Press Releases for March 26, 2007

THE FAIRMONT HOTEL VANCOUVER INTRODUCES NEW EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

Karen Gin, returns to the hotel as Executive Sous Chef.

Gin’s culinary career officially began 12 years ago, following a short foray into marine biology. In 1995 she graduated from the Culinary Arts Program at Vancouver Community College, and then took the position of first cook at The Fairmont Waterfront. From there it was a variety of progressive roles and most recently, she was Sous Chef for Diva at The Met in Vancouver.

“I am thrilled to be working again under the direction of Executive Chef Robert LeCrom,� states Gin. “My new role with Fairmont will allow me to work with Chef on mentoring young culinarians, while still being actively involved in cooking.�

Gin is already at work on the creation of a new $25 three-course Chef’s Taster Menu for the 900 West Lounge which she calls “sensual�. Her personal favourite is the Roasted Fraser Valley Quail with lentils and tomato, drizzled with cherry calvados vinaigrette.

[Editor's note: We remember several years back when Karen won the annual "Black Box Competition" at the Arts Institute (known then as the Dubrulle Culinary Institute). She was a standout then, and no doubt still is.]

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NEW CHEF FOR NORTHLANDS


Georgia Kambolis and Joe Uveges, managing partners of Northlands Bar & Grill, welcome Chef Tony Austin back to the team. Austin was the opening chef of Northlands Bar & Grill and has now returned to Northlands.

Chef Austin knows the North Shore well, having been a part of both the Beach House and Marine Drive Restaurants. Northlands Bar & Grill is located at 3400 Anne MacDonald Way in North Vancouver. 604-924-2950.


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DINE OUT WEDNESDAYS AT OCEAN CLUB


If you’re looking for an excuse to go out for dinner midweek, Dine Out Wednesdays at The Ocean Club could be the answer. For $25 choose three courses from a special a la carte menu that features some of The Ocean Club’s signature dishes, including the Mac & Cheese and the OC Burger. The regular menu will also be available.

For reservations, call 604 926 2326. 100 Park Royal, West Vancouver,

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PAIR BISTRO SLOW FOOD DINNER ON MARCH 28, 2007


Join Janis and Todd for a special 'slow' dinner at their Point Grey neighbourhood restaurant, Pair Bistro. The meal that will take place on March 28th at 7 p.m., will showcase local food and down to earth cuisine, which will include many small informal courses and amuse bouches.

Over the past few seasons, Janis has become increasingly involved in the UBC Farm. She would like to take this opportunity to share with you the wonderful activities going on at the farm, which has a strong commitment to sustainable food production.

In keeping with the UBC Farm values, the menu will be chosen based on fresh, seasonal, local produce and meats. This will be accompanied by carefully selected BC wine pairings. They would like this to be an informal evening where you can meet new people who are enthusiastic to learn more about local food, enjoy simple pleasures and take time to eat slowly with friends.

Reservations and deposit (credit card number, cheque or cash) must be made before March 26th through Janis at the Pair Bistro (tel. 604-224-7211 or e-mail: Janis@pairbistro.ca). Book early because there
are only 34 seats available in this cozy restaurant and no walk-ins will be accepted. Unfortunately, they are unable to offer a vegetarian option for this meal.

Pair Bistro. 3763 West 10th Ave., (near Alma). 604-224-7211. $40 (members) / $50 (non-members) per person. $25 (for optional wine pairings). Tax and gratuity not included.



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