Being a dog owner, and a Kitsilano resident, I consider myself to be someone who’s aware of where to go to get stuff for your dog.

And probably like many of you (if not all of you), I also enjoy being treated well - and sharing that experience with others.

And so our story goes…from the first day I introduced Gallagher to WOOF! in the Summer of 2008, I have been a happy puppy. That said, I wanted to uncover what makes WOOF! run ahead of the pack as I think they really have something going on.

To do that, I sat down with with Yuki Cripps, owner of WOOF!, to talk about a number of things pet owners, like you and me, should know, including:

1)  how they got to be who they now happen to be (and why);

2)  if there’s something different about how they treat their customers and the service they give them;

3)  what their plans are for tomorrow, next Tuesday, and five years into the future; and

4)  why people looking for a place to care for their dog or cat should be choosing WOOF!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

T&D: State your name, rank and serial number. If you don’t have one, make it up.

YC: Yuki Cripps, Top Dawg

T&D:  How (and why) did Woof! come to be?

YC: I have always been involved with animals but did not know what I wanted to “do”.  Before I started Woof!, I had many animal related “jobs” trying to find what it was that I wanted to do in life. And, after working with my friend at her specialty dog retail store and it came to me! We then started looking for a location.

My friend’s husband found our current location (1905 West 1st Avenue) and told me about it. I jumped at the opportunity and that same night, I became the owner of WOOF!

I called my marketing guru friend and sister (who don’t know each other and live 1,000km apart!) and they both came up with the name WOOF!; it was meant to be.

T&D: In simple terms, perhaps to someone who isn’t familiar with Woof! or the ‘West coast pet lifestyle’ at all, explain what Woof! does (and why they do it better than the rest).

YC: We are a boutique style dog food and grooming store. We only sell high quality dry, canned and raw food. No bi-products, no corn, no human grade. We try to have interesting, unique and practical toys and accessories.

I also try to keep on top of nutritional and training knowledge so that I can advise as needed. Our groomer has been grooming for 25 years and is known to be very gentle with the dogs.

T&D: Explain a typical day for you (and the staff) at Woof!, if there is such a thing (especially before and after London (Yuki’s first born/your first year in business).

YC: Grooming can start as early as 6 am especially during the Christmas season and Olympics! Doors open at 11am (before London, I was usually there by 9am). What happens during the day changes all the time, always unpredictable but one thing is a given, we always have our regulars pop in for a visit.

Since London was born, I have not been at the store as much I like. I have been depending on Camilla to run the store. I am starting to get back more and more as I miss the store and my regular visits!

T&D: We’ve seen a groundswell in the grooming/pet store concept over the past few years, including some serious ‘swanky’ competition on the local scene. Do you have any thoughts on this?

YC: There is no shortage of pet stores/boutiques. I think what makes one successful, are the people who run it.

We try to be knowledgeable and personable as I believe that is what brings people in. We are a neighbourhood store and our neighbours have become our friends.

T&D: Why should people consider Woof! as their pet store/groomer?

YC: We try to work with our customers and customize orders based on their needs.

T&D: How do you focus on your customer and make them feel like they’re important to you?

YC:  We try and spend as much time as we can with each person and dog. If we don’t have something readily in the store, we will do our best to help with another product or bring it in for them. Personal relationships, and after-sales service is very important (Note from T&D - I can attest to this based on a collar we purchased and returned after a few months with it because of a tear; full replacement for a brand new one!)

T&D: What have some of your criticisms been (either as an owner or as a business)? What’s changed because of it?

YC: Sometimes the groomer is very technical and we have tried to make sure that we use “everyday/laymans” terms in a practical manner rather than a technical manner.

T&D: Part of the customer experience, we think, is getting something ‘when’ you want it and ‘how’ you want it. How does Woof! satisfy this equation?

YC: We try really hard to get grooming appointments in when we can and work around timing. From a food/accessories standpoint, we try to make sure that we get our orders done in a timely manner so that our products are readily available when needed.

T&D: Describe the best and the worst customer experience with Woof! that you are aware of.

YC: BEST:I try to give practical advice on nutrition/training and when a customer comes back to thank me because my advice has helped, it just makes your day.

WORST: We get attached to our regulars and we get very emotional when we hear that they have passed. We had a regular dog that was getting groomed when our groomer found a cancerous tumour in the dog’s mouth. It started to bleed out while in the bath. The dog was rushed to the vet, and it was confirmed to be cancer and was put down a week later.

T&D: What’s your five year plan for Woof!?

YC: To have Woof! a household name in the neighbourhood!

T&D: Who has been your role model or inspiration in life and/or business?

YC: I look to many people in my life and they all seem to influence and push me in different ways.

T&D: In 30 words or less, put the following words into a cohesive sentence: yam fries, egg timer, light switch, rock n roll music.

