It’s worth the drive to Burnaby to dine at the classy Hart House Restaurant at Deer Lake during their “new twist on surf and turf” dinner menu. Executive Chef Dennis Peckham is cooking up a selection of steak and seafood options that include beef tenderloin, top sirloin, or AAA ribeye served with Nova Scotia Lobster, Alaska Scallops and local BC Spot Prawns. Why not get your friends together, rent a limo and hit the 'burbs in style?
Hart House

While we’re on the subject of chocolate, Thomas Haas fans should know that he has launched a new line of signature bars and drinking chocolate. Try the new tea bar series with hints of floral from Muzi Tea. There’s matcha with white chocolate, a chai bar with milk chocolate, and a rooibos and rose bar in both white and dark chocolate ($4.95 for a 54 g bar). I suggest heading to the North Vancouver location to stock up. Enjoy some delicious baked goods along with their expertly-made espressos.
Thomas Haas Fine Chocolates

While the installation of the Canada Line unfortunately keeps some Cambie businesses rather slow, the newcomer to the area, Firefly Wines and Ales is doing a brisk business on Cambie in the Plaza 500 Hotel. Firefly entices shoppers with their vast selection of beer wine as well as their convenient valet parking (now if only the would drive you home as well after one too many glasses of vino!).

Now stop reading and go get some grub. Remember your umbrella and take a cab to stay both dry and out of trouble. -C.A.