North Vancouver Business - MAYUMI IZUMI

November 13, 2023November 13, 2023

Puca’s Pack: Animal Academy

I met Xicalli, owner of Puca’s Pack, animal academy and rescue society, in August when I was dog sitting my fur nephew, Osric. He was the adorable boxer you read about in my last blog. I brought him to the dog park at Harbourside Seawall in North Vancouver and Xicalli asked me if I had an extra poop bag because the park’s dispenser had run out. We struck up a conversation and followed each other on Instagram.

And it was that day that I offered to feature Puca’s Pack because I love supporting local small businesses, especially ones that are non-profit and help others. I also wanted to help Xicalli spread the word that there are animals that need your help, your love and a home.

M: When did you open Puca’s Pack?

X: I opened Puca’s Pack almost four years ago when I took in my first rescue dogs in December of 2019 and became an official not-for-profit rescue in January of 2020.

M: What was your inspiration?

X: I rescued the first two dogs, Stella and Lodden from a property in Prince George. Unfortunately, their owner was going to have them euthanized because they were too much to handle. Both dogs struggled with aggression. I struggled to train them for a year before finding my savior/mentor.

And in the first year of having them, I reached out to countless trainers, but no one was willing to help me. I had dogs with bite histories and were too large (120+ lbs) for most trainers to work with. I eventually found Dean Audet, the owner of The Great Canadian Dog Academy in Kamloops.

Puca’s Pack Behaviour Modification Specialist

I immediately booked myself for a three month intensive training program. I lived in Kamloops getting daily hands-on experience with Dog Psychology Training, Service Dog Training, Hunting Training, Scent Work and Rehabilitation. After I completed the program, I received a Behaviour Modification Specialist certificate and immediately picked up my first seven rescue dogs from Our Last Hope Animal Rescue, and I’ve never looked back.

“I’ve been an avid animal lover, my entire life.”

M: Where did the name of your business come from? Was Puca the name of one of your dogs?

X: When I started my rescue, I wanted to have a fun name, unfortunately, all the clever punny names I came up with were taken. Puca (pronounced poo-ka) is my middle name and it means Shapeshifter which felt quite fitting for a pack of misfits needing rehabilitation.

M: How long have you been working with dogs?

X: I’ve been an avid animal lover, my entire life. Professionally, I’ve only been working with dogs since September of 2019.

Dog Academy PUca's Pack — Osric and one of Puca’s Pack’s dogs playing at Harbourside Seawall

M: What do you like most about your business?

X: It’s challenging, it’s rewarding, it’s everything in between. Every day I learn something new about myself. The moment I found animal rescue, was the moment I found myself. Being able to rehabilitate an animal and find a loving home, or find the path of least resistance within its own home, is one of the most heartwarming experiences in the world.

And my passion has always been to help others, whether they have 2 feet or 4 feet. Working with animals has taught me more about myself than any other life experiences I’ve had. It’s my life’s mission to help animals and people find peace on this earth.

M: What is the most challenging part of your dog academy?

X: Training their owners.

New Dog Parent Do’s and Don’ts from Puca’s Pack

M: What advice would you give to new dog parents? (Some top do’s and don’ts)

X: Structure, structure, structure. Owning a dog is a privilege, especially if you have one that has challenges, as it will teach you about yourself. The biggest problem I see in owners is not giving their dogs rules and boundaries. They need to stay in a balanced state of mind. Be confident in your training abilities, set rules, boundaries, nurture the calm, and be patient.

Foster Parent Program

M: You have a foster parent program for your rescues. What is involved? How can someone become a foster parent to a pup?

X: It’s very simple, if you see one of our dogs that you are interested in fostering, or would like to foster in the future, all you need to do is reach out. You can contact us via text, email, or by filling out a foster application on our website. We will then schedule a call, or meet in person, to determine which dog is most suited for you.

When we find an appropriate foster dog for you, we will then go through basic dog psychology and training techniques for when the dog first enters your home. We will go over do’s and don’ts, and we will be there every step of the way.

M: How can someone adopt a pet? How long does it take? How much does it cost?

X: Cost of adoption vary based upon age. Our costs can all be found on our website at the bottom of our adoptable‘s page. We pay for their collars, leashes, food, vaccinations, spays/neuters, and any other medical care that comes with the dog. Some dogs have extreme transportation costs before getting into our care, and our adoption fee helps us stay in business by covering a portion of those costs.

Adopting a Dog is Simple

If you see a dog on our page that you feel is an appropriate match for you, you can text, call, email us or fill out an application on our website. Adopting a dog is actually quite simple. We will schedule a phone call to go over your application, and figure out whether you and the dog will be a good match.

After we’ve approved your application, we will proceed with a meet and greet, some training, and you can take your new family member home. Puca’s Pack will be there to support you through the transition period of bringing a dog into your home. If you don’t see your dream pup, don’t fret! You can always fill out an application even if there is no current dog right for you. We can leave your application open and contact you when the right dog comes along.

Fundraisers and Donations Only Sources of Funding

M: Puca’s Pack is a non-profit organization. Are you able to get any government grants or funding? Is there anything the community can do to help?

X: Currently, fundraisers and donations are our only sources of funding. I started this rescue four years ago, and we paid the majority of our costs out of pocket. We have looked into government grants but have struggled to get any funding as they cater to charities, not not-for-profit.