YC: That’s a tough one…especially for someone who is sleep deprived! How about - The light switch turned on as the egg timer went off when the yam fries were cooked to rock n roll music.

T&D:Has delegating control to your employees been hard for you as an owner? What’s better/not-so-better because of it?

YC: Yes. I am a control freak but I had no choice when London came along! No one is me but they can be pretty close.

It is good to have another person’s view point and opinion as I think having another set of eyes helps you “see” things you may not have noticed; and can help you improve them.

T&D: Finally, what would you like to know of our readers (to be answered in the comments section)? Ask away!

YC: How can our store help you? Is there a product that you are looking for?

—–

Simple and focused on you and your pet is what I take away from WOOF!  Hope our little interview has peeled away some of the mystery behind that big yellow sign at the corner of Cypress and West 1st Ave.

darren

How much is an onion worth?

Well, if you were with me this past Saturday night at Jolly’s Indian Bistro in Kits…$10 (and then some).

But before we price the produce here, let me paint a picture for you: trying to find a consistent (and good) Indian restaurant in the Kitsilano area is like a trip through a drive-thru car wash - some aspects are abrasive and some are subtle.

On a busy Saturday night (which I thankfully made a reservation for - note the phone number below; Google references two or three that no longer work), our group was promptly shown to our table - about 7 feet to the right of the front door.  Did I mention it’s a small space?  Don’t think I did…so here’s (a dabbling of) the backstory:

Stepping through the doors at 2928 West 4th Avenue, you are immediately bathed in orange, immersed in curry aromas, aware of the tastefully decorated (and tight) space, and if there on a weekend evening…witness to the vibe/throng of loyal customers and first timers who have descended upon this pumpkin-coloured gem of an Indian restaurant in the middle of hipster Kits.

Jolly, the owner, (and his wife) have an interesting story, stemming all the way back to learning the ropes from the local cafe street chefs in Dehli.  In 1996, they came to the (604) and the rest is what you can now experience.

Unfortunately for me, I can’t really comment on the experience 100%; bringing me back to the $10 onion.

You see, on this particular evening, despite our having our table (the best in the house, I’d say) and everything firing on all cylinders, Jolly was the sole kitchen quarterback.  And that said, with one of our party allergic to onions, nothing on the menu (aside from rice, naan bread, and one of the zucchini dishes) was able to be custom made to accommodate.  Well, at least not for another 1 to 2 hours (so the story goes from our server).

Regardless, I have to say that from what I experienced (one bottle of wine for the table, and two orders of Pakora and Samosa), the food was very good.  I could only expect that the rest was too?

Our servers, of which we had two for some reason, were hot and cold (one was definitely more relaxed than the other) which left a mixed sensation of being impressed with the small portion we were able to try (as we were walking out of Jolly’s to our next restaurant who could make something without onion) and confused why it seemed like a struggle to get an answer out of them in a timely fashion.

Perhaps this one in particular was frazzled somewhat…doesn’t matter…she came back with a $10 GC for our next visit (for our troubles) and I do think at that point, she genuinely felt bad.

I know I did (somewhat).

darren

Last Summer I profiled some of the reasons why you should go to Glass City Cafe (769 Hornby; across from the Art Gallery).

But I’m not here to talk about that…I already did.

What I want to spend a few moments on, and commend the staff at Glass City Cafe for doing, is describing how much of a welcome relief Glass City Cafe has been during this rather crazy time in (downtown) Vancouver.

Amidst zip-trekkers (if I can say that), flaming blow torches, furry mascots, figure skaters, DJs, art gallery onlookers, and mass hysteria throughout, Glass City is a glowing beacon of respite.

Since re-designing the ‘cafe’ look into what I’d call more of a lounge (kinda like this one; but not like this one), it gives more of a relaxing feel.

And the best part - it seems like the whole reno thing is still pretty new to the general public (read: take advantage of the best Vancouver coffee (subjective? yeah), full bar, and tasty treats).  The service hasn’t changed with the reno, though, so fear not - smiles abound.

During these Winter Olympics in Vancouver, it’s hard to find even the most basic place in the heart of the chaos that you don’t have to wait in line for if you’re in the mood for a drink/snack/meal.

Nicely done, guys.

darren

Semperviva Yoga has recently stretched its way into the epicentre of Kitsilano’s main drag opening its fifth studio at the corner West 4th Avenue and Yew Street.

So, we decided that it was about time that we pulled back the curtain and cut right to the heart of Semperviva Yoga’s reason-for-being.

To do that, we sat down with with Gloria Latham, co-founder of Semperviva Yoga, to talk about a number of things Vancouverites (and yogis), like you and me, should know, including:

1)  how they got to be who they now happen to be (and why);

2)  if there’s something different about how they treat their customers and the service they give them;

3)  what their plans are for tomorrow, next Tuesday, and five years into the future; and

4)  why people looking to do Yoga in Vancouver should be choosing Semperviva

_________________________________________________________________________________________

T&D: State your name, rank and serial number. If you don’t have one, surprise us.

