Needs Mending

Smoken Bones Cookshack
#101 – 721 Station Rd.
Langford, BC
(250) 391-6328

E: Y’know, if I wanted to go wrestle an alligator, I don’t think I’d be able to at the Smoken Bones Cookshack.

I had certain expectations when we decided to go here. I thought I’d follow in the footsteps of the late great crocodile hunter, Steve Irwin. Instead I’m in the realms of mediocrity. I really don’t think the name of this place means anything, other than sounding cool just to get the attention of diners from down the street.

Anyone walking this beat won’t really find authentic Cajun food here.

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09.13.10
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I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles in my Tea


Culis Market
#153 – 2745 Veterans
Memorial Parkway
Langford, BC

(250) 478-8831

I had my first taste of Bubble Tea ($3.75 plus tax) today courtesy of Culis Market. When stores, restaurants and cafes started carrying the Thai drink, I didn’t buy into it. When Chek 6 News did a segment years ago about the popularity of Bubble Tea, I wasn’t moved to tears.

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09.13.10
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To market, to market

Goldstream Station Market
Every Saturday
10am – 2pm
June 5th – October 16th, 2010
Bryn Maur Rd.
Langford, BC

This little piggy went to market and boy did I come away with some goodies. The Goldstream Station Market was advertising a zucchini cook off and zuke races, but due to unforseen circumstances it turned into a zucchini show-off. With just Chef Dave Higgins exihibiting his prowress, I doubt anyone could stand up to this man after tasting his soulfull bruschetta. With the exception of the bread, all ingrediants were local.

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09.12.10
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Flying Away on a Rib and a Prayer


Peninsula Ribfest 2010
Saturday, September 11, 2010
#202 – 9800 McDonald Park Rd.
North Saanich, BC

Cloudy days make for a great outing to the boonies known as the Victoria Airport, but that wasn’t what drew me to the 3rd Annual Peninsula Ribfest.

Initially, I was going there to take some photos, as a favour for my photographer friend, Qué Banh, but since this event involved food, how could I not? And who doesn’t love smooth as silk ribs? You can suck on it, caress it, enjoy the velvety fine flavours of tomato sauces. Ooh, baby.

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09.06.10
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It’s all Greek to Us

9th Annual
Victoria Greek Fest
4648 Elk Lake Dr.
Royal Oak, BC

E: Rain or shine, the 9th Annual Greek Festival happened with a blast and I was ready to go opa instead of oh no. By the time I was out the door, it was raining.

When James and I arrived at the venue, I was immediately lured to the tents with the wonderful smell of lamb roasting on a spit.

J: I was definitely shouting Opa. With a little wine, some Greek food and being entertained by lovely belly dancers, I couldn’t ask for more. The last time I had visited these grounds, it was an open gravel lot.

But now a beautiful Greek Orthodox church stands here. It’s a vast improvement.

The rain didn’t dampen my spirits; in fact I’m a self-confessed rain lover. I was saddened however that Ed and I had just arrived at the tail end of the last show. The Greek dancers were wearing authentic costumes.

E: And I would’ve been amused if James got up on stage to dance with them. Especially with the amount of spirits he was having, but I digress.

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