Puca’s Pack provides countless services including pet sitting, boarding, dog walking, and training, all the revenue from these services go directly to our rescue. None of our staff or volunteers are paid. We provide all services out of the goodness of our hearts to help this rescue stay afloat.

If you would like to find out more information please follow them on their Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or their website. And if you would like to adopt a dog, foster one, or make a donation you can reach out to them call/text Xicalli (pronounced Sh-kay-lee) at (778) 918-5991.

June 4, 2023June 5, 2023

5 Best North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Sansho Sushi and Japanese Dining Chirashi

I have loved sushi since I first tried it when I was seven years old. Today, I am revealing my top 5 favourite North Vancouver sushi restaurants. Mama Izumi, my foodie cohort took me to my first sushi restaurant, Aki in the historical Japan Town. Otherwise known as Paueru Gai, it is where the Annual Powell Street Festival is held. Back then, my favourite was tuna. It still is, but my taste buds are more adventurous and my favourites now include Uni (sea urchin).

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Number 5 – Sushi 5

Starting with number five, Sushi 5 is located in Lynn Valley Centre, close to Highway 1 and Central Lonsdale. It is easy to get to, whether you are living on the North Shore or in Metro Vancouver. They are one of my favourite sushi restaurants because they have yummy Mix and Match combos that are reasonably priced and include miso soup (soup is not shown in the photo).

Sushi 5 North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant — Sushi 5 Mix and Match Lunch Specials

Number 4 – Sushi Kumo

Sushi Kumo is conveniently located at 180 East 2nd Street. It is in Lower Lonsdale, a few blocks up from the Quay and the seabus station. Little known fact, when I was in high school, my first job was as a dishwasher at this location–it was a different Japanese sushi restaurant called Manyo. Mama and I have been to Kumo twice and both times we enjoyed their Sushi & Sashimi and Sushi Boxes and also received wonderful customer service from Candy.

Kumo Sushi Japanese Restaurant — Kumo Sushi far photo Sushi & Sashimi Box and near photo Sushi Box

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Number 3 – Sansho Sushi & Japanese Dining

I have been a long time customer at Sansho. It was first introduced to me by Mama, my foodie mentor. This North Vancouver sushi restaurant is located at 707 Queensbury Avenue kitty corner from S’wich Cafe. Our favourites are their Makunouchi Bento (shown below) and Chirashi Sushi (featured photo above my blog).

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant Sansho — Sansho Makunouchi Bento

Number 2 – Hamaei Japanese Restaurant

Hamaei is one of my favourite sushi restaurants because they serve an amazing lunch special. It includes miso soup and a little bit of everything we love about bentos! They are located at 1601 Westview Drive at Westview Shopping Centre which is right above Highway 1 and close to Delbrook Community Recreation Centre.

Hamaei North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant — Hamaei Lunch Special

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants 1 – Momji Japanese Cuisine

The number one best North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant is Momji. It is located in the Blueridge Area at 3720 Mount Seymour Parkway. They offer authentic Japanese cuisine (one of the last restaurants on the North Shore to do so). A former colleague introduced me to them and I loved it! My stomach was ready to burst after our meal. Their dishes were over flowing with umami and I ate too much because of it. Mama and I ordered ika karage (Japanese calamari), miso soup, katsu curry and agedashi tofu. A wonderful meal and restaurant that we enjoyed immensely and look forward to going back.

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Momji Japanese Cuisine — Momji Japanese Cuisine’s Ika Karage

All photos are my own and I relished every moment of taking them, but especially when I was able to devour the dishes! Please ask for permission to use them or credit me in your publication. If you enjoyed this article, share it!

May 28, 2023May 28, 2023

North Vancouver’s Bobzaa Dessert Cafe & Bistro

Bobzaa Dessert Cafe & Bistro Manager Vash Vashist

Family Owned and Operated Restaurant

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Bobzaa manager, Vash Vashist and learning more about this wonderful addition to Central Lonsdale in North Vancouver.

M: Bobzaa is a family owned business. What was the inspiration for the restaurant?

V: We have all worked in the restaurant industry in the last few years. One of my family members has been a chef for the past seven years, I have been a restaurant manager at different restaurants and have the front of house experience and my other family member has more of the fast food experience so we combined our skills and made it our goal to open Bobzaa.

Bobzaa Butter Chicken and Grilled Chicken Bowl Lunch Special

M: How did you decide on the name for Bobzaa? What does it mean?

V: Initially, we just wanted to open a small bubble tea and pizza place. The name was decided before the location. Then we found this location, but it is pretty big for just bubble tea and pizza so we came up with other menu items as well.

Bobzaa Bubbletea — Bobzaa’s Mango Slushy Bubbletea

The name Bobzaa is a combination of bubble tea and pizza.

M: Who in your family came up with the concept of a dessert cafe with bubble tea, Indian cuisine and brunch favourites? It’s so original.

V: It was a collaboration.

M: When did you open the doors to Bobzaa Dessert Cafe and Bistro?

V: We opened the doors to our restaurant in December 2022.

M: How did you decide on North Vancouver as the location? And why?

V: We live in North Van so we wanted our restaurant close by. Because it is a family business, we did not want to travel far. It’s just a 10 – 15 minute walk from here.

