I’ve been lucky enough to have been on a ton of trips this past year.

New York -to die for fashion, LA – to die for parties, Barcelona – to die for art/music scene, Miami -to die for people watching, Vegas – I can’t remember, Dublin the best people in the world, seriously.

Sampling new food in each city is always a highlight but no matter where I go I still can never get over how GREAT cuisine is in Vancouver.

The great thing about our city is that you can feel like an international jet-setter without ever leaving Vancouver.

It is as though the world truly comes together in our port city and the result is a restaurant go-ers dream!

In the mood for Indian? Head over to Vij’s.

Indian cuisine at it’s absolute finest. You might even be lucky enough to meet Mr. Vikram Vij himself.

Dying for sushi? Tojo definitely never disappoints.

Japanese masterfully taken to the next level.

Next Stop: Italy.

The place: Quattro on 4th. Italy without the airfare and accommodation!

There are so many reasons to love this place, but mainly I think it’s because the staff exudes class, without that stuffy.”I can’t believe that you sniffed your wine like that” attitude.

Lead by pro Q4 General Manager, Jer Samuels, they are quick to menu guide and pair delicious wines, from a mile long wine list — that was spied by Wine Spectator as one of the world’s best. Samuels effortlessly infuses energy into the room.

The mood is warm with iron chandeliers that mimic candlelight and pay attention to the floor – it’s beautifully hand painted. It’s the kind of room that feels private enough to carry on great convo without the next table being a part of it. There is even a patio that is sheltered by so much greenery that you will swear you are on another continent.

Chef Bradford Ellis, has been holding down the fort for 9 years! Local and organics are at the top of his list when and you can be sure he never masks the true flavour of the food.

Proof of this is found in the Ravioli Piemontese. Ravioli filled with wild mushrooms, Mascarpone cheese and white truffle oil, in a light porcini cream.

It is literally melt in your mouth. Ravioli, made in house and porcini cream to die for. The type of dish that is dreamt about!

With food like this, maybe a ’staycation’ isn’t such a bad word after all.

By the way:

Mega deal alert: Starting Sept 1, 2009 – EVERY Pasta Dish on the Menu is ONLY $10 – Mon to Wed evening

2611 4th Ave W, Vancouver, BC

For Reservations: 604.734.4444

Hours of Operation: Sun-Thurs 5pm – 10pm Fri & Sat 5pm – 11pm

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West Coast/Chinese:
Marcy Mailloux – pictured here with Kid Rock Promotions Director 99.3 The FOX If I am heading downtown to celebrate, I like to go to Cardero’s Restaurant. It’s always been a favourite of mine. The view of the inner harbour is just a bonus compared to their mouth watering Seared Rare Ahi Tuna. If we’re staying in the ‘hood, then Woking Dragon China Bistro in Coquitlam is where its at with their warm atmosphere and the freshest tasting Chinese cuisine. Their Chicken Chow Mein with pan fried noodles is a mmmmmmust.
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Mexican
Alaina Galati pictured with James Hetfield from Metallica
99.3 The Fox Promotions Coordinator
The best celebration restaurant would have to be La Casita in Gastown. Amazing authentic Mexican food, friendly service, tons of specials and tasty Margaritas!
You must have the Chiles Rellenos… oozing with cheesy goodness. It’s great atmosphere and the food is so wonderful you’ll want to bring your friends.

Listen to Todd & Karen, weekdays from 3pm – 6pm on 99.3 The FOX!