I like to think I’m a bit of a coffee chaser. I am always on the hunt for good coffee and coffee shops. I’m usually not the type that will crack open their macbook and sit idly in a coffee shop, though one time I did precisely that and realized I mirrored everyone around me. However, I do like coffee shops for the socializing and the casual get togethers.
While waiting for Jenn, I was sitting and people watching at Nelson the Seagull. In walks Jenn and two seconds later she says “I love this place!” I like to think I have a knack for predicting things like this. With its simple charm and open kitchen, Nelson the Seagull it’s a great place to sit and hang out, whether it’s surrounded by friends or just alone with a book.
Nelson the Seagull – 315 Carrall Street, Vancouver, BC
After a coffee at Nelson’s we ventured around checking out a few stores in the Strathcona business area. This neighborhood is developing rapidly with new stores and restaurants and an area that will definitely be on my list to look out for; it’s on the verge of some great finds. I’ve discovered that I like to explore restaurants and shops by areas and that I tend to grow bored of a neighborhood rather quickly. As a result, I’m always excited to find new places to explore — to me, it’s like venturing into uncharted territory even though it’s probably nothing new to others.
Dinner was at Au Petit Chavignol. Wanting to dine here in support of Feast Van, we decided to forgo ordering off the menu and allowed the chef to choose a charcuterie plate for us.
I love how it came in a tiered tray rather than a wooden board; visually so stunning. From top – Milano Salami, sliced thinly. Second tier – starting from the front going clockwise, Salt Spring Island Bettis Blue, White Truffle Pecorino, Ash Goat’s milk, and House made Pâté with pistachios served with grainy mustard. Last Tier – Proscuitto (not pictured), pickled pearl onions, spiced quince paste.
Simple Arugula Salad with Shaved Pecorino and Radish. By this point, we were getting pretty full but the piece de resistance had yet to arrive…
Four Cheese Mac n Cheese – Gruyere, white cheddar, orange cheddar stilton. Not necessarily meant to be the standard crowd pleaser, the silton adds a subtle kick of blue cheese flavor while the rest of the other cheeses blend together to produce a creamy finish.
And to finish off — we were really feeling finished off with all that food…
Warm chocolate, truffle-like cookies, paper bagged and ready for us to take home. Though, stuffed as we were, we dug into that paper bag pretty quickly.
Au Petit Chavignol is definitely a cheese lover’s paradise. Its low key, relaxing and somewhat slow atmosphere lends itself to a delicious night.
Au Petit Chavignol – 843 East Hasting St, Vancouver, BC