“We combined our skills and made it our goal to open Bobzaa”

M: Has the city and the community been receptive to Bobzaa?

V: It was hard because our goal was to open in three or four months and do the whole budget, but it took us seven months to get our restaurant license. It took forever because of COVID and we had several inspections. Every day we would wake up and go to City Hall to check the status on our license. They told us they did not know how long it was going to take because of COVID.

We invested everything and wanted to open now! We were working 24-7, day and night. It was hard to get the license.

Bobzaa and Nicole Hibert's Mother's Day Event — Bobzaa and Nicole Hibert’s Mother’s Day Event

M: Bobzaa collaborated with Nicole Hiebert, local promoter and artist and I for a Mother’s Day event. When will the next event be?

V: Well, we are planning. Nicole had the idea of a clothing swap. We want to do something different once a month so that’s our goal.

Bobzaa North Vancouver Family Owned Restaurant — Photo by Bobzaa The Dessert Cafe and Bistro

M: You also do private events. What do you provide and how long in advance do you need for customers to book the event?

V: We do all the decorations and everything if they choose to have it here at our location, we do full service. So they come here and just enjoy. If they book for their home, we do not decorate but we provide the catering service.

We need at least two weeks notice for customers booking an event.

M: What is your favourite item on the menu? For brunch, lunch and dessert?

V: For brunch I really like the waffles and for drinks my favourite is the Mango Frango. That is what I recommend to everyone. In food, I am a vegetarian, so I like the Potato Pizza. Also really good is the pesto and shrimp pizza. And for dessert, my favourite is the brownie. It’s vegan and gluten-free and you can’t even tell the difference when you taste it.

We only have one type of brownie and everyone has it. But no one can tell that’s it’s vegan.

It has been a long and difficult journey for Vash and her family to open the doors to their beloved Bobzaa. But they persevered and they did it! In the process of opening their North Vancouver restaurant, they have become experts in different industries; designed their own website, built their own tables and have done their own plumbing.

To order delicious dishes from their fusion infused menu, please visit their website and to stay up to date on their upcoming events, follow them on their Instagram page.

March 29, 2023March 29, 2023

16 WEST: Meet the People Behind the North Vancouver Restaurant

The first time I was a guest North Vancouver’s 16 WEST Restaurant was in August 2022, two months after they opened and I loved it! I had a four course meal with wonderful wine pairings.

I recently had the opportunity to interview 16 WEST’s owner and gracious host, Brooke Naito-Campbell.

M: You opened the doors to 16 WEST in the summer of 2022. What has the first year been like (almost the first year)?

B: 16 WEST opened on June 24, 2022 and the first year has been great. A gradual organic growth through word of mouth. Not as busy as we had hoped, but guests from Hachiro would come in so happy and excited saying, “I’m so glad you’re still here!” They weren’t sure what happened to us and they were worried we were gone.

Hachiro Ramen Transformed into 16 WEST

M: I did not get a chance to visit your previous restaurant, Hachiro Ramen. Besides the cuisine, what has been the main difference in running the two different restaurants?

B: Definitely more experienced servers with wine knowledge. We have a wine director and sommelier, Brendan Jones on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays who has curated a wine list for us, mainly local BC wines, but we are looking into curating international wines because our guests have been asking.

M: Was Hachiro the first North Vancouver restaurant you and your brother, Stephen opened?

B: Yes, Stephen went to Japan and studied how to make ramen before opening Hachiro. We opened 6 months before COVID hit. It was really hard. But I wanted to fight for our restaurant!

Hachiro had become a take-out restaurant. I wanted to change the menu into more of an izakaya and serve appies and cocktails, but a lot of the guests that came in just wanted a bowl of ramen.

“I am passionate about 16 WEST!”

M: How did 16 WEST come to be? Was it your idea or was it someone else’s?

B: I had a beautiful restaurant and it made me sad to leave it. So my friends, some employees that were there and I thought, what do we need in North Vancouver? What are we passionate about? What would feed the community?

We first thought of a Spanish tapas but then we thought a menu that’s not tied to one kind of food. We could serve French, Italian and Spanish. I love a wine bar and I am passionate about 16 WEST and so is my team.

M: What was your inspiration for the menu? Did you work together with your head chef or did you leave it to them?

B: Our menu is a collaboration between me and Jorge Camacho. He is from Dublin’s La Maison. French Bistro. We work really well together. Our coffee cake, biscuits and all our desserts are made by his best friend, Andrea Lopez.

16 WEST Head Chef Jorge Camacho and Owner Brooke Naito-Campbell

M: What is your favourite dish? (lunch, brunch, dinner)?

B: My favourite for lunch is the meatball sub. It is really good. One of my favourites for brunch is the steak hash, and for dinner the mushroom risotto with seared Hokkaido scallops (they will be on the menu shortly) and the mussels.

M: 16 WEST is now open for brunch on the weekends and lunch on weekdays. What is the busiest time? Are there certain times/days we should make a reservation?

B: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday nights and brunch on the weekends are the busiest times. We always have the bar open for walk-ins and we will be opening the patio soon for the warmer weather and walk-ins. Our patio is also dog-friendly.

Central Lonsdale Community

M: What is the best part of being located in Central Lonsdale?

