New Eats: Birds & The Beets

So sweet and homey, Birds & The Beets almost feels like grandmother’s kitchen.

Only this granny’s house has been cooly updated with blonde wood, white tiles and neon peacock-blue stencilling on the windows. Homemade goodies anchor the analogy; from jams to cucumber and carrot pickles, tangy pink radishes, beets and pungent kimchee, this spot specializes in the art of food preservation and DIY staples. Breakfasts of lush, weighty homemade yogurt or fresh-baked biscuits and slow-poached eggs give way to lunch sandwiches (local turkey, pork, veggie or fish—our raw tuna with mayo on flour-dusted brown bread was perfection), salads and kombucha on tap. Or simply stop by for a primo coffee (Matchstick, Bows & Arrows) and fresh lemon madeline with friends; the super-long space with two dining areas and a counter service bar in-between makes for many cosy nooks. And, as if that wasn’t enough, a little in-shop florist enhances the charm.

Take your treats to stay and zinnias to go. —Adrienne Matei

Birds & The Beets, 55 Powell St., Vancouver, 604-893-7832, www.birdsandbeets.ca