GL:  Gloria Latham, cofounder of Semperviva Yoga (with my husband Scott Latham) and director of Yoga Teacher Training

T&D: How (and why) did Semperviva come to be?

GL:  Semperviva came out of my frustration of working as a pharmacist. I wanted to be in the health field but my job felt very disconnected from true health.

T&D: In simple terms, perhaps to someone who isn’t familiar with Yoga or the ‘West coast vibe’ at all, explain what Semperviva does (and why they do it better than the rest).

GL:  Semperviva is committed to offering the best Yoga experiences possible. We provide our students with the most knowledgeable, inspiring teachers, and our studios and staff are warm and welcoming.

Semperviva Yoga provides Yoga for Every Body, all ages and all abilities. It is important to us that no one feels intimidated in starting a yoga practice and that they are able to continue to learn, grow and be challenged as their practice progresses.

T&D: Explain a typical day for you (and the staff) at Semperviva, if there is such a thing.

GL:  Our first class at Semperviva starts at 7:00am; our last classes end at 9:00pm and our Yoga Teacher Trainings end even later. The days are long but the work is soooooooooooooo fulfilling.

We get to turn people onto yoga every day and this is very rewarding. We get to share in people’s success stories. We are blessed with an amazing community of students.

The day includes everything from daily maintenance and cleaning, to working with our amazing web team, to teaching Yoga Teacher Training. There is never a dull moment. We have a beautiful base of students here in Vancouver and through our programs in Greece, we are able to connect to students internationally.

T&D: We’ve seen a groundswell in the Yoga scene over the past few years, including some serious ‘swanky’ competition on the local scene. Do you have any thoughts on this?

GL:  The demand for yoga is definitely growing because people understand its value as a system of complete mind body fitness. It is the perfect antidote for these stressful times.

Our focus at Semperviva is to provide the best classes possible with Vancouver’s most experienced teachers, in the most welcoming environments. This is our ongoing commitment to our community of students.

T&D: Why should people consider Semperviva as their Yoga provider?

GL:  (T&D: she is now speaking in bullet point form, and we like it)

• Over 40 experienced, inspiring teachers
• Over 145 classes per week in all styles of yoga
• Five locations to choose from; passes are valid at all Semperviva locations
• Most affordable classes in town
• Friendly, knowledgeable Yoga Advisors available to guide you to the most appropriate classes for you
• Ongoing workshops to help you further your practice with the world’s most sought after teachers such as Seane Corn, Shiva Rea, Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa, Mark Whitwell, Sarah Powers, Max Strom and more
• Internationally recognized as a leader in Yoga Education
• Local and international retreats

T&D: Is yoga a trend? What would your advice be to the non-Yoga masses (who have embraced phrases like ‘downward dog’ and the benefits of stretchy yoga wear) as they wrestle with this?

GL:  That would make yoga the longest lasting trend in history (well over 5,000 years)!

Yoga is not something you do. It is a way of life. It starts out as something you explore in a yoga studio, on your mat but then it seeps out into your life. You will find yourself calmer and less reactive, you will sleep better, eat better and feel better than you ever have before, and you’ll be in great physical shape on top of all of that! I can’t think of one valid excuse to not start a yoga practice and keep it going for the rest of your life.

T&D: How do you focus on your customer and make them feel like they’re important to you?

GL:  Our students mean everything to us. They are our entire reason for being. Being able to teach is a great gift and we will do everything we can to provide the best yoga experiences possible for our students.

We offer lots of free community events at Semperviva such as free classes on Christmas Day Class, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. It’s a great way to bring people together, build community and make new friends.

T&D: What have some of your criticisms been (either as an owner or as a business)? What’s changed because of it?

GL:  Our classes are always full. In response we keep adding more classes and have opened new locations (T&D: like the one we’re sitting in)

T&D:  Part of the customer experience, we think, is getting something ‘when’ you want it and ‘how’ you want it. How does Semperviva satisfy this equation?

GL:  We offer a full range of styles of yoga, throughout the day. The only day we ever close fully is New Year’s Day.

We provide a tremendous range of teaching styles in our schedule in order to accommodate all students regardless of their abilities.

T&D:  Describe the best and the worst customer experience with Semperviva that you are aware of.

GL:  I honestly can’t think of anything that negative (THANKFULLY). The most positive customer experience for me has been our Christmas morning class, and our Yoga Teacher Trainings. I teach a free class every year on Christmas morning and then my family and I serve breakfast to the class.

Our Yoga Teacher Trainings are such rewarding experiences. I believe that yoga training is the most empowering personal development program there is.

T&D:  The new space on West 4th Avenue (former home of Coast Mountain Sports at the corner of Yew Street) is very well put together. How long had you been contemplating an expansion and how did it come about?

