Notes on Food

• Mr. Mike's Steakhouse & Bar is now open in West Edmonton Mall! Strange I haven't really seen it mentioned in any of the local papers.
  


• Bettina pointed out a unique alternative to flowers and candy - Edible Arrangements! While they may not last as long as a bouquet, they are certainly beautiful to look at. They are on the pricey side, but I'd be open to taking the idea and making up single-stem pineapple/melon flowers myself. They'd be perfect as takeaway gifts to give following a baby shower or spring dinner party.
  


• Original Fare has introduced gift cards! Valid at 17 independent Edmonton-area restaurants, I can't think of a better present for your epicurean friends.
  


• Starbucks has been promoting a campaign of culinary coffee pairings, going the route of wine. Though I like the education aspect of it, it's also a clever way to try and upsell their pastries. I did sample the Chocolate Cinnamon Bread the other day (though with tea and not alongside the recommended coffee), and it was surprisingly bland. Perhaps I'll eat it with its "other half" next time.
  


• Also on Starbucks - did anyone notice how quickly the stores cycled through their drinks this summer? From Raspberry to Orange to Blueberry Frappuccinos and Iced Teas, and now to their Fall Pumpkin Spiced Latte...I felt it was a bit too much, too soon, going against their marketed ideal for the summer of relaxing and just enjoying life.
  


• I stopped by Essence Organic Tea Bar (10011 102 Ave) on Friday, and had their Java Lat-tea (I will admit the pun made me smile). It's actually better than a very similar drink I had at Blendz in Vancouver, and though perhaps mainly psychological, it felt healthier than a cup of joe. I hope their business picks up - it was completely empty during my visit.

Notes on Coffee & Tea

• Finally went to DeCapo Caffe (8738 109 Street) last week. It reminded me of Caffe Sorrentino with its polished metal, pendant lighting, and sleek, simple decor. It was also more expensive, with my iced latte ringing up as $4.75. It's an eco-friendly alternative to Starbucks (they have a no paper cup policy), but just not as cozy.

• Essence Organic Tea Bar (10011 102 Avenue) is now open.
  

• Second Cup is now in the business of granola bars! Boxes of Moccaccino or Vanilla Bean Latte Cafe Delights are available at a grocery store near you.

• I mentioned this back in May, but beyond special occasions, Starbucks has created a line of greeting cards. Of the three, my favorite is the birthday one featuring the text, "Lattes are the new birthday cake." Hee. While I don't think the cards are very unique, the convenience factor of picking one up along with a mug or a pound of coffee is tough to ignore.

• This summer, you can also send a friend an electronic Starbucks invitation for coffee here.

Tidbits: Notes from Edmonton's Epicurean Scene

• St. Albert's outdoor farmer's market kicks off for the season on Saturday, July 7. Though the City Centre market takes first place in my books, St. Albert runs a close second.

• On the heels of Moon Garden, another Vietnamese restaurant has opened up in town. Phobulous (yes, that really is the name) has set up shop at 8701 109 Street. The text underneath their sign claims "authentic" cuisine, but really, with a name like that, who will take them seriously?

• Watch out for Essence Organic Tea Bar (10011 102 Avenue). Though still under construction, I'd be curious to see what their conception of a "tea bar" is (the idea in my head is an amalgamation of Steeps and an Asian bubble tea shop).

• Arts on the Ave Edmonton Society is a grassroots initiative with a goal of revitalizing the Alberta Avenue area. One of their major projects - a coffeehouse - will have its grand opening this Friday. Named The Carrot, after a quote by Paul Cezanne ("The day is coming when a single carrot, freshly observed, will set off a revolution."), the cafe will showcase art, music and other performances. Definitely a cause to get behind - bravo for this achievement!