[officedweller]

Walked past Raffles on Robson (@ Cambie) this morning - all of the Robson frontage retail units (looks like 4 of them) have "leased" marked on them. Not sure if it is one retailer or several (the units are at different elevations, so steps up/down would be required).
Anyone know what's going in?

[djh]

Walked past Raffles on Robson (@ Cambie) this morning - all of the Robson frontage retail units (looks like 4 of them) have "leased" marked on them. Not sure if it is one retailer or several (the units are at different elevations, so steps up/down would be required).
Anyone know what's going in?

No info on these in particular, but it does raise a thought:
Isn't it likely that companies who want some Olympic presence will do short-term leases in empty newly-developed retail units around the Olympic venues or along the main routes between them? Set up for 3 months, sell their wares, then leave? This might be a trend we'll notice amongst the new downtown developments

[mooks28]

No info on these in particular, but it does raise a thought:
Isn't it likely that companies who want some Olympic presence will do short-term leases in empty newly-developed retail units around the Olympic venues or along the main routes between them? Set up for 3 months, sell their wares, then leave? This might be a trend we'll notice amongst the new downtown developments

Didn't the US Olympic Committee rent out a space in Level (I think) for just this type of thing?

[johnjimbc]

I actually sort of hope they'll do that kind of thing (short term leases). As so many have sprung up along Robson - Raffles, TV Towers, L'Hermitage (though mostly filled), and soon L'Atalier - it would be nice to see more of them filled. I think seeing a presence there might actually help the buildings sign leases later . . . people starting to see that stretch as a further extension of the Robson street life.

[SpongeG]

coca cola is setting up 3 temporary cafes for the games - i don't know if that includes the one inside the bay or not - but it will showcase their coffee - which they have shops of already in europe - they are planning to expand into north america and vancouver is like a showcase for them during the gammes to do so or something like that

[officedweller]

The USOC has the retail/office floors at Level.

[LotusLand]

Was going to T&T and saw this sign. http://vancitybuzz.blogspot.com/2009/11/t-customer-appreciation-fail.html

what sort of backwards appreciation is this. I was peeved!

[twoNeurons]

Owned by Loblaws ( Superstore )

Not surprised.

[SpongeG]

they probably meant it was closing early to get it ready for the next day?

[officedweller]

A lot of stores - even The Bay - have special customer events (some with ticket admission for charity fundraising) and discounts and deals for regular valued customers (i.e. on their mailing list). Hi-Fi Centre had one a few weeks ago for its anniversary.
BUT that's normally carried out on nights when the store is closed. I guess that T&T, because it's normally open late on weeknights, actually had to close to regular customers to host a special event, which is a bit odd since its not the kind of store that would "gain" from exclusivity.

[LotusLand]

A lot of stores - even The Bay - have special customer events (some with ticket admission for charity fundraising) and discounts and deals for regular valued customers (i.e. on their mailing list). Hi-Fi Centre had one a few weeks ago for its anniversary.
BUT that's normally carried out on nights when the store is closed. I guess that T&T, because it's normally open late on weeknights, actually had to close to regular customers to host a special event, which is a bit odd since its not the kind of store that would "gain" from exclusivity.

That's what I thought at first but I still don't get. Oh well I'm taking my business elsewhere this week :tup:

[SpongeG]

its customer appreciation - doesn't that include everyone?

its not like it says friends and family - which are common events

[NewfBC]

Was going to T&T and saw this sign. http://vancitybuzz.blogspot.com/2009/11/t-customer-appreciation-fail.html

what sort of backwards appreciation is this. I was peeved!

They appreciate you by not letting you buy some of the garbage they sell. ;)

Ron.

[SpongeG]

redone and ready for something new...

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/5035/dsc06777.jpg

someone here said this one will be Le Chateau...
http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/7389/dsc06776.jpg

Bread Garden opening below CBC
http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/1066/dsc06728l.jpg
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/6302/dsc06731e.jpg

[Shibuya]

someone here said this one will be Le Chateau...
http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/7389/dsc06776.jpg



Le Chateau Outlet I believe.

[jtwin]

Back in 2004 or 2005-ish, IKEA had plans to to a Coquitlam-style redevelopment with the parking underneath, 300,000 sf of space, etc. They bought the neighbouring property, but as the application was being processed at Richmond City Hall they made a global corporate decision not to do the structured parking approach due to costs. I wonder if they have figured out a cheaper way to do it, or if their plan is less ambitious than before.