GL:  We have always wanted a location on West 4th. Our presence in Kitsilano felt incomplete without it. My husband contacted the landlords of the building 5 years ago, and the opportunity finally opened up just before Christmas.

T&D:  What’s your five year plan for Semperviva? How does the new space advance this?

GL:  In five years we hope to continue to be the strongest member of the Vancouver Yoga Community, and continue to be internationally recognized as a leader in Yoga Teacher Training.

Our new space provides us with great visibility which helps increase awareness of all our studios, retreats and Yoga Teacher Training.

T&D:  Who has been your role model or inspiration in life and/or business?


GL:  A great inspiration for me has been Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa. She is an amazing teacher, and has touched so many peoples’ lives. She works tirelessly, travelling and teaching all over the globe while still maintaining the largest yoga studio in North America, Golden Bridge Yoga, with her husband Gurushabd Khalsa.

T&D:  In 30 words or less, put the following words into a cohesive sentence: chipmunk, public transit, live music, and salad bar.

GL:  While riding on public transit to a great salad bar I know that plays live music, I spotted a chipmunk in a tree. (T&D: she used 23)

T&D:  Finally, what would you like to know of our readers (to be answered in the comments section)? Ask away!

GL:  What’s keeping you from making a commitment to a yoga practice?

…

So there you have it, Semperviva Yoga’s story and commitment to customer service in a Yoga context!

Thanks to Gloria and the Semperviva team for taking the time (and effort) to speak with us.

darren

Last summer we introduced some of you to Jonker Street.  

That was then…Jonker Street has CLOSED.

Apparently, under what appears to under the same management from what I can tell and a new ‘take-out inspired South East Asian’ theme, Jonker Street’s re-incarnation (read: uses the same phone number, etc) is Fresh Bowl.

It’s really to bad, actually, as I quite enjoyed what Tommy Ng was dishing up over at Jonker Street.  I have yet to discover if he is still behind the wheel at Fresh Bowl, mind you.  What I have discovered in the last month or so are some comments that make me think that they haven’t really ’solved for x’ in the service equation (let x = you and me).

Over at Urbanspoon, tubbychubby had a deciselvey negative take on service, portions, and impact the next day!

Very slow service for what’s supposed to be a “fast food” place with already preppred to be scooped into bowls….Food is over priced for the quality and quantity - portions were really small.
Ordered the roti canai, it was alright … Thai green curry - utter FAIL, no flavour and watery … I can’t even go on about how disappointed this place was. The worst part is we got sick the next day from the food!!!

On the other hand, Victoria, who also agreed the portions were small, felt otherwise:

All in all, I was satisfied with our quick and tasty meal. However, keep in mind that the servings aren’t all that large for the prices … The bright decor and friendly staff were great, and it was good to see they’d put a little more life into the restaurant with all of the renovations. It definitely lives up to it’s name, and both the food and the atmosphere is fresh.

I appreciate a good debate on the merits of a new/old restaurant.  Makes me want to try it all-the-more (minus the getting sick the next day bit).

Until I’m next passing by 1128 Pacific Boulevard, and I will try and get there, I think I’ll be sticking to my tried-n-true when it comes to take-out (ish) South East Asian/Asian inspired foods, like: Noodle Box…Wok Box…Thai Away Home, to name but a few.

Seems to me that we’ve got a lot of ‘bowls’ and ‘fresh’ concepts already in Vancouver.  But what do I know?

darren

I used to love multiple choice tests at school (as much as one could love multiple choice tests), especially when the answer seemed to jump off the page like frogs on a dynamite pond.

Try this on for size:

What’s black, white and red all over?

a) a newspaper
b) a sunburned penguin
c) Santa with a black eye
d) The Dirty Apron Cooking School in Vancouver

If you answered (d), full points, collect your $200 as you pass Go. If you answered anything other than (d), do it again.

Speaking of doing things again (for the first time in my case), this past Friday evening I found myself enjoying what The Dirty Apron Cooking School was serving up to the class of about 20 students.  And let me be honest with you, it was time well spent!

I introduced you to the concept of The Dirty Apron Cooking School when it crashed open its newly refurbished double doors (and studio/store) to the public last summer.

I also told you some of the reasons why you should try it out - like David Robertson and his highly skilled and professional staff (thanks again, Takashi, for making sure we didn’t overcook our main course!).

Now after having gone to experience things first hand (by the way, the French Class was tres magnifique!), I can honestly say that the way you are treated by every person you meet there, not to mention the tips and tricks you pick up for use in your own kitchen, is like none other in Vancouver.

Having tried one of Vancouver’s rather well ensconced cooking schools not too long ago and established a baseline, there really just is no comparison to what The Dirty Apron dishes up.

Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of talented chefs in this city and there are more than enough good recipes to go ’round.  But what really makes The Dirty Apron stand out?  Simple - the way they treat you. And in my mind, no one can take that from them.

