Where to Eat in Vancouver: Save On Meats Launches Meal Token Program

On November 27, Vancouver Food Tour hopped over to one of our favourite neighbourhoods, Gastown. Instead of hosting a tour, we visited Vancouver’s iconic Save On Meats for a pre-holiday party, Bash at the Butcher.

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The iconic Save on Meats sign lit up Hastings Street

We were welcomed warmly by shots of Jameson whiskey, appetizers, and Road 13 Vineyards wine.

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Jameson shots to warm us up

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Local BC winery Road 13 showcased their delicious wines

The event celebrated 2 events:

The airing of CBC’s “The Big Decision” that featured Save On Meats
The launch of their newest community program, Save on Meats Meal Tokens

Officially hitting Vancouver on November 29, the Save On Meats Meal Token is an innovative program to help the needy. The $2.25 meal tokens are available for purchase online and at the restaurant. When given out, they can then be redeemed for a hot breakfast sandwich at their sandwich window.

Purchasers have either the option of directly distributing their tokens to those in need, or having Save on Meats distribute them to its dozens of community partners to share amongst their organization.

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Save on Meats Meal Token photo courtesy of Ki Communications

To purchase Meal Tokens online, visit the Save on Meats website at www.saveonmeats.ca

The Save on Meats Meal Token program is just one of the few ways that Mark Brand, co-owner of Save on Meats, is working to create a true social enterprise. With multiple outreach efforts in the local community, including meal programs and the employment of over 65 local workers who may struggle with employment barriers, Save on Meats is an anchor in the renewal of Hastings Street.

So how did all of Brand’s team’s hard work pay off on “The Big Decision”? We are happy to report (and with no surprise!) that the show’s host and entrepreneurial icon, Arlene Dickinson, offered her full support. After completing a series of challenges to try to increase the revenue, it was clear that, in Arlene Dickinson’s words, “Mark Brand is incredibly driven, hard working and visionary. And those traits, combined with a great team, make for great entrepreneurs.”

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Diner-inspired appetizers and charcuterie

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Co-owner Mark Brand welcoming guests – The Big Decision was about to premiere!

If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit Save On Meats, I highly encourage you to do so. The butcher shop has a fresh and affordable offering. The diner’s food is comforting and fun, and the drinks are stiff (the Bourbon Bacon milkshake shouldn’t be missed!). Lastly, they’re one of the commendable local businesses that extends to their surrounding community. Congratulations on “The Big Decision” Save on Meats! – It was definitely well deserved!

Maren Walker works in Communications and Relations for Vancouver Food Tour. Originally from California, living in Vancouver, BC via Texas. Lover of culinary adventures, food trucks, beer, travel, hiking and design.

Follow her on twitter @marenw