B: Central Lonsdale needed a cool, hip restaurant. A hidden gem. It needed love. Lower Lonsdale has all the restaurants. Central Lonsdale is getting developed. 16 WEST is one of the few restaurants with a watering hole.

M: Being located in the heart of North Vancouver, in Central Lonsdale, do you feel a sense of community?

B: Yes, I feel the sense of community with our guests. We have some who have stayed with us since Hachiro and have become friends. One such guest, Susan brought a friend who asked me if I have ever thought of hosting a drag show. And I had! Thus our drag show brunches was born!

North Vancouver Roots

M: I read that you grew up in North Vancouver. What area? Where did you go to school?

B: I grew up in Pemberton Heights. I went to Capilano Elementary from Kindergarten to grade 7 and then high school in Arizona where my mom is from.

M: Did you always know that you would own a business? What did you want to be when you grew up?

B: No, I had no idea. Hahaha…what did I want to be when I grew up? As a kid I wanted to do the usual singing, dancing and as a teen I wanted to be a cosmetologist. I was a hair stylist for a long time before opening the restaurants.

After my daughter was born, I turned to food and hospitality because it was something I was around all my life and am passionate about. My dad was the Executive VP of Okabe Company that used to own Coast Hotels.

And now, my daughter, Mika loves to help me set up on the weekends: lighting candles, setting the tables and even expediting the food orders. She loves it!

M: What would your advice to future entrepreneurs with dreams of owning their own business be?

B: Owning a restaurant is tough. Surround yourself with great people. People that you trust and more experienced than you. I have learned so much and I am so grateful that we got through COVID.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or a famous quote you would like to share?

B: This too shall pass. It’s something I always tell myself and it is true.

16 WEST Hosts Events

M: Is there anything else you would like to share?

B: Right now we are focusing on meaningful events. We host a realtors luncheon and we have an upcoming women’s networking lunch.

In August we will have a PRIDE event with my husband coming out of retirement to be our DJ and drag queens. I am also in the beginning stages of organizing a fundraiser for ALS because my dad passed away from the disease.

If you have an idea for an event, please contact Brooke at kitchen@naitohospitality.com. To book a reservation call: 604.988.7561 or book online. If you would like to learn more about Central Lonsdale’s one of a kind wine restaurant and bar, please visit their website and follow them on Instagram.

February 19, 2023February 21, 2023

BC Family Day Long Weekend

5 Fun Things To Do This Long Weekend

If you are looking for something to do this BC Family Day long weekend, you don’t have to look far. My longtime bff and I just went for an amazing Sunday brunch at Catch 122 in the Shipyards District. Although they were crazy busy when I called, the hostess set us up on their waitlist using the Open Table app.

While I waited for Mona to pick me up, I received a text letting me know that our table was ready. I was able to select an option that said we’re on our way so that the restaurant would save it for us. I’m so grateful for this system because when we arrived the wait was over an hour.

I ordered their Huevos Rancheros and my gf had their Seasonal French Toast. It looked like a huge piece of cake and was so filling that she took half of it home. Both were delicious and our server, Anna provided us with great customer service.

2. Go to MONOVA (Museum of North Vancouver) at 115 West Esplanade, just steps from Lonsdale Quay and the Seabus station. They have a wonderful Indigenous exhibit, a beautiful gift shop and are hosting a Family Day Event tomorrow from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Amission is free all day long!

When you are a member you will receive a 10% discount on the merchandise in their gift shop as well as your guests admission to the museum. I purchased Northwest Coast artist, Kelly Robinson‘s Raven Transforming small porcelain dish (shown in the photo below) and the matching platter.

Raven Transforming Kelly Robinson Fine Porcelain Dish — Northwest Coast artist, Kelly Robinson’s Raven Transforming fine porcelain dish

3. MONOVA is also hosting a free virtual Coast Salish Wool Weaving Event tomorrow from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. The free tickets are available on EventBrite. The museum made it very easy to register for the tickets and pick up the bracelet making supplies. Tsawasiya Spukwas (Alice Guss), MONOVA’s Indigenous Cultural Programmer will be teaching the participants about Coast Salish wool weaving and showing us how to make a wool bracelet. I can’t wait! I registered my Mama and I for the workshop.

MONOVA Coast Salish Wool Weaving Supplies and Event — Coast Salish Wool Weaving Supplies from MONOVA

4. If you love thrift shopping as much as Mona and I, there are 3 shops in Lower Lonsdale that you should check out. First time for both us was Wild Honey Vintage, a curated collection from sisters, Joanie and Sarah. Their boutique is in a cozy space that makes you feel like you’re walking into your friend’s living room.

A block up on Lonsdale, is Hunter and Hare, consignment shop with an assortment of goodies: jewelry, hair accessories, shoes, purses, clothing, candles, essential oils and journals. I didn’t buy anything today, but previously picked up some great barrettes that I wear all the time. If you are following me on Instagram, you’ve seen them. Lol.

Another block up is the Good Stuff Connection thrift shop and clothing program at 154 West 3rd Street. It is operated by North Shore Crisis Services Society, a registered North Vancouver charity that helps women and children escape from domestic violence and abuse.

Mona and I found a lot of great thrifty finds! I bought two pairs of Wild Abandon earrings, terry cloth slippers for Mama, an Ikea bathmat and an R&W scarf. And she got an Alisha Keys CD, black mules and pink jeans.