[jtwin]

I haven't tried this place, but a burger expert friend said they are as great as advertised... Does anybody know where in Langley they plan to open?

http://www.kelowna.com/2009/11/27/obamas-preferred-burger-joint-setting-up-shop-in-langley-five-guys-opens-in-january-with-further-outlets-planned-for-metro/

[SpongeG]

^^^ in walmart grove area - near the save on foods

[officedweller]

Le Chateau Outlet I believe.

Relocating from the Bay Parkade?

[Shibuya]

Relocating from the Bay Parkade?

Couldn't say, not directly involved with the leasing but CBRE was leasing the space and have been saying its Le Chateau for quite some time.

[NewfBC]

I haven't tried this place, but a burger expert friend said they are as great as advertised... Does anybody know where in Langley they plan to open?

http://www.kelowna.com/2009/11/27/obamas-preferred-burger-joint-setting-up-shop-in-langley-five-guys-opens-in-january-with-further-outlets-planned-for-metro/

I had Five Guys in Dallas.. it was pretty good.

Ron.

[metroXpress]

^There is one opening in West Van right?

[Locked In]

Retail-ish update: Red Card sports bar (at Smithe and Seymour across the street from Vita) opens on Thursday, December 4.

[SpongeG]

^There is one opening in West Van right?

is that the second location? they said two will open before the olympics in vancouvr - the first is langley apparently

[officedweller]

Tim Horton's at L'Hermitage looks like it'll open soon.
All the drywall and painting looks done and I think the appliances are in, etc.

[Yume-sama]

Are Japadog / Beard Papa open yet :D?

[officedweller]

They're both far away from opening.
Walking past late at night you see the lone contractor in the Beard Papa unit working away. The space is still bare.
I think the Japadog space is still bare too.

[vancityrox]

Where can you get some Japadog in the mean time? I havent seen any around town and im curious to see what all the hype is about.

[johnjimbc]

Does anyone know what is going into the corner spot (where s'il vous plait used to be)?

[Davel]

Where can you get some Japadog in the mean time? I havent seen any around town and im curious to see what all the hype is about.

Japadog is still going strong at the corner of Burrard and Pender, at least they were last week.

[GeeCee]

Japadog is still going strong at the corner of Burrard and Pender, at least they were last week.

According to their website they closed that one on November 16th. http://www.japadog.com/

[vancityrox]

there is one on burrard and smithe still...i think im gonna have to check it out tomarrow :)

[sacrifice333]

Japadog is still going strong at the corner of Burrard and Pender, at least they were last week.

Yeah there hardcore... doesn't seem to matter if it's sunny or raining... they're Japadogging!

[hrhsheba]

The Japadog website is causing endless confusion on the "open/closed" front. I set a few people straight on a foodie forum so I'll impart a little wisdom... Japadog updates its website to include dates when it knows in advance that it's going to be closed. For example, today, it says that on November 30th, Pender St. will be closed. If you go back to the site in a few days, it may say nothing about Pender St. or it may provide a "heads up" on a future closing. The bottom line... the "closed" dates just mean the day that is mentioned, not "closed for the season" from that date. I walk by the Burrard and Smithe location four times a day, they're rarely closed, and it's always good for a giggle to see what lengths they're going to to keep from selling soggy hot dogs :)

[SpongeG]

the one at coal harbour is probably open

[Yume-sama]

They're both far away from opening.
Walking past late at night you see the lone contractor in the Beard Papa unit working away. The space is still bare.
I think the Japadog space is still bare too.

:( Well, that ruins my holiday spirit! I was all looking forward to coming back to Vancouver, grabbing a JapaDog and Beard Papa, walking over to the skating rink, pretending that skating for half an hour will burn off the 1000 calories I just ate, and then go see the tree at the Art Gallery. Now, WHAT?! :hell: :P

[dubsH]

There was a JapaDog stand at UBC today, so maybe that's why they were closed?

[Yume-sama]

Hmm, could be. Or, it could also be that Monday is the traditional day for Japanese businesses to close :P

It's very annoying, but part of the "Happy Monday" policy the Japanese government instituted.

Often, even when they move to other Countries they close inexplicably on Mondays. Like my favorite sushi place :(

[officedweller]

:( Well, that ruins my holiday spirit! I was all looking forward to coming back to Vancouver, grabbing a JapaDog and Beard Papa, walking over to the skating rink, pretending that skating for half an hour will burn off the 1000 calories I just ate, and then go see the tree at the Art Gallery. Now, WHAT?! :hell: :P

http://www.timhortons.com/ca/images/general/timbits-landing666x209en-fr-us.jpg

http://www.timhortons.com/ca/images/general/donuts-landing666x209en-fr-us.jpg

Although the Timbits look like big mouse or deer droppings in that pic...