I’m sure there is a flurry of activity going on before, during, and after students come through the doors at The Dirty Apron.  But you know what?  You never see or hear a word of it.  All you get is 100% attention by the chefs and staff, access to top-of-the-line equipment (Wolf Ranges, Wusthoff knives, etc.).  I don’t remember the last time that I felt five hours pass by in a span of what seemed like 5 minutes.  Our group had so much fun and and took away something more than fancy food in splashy take-out containers - an experience that is to be repeated.

Over 2,000 (ish) students in their first six months can’t be wrong; they must have all chose (d) too…

darren

We at timinganddelivery.com would like to take this opportunity to welcome its newest partner, Fresh Dish!

Fresh Dish is located at 1412 East 49th Avenue (and Knight) and has at the heart of its reason for being two things we favour: 1) food; and 2) service

Picking your menu, choosing your dishes, and clicking (or coming in) is as easy as it gets when it comes to fine food being delivered to your door.  But don’t listen to me, listen to Fresh Dish’s owner tell you the story:

One of my favourite aspects of their service:

Fresh Dish does all the meal planning, shopping, chopping, dicing and clean up.

We’re excited to showcase Fresh Dish as Corinne and her team offer something quite unique, including a solid focus on service in Vancouver! So…welcome Fresh Dish!

darren

I was forced to take piano lessons as a kid.

So that sucked.

Picking up on that concept, in terms of the ‘that sucked’ factor, the past year or so has thrown a couple of service experiences my way that I think are worth yammering on about:

1. Waiting 15 minutes to order a beer
2. Questioning why scrambled eggs take over an hour to get to your plate
3. Being told what to order, where to sit, and being afraid to suggest otherwise
4. Waiting for wine gums…that never came
5. Feeling like I was at a public camp site waiting in line to use the single men’s washroom at a lounge

And, adding number 6 to the list - waiting over five minutes while trying to make a walk-in purchase of a product at a hair salon (Toni & Guy on Alberni)…twice.

What’s kind of ironic is that there slogan  - Great Hair, Great Service, Everytime. is at most, half true (at least, in my case it is).

Now, before you start swinging for the fences, don’t get me wrong, I have no idea how well they cut hair.  Probably very well…they’ve got an espresso machine and it looks really cool.  Full points.  Not really interested in checking out that side of things…I stay true to my own at Do Hair Studio.

What I am interested in, and what I come there for is their Bedhead product.  It works, it smells nice, and it isn’t that expensive.

But who cares?  That’s not what I’m on about.

Instead, its the fact that on two occasions - once in December and once earlier this month - I dropped into the Toni & Guy store at 1088 Alberni to purchase the product.  On the first visit, I had to wait while the receptionist opened all of the boxes, and I mean ALL of the boxes, from their latest shipment as they hadn’t been upacked.  Unfortunate in that it took some time, but I was OK with it (ish).

On the second visit, I simply walked in, grabbed a bottle, and slapped it down at the till.  Then, I was asked for my name, my last name, my first name, etc in an attempt to locate my name in the system.  I smiled and tried to be polite while and handed them the cash to pay (read: so I could leave), but they kept looking.  Bad move.  The ensuing two or three minutes returned the similar result - nothing.

Concept that I was confused at here:

• customer is in front of you
• customer has cash
• customer wants to purchase product
• customer should be rung into the till and set on her/his way

If I really wanted to be ‘in their system’ I would have mentioned it and given her the information.  Instead, I was in a bit of a rush and handed her the cash to move on.  Hope next time they pick up on these cues.

darren

We were honoured that Craig and the team at LetsGoForDinner Blog ranked timinganddelivery.com as one of the Vancouver’s Top Restaurant Blogs.

Out of 55, we placed 11th! It was certainly a tight race for us folk in on the other side of 5th place (smirk).

So thanks to all of YOU, our readers, for doing what you do (reading). I’ll keep on doing what I do (writing) as long as you stick to the ‘wash, rinse, and repeat’ program with us.  We’ve got some great stuff planned this year, including a reader affinity program with special discounts at all of our sponsors (stay tuned)!!

Its late…just had to share the good news.

Nite!

darren

Have any of you been to The Bay lately?

I have to admit, that aside from the occasional need to get some socks or white t-shirts, I hadn’t been on their frequent visitor list; until recently.

Stepping through the doors at the corner of West Georgia and Granville (674 Granville to be exact) kind of feels like you’re standing in line for the gondola at Whistler (minus the skiis and people in blue coats trying to scan your lift pass).

Madness on the main floor aside, something smacked me right in between the eyes on my latest visit to return a Christmas re-gift I received (a decorative, wooden, tea ‘chest’).

In my attempt to navigate the five floors of what seems like emptiness, I was ‘mapping’ my route out to the ‘wooden tea chest department’ on the elevator map.

And…much to my surprise, beside me was a Bay employee, undercover (read: name tag camo).

