By MAGGIE M, Editor, Publisher, Wedgee-in-Chief, theWedge.LIVE

On my recent jaunt through Vancouver and North Vancouver some places remain on my palate’s memory.

Two places in comely Kerrisdale deserve special mention and another in North Vancouver.

HONOLULU COFFEE

Inside Honolulu Coffee, Kerrisdale, Vancouver PHOTO BY theWedge.LIVE

Honolulu Coffee, Kerrisdale, Vancouver PHOTO BY theWedge.LIVE

At Honolulu Coffee  2098 41st Ave West, you place your order to a smiling barista. There’s no wait. They give you a numbered signpost and bring your order to the table where cushy benches await you.

Lickety-split a smiling server delivered the goodies to our table. Our number was seven. A good sign.

The dry cappuccino I ordered was brewed to perfection. My pleasing green cup was placed on a platter and joined with a chaser of carbonated water. It’s a first. I also ordered an artisanal matcha brownie–small but O! so perfect with walnuts.

My tour guide and I purred quietly enjoying the calm and aesthetically pleasing environment.

It’s called Honolulu because it’s a small chain hailing from its namesake but growing like a weed worldwide. I counted 36 locations today.

Their claim to fame, “the premier farm to cup coffee company.” They roast their brand Kona coffee to artisan perfection. (You can get it from the mainland in time for Christmas morning–see hyperlink above.)

This place cares about your comfort.

The Wedge gives this Honolulu Coffee five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.

AJISAI SUSHI BAR

Sushi, Kerrisdale, Vancouver PHOTO BY theWedge.LIVE

You know a place is sought after when you spot a heater outside so those who wait for a table to turn can feel toasty. We added our names on the waiting list.

Ajisai Sushi Bar is somewhat legendary in Vancouver. You can’t see it from its 2018 42nd Ave West address as it is nestled inside a shopping terrace. Just park and follow people rushing toward its 5pm opening hour.

I let my two guests wander off as I sat on a bench while the sky drizzled over me. I was completely unmoved by my glistening countenance when we were called.

It’s a small place but bristling with a passion for fine sushi. It’s quite a show to witness the volume of fresh made sushi dishes flying out from “the stage” to the tables.

I ventured to nibble on squid challenging my former resistance. It was tasty and not rubbery, prepared to perfection.

The menu was daunting. It was the most comprehensive I have ever seen.

I’m a sake enthusiast. Quickly, it was in front of me.

Comfy, cushy benches, seat and back, prolonged my enjoyment.

The Wedge gives Ajasai Sushi Bar five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.

HONEY DOUGHNUTS & COOKIES

Inside Honey, North Vancouver, B.C., Canada PHOTO BY theWedge.LIVE

Honey Doughnuts & Cookies is only 30 minutes from Downtown Vancouver, in the idyllic North Vancouver village, Deep Cove. You can’t miss it.

We sunk our teeth into doughnuts made famous by their taste and texture, and frankly, their size. It doesn’t hurt that Oscar winning actress, Kate Winslet, has said she needs a “Honey Fix.”

I requested a “dry cappuccino,” without elaborating on its meaning as the barista’s nod intimated familiarity. It was swiftly brought to our table, perfectly balanced, froth and bean.

The venue was charming, informal, rustic bursting in November with visitors some seated outside on the patio. From that vantage point, the view is spectacular.

The Wedge gives Honey Doughnuts & Cookies five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.