Wild Abandon Jewelry from the Good Stuff Connection thrift store

5. And last but not least, a great IG worthy photo background–Fun Alley! It is located right beside Buddha-Full, Lower Lonsdale vegan restaurant.

May 1, 2021May 17, 2021

Local Business Feature — 3rd Time North Shore News Readers Choice Winner: Cahill CPA

Cahill CPA is a family owned and operated business with over 35 years public practice experience. They offer personal and corporate accounting services, bookkeeping and estate planning.

I first met Crystal Cahill in my Digital Content Marketing Strategy course at Capilano University in 2018. She is in charge of the Social Media for the well respected, North Vancouver accounting firm and married to Jordan Cahill, the eldest brother and partner at Cahill.

I recently had the pleasure to interview both Crystal and Jordan.

M: When was Cahill CPA opened?

C & J: January 1st, 2013.

M: Where is the Cahill family from? How many members are there in the/your family?

C & J: Originally, Wayne Cahill’s family is from Ireland. Our family consists of four brothers! Jordan, Taylor, Braden and Quinn.

Cahill Family Coat of Arms, In Domino Confido — In God We Trust

M: What was the inspiration for their/your business? How did they/you ALL become accountants … lol.

C & J: Wayne Cahill became a CGA (Certified General Accountant) in 1992, and worked in public practice for many years. Our oldest brother, Jordan Cahill, got his CPA (Chartered Public Accountant) designation in 2012. Wayne, Jordan and Taylor created Cahill CPA in 2013.

Our youngest brother Quinn recently completed university, and also works here at our family firm. They all have an interest in finance and business, and realized their skills in accounting, pursuing their post secondary education.

M: Did Mr. Cahill Sr. always want to open his own firm?

C & J: Wayne feels very proud to have started a family run accounting firm that now has six partners and 15 staff members. We strive to uphold the family values that we feel are important- with our staff and our clients.

Wayne Cahill - Partner Cahill CPA — Wayne Cahill – Partner Cahill CPA (Isaac Wray Photography)

M: Where did the Cahills study accounting? Did they all attend the same university?

C & J: Wayne, Jordan and Quinn all attended Simon Fraser University. Wayne completed his CGA designation through the CGA association, and Jordan completed his CA (Chartered Accountant) designation through the CA Western School of Business.

M: What would the Cahills’ advice to future accountants with dreams of owning their own firm be?

C: Working in public practice, especially with a bigger firm, really gives you the experience of what it takes. Gaining the knowledge and experience in a variety of areas is important.

General business, financial expertise and understanding of tax is a huge asset to one day owning your own firm or practice.

Gaining experience in a wide variety of sectors is beneficial. Essentially, knowledge- combined with experience, practical application, and management skills- will all go a long way in being successful in your own practice.

M: Do the Cahills have a philosophy in life or favourite quote(s) that they would like to share with everyone?

I think in business, it’s important to strive for balance. We love what we do, and we love serving our clients here on the North Shore.

We also love being part of this North Shore community and experiencing all that it has to offer. Our partners and staff love spending time with family, mountain biking, skiing, hiking, exploring our local beaches, etc etc!

Having balance in our business and personal lives is so important in an industry that can be so busy and so high pressure.

So- our advice for those starting out in any business, is look for ways to seek balance in your life.

Jordan, Taylor & Crystal at Lonsdale Ave Launch Party (photo taken by Mayumi)

MILESTONES

North Shore News Readers Choice- Favourite Accountant- for three years in a row.

We are proud to have grown to the team we are today. From 3 family members in the beginning- to now a firm of 21.

We now have a partnership of 6. Janice Tai became a partner in 2015, and we also recently added two new partners to our firm- Matthew (who has worked with us since the beginning, in 2013) and Tony (who has been with us since 2018).

North Shore News Readers Choice Winner 2021 – 3rd Year in a Row!

If you would like to learn more about the Cahill CPA family practice or need to contact them for your tax returns, estate planning, or bookkeeping, please visit their website and follow them on their Instagram.

March 18, 2021March 18, 2021

Double Business Feature — S’Wich Cafe & BLVD Bistro: Both Celebrate North Shore News Readers Choice Awards!

I discovered BLVD Bistro one morning last summer when my BFF and Big Sis, Mona had spent the night and we were craving brunch. I did a Google search and they were one of the first to pop up for North Vancouver.

They provided great customer service and yummy noms. And I found out the Chef and Owner of BLVD also is the man behind the business next door, S’wich Cafe.

I went to work straight away taking photos of our brunch, the decor and featured them on my Instagram page along with local hot sauce, Jumpin’ Johnny’s. And more recently I was able to visit S’Wich Cafe with my Foodie Cohort, Mama Izumi and ordered an El Cubano, Up Your Alley and their Vegan Chilli.

Winner of North Shore News Reader's Choice Awards - BLVD Bistro Brunch — Winner of North Shore News Readers Choice Awards – BLVD Bistro Favourite Weekend Brunch & Favourite Breakfast Restaurant

I had the privilege of interviewing Chef Erik Juarez and thoroughly enjoyed our Q & A session:

M: When did you open S’wich Cafe and Blvd Bistro?

C: S’wich Cafe was opened August 1, 2011 (OMG) and BLVD BISTRO opened April 20, 2016.

M: Did you plan from the beginning to open two businesses side by side?