Here’s the coles notes:

• took the time to ask if I was lost (felt like a kid at the PNE);
• looked at what I was returning;
• got out at the floor I needed to get out at with me;
• took me to where I want to go; and
• ensured that I got what I needed (read: the $29.99 gift card refund).

Honestly, I kind of felt like I was drifting along in a video game following some sort of directions because I can’t recall the last time in a retail environment (OK…maybe aside from The Boss store…ps - Roberto moved to Oakridge) that an employee took the time, when they were not working, to go out of their way to help a customer.

I’ll be coming back to the lift ticket line-up again.

darren

My family is right in the middle of a kitchen overhaul; ’bout time too. Why do I mention this? Because they’ve got something in common with Town Hall at 1032 Alberni Street - a wall.

When Saltlik flipped the reno switch and transformed into Town Hall late last year, there was something in my mind that made all the difference in the world to the flow of this restaurant: the ‘wall’ of booths that separated the lounge and the restaurant.  When the painters tape and drywall dust faded, much to my surprise I found it to be no more.

And this is a good thing.

If you’ve been to Saltlik before you’ll notice that there are a number of similarities between the two: same massive vertical wine cellar (think Yew but flipped on its ear), same lofty spiral(ish) staircase to the washrooms - complete with what used to be deer antlers above the door (still some sort of animal), same dimly lit ambience, same wide open space with lofty ceilings, and I’m not going to stress this one, but a similar menu.  In my opinion, better.

What I found to be different, and is one of the reasons I’m recommending Town Hall on Alberni, is that our server, and the servers I caught a glimpse of during my couple of visits, were interested in you and your table - reminds me of Pinkys.

On our latest visit, and I’ll call him ‘Brad’, took the time to sift through the wine selection with us in some detail (something I like) and also noticed that some in our party weren’t certain of what they wanted.  He stepped through the entrees in question with vigour and nimbleness, like frogs on a dynamite pond.

Honestly, while there may be a bit of ’same same’ from a number of you who walk through Town Hall’s doors, I’d throw my vote into the ‘but different’ camp.

A shame my parents are keeping their wall; they could have learned something here.

darren

Off to Town Hall (1032 Alberni Street) tonight for a sampling of their sumptuous menu and of course, their service.

Interesting that there hasn’t been much pomp n’ circumstance since the closing of its former footprint owner, Saltlik.  All in the family, I suppose.

Once I emerge, I’ll definitely fill you in.

How about anyone of you guys?  Any thoughts so far on it’s offerning since jumping into  ‘luxury lane’ (read: Alberni b/w Burrard and Thurlow)?

darren

We at timinganddelivery.com would like to take this opportunity to welcome its newest partner, parliament!

Parliament Interiors, located at 115 Water Street in historic Gastown, opened its doors only two weeks ago and is already making a dent on the furniture scene (if I can say that).

I’ve had first hand experience with Colette and the rest of her team and I must say, service is something they’re certainly attentive to. According to their Web site:

We’re three experienced retailers who have combined our vision and passion to create an inspiring new home décor store in the heart of Gastown — Vancouver’s go-to fashion and design district. As native Vancouverites, we know our city, its people and the home décor trends you’re after. Our store is super-cool, fresh (full statement shades of grey and white with pops of colour) and our merchandise is brought to you at impossible prices. If you love open-plan living that’s contemporary and affordable, visit us for an inspiring shopping experience.

Welcome parliament!

darren

The following post was submitted by Nicole, one of timinganddelivery Vancouver’s loyal readers.

If you have a Vancouver service experience that you’d like to share with our readers, just click here!

Society
1257 Hamilton Street
604.629.8800

Mon-Fri 11:30 – Midnight
Sat/Sun 4:30-Midnight

I just couldn’t help it. I was having a moment. It was like a combination of flashbacks from Legally Blonde, Clueless, and House Bunny.
Where was I…..?

As many of you have probably heard there’s a new kid in town, specifically Yaletown, in the old home of Coast restaurant.

She goes by the name of Society.

If you’re thinking pink right now you’re on the right track. In fact the impressive pink chandeliers that occupy the first floor make quite the statement, and who would really expect anything less from the newest addition from the Glowbal Group?

They claim that at Society, “anything can happen” and do I ever believe it after a night out there with a couple of my girlfriends. Not exactly a tale of debauchery but we did have it all: the good, the bad, and the hilarious!

The good

• the food was perfect for a rainy night. The drinks were exactly what we needed. (Try the French Rose if you go.)
• the atmosphere. It was bustling, packed, and everyone seemed to be having a good time or, at the very least, happy to get a seat.

The bad

• the wait, the wait, the wait! The hostesses would benefit from a speech on “under promise and over deliver.” We were told the wait would be about an hour. It turned into two. Not horrible but even over the noise we could hear the tick-tock of our watches and growling stomachs.
• the uniforms. As Elle would say, they were “unfortunate looking.” Not to get on a fashion high horse but the servers should be given a fair shot and the mismatched “wife beater” tank tops were just, well, tragic. Nothing high society about that.

