all signs point east

Although it quietly opened last winter, East
of Main has a new seasonal menu that feels mighty fresh.

With the help of acclaimed chef Tina Fineza, this quaint little
Chinatown café offers refined Mediterranean tapas, ideal for a small
gathering of friends. What to order? First of all, start with the
tastiest olives in the city, infused with refreshing citruses ($5), the
Almond Dukkah, a simple dish of ground almonds and spices served with
olive oil and flatbread ($5), and eggplant served with couscous and
yogurt ($6). Finish off with some Spanish-inspired plates, like the
Spanish Potato Torta ($6), and the Braised Heritage Angus Beef ($8),
served with patatas bravas. Wash it all down with the outstanding Fred &
Ginger ($10), a lively take on the classic Moscow Mule incorporating
rhubarb bitters.

Tastes like summer. Anya Georgijevic

223 East Georgia St., Vancouver, 604-899-2777, http://eastofmaincafe.com