C: I didn’t plan on it at all! I thought I was going to live simply. Sling coffees, a few sandwiches and not do anything more in the hospitality business ever again.

BLVD Bistro's Standard Issue Benedict — BLVD Bistro’s Standard Issue Benedict

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

C: I was born and raised in North Vancouver. It is my home and always will be. I’ve moved around a bunch in my youth, Mexico, Spain, Kelowna, and the Salmon Arm.

M: What was your inspiration for your businesses?

C: Truthfully, I never meant to open a business. I was a dedicated Chef that fell into the same trap as so many others before me.

Find a decent job and work your ass off for some owners that would probably replace you tomorrow if you dropped dead. That’s what happened. I was working 16 hour days with no days off in sight for people I feel, couldn’t care less about me.

I was stressed, sick, fat and unhappy. At that time my grandmother passed away and I inherited 33 thousand dollars from a life insurance policy. The shop you know as S’wich Cafe was originally a neighbourhood coffee shop that wasn’t doing so hot.

One day the owner asked me jokingly if I wanted to buy a cafe. I said, “Yes, I DO!” So with that inheritance and some help from my Mom I bought that business (paid too much) but now I have something that is mine. A little tiny piece of a hospitality business and a chance to do it differently.

M: Did you always know that you wanted to be a chef?

C: I did not know but I was about 16 when I found out. I worked at EARLS like a lot of North Vancouver men and women have. I worked my way through the ranks, learned to communicate, learned to flirt.

Most importantly, I learned that I had a deep love for cooking, the push, the lifestyle and the art. However, somewhere in my limited experience I knew there was more art and skill to uncover.

Chef Erik Juarez & his dry cured Spanish Chorizo

M: Did you always know that you wanted to be a restaurant owner?

C: I think every aspiring Chef dreams of opening his or her own place. But Ownership was never really a specific goal I had in mind.

My career has just organically led me to these places. Basically, life presents doors and pathways and I hope that by now — I have the life experience and instinct to walk through the right doors and tread down the correct paths. Trust me when I say, I haven’t always.

M: Where did you study the art of culinary?

C: I had been working for a few years in fine dining kitchens by my early 20’s. I had some amazing mentors and some horrible ones.

I remember the day I told one of my chefs that I was going to go to culinary school. He said, “Erik, you can go to school, spend 10 thousand dollars on a fancy diploma and you can hang it on the bathroom wall. The only thing it will be good for is to wipe your ass when you run out of toilet paper.”

I will never forget that. He was kinda right. I staged and worked in every kitchen I could. Every place in town with the word “Le” before the name I worked there.

I read culinary text books like novels and tried the recipes that interested me. I found my resources and my style and have evolved it over 20 years of learning. I still use my online subscription to “ Cook’s Illustrated” daily and have been collecting those magazines for 20 years.

M: What would your advice to future chefs with dreams of owning their own restaurant be?

C: RUN! RUN away fast!!! Hahaha. Joking…

I have a ton of advice. Firstly, be equal to your concept and your staff. Put in the work and do what it takes to make it mesh. There a lot of very long difficult days ahead but I promise once you’re on the other side of it… It’s worth it.

Be there for your staff, know them and care about them.

S'Wich Cafe — S’Wich Cafe’s lovely Tina helped me order from the many yummy sandwich options

Back up your weaknesses, If cooking dope food is your thing but numbers aren’t, make sure you budget and be able to afford someone that has your bottom line in mind at all times.

DM me or Follow me for more advice. Hahahahaha…

Chef Erik Juarez’s IG

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or favourite quote(s) that you would like to share with everyone?

C: I also have a bunch of them.

‘How you do one thing is how you do everything’

‘Perfection is the little things done well. Everyone else sees the big things’

My new FAVOURITE:

BE THE BEST. WORK HARD- WORK FAST-WORK CLEANLY. EVERY INGREDIENT WE USE HAS TO BE THE BEST WE CAN AFFORD.

SEASONS HAVE TO RULE THE KITCHEN. ONLY ALLOW MINIMAL MANIPULATION OF INGREDIENTS WHEN NECESSARY. ELEVATE FLAVOURS THRU UNDERSTANDING.

COOK AS IF YOU ARE EATING. WASTE IS POOR WORKMANSHIP. EXTRACTION OF FLAVOUR IS OUR ROLE IN LIFE AS COOKS.

BALANCE OF MENU IS OUR OBLIGATION TO OUR GUESTS. HEALTH IS CRUCIAL IN MENU PLANNING.

SEASONING IS A TRUE SKILL. SO TASTE, TASTE AND TASTE AGAIN. OUR GOAL IS TO BE THE BEST. SO WE MUST ACT THE BEST.

Winner of North Shore News Reader's Choice Awards - S'Wich Cafe Favourite Caterer — Winner of North Shore News Reader’s Choice Awards – S’Wich Cafe Favourite Caterer

MILESTONES

The meaning of milestones has changed for me. I used to think it was winning awards and competitions. But I couldn’t be more wrong.

Milestones for me are when employees leave you to pursue their own life goals, when great things happen to the team, and when people tell you they love a component or multiple components of your business.

One of my greatest achievements is finding a way to pay a living wage to my staff and provide meaningful benefits to my whole team. Not having to hire and retrain constantly because people feel appreciated and included. It’s built into our company’s culture of genuineness and inclusivity.

