Where I Sip and Dine – A Pursuit of Life

A Dining Experience Not Soon To Be Forgotten At Petty Catwater

There are those times where and when you least expect it that you find a total unexpected gem. Those times are the best. Those are the places I am always on the search for.

Here I am enjoying some time in the Quesnel, BC area, and I was suddenly made aware of one such unique place – Petty Catwater.

This little property turned chic farm style home and Bed & Breakfast, offers these incredible Farm Table evenings of culinary delights and wine. Umm, yes please!

Owned by a very lovely couple, Bruce and Jenn have put their heart and soul and 17 years of building to make this little slice of heaven a reality.

With all ingredients being local, and Jenn, whom is also the chef, having trained in France, you know you are going to be in for a treat. I truly had no idea what kind of unforgettable treat I was actually in for.

Upon arriving to the property you pull in by an honesty stand.

I love the concept of honesty stands! I see them quite a lot around British Columbia, and I just think they are great. Honesty makes the world go round and having integrity makes a persons life so much more rewarding.

As you walk into the yard its hard not to be immediately enamored by the elegant farmhouse design and landscape.

As you walk around you can even get a glimpse of what is in store.

There is a garden where in the summer they grow the majority of their produce, and some lush little sitting areas for the guests whom are staying on property at the BnB.

Not only do they have the Bnb, but they also accept Wwoofers(willing workers on organic farms) where they have volunteers come and exchange work for food and accommodation.

I enjoyed a lot of wwoofing experiences around the globe in my backpacking days, so this spoke straight to my heart.

The Bed & Breakfast is located in a separate building to the house. Which is nice as it feels very private.

I was pleasantly surprised at the warm and inviting atmosphere of the BnB, and the chic decor. It was done in such a way that you feel quite luxurious up there. To me it felt as though I was back in Europe again.

The dining area is in an addition, with a long table with proper fine dining settings. Once again the decor was spot on in the house as well.

I really have to give kudos to Bruce and Jenn for how well their interior and exterior designing skills are.

I was loving the long table concept as well. Again bringing me back to Europe. As you sit at a table among strangers, it doesn’t take very much time for the conversation to flow as good as the vino. I had the best date in the room though – my darling sister! Some of the best dates are the ones you take your sister on.

My kinda party, if I do say so myself.

The food. Oh my the food. Where to begin really.

The starters were home made French Onion soup accompanied with a divine fluffy crusted pizza. Seriously, every bit I took was better then the last.

As we moved onto the main course, the culinary journey of grand proportions did not slow down.

There was plenty of slow cooked, perfectly seasoned, melt in your mouth meats to choose from, a beautiful array of roasted vegetables, and a superb mash of combined potatoes.

One must be careful not to over do it on dinner as there is still dessert on the menu. Trust me, its hard not to have seconds, or thirds. Loose fitting clothes perhaps are a good option.

Coffee and home made cakes for dessert seemed so fitting to complete this divine experience. There was a fresh fig cake, and a pear cake made with Guiness.

Every single guest at the table had pure satisfaction beaming out of their faces.

Bruce and Jenn do this amazing job of opening up their home and making you feel so comfortable, and transport you to a place of class and spoiling. You feel and taste their passion in all that they do here. I would go back simply to be in their company once again. But really, I need to go back and experience a night in the Bnb. If their dinner is that good, I bet the breakfast is something to write home about too. It is a place not to be missed.

This truly was a one of a kind and unique experience. Happy culinary adventuring!

The Sugar Shack – The Best Poutine In BC

Fried Potatoes, cheese, and gravy – a traditional Canadian treat. That gooey goodness that is total comfort food. Not something I indulge in very often, but from time to time, I don’t mind treating myself.

In 70 Mile House, British Columbia, there is an inviting little establishment called The Sugar Shack, where it boasts to have the best poutine in the west. Located right on the side of the highway with plenty of signage to make you aware of it, you can’t really miss it.

I really liked how it was built out of a garage, and one of the entrances is a large garage door. I was diggin it.

I was also diggin the rustic, beautiful varnished wooden interior.

They are not only famous for their poutines, but you will also find every maple syrup and maple syrup product under the sun.

Maple Bread, maple chocolates, maple jerky, heck if you want maple syrup on your poutine you could absolutely have that.

I tried out a coffee with maple syrup in it, and I must say, it was pretty darn tasty. Never had I even thought to put maple syrup in my coffee, but really, why the heck not?! It is a natural sugar.

Seeing as how I don’t eat poutines very often, I was pretty excited to give it go. Let me tell you, they are very generous on their portions. Go with and empty belly, and in sweat pants. You will not be leaving hungry, or a size smaller.

Look at that proud poutine in all it’s glory. My pants were getting tighter just taking it in with my eyes. When I put the fork in to take a morsel, the cheese was sooo gooey and stringy, it was poutine perfection.