[Yume-sama]

Ewww, I don't do Tim Hortons donuts. Iced capp, yes :P

But once you've had Mister Donut or Dunkin Donuts... there's no going back to those sugary donuts! :haha:

[entheosfog]

Ewww, I don't do Tim Hortons donuts. Iced capp, yes :P

But once you've had Mister Donut or Dunkin Donuts... there's no going back to those sugary donuts! :haha:

Nowhere near as sugary as Krispy Kreme! Yowza I can barely handle one of those things...
I like T-Hortons apple fritters or crullers but that's about it...

[SpongeG]

i love krispy kreme in smaall doses like once a year - their donut holes are so good and moist and fresh compared to tim bits and the kk fritter is so good pure evil

[Rusty Gull]

I had a Japadog on Sunday. Apparently their menu is being impacted by strict food vendor guidelines due to the Olympics. This may or may not lead to a temporary unavailability of the miso-mayo dog.

[SpongeG]

Thrifty Foods prepares to grow

Thrifty Foods is preparing to expand one of its oldest Victoria stores, but its growth will force the relocation or closing of three small retailers.

Thrifty Foods' Cloverdale location at 3475 Quadra St. will be renovated and expand to take over about 5,000 square feet of retail space in a neighourhood strip mall shortly after Christmas.

According to spokesman Michael Alexander, it's a move that's been a long time coming as the company has already renovated and expanded its older James Bay and Fairfield locations.

"It's badly needed, so we're expanding quite a bit to accommodate the shoppers in the neighbourhood," he said. The store would remain open throughout the renovation which is expected to wrap up in May.

"There is increased competition coming into the marketplace and to maintain your competitive edge you have to be able to offer your customers what they want."

The renovated store will feature a number of Thrifty staples like cheese islands and expanded departments.

"It will have an easier flow for customers," he said.

Not so lucky are three tenants of the strip mall -- Villages Pizza, Nighthawk Video and a Women in Need store -- which have been asked to vacate their space by the end of the year.

"We're just looking for a new location, but there's nothing in the neighbourhood," said John Papaloukas, owner of Villages which has six other locations in the region. "It's too bad, this store was profitable and it's such a great neighbourhood."

Papaloukas said there are no hard feelings as Thrifty made it known years ago that expansion was always a possibility.

Papaloukas said he's not sure where they will relocate the store, but suggested the Uptown development makes sense.

"It looks like the good, long-term play though they are not really cheap," he said. "Then again, I have to think the traffic will be big there."

The owner of Nighthawk was unavailable yesterday, but a letter on the door told customers that due to the changing movie-rental landscape with things like on-demand movies, and the Thrifty Foods decision, the store would not relocate but instead would be winding down operations Dec. 31.

A letter on the door of the thrift store told customers it will close Nov. 30, but items would be relocated to an expanded Pandora Avenue location.

Thrifty Foods is also expanding outside Victoria with renovations and expansion at stores in Parksville and Duncan.

There are also plans to open three stores on the Lower Mainland next year with a South Surrey store in February at the Morgan Crossing development, and stores in Abbotsford and North Vancouver in the fall of next year.

The three stores are all likely to be about 35,000 square feet in size, but each will be tailored somewhat to the community.

Alexander said the new stores in Vancouver are about need.

"It's not that the Island is a mature market or saturated, not at all, but the profile for growth is going to focus on the Lower Mainland," he said.

When the new stores open, Thrifty Foods will have 26 locations in B.C.

http://www.vancouversun.com/Thrifty+Foods+prepares+grow/2274727/story.html

[SpongeG]

National chains coming to Whistler for the long term

Olympics providing opportunity, but resort's continued success keeps retailers going

By Clare Ogilvie



When the Olympic Games were awarded in 2003 many thought landlords would jack up the rents so high that only name brand chain stores could afford to lease space in Whistler.

In fact that never happened, and when the global recession hit 18 months ago the rental market became even more attractive.

And while there are new name brands and national chains opening in Whistler in time for the Olympics, it is the heightened awareness of Whistler, nationally and internationally, that has prompted many to make the decision to open stores here.

"The national chains are a fact of life and that will continue to occur, Olympics or not, in that they have the structure and the resources to withstand the deep seasonality that Whistler delivers," said Drew Meredith of the municipality's Business Enhancement Committee.

Meredith believes the village will maintain, for the most part, the look it has now. The focus in the future, he said, should be on raising occupancy and helping businesses in place draw in more customers.

