50% of the proceeds of the new Modern-Chic Chinatown Tour (August 25th) will go to the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre. The Centre is refuge for women and children that provides meals, counselling, first aid, daily essentials, social space, emergency shelter and much more to the neighbourhood in need.

Why?

Many ask me what my favourite tour is, to which I reply, the Gastown Tour. Yes, Gastown is a vibrant historical neighbourhood housing the city’s hottest restaurants and bars. But the true reason is after residing in Gastown for a year, I learned that this area’s stigma is only skin deep. Downtown Eastside, including Gastown and Chinatown, are often shunned by the public and criticized by the media as the epicentre of social issues.

When I guide my guests through Gastown, many point out the drug and homeless problem they’ve observed. I invariably explain that it is this juxtaposition between the grit and the glitz that made me fall in love with the neighbourhood. I am humbled by my surroundings and am reminded to appreciate everything I have. Boo to the “woe is me”, “FML” attitude.

My goal is help my guests acknowledge and understand this area’s needs rather than turning a blind eye to the social issues. It breaks my heart to see the privileged mouth off the homeless or mentally ill and treat them as pests.

Lastly, I support the independent restaurateurs that believe in and have dedicated themselves to this evolving neighbourhood. This progressive spirit has spilled over to the neighbouring Chinatown and this culinary movement propelled me to launch my Modern-Chic Chinatown Tour. I’m very excited about this delicious and culturally rich tour. My desire to give back to the neighbourhoods I love pushed me to donate 50% of the tour’s proceeds.

So come enjoy an evening of tantalizing bites and wicked cocktails for a good cause!

Modern Chic-Chinatown Tour

Experience Vancouver’s Chinese food culture in a shiny new light with this year’s Chinese Restaurant Awards judge as your guide.

Chase the dragon into Vancouver’s colourful Chinatown. An unexpected restaurant and bar scene that pushes all cultural envelopes crouches inside. Slip into a renowned Chinese brasserie, followed by a sexy boutique bar, starring a multi-award winning bartender. Experience Eastern-medicine infused elixirs, bold flavours, and playful atmospheres when East meets best.

Venture just past the Chinatown gates to Vancouver’s pioneer in the modern Chinese cuisine movement. Enjoy classical Chinese delights with a twist, made lovingly with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

Wind up your night at a regal, yet futuristic location in the neighbouring Gastown district. The traditional dim sum chef will prepare fun and creative dishes to pair with your choice of poison.

• 4 signature cocktails and gourmet specialties at 4 destinations
• Service fees
  • Gratuities to your guide are highly appreciated

Introductory rate: $79 CDN

Capacity: 12 people

Meeting Spot: Chinatown Memorial Monument (Keefer St & Columbia St) [map]

Ending Spot: Gassy Jack Statue, Gastown (Powell St & Carrall St) [map] – 5 min walk from Stadium Skytrain Stn, Waterfront Stn (Canada Line), and Chinatown