The hilarious

• the service! Like I said, we had an hour wait that extended into two but we were definitely kept entertained. We passed the time in the upstairs lounge and found a game to play; see if you can figure out where the food is supposed to go before the food runner does! I’ve never seen so many delicious dishes wander back and fourth in and around me so often. Luckily in the small space it did look like everything did end up in the right lap before it got cold.
• when we did a couple of check-ins to see about how much longer we would be nestled upstairs a straight answer was elusive:

Hostess: “Wellll, that table over there has started their appetizers but I don’t know how long it’ll take them to eat everything.” Blank stare.
Us: “Ok….(is this happening?)…but can you tell us how many people are ahead of us?
Hostess: Oh, yeah….three!

Eventually we were seated downstairs, had our dinner and the requisite “junk food platter” and continued to be entertained not only by the service, but also by the messy-night-nightclub vibe that was going on in the ladies restroom. Nothing about the experience was boring.

Will we be back? Absolutely. You can bet your society’s secret handshake on it!

Nicole

The following post was submitted by Alex, one of timinganddelivery Vancouver’s readers.

If you have a Vancouver service experience that you’d like to share with our readers, just click here!

House of Clogs
1280 Robson St.
604 685 8710

Very friendly staff…until you need to return something.

I wasn’t told about their “no returns” policy until after I tried to return shoes (unworn, with receipt, a week after purchase). I explained nothing would fit me as their stock is wide, and my feet are very narrow.

The manager/owner gave me a limited-time credit note “as a special favor”. He made me come back over and over to check new stock, but he knew nothing would fit me because he did the ordering.

He seemed to think it was funny.

I called the store two weeks later to ask for corporate info; the manager acted very suspicious and hung up on me.

I’ve lost $160 because of his “policy”, which is only posted on a small sign near the ceiling. The Manager/Owner doesn’t care about customers, just their money.

I worked in Customer Service for 14 years, and never treated a customer like this.

BUYER BEWARE.

Alex M

If you’ve ever talked to anyone from Winnipeg, you may have heard of a strange and ritualistic event that elicits great emotion - “socials”.

If you happen to be from Winnipeg, that’s awesome…keep reading anyway.

Regardless of whether you’ve heard of or been to a social, you’ll probably know exactly what I mean when I reference these typical traits:

• simplistic - just enough decoration and dressing up to get things done
• un-assuming - in looking at the venue, nothing jumps out as being over-the-top (e.g., roller rinks, church basements, and legion halls are  popular venues)
• realistic - prices and portions are appropriate (a beer costs what it should; food is served in appropriate quantities - especially at the midnight cold cuts table)
• purposeful - the intent is clearly known to all who attend and with that in mind, the demographic is quite varied with participation levels usually quite high

So, this may have you asking…what in the world do Winnipeg, socials, Indian food, and Vancouver have in common?!

Lots.

Especially if you happen to find yourself walking along West 4th Avenue in Kitsilano, particularly in the 2000 block (2006 to be exact).

Once there, you’ll find a relatively small sign/sandwich board near a staircase that leads up to an Indian restaurant that is:

• simplistic;
• un-assuming; and
• realistic.

And after the surprise birthday party which a large group of us attended last weekend at The Indian Oven in Kitsilano (2006 West 4th Avenue if you hadn’t yet figured that part out), it most certainly was ‘purposeful’ as well.

Widely recognized for its kick-a$$ butter chicken and location right next to [the former and famous] Bimini’s Pub in Kitsilano, The Indian Oven has certainly carved a name out for itself in the Vancouver restaurant ether.

The service we received was excellent…right portions, right amount of contact, and right type of recommendations and warnings (i.e., there is a category of hot that exists ‘above’ 911 - who knew?).

One thing I will say, though (and I quickly anticipated this after I drank in the Huey Lewis-esque decor upon entering), is that the bills are hand-written.  So, be patient if you’re in a large group, the ability to ’split the cheque’ mid-way through your meal is…well…going to be tough, and that’s putting it nicely.

ps - wear stretchy pants and bring a pillow for after your meal, you’re going to need it

darren

As you may or may not know, timinganddelivery.com welcomes your stories relating to service! And…from-time-to-time we publish some of them - like the one you are about to read. If you think you have a service experience worth sharing (good or not-so-good), send it in!

It had been three years since I had been in to Beauty Bar at 2142 West 4th Avenue in Kitsilano.  So…having just moved back into the neighbourhood with my boyfriend, I decided to pop in.

My reason for stopping by, aside from it being a cool store that is fun, bright, organized and great for gift ideas (my two cents), was to solve the ‘problem ‘of too many products in the shower.

Basically, I wanted to satisfy both male and female “scents” for body wash or soap (read: I like nice soap in the shower AND I wanted to make us both happy…and clean!).