He welcomes the focus the Games will put on Whistler and its neighbours.

"Just look at the spotlight that will be shone on this corridor," said Meredith. "It will be enormous."

The Bread Garden, Vancouver's original bakery café, recently opened in Whistler.

"Our goal has always been to open up in Whistler," said Zip Dhanani, president and CEO of the company.

The Bread Garden had been eying Whistler for about four years but it wasn't until the right location became available at a reasonable lease rate that the company moved in.

"Honestly, the Olympics are a bonus. But we are not (in Whistler) just for the Olympic Games. We have signed a 20-year lease and we intend to be there for the long term."

But Olympic opportunities are on the horizon. Bread Garden will be providing food service to NBC staff while they are in Whistler.

And there is no doubt the Games will raise the profile of the company, which opened its newest franchise in Australia in June.

"Visitors will be here from all over the world, so it does give us a higher profile being in this location," said Dhanani.

Some restaurant spaces are being rented by different nations at Games time and will be used as hospitality areas. But so far only one pop-up Olympic store has been announced: the Victorinox Swiss Army retail store will move into Keir Fine Jewellery's location. The store will be a first in North America for the 125-year-old company.

"This is an opportunity for us with all the guests who are coming and participating to have that opportunity to showcase Victorinox," said Scott Swaebe, director of visual marketing for the company, which has been dealing with Keir for 16 years.

For Keir owner David Campbell the opportunity made sense after talking with other similar stores in previous Games locations. He was told that business at Games time for jewellers was quiet.

"They said that people are principally interested in souvenirs rather than our product," said Campbell.

With the deal in place he will spend a few days in Whistler taking in some Olympic events and then head to Australia for a break after working in the resort for the last 17 years.

Key to taking the deal was making sure his staff was looked after.

"A big part of our motivation was that our staff was taken care of. In fact it was integral to the deal," said Campbell. "We would not have done it otherwise."

While Campbell would not disclose the details of the deal financially he did say: "We have fairly significant costs. We wouldn't have done it if it wasn't worthwhile, but we are not retiring on it."

Lululemon has been in Whistler for about six years, locating here because the brand fit the lifestyle.

But, said Eric Petersen, director of community relations for Lululemon Athletica, the Games are front and centre for the brand.

"We want to welcome the world with a hug and we are all about that," he said. Visitors, he added, will see the B.C. brand being commonly worn, both here and in Vancouver.

"We want people to know we are tied at the hip with Vancouver.

"We feel that we are well positioned and we (did) this a long time ago to welcome everybody, all the international visitors. And once they get in the store it is up to us to educate them about our culture and our clothes."

The store will be bringing in some items at Games time that have more of an international focus, to help visitors understand the brand better.

But the Olympics are more than just a chance for brand awareness for Lululemon. Last season the company quietly rented a house within walking distance of the village for elite athletes to use while training in Whistler, so that they could save accommodation money and spend it on equipment or other things needed to reach their peak.

"We wanted to give back to them without asking anything because we know how important their training time is, so if we can help them focus more on their training then that is what we wanted to do," said Petersen.

So far Lululemon has hosted more than 200 athletes at the house. Even athletes' families have enjoyed Lululemon House.

Aritzia and sister-brand TNA, both part of the official 2010 Licensee Program, opened Whistler stores in the last two years.

"Whistler was identified as being a great international venue for us regardless of the Olympics," said Sally Parrott, senior director of marketing for Aritzia.

"(The Olympics) wasn't the first and only reason... We would have opened the Aritzia store and the TNA regardless. But with the Olympics it definitely made it more compelling."

It's an understandable marketing trend, said Professor Charles Weinberg of the Sauder School of Business at the University of B.C.

"In the long term they want to be in these types of settings and the Olympics is accelerating their decisions to come to Whistler," he said.

"There will be some who come and go within Whistler. But I think it is more likely that these stores are making a decision that Whistler is a good location to be in."

In the end what matters, said Whistler Chamber of Commerce president Fiona Famulak, is that the mix is right for guests.

"I think that is necessary to give our guests the range of products and services they expect from a world class resort," she said.

"We need to now ensure that we are providing a fantastic guest experience so they come back."

http://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/pique/index.php?content=Retail+business+1648

[GeeCee]

Renos at the McDonald's at Hastings and Penticton street are complete. They've torn up the parking lot at the one on the other side of the speed skating oval on the PNE grounds at Hastings and Cassiar street. I guess they are dumping some money into their restaurants near venues aside from the renos previously announced.

