Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This is a good spot to pick up some fresh-baked takeout croissants or a loaf of bread
- go for the hearty Finnish loaf.
FRATELLI BAKING
BAKERY
$
( 604-255-8926;
www.fratellibakery.com
;
1795 Commercial Dr; baking from $2;
7:30am-5:30pm Tue-Sat, 9am-4pm Sun; 20)
An authentic holdover from the Drive's
Italian immigrant years, this ever-busy bakery is teeming with fresh-made treats - from
loaves of warm asiago cheese bread to more cakes and pastries than you could possibly
sample in a lifetime. No harm in trying, though: you might be surprised how far you
get. Whatever you go for, don't miss a creamy Neapolitan slice (or two).
Consider starting the makings of a great picnic here and then combining it with some
cheese and charcuterie at the Italian deli next door. Once your ad hoc lunch is fully
gathered, weave north a few blocks and find a picnic perch in Grandview Park.
BELGIAN FRIES
FAST FOOD
$
(1185 Commercial Dr; mains $5-12; 11am-10pm Mon-Wed, 11am-midnight Thu-Sat; 20)
The
flagship location of this irresistible local minichain flies the deep-fried flag for what
may be Canada's national dish. Originating in Quebec, poutine is a naughty pile of
crispy fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. And it's seriously delicious. There are
lots of additional treats and toppings - plus larger dishes - but fries (and a beer) is the
main reason for coming here.
Check the roster of local craft beers: if there's anything from Storm Brewing, snap it
up (its ales are made right here on the Drive).
LA CASA GELATO
ICE CREAM
$
(
www.lacasagelato.com
;
1033 Venables St; single scoops $4.50; 11am-11pm; 20)
If you've
been skiing, cycling, kayaking or just on your feet all day exploring the neighborhoods,
it may be time to cool down with an ice-cold treat. A visit to Vancouver's fave ice-
cream joint should hit the spot, although you'll likely get brain-freeze trying to choose
from the bewildering kaleidoscope of flavors - 518 at last count.
SWEET CHERUBIM
VEGETARIAN
$
(
www.sweetcherubim.com
;
1105 Commercial Dr; mains $6-12;
10am-10pm Mon-Sat,
11am-10pm Sun;
;
20)
Many Drive restaurants offer vegetarian options but Sweet
