Asian cooking without the Szechwan pepper just isn't quite the same as the real thing. Thai curry without the Thai basil? Why bother. Originally located at the Granville Island Market, urban Vancouverites with an interest in south East Asian cuisine felt out of the loop. Known for stocking hard to find spices, co-owner Don Dickson will also be producing small batches of varying sauces, like Thai curry and Mexican mole. Go there for fresh Kaffir lime leaves and various seaweeds, chutneys, and pickles. Look out for takeout options this summer as well. There are also a ton of resources like cooking classes, books, and the knowledgeable staff so you are sure to never confuse Thai and Indian curries again. –C.S.

South China Seas Trading Co.
1904 Grant Street
Vancouver, BC