[wrenegade]

Saltlick has been renamed Town Hall. Renovations are ongoing.

[vancityrox]

Saltlick has been renamed Town Hall. Renovations are ongoing.

Yeah and i heard it opening the 4th.

[SpongeG]

Fossil is now open in Oakridge Centre

Blendz there is closed for renos

[officedweller]

From the Toronto Star:

Canadian Tire rolls out new dollar coin

http://media.thestar.topscms.com/images/8f/28/51926f144b1bba422a472fd4682b.jpeg
Canadian Tire reward coins.
CHRIS YOUNG/THE CANADIAN PRESS


Canadian Tire Corp., one of the nation's most iconic retailers, introduced a dollar coin on Wednesday to complement its multi-hued, low-denomination stable of widely hoarded bills.

The move, first reported in the Star on Wednesday, puts an end to speculation that Canadian Tire was ready to eliminate its popular paper money loyalty program.

"Over the years the high-valued program has evolved to include electronic "Money" on Canadian Tire branded credit cards, as well as the addition of special promotions which now includes this limited edition $1 Canadian Tire coin," Canadian Tire Retail president Mike Arnett said in a release this morning.

The coin was created by the Royal Canadian Mint and will be given to customers who spend $25 or more at a Canadian Tire store on Dec. 5th or 6th.

The company held a press conference this morning to make the announcement, where Arnett also announced the company would develop and test a new rewards program throughout 2010.

However, a copy of a flyer destined for Canadian Tire stores in Quebec, obtained by the Star on Tuesday, shows an ad for a limited edition one-dollar coin. Images of the coin had also been posted on collectors' websites, revealing it to look a bit like a quarter, with the Canadian Tire logo on one side and the beaming fictional Scotsman Sandy McTire on the other.

In a digital economy, Canadian Tire money is quite literally throwback to an era of physical cash and human interaction that scarcely exists in this online age of speedy and efficient consumption.

But a decision to cancel the paper money program would surely shock the nation - not least, the money's ardent collectors - even if the retailer has already moved to a parallel electronic rewards program using a credit card and electronic Canadian Tire money.

"Whenever my dad went and got stuff for the house, he'd give me the money," said Roger Fox, 64, who has been collecting Canadian Tire bills since 1963, is a past-president of the Canadian Tire Coupon Collectors Club and wrote a chapter on the subject for a book published by the Royal Canadian Numismatic Association. The coin is a dramatic introduction for collectors such as Fox: Is it a heartbreakingly thrifty move away from paper money or a reassertion of the importance of the rewards program?

"They may be cutting back their printing costs while at the same time not eliminating Canadian Tire money altogether, but replacing say, the 50 cent, dollar, and two dollar (bills) with a coin," Fox said, adding, "I'm just thinking out loud, that's all. I have no proof."

Canadian Tire has been making a gradual shift away from emphasizing its paper money.

The company's exclusive credit card, Options Mastercard, introduced in 2000, lets shoppers accumulate Canadian Tire money wherever they shop, at a better rate than using cash.

In its promotions, the company refers to it as "Canadian Tire money rewards" - with quotation marks around money.

Customers now receive paper money only if they use cash or debit.

Jerome Fourre, a collector since 1985 from the Montreal area, said that after a golden age of 5 per cent Canadian Tire money returns - $5 for every $100 spent - the current return is more like 0.4 per cent, or 40 cents for every $100 spent.

The company does not release such details on the loyalty program and refused, not for the first time, to comment on Fourre's calculations.

"Canadian Tire money was originally to get people to pay cash," said Fourre.

"In 2009, cash is not what they want."

For its part, the company said it has no immediate plans to cancel the beloved bills, though it is obviously trying to yank its rewards program into the modern era.

Collectors such as Fourre and Fox - part of a national subculture of clubs, meetings and exhibits devoted to Canadian Tire money - want to see the paper bills survive, though eliminating them would probably up the value of their stashes.

"When it's on plastic it's not something you have tangible in your hand," Fox said.

"It's as if you're getting something for free.

"Who doesn't want something for nothing?"

[Yume-sama]

I walked 2.5km in the cold for some Beard Papa's on Denman today. And...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2670/4164177677_5ae33e14e8_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/syume/4164177677/

CLOSED FOR RENOVATION?!?! I was literally heartbroken :P

[GeeCee]

The former A&W in Port Coquitlam beside the Costco is becoming a KFC/Taco Bell.