Accolades are nice, Reader’s Choice Awards, Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, recognition from our peers. It all feels amazing but I’d have to say, surviving a pandemic, coming out stronger and better has been our greatest achievement to date. I will never forget the strength it took our team to weather the storm.

I am grateful to my staff that stayed with me and came back. We have never been better and that is my greatest achievement to date.

To learn more about BLVD Bistro please visit their website and follow their Instagram as well as S’Wich Cafe’s (right next door) website and IG Page.

March 4, 2021March 5, 2021

Local Business Feature – Little Pink Door Boutique Celebrates 5 Year Anniversary

I discovered Little Pink Door Boutique (LPD) 3 years ago when I was on my lunch break at Northwoods Village, in North Vancouver, BC. I noticed their mannequins outside their store and they were having a sale.

I went in planning on just trying on a white off-the-shoulder blouse that I found on one of their mannequins but about 15 minutes later I walked out with the aforementioned blouse, white Joseph Ribkoff capris with pom-poms, sandals with bling AND a matching bracelet! I was preparing for the following year’s Le Diner en Blanc (i had just attended the exclusive event).

I met Deb that day and had a great time chatting with her. I thought she was the Owner of LPD but she said no, that would be her best friend, Colette Bennett.

M: When did you open Little PInk Door Boutique?

C: I opened Little Pink Door on March 1st, 2016! So this month actually marks our 5th Year Anniversary! Usually we do a big birthday celebration with an in-store event with live music, appys, and wine.

In the past, we have seen up to 90 women in attendance at our event. This year with the pandemic we won’t be able to do that! However it’s a big milestone for us as it is not only our 5th Birthday but also it’s the 5th year in a row that we have won Favourite Boutique on the North Shore with Reader’s Choice!

We are planning a Facebook Live Event on Thursday, March 25th from 7-8pm. We will do a fashion show, have tons of giveaways, announce our donation to Sage Transition. Still working out the details but want to make this a fun, engaging and memorable event!

M: Did you always want to own a clothing boutique?

C: So, I’ve always LOVED clothes and the Fashion World! I remember spending all my allowance on Fashion Magazines and would go through them page by page. However, I really hated the experience of shopping: finding unique items, the service and the overall process.

Back in 2011, I started to turn my dream into a reality and developed a business plan to open up a clothing boutique. I already knew I would name it Little Pink Door! I’ve had the domain for more than a decade and back then used the website to showcase my photographs. I have a huge passion photographing doors. And of course, PINK is my favourite colour hence — Little Pink Door!

Colette Bennett Owner of Little Pink Door Boutique

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

C: I was born and raised in North Vancouver and have lived here my entire life. I absolutely LOVE the North Shore and can’t think of a better place to live!

M: What was your inspiration for your business?

C: Well, my inspiration was to create a retail space that was completely unique to what was currently out there! My vision is to be a leading go to boutique destination for women by providing them with the perfect blend of product, customer focused experience in an in store environment that fosters friendship, trust and loyalty!

The inspiration for the store design was to make it feel like a beautiful dream walk-in closet filled with so many wonderful and beautiful things!

M: A little bird told me that you used to be in marketing. Did you enjoy your former career?

Yes, I was. And I still am! Marketing Little Pink Door is my passion! Back at LPD’s inception I developed the brand strategy, brand personality and logo. Today I look after all the marketing efforts including developing unique promotions, social media, and CRM (Customer Relationship Management).

M: What did you do prior to opening Little Pink Door?

C: Before opening Little Pink Door I worked in the Corporate world in Marketing for 25 years! I worked for some fabulous companies and some not so fabulous.

The one fabulous company I worked for was Starbucks for 10 years and was their Marketing Manager for Western Canada. It was at Starbucks where I learned and developed skills in brand marketing and understanding the importance of marketing an experience over simply a product or service.

It was the best education I have ever had and I believe what I learned from Howard Schultz (former CEO, Chairman and Founder of Starbucks) has helped define Little Pink Door and the success we’ve had to date.

M: Where did you study marketing or was it a profession you fell into? If you studied it, which institution did you attend?

C: Once I left high school I went to Emily Carr and wanted to become a professional Fashion Photographer. I finished the first year and got accepted into the photography program but couldn’t afford it!

From there I accepted an entry level position at a large company. They were willing to pay for my education part time so I decided that the most creative part of business was marketing so that’s what I decided to pursue. I went to BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) and did the Marketing Communications program all part time in the evening. It took 5 years to complete! A fabulous program and school!

Little Pink Door's Positive Affirmations — Little Pink Door’s Positive Affirmations on IG

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own boutique be?

C: From an emotional standpoint – don’t let anyone talk you out of your dream. Surround yourself only with people that help feed your passion and are positive. Stay the course.

From a business perspective – develop a robust business plan that includes all aspects of your dream business. Include financial forecasts, SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, competitive analysis, define your target market, and develop a marketing plan.

The business plan for LPD took me 2 years to develop and it became the foundation of my business. And I still do annual business plans that I share with my fabulous team of ladies who work with me so we are all aligned on where we are headed!

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

“Dream more than others think practical. Expect more than others think possible. Care more than others think wise!” — Howard Schultz

MILESTONES

M: Are there any milestones for Little Pink Door that you would like me to mention in the Business Feature?