What made the difference was that they use cheese curds. Glorious cheese curds. They really don’t get enough of the spotlight.

The gravy was delicious!! I love gravy, particularly good gravy. I think the only thing I would have opted out on was the smoked meat. Not because it was bad, but because I really am only there for the gravy and cheese on those crispy potatoes.

With the owner, Robert, being from Quebec, it was all making sense. The Maple Syrup, the poutine, and the cheese curds. These things are his art and in his blood.

He is fantastic! And truly goes above and beyond to be sure that everyone whom steps in his door has a memorable experience.

If you are interested in seeing the video of my experience, have a peak at my Youtube Video.

I can honestly say, that if your after a unique experience, and you happen to find yourself in 70 mile house in BC, then The Sugar Shack is a must do.

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Northern Canadian Class – Dining In Style At ‘The Back Eddy’

Classy dining around the globe is a hobby that I take very seriously. Enticing the palette with incredible and unique flavors and food pairings, all while surrounded in a comfortable chic atmosphere – is exactly what I am after when dining out. I am continually on the hunt to find the best and most amazing places to experience and share around the world. It’s an art that one can’t help but appreciate.

Here in the hub of the North – Hay River, NWT, there happens to be one of my absolute life long favorites. The Back Eddy. They always provide an unforgettable experience, and the dishes will never disappoint. Having been in business for over 40 years, it is clear there are many things being done right here.

The decor of The Back Eddy reflects a nautical theme, adorned with helms, and various pieces from ships.

Hay River has been a port for shipping and barging for many years, so it was very fitting for The Back Eddy to take on this theme. The name is derived from an ‘Eddy’, which is a whirl of water, and in this case, ‘Back Eddy’, intended to represent the whirl of water created by the back of the ship.

The original owner of The Back Eddy also created what’s called, Back Eddy Spice, which is still sprinkled in quite a few dishes on the menu to this day, as well as sold in many stores. It’s a Back Eddy staple. The Back Eddy has now been family run by some pretty phenomenal people for the last 16 years.

The atmosphere is inviting and very relaxing. Particularly now with all of their festive decorations making the place feel ‘oh so magical’.

Each month they feature different lunch and dinner specials, as well as a monthly dessert(made in house).

The majority of their dishes are all made from scratch in house and with plenty of love, so you are guaranteed to always have a fresh flavorful experience.

One of my absolute favorite dishes of theirs is the ceaser salad. Nothing fancy, but they make their own dressing, and it is sooo darn good. I can eat it every day. In fact, when I am home every year, I pretty much do eat it every day. I have yet to find another around the globe that compares.

This time around on our ladies of leisure dinner, rather then one of their tantalizing menu items, we were after one of their other classics. Hot Rocks.

Hot Rocks are just that, heated marble slabs, that you get to cook your own food on, right at your table.

It’s seriously a lot of delicious fun. They come out already nicely heated and then you place them on the flames to keep the sizzle going.

You have the choice between meat rocks, seafood rocks or a combo of both. We decided to go for the combo rocks which included, Lobster, Prawns, Chicken and Beef, along with plenty of various veggies.

The platter is very abundantly stocked, and has a fabulous array of house made butters and dips. So you absolutely will no be going home hungry – better bring those stretchy pants.

First thing was first though. I needed to prepare my palette by getting the vino flowing(lets not forget who we are talking about here). It’s simply the classy lady way to begin any culinary journey. For a small Northern establishment they do have quite a good little selection of Vino to choose from. I opted for a Rose, a nice inbetween of white and red.

With hot rocks, your act of having dinner truly turns into an experience. It so nice to share fabulous food, great chat, and good drinks all while being surrounded by an extremely comfortable environment. It’s the best way, and always creates it to be nothing less then memorable.

You won’t forget how full you were in the end either. Good thing the seats have wheels on them – in case you can’t get up and need to be wheeled out. Isn’t that a classy mental picture?!

The Back Eddy truly is a Northern Gem, and it only gets better with age. That’s right, just like a fine wine. If you find yourself in Northwest Territories, and particularly in the Hay River area, make sure you stop in and enjoy some Northern class and true North hospitality. Cheers to keeping the palette adventures going!

Living Lux At Heather Mountain Lodge

If you have been on an endless search for a serene mountain oasis, where you are surrounded by lush enchanting nature, in an ultra chic cabin on a hill with a view to boast about, and impeccable service by people whom genuinely love there job. Then I have found the place for you.

Nestled between Golden BC, and Revelstoke BC, is Heather Mountain Lodge.

Made for heli-skiing in the winter and hiking adventures in the summer, not to mention the ideal location for weddings and events, or a relaxing, and rejuvenating get away.

Recently I had the pleasure of experiencing what its like to stay and be pampered at this gem.

From the minute I arrived I was already taken by it.