I was greeted by Emma who immediately understood my ‘soap needs’ and pointed me to the “Fresh” product line. She even recommended a product that her last boyfriend liked and sold me on the spot!

What’s more is that Emma also gave some great tips on lip gloss (also from Fresh) as well as body lotions that would be good from pregnant ladies (I have a few friends that might be needing some tummy love soon!).

The soap recommendation was a hit…we love it! Ironically, Darren, my boyfriend, had been into the Fresh store in New York and was instantly drawn to their massive soap display and packaging (see photo on the right).

I went back in last night to find another soap (they’re a big hit at our place) and to do a little more Christmas shopping for the family. Emma was again very helpful, personable and took lots of time to ask questions and get to know her customers. She even told me a story about a couple women who had been in shopping earlier in the day. It is obvious to me that she (and Beauty Bar staff) takes great passion in her job….big points!

To be honest, Beauty Bar’s customer service was so great that I have booked to get my makeup done there before our upcoming Christmas party! What’s cool – Beauty Bar was fully booked that evening (apparently they are the place to go before an event) but Amanda (another great sales girl) squeezed me in.

Wow…Beauty Bar is definitely on my repeat list!

Laura

We at timinganddelivery.com would like to take this opportunity to welcome its newest partner, Savoury Chef!

Savoury Chef is located at 826 Renfrew Street and is focused on two things we are very big fans of: 1) food; and 2) service

According to their Web site, Savoury Chef Foods happily offers a number of different catering services in and around Vancouver and their menus feature seasonal and local products wherever possible.

The back-story:

What began as a small catering business has grown exponentially since Chef Taryn Wa moved into their commercial kitchen space in 2006.  As business continued to increase on all fronts, it became apparent to the Savoury Chef team that Vancouver was in need of a high-end catering company that emphasizes the use of local, organic and in-season ingredients. Taryn Wa is a cook above all else, putting quality ahead of margins when creating menus – and that means quality and flavour always comes first in our business.

We’re always happy to showcase businesses who we believe offer something great back to the community - fresh food, innovative creations, and attentive service.  So…welcome Savoury Chef!

darren

Tommy Ng and Jonker Street epitomize Malaysian Hospitality.

Friendly and welcoming, always ready with a joke and a smile, Tommy Ng is the face of Jonker Street.

At this Malaysian restaurant (on Pacific Boulevard in Yaletown), the food will transport you to the streets of Malacca, Penang and Kuching, while Tommy’s warmth and hospitality will welcome you in and bring you back, time and again.

Unlike the Kopitiam’s (coffee shops) or Hawker Stalls (open-air food courts) native to the region, where the clamorous sounds, colorful sights and pungent smells grab a hold and surround you, Jonker Street exudes a quiet confidence.

And they should.

1) The concise menu offers many Malay staples:

• Satay; Gado-gado; Laksa; Kway Teo; Beef Rendang; Sago.

2) Many of their dishes standout and are absolutely crave-worthy!

• Their Roti Canai presents as a healthy version of the traditional; flaky on the outside yet never greasy, and soft and pipping hot within.

• Their Hainnease Chicken Rice (which owing to the usual grease and gristle, my mum had avoided for years) has amazingly clean flavors, the taste of the dish benefiting greatly from the use of free-range chicken.

3) Service is attentive and friendly, a Catch-22: with only one server (whenever we’ve been there) you get undivided attention.

• Unfortunately,  if you’re at one of the other tables then all that friendliness takes time… waiting for dishes to be  cleared, waiting for drink refills, waiting for the check.

4) Dishes are made to order and even some of the key ingredients (such as the chili sauce that accompanies the Hainnese Chicken Rice) are made in-house; a detail that is not lost on the taste and composition of dishes.

• However, such dedication to authenticity and perfection can prove consequential, as often there are timing issues with the kitchen as dishes come to the table uncomfortably out of sync;  a reoccurring problem for Vancouver restaurants with too small of a kitchen and too few hot plates and burners.

But, I digress. For authentic Malay food and hospitality, Jonker Street is well worth the visit.

~ kath

We at timinganddelivery.com would like to take this opportunity to welcome its newest partner, body politic!

body politic is located at 208 East 12th Avenue (SE corner) and is centred around sustainable design and limitless style.

According to their Web site, it’s about choice, not sacrifice. Independent designers from Vancouver to New York are showcased at body politic.

The back-story:

Growing up in Edmonton, Alberta, owner Nicole Ritchie-Oseen always had a determined spirit and a love of fashion. Packing up this determination (and, she confesses, a lot of clothes and shoes) she set her sights on Vancouver to study fashion merchandising at Blanche Macdonald. The dream turned into reality with a business plan, a location on Main Street, and a name which embodied clothing that is sustainable, ethical, and organic.

We’re always happy to showcase new talent…and service worth checking out.  So…welcome body politic!

darren