[SpongeG]

oh that sucks about beard papas - is that the only other downtown location? (the other being the yet unopened one on robson)

[SpongeG]

there is a beard papas in metrotown

[Shibuya]

The former A&W in Port Coquitlam beside the Costco is becoming a KFC/Taco Bell.

Hopefully it is better run than the one in Coquitlam. I have often had to wait 30 mins for an order. I don't see how they can make their drive-thru wait. Sad thing is, its not even that busy.

[Yume-sama]

Hmm, you could use that 30 minutes to run around the block a few times to burn off those 220 cals per puff. :D

[Shibuya]

I was referring to the KFC/Taco Bell. I am sure it is 10x worse, although I would imagine that Beard Papa's would have some pretty nasty line ups as well.

[Yume-sama]

Oh. Yes, I got too excited about Beard Papa's and ignored the post you were quoting. Speaking of Beard Papa's, I was just walking by the one on Robson 5 minutes ago, and they just finished installing their signage. The inside is still bare drywall. JapaDog is also still bare drywall, but there are people inside working right now. They will most likely be installing their signage soon :D

[Yume-sama]

I don't think this was posted before... in fact, they just put the sign up today (I think) or else I'm blind and didn't notice it two days ago. In addition to the new Tim Hortons going in at L'Hermitage, another Tim Hortons is opening across from the London Drugs, underground at Vancouver City Centre Canada Line SkyTrain station, around the corner from the Jugo Juice. Nice to see some more Timmy's around here!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2707/4167340319_17abe74d95.jpg
^ My photo

[entheosfog]

:previous: The tim hortons on Terminal looks like it will open very soon, they have the inside all furnished. I can't believe how fast that building went up! Too bad the city can't do road/sidewalk work that quick...

[Yume-sama]

:P The city work fast?! Never!

Tim Hortons on Robson is probably just waiting on the supply truck filled with stale donuts to arrive. They look ready to open, they have everything, too.

[NewfBC]

:P The city work fast?! Never!

Tim Hortons on Robson is probably just waiting on the supply truck filled with stale donuts to arrive. They look ready to open, they have everything, too.

The donuts arrive frozen and are finished in store.

*sigh* I miss the old days of Tim Hortons.

Ron.

[deagleman]

I was walking home when I noticed that the Satchel Shop on Granville went bankrupt. They were only open for a few months. Must have been unexpected as the store was completely void of stock and equipment yet Christmas decorations were still up.

Anyone know if all there locations went belly up?

[hollywoodnorth]

:P The city work fast?! Never!

Tim Hortons on Robson is probably just waiting on the supply truck filled with stale donuts to arrive. They look ready to open, they have everything, too.

same goes for the new Timmies on Terminal & Station. Signs up....Chairs in place, etc

I figure they will open at the same time.....any day now :)

[whatnext]

same goes for the new Timmies on Terminal & Station. Signs up....Chairs in place, etc

I figure they will open at the same time.....any day now :)

I can't figure out that location, its definitely on the wrong side for commuter traffic. Unless of course, lots of people downtown are actually <gasp> reverse commuting and downtown really is becoming just another suburb, despite what some folks here believe.

[officedweller]

Maybe its for the "take the donuts home" crowd.

[WarrenC12]

I can't figure out that location, its definitely on the wrong side for commuter traffic. Unless of course, lots of people downtown are actually <gasp> reverse commuting and downtown really is becoming just another suburb, despite what some folks here believe.

I pointed that out to my girlfriend the other day, since there's a Starbucks on the other side of the street, in particular the drive through further east.

She pointed out people might want a coffee to stay awake for their 1 hr commute back to Surrey in bumper to bumper traffic. :D

[GeeCee]

I can't figure out that location, its definitely on the wrong side for commuter traffic. Unless of course, lots of people downtown are actually <gasp> reverse commuting and downtown really is becoming just another suburb, despite what some folks here believe.

If only there was some way to cross streets.. damn!

[jlousa]

The timmys will do fine, there is a lot of industry in the immediate area. Blue collar workers tend to prefer timmys over mcdonalds, and with the burger king closing pretty soon there will only be more clients. I imagine it will become a popular place on friday and sat nights both before hitting the clubs and then again after clubbing.

[hollywoodnorth]

The timmys will do fine, there is a lot of industry in the immediate area. Blue collar workers tend to prefer timmys over mcdonalds, and with the burger king closing pretty soon there will only be more clients. I imagine it will become a popular place on friday and sat nights both before hitting the clubs and then again after clubbing.

whats the scoop on BK? After the games I imagine.

and ya that Timmys will do great. tones of people in the area with the schools and offices across the street aka Radical Entertainment, etc. Plus you will get people popping over from the Skytrain station and Train Station, etc.

