Lunch on the Green

Looking for a new spot for ladies day out?

Head over to the West End’s Nicola Street, with its charming heritage homes and boutiques, then stop for a lunch at the neighbourhood’s newest resident, the Greenhorn Espresso Bar. From the outside it blends in with the surrounding shops, but step inside and the high ceilings, massive red chandelier, distressed wood tables and stylish crowd scream Portland-cool.

The light menu – handwritten on large rolls of brown paper – is classic with a twist: Belgian waffles with persimmon compote, sourdough grilled cheese with Emmental, oven-roasted tomatoes, basil and feta, plus baked goods including apricot pumpkin seed cookies. After lunch, grab a Moja coffee to go and pop up to the second floor for a peek at the shop’s art gallery featuring antique bicycle installations. On your way out, treat yourself to a bouquet of fresh flowers from the buckets displayed along the wall.
Now that’s a one stop shop. —Lise Bouillard

994 Nicola St. Vancouver, 604-428-2912, www.greenhorncafe.com