C: As mentioned earlier, we are celebrating our 5th Year Anniversary with a live Facebook Event on Thursday, March 25th from 7-8pm! And we are also celebrating that we have won Reader’s Choice Awards for Favourite Local Boutique on the North Shore for the 5th year in a row!

If you would like to learn more about Little Pink Door Boutique visit their website, follow their Instagram, and their Facebook page to join the festivities for their 5th Year Anniversary.

January 13, 2021January 15, 2021

Local Business Feature: North Vancouver’s Luxury Automotive Body Shop Coache Collision — In Business for Over 45 Years

Coache Collision Luxury Automotive Repair Shop

I came to know the wonderful family behind Coache Collision in 2011 when I was the Assistant Branch Manager at Hertz Car Rental. Because Hertz was ICBC’s (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia) preferred rental company, most of our business was with the body shops in North Vancouver. Out of the many shops that made reservations for their customers, they were one of my favourites.

The luxury automotive body shop specializes in Volkswagen and Audi vehicles with special certifications from both German brands. They have loyal customers that are three generations long just as the Tietze family business.

Coache Collsion was opened in 1975 by Norbert Sr. and Greti Tietze, a hard-working couple, that emigrated from Germany with a suitcase, $50, and a dream to better provide for their family by pursuing the opportunities that Canada offered.

Their longevity can be attributed to Opa and Omi Tietze’s work ethics. They didn’t cut any corners. They repaired their customer’s vehicles right from the beginning, provided German quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service. Omi worked in the office running the administrative, and front end of the shop. Opa had a Type-A personality, was a perfectionist and brought the vehicles back beautifully to pre-damaged condition. Before they opened Coache, he fixed anything with different parts that he could get his hands on.

2018 A5 BEFORE Coache Collision's repair — 2018 A5 BEFORE Coache Collision’s repair

Growing up, Opa’s son, Norbert Tietze Jr, spent a lot of time at Coache and took over the shop around 2012 – 2013 with his wife, Chantal. They originally met in Williams Lake, BC when she worked as a waitress in a Chinese Restaurant and Norbert came in for lunch. Opa had a cabin there and he spent a lot of summers in his youth fishing and hunting.

Norbert continued Opa’s tradion of German quality and perfection during his 30 to 35 years in the industry and passed these along to one of his three sons, Taylor. The grandson of Opa Tietze is an estimator. He tells me with pride that, “We’ve had many family members working [here]: my grandparents, my mom and dad, my uncle… one of my brothers has been with us, and now I’m the last of the third generation left.”

2018 A5 AFTER Coache Collision's repair — 2018 A5 AFTER Coache Collision’s repair

Just like his Papa before him, Taylor grew up in the body shop. One of the technicians held him as a baby shortly after he was born. He started working in 2006 as a detailer during the summers and in January 2013, he began his full-time career as an estimator. Most of what Taylor learned about estimating was on the job but he also attended courses at the Automotive Training Centre in Surrey, BC.

Sadly, on October 1st, 2019 there was a change of ownership. Norbert and Chantal Tietze sold their family business to the Raydar Collision Group, another family owned business. Opa’s grandson explains that, “My parents wouldn’t have handed over the shop to just anyone, they wanted to make sure all of Coache’s employees were taken care of after they were gone.” All of the staff remains the same as well as the name of the business, only the owners have changed.

Taylor elaborates that, Bill Davidson from the Raydar Group has shown an unmatched passion for the industry, as well … he values his employees. I’ve personally been to one of his other shops, and it’s clear that he takes every step to ensure that not only the business is successful, but the employees are successful within it. I can only see us becoming a more tight-knit team under his leadership.”

To learn more about the luxury automotive repair shop, Coache or book an appointment, visit their website and follow their Instagram. They are located at: 1172 W 3 St, North Vancouver, BC.

September 14, 2019July 31, 2021

Finally! My First FOODIE Blog — Andreas’ Restaurant

Andrea’s 10 Rich Topping Pizza – Foget about ordering from anywhere else!!!

Finally, my first foodie blog! It’s about time, rigghhht?! I have loved Andreas’ for a long time … I remember the very first time that I had their pizza — Their 10 Rich Topping. I was 14 years old and I was spending the night at one of my bff’s. Her step-dad brought it for us because he had a job delivering for hem.

It was a Friday pizza & movie night just like tonight… Many years later. Hahaha… And the best part is it tastes EXACTLY THE SAME! The same chef has worked at there for 30 years.

Andreas’ is a family owned & operated restaurant that has 2 locations: North Vancouver and Langley. BC. The North Van location has been a Central Lonsdale landmark for 35 years.

Andreas and Matina started their first restaurant in 1984 with a passion food, Andreas’ expert knowledge of butchering meats, and Matina’s family recipes. Their daughter, Katie, who I met for the first time last night embodies the “… fundamental Greek custom (to show) friendship to guests, and the Ancient Greek concept of hospitality … “filoxenia”, translated as hospitality, generosity and courtesy shown to guests. ” – Andreas’ Website

Andrea’s pizza and meals are nostalgic. There are many memories attached to their food, ordering take-out and dining in their restaurant over the years. And my intuition tells me there will be MANY MORE happy memories in my future with them and their delicious, Greek comfort food – said the foodie in ME!