Hell I live in Citygate and I will be in FULL effect :cheers:

[phesto]

FYI - Can't confirm for sure, but sounds like Michaels will be moving into the London Drugs space at 525 West Broadway.

[ozonemania]

Beard Papa opened up on the weekend at Park Royal South in West Van. Their specials this week are Mango Yoghurt and Chocolate. Yummm! :D

[SpongeG]

heard about michaels... good idea the city use a place like it - too bad the prices suck

bed bath and beyond is getting close in coquitlam - they have painted the blue parts black recently - i don't know how they could paint in such cold or wet weather but they did... lots of action in the parking lot - mayeb they can open before christmas?

thy have also added direct access to lougheed hwy - so both toys r us and bb&b are easier to get to east bound on lougheed...

[Yume-sama]

I was sadly not impressed with my first Canadian Beard Papa's experience :( I went to Aberdeen Centre and had them.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/4168580970_471cb44d1d_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/syume/4168580970/

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2496/4167845055_eb1649ae5f_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/syume/4167845055/

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2769/4167856419_93befbe8c5_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/syume/4167856419/

Chocolate was better. But, neither was very fresh. Note the big bin of cream puffs on the counter, getting... all... old and not fresh.

Japanese Beard Papa's is much better.

Aberdeen Centre is quite nice, though. I like their selection of shops, and their food court. The fountains were coordinated with Christmas music playing in the mall :D!
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2778/4167802127_56cbb0dbfe_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/syume/4167802127/

They have a Japanese toilet shop, complete with wall mounted remote control. I was tempted, but I don't have an electrical outlet in the right place!

[officedweller]

Looks like more Christmas decorations than Pacific Centre has.

[Yume-sama]

Hmm, I actually thought they had quite a bit in Pacific Centre. The Sears is completely decked out.

Unfortunately their Chinese Santa wasn't in at Aberdeen :P

[hrhsheba]

[They have a Japanese toilet shop, complete with wall mounted remote control. I was tempted, but I don't have an electrical outlet in the right place![/QUOTE]

I have one of those toilets - they're great. The remote is especially useful if you want to freak out your guests (the beam works under the door) :)

[djh]

FYI - Can't confirm for sure, but sounds like Michaels will be moving into the London Drugs space at 525 West Broadway.

What's Michaels? Are there any others in Vancouver? Do they have a website?

[officedweller]

Hmm, I actually thought they had quite a bit in Pacific Centre. The Sears is completely decked out.

Meant the mall - since the renos, there isn't all that much in the mall itself.

[deasine]

Aberdeen Centre is quite nice, though. I like their selection of shops, and their food court. The fountains were coordinated with Christmas music playing in the mall :D!

FYI, a lot of the stores at Aberdeen are still owned by Fairchild, the mall corporation.

Looks like more Christmas decorations than Pacific Centre has.

You mean that ugly fake two storey Christmas tree? =)

[SpongeG]

What's Michaels? Are there any others in Vancouver? Do they have a website?

its a craft store - abundant in the suburbs - west van, langley, coquitlam, burnaby, richmond, etc etc

its an american chain and their pricing is really bad - the exchange rate is like 50% or something bad - like it will be $14.95 CDN $9.95 US - on the price tags - well they have started to remove the US price since the $ is almost at par

[officedweller]

You mean that ugly fake two storey Christmas tree? =)

Don't forget the gingerbread house and white picket fence.

****************
I hear that the new Aritizia in Pacific Centre is now open - though not 100% complete.

[Yume-sama]

Don't forget the gingerbread house and white picket fence.

****************
I hear that the new Aritizia in Pacific Centre is now open - though not 100% complete.

Yes, it looked open. Also, there is an Underground open now.

So all of our Asian friends can get their G-Star fix. ;)

[johnjimbc]

Rumour in L'Hermitage is that the Tim Horton's along the Robson side of our building is opening tomorrow.

We'll see. It looks like all then need is workers and donuts ;), but it looked like that over the past weekend as well.

[Yume-sama]

Rumour in L'Hermitage is that the Tim Horton's along the Robson side of our building is opening tomorrow.

We'll see. It looks like all then need is workers and donuts ;), but it looked like that over the past weekend as well.

It's Tim Hortons, so the donuts have probably already been there for a month. :haha: Likely as soon as the freezer arrived.

[usog]

Starbucks in Surrey Central is open now.

[Yume-sama]

Starbucks in Surrey Central is open now.

Thank goodness! More diversity to the coffee scene. :frog:

[Denscity]

My city's first Starbucks has just opened in our newly renovated Safeway. Sadly, this actually has added diversity to our coffee scene, lol.

[AdrianT]

Was just at Oakridge and TD Visa has this Holiday Comfort zone right beside the Apple store that allows TD Visa cardholders a lounge with free gift wrapping, coat check, coffee/tea, and magazines. Pretty neat idea. Got some gifts wrapped there today.

Also the Japanese Crepe chain Mazazu Crepe is opening at Aberdeen Centre Dec 18th.

[Yume-sama]

Mmmm. Japanese crepes are sooooooo good. Konbiniya sells some, but I haven't tried them... :P

They do have holiday Mochi in right now from Kyoto! So go grab some! It's almost New Years!

[hollywoodnorth]

the Tim Hortons opened today on Terminal and was PACKEDDDDDDDDD both times I was in the area.

[Yume-sama]

Speaking of Tim Hortons, I went to a Tim Hortons in Manhattan today. They have REPLACED some Dunkin' Donut locations. I was, at first, very upset about this. But then I ordered an Iced Capp. and have discovered it is MUCH better than in Canada. They don't rely on the people to make it, it's already pre-made in a slurpee-like machine, and very creamy. The donuts are better, too.

Oh yes, and, one more retail story... I was asked by the Best Buy cashier how to spell Canada. :sly: :no:

[hollywoodnorth]

Speaking of Tim Hortons, I went to a Tim Hortons in Manhattan today. They have REPLACED some Dunkin' Donut locations. I was, at first, very upset about this. But then I ordered an Iced Capp. and have discovered it is MUCH better than in Canada. They don't rely on the people to make it, it's already pre-made in a slurpee-like machine, and very creamy. The donuts are better, too.

Oh yes, and, one more retail story... I was asked by the Best Buy cashier how to spell Canada. :sly: :no:

hmmm interesting move by them. I didn't know that Hortons was pushing that hard in the USA.

link >> http://www.nowpublic.com/style/tim-hortons-nyc-canadian-doughnuts-take-manhattan

well I mean in Europe a lot of people spell Canada as KANADA......as in many languages that's how its' spelled .... so maybe she was confused

[jlousa]

Should've had some fun, tell them don't know either, just use the maple leaf button on the keyboard. What you guys don't have a maple leaf button? Oh well, they proceed and try to pay for your purchase with pine cones and leafs.

Some of the timmys here have the slurpee machine for ice caps too, not sure why there is inconsistency.

[Rusty Gull]

Mmmm. Japanese crepes are sooooooo good. Konbiniya sells some, but I haven't tried them... :P


Highly recommended.

He's one of the best crepe guys in the city. Great taste, and the price is right (much more reasonable than some of the overpriced crepe shops downtown)

[jlousa]

Highly recommend a restaurant in Railtown called 2 chefs and a table. Pretty cheap too.

[Spork]

Highly recommend a restaurant in Railtown called 2 chefs and a table. Pretty cheap too.

Railtown? Never heard of that before.

[GeeCee]

maybe he meant gastown? :P

http://www.twochefsandatable.com/

[geoff's two cents]

Nope, it's Railtown.

http://www.canada.com/vancouvercourier/news/dining/story.html?id=c3dd7ef5-6e4d-4ded-8895-9a9b177977a6

Google is a wonderful thing! :D

I'd never heard the name myself, but a glance at the map tells me I once took a jaunt on foot through the area on a self-guided tour of Gastown/Chinatown/Japantown. Definitely a "transition" area (just barely on the cusp of change), and spookily deserted. That's what happens, I suppose, when you displace an entire neighborhood, as BC did to the nearby Japanese during WWII. I'd highly recommend the walk myself to anyone interested in seeing firsthand the present-day ramifications stemming from racism a half century ago; it's downright eerie. There's hope, however. There are some lovely restored heritage homes in the vicinity, and the nearby Oppenheimer park revitalization should help inject some life into the area.

BTW, jlousa, thanks for the recommendation. From what I can see of the menu, looks like a pretty decent place for brunch. I'll judge from that whether it's worth returning for the pricier dinner menu.

[johnjimbc]

It is good. I've only been there for brunch once, but have been meaning to go back. Haven't been there for dinner yet, but a friend told me it was quite delicious. The place has a nice vibe as well, being so small and in such a small building on a corner . . . kinda cozy upscale ;)

And I even knew the area was called Railtown . . . makes me feel like not such a newbie to Vancouver ;).