I received a very warm welcome by Becky whom is the manager, and has been with Heather Mountain Lodge for 6 years.

She did welcome me at the front desk and not the bar, although from my sauna video you may not think that.

She provided me with a wealth of information about the Lodge and surrounding area, and got me all booked in for dinner. I was booked into the King cabin, which is one of the two newly built cabins on the hill above the lodge.

I didn’t know exactly what to expect, and was completely blown away by the ultra-chic cabin. It’s the perfect combination of luxury and nature.

Each cabin is equipped with in floor heating – which would be perfect on those chilly nights in the winter after an epic day of heli-skiing, a wood burning stove, king size bed, a very large bathroom with both a beautiful tub, and separate shower. I was loving the decor and amenities.

Although as soon as I pulled up to the cabin and seen the view I was in for, my soul was already feeling soothed. I zoned in on the little deck, and knew I was going to be spending some chill time basking in that view.

Incredible.

This trip was also serving as a reunion with my sister, so as I was taking in my surroundings, I was also impatiently awaiting her arrival.

Once she arrived, and we enjoyed some catching up on our little deck, it was hard to tear ourselves away from the cabin to go for dinner, but, we were about to be treated to a culinary experience that heightened all of our senses.

The patio where we chose to dine rather then in the dining room has picturesque views of the mountains and property. The property is conveniently located just off the highway, but when your immersed in Heather Mountain Lodge’s environment, you feel as though you are far away from the hustle and bustle of life.

Muzza was our server, and he was exceptional from the get go.

Full of personality, and he more then happy to recommend or describe anything about the menu, or even anything off the ‘hiking menu’ if you were already trying to figure out how you would wear off this fine food.

He is extremely knowledgeable about the area, and any hiking excursions you could want to take.

Our dinner experience began with cocktails(would you expect any less really), while we read through the menu trying to narrow it down to actual choices.

Everything sounded wonderful, so it was hard to choose. Although in the end we were so spoiled we were able to sample a variety of things.

We ended up starting with Caramelized Tomato & Juniper Soup

The flavor of the aromatic soup was enough to wake up our palettes immediately. That way they were on full form for what was next.

The Triple Creamed Brie.

Cheese is an addiction of mine, one that I don’t give into very often, usually only when I am out. So, clearly this was one of those occasions. Baked in phyllo pastry until molten, accompanied with pickled Okanagan peaches, apple mint jelly, reduced blueberry balsamic, and black pepper crackers. It was exactly as amazing as it sounds. When you dug a cracker into it, the perfectly backed brie, spilled out, begging to be enjoyed.

A glass of Pinot Noir was a must to compliment our mains. They have a very elaborate wine list to choose from. I was pleasantly surprised. My little wine loving heart could have been happy there for weeks with a list such as that.

For my main I went for the Alberta Rack of Lamb, served with fondant fingerling potatoes, grilled summer squash and roasted chipolini Jus.

My sister tucked into the BC Farmer’s Game Hen, which was slowly braised in white wine and herbs, accompanied with potato gnocchi, baby spinach, golden beets, toasted almonds with roasted garlic Gorgonzola Cream.

It’s not very often I can say that every dish I tried at a restaurant was amazing, but literally, everything was amazing. The love and passion that was put into creating these dishes was very apparent! We had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know the Chef, Josh Gaudet.

I was so impressed to learn that he creates all the menu items himself. Not only is he a fantastic person, but he really is very skilled at his craft. We enjoyed some very good chat throughout the evening with him.

We were absolutely out of room(where the heck did I put those sweat pants?!), but we couldn’t not try the amazing desserts created by their in house pastry chef, Ryan Doggart.

We went for the Rhubarb Crumble and Creme Brulee.

Both were absolutely divine, and tasted as fresh as you can get. It was obvious that Ryan also know’s his skill very well, and his passion shows in his creations.

This was a feast fit for a couple of queen’s, that’s a certainty.

Before we weren’t able to move anymore, we had to answer the beckoning’s from the hot tub and sauna. The hot tub is out doors but also enclosed, which is great, as I love having the best of both worlds. It was so relaxing.

Now being an avid sauna lover, and having grown up with one in my back yard – you could say I was very excited for that experience.

Let’s be real here though, I sipped on vino(personality in a bottle) for quite sometime before hand(obviously like a classy lady), I am pretty sure that the only thing detoxing out of this ladies pores was fine wine.

After an amazing afternoon/evening, the king size bed in the cabin swallowed me right up. I can’t even tell you how comfy that bed was, like probably the most comfy mattress ever! I didn’t want to leave it in the morning. I bet its even better in the winter. I could envision myself all wrapped up on those chilly winters nights on the mattress sent from mountain lodge heaven. Bliss!

Coffee on the little deck was the best way to get the day rolling the next morning.

Basking in the view and taking it all in. I could get used to that. I was contemplating just buying the cabin and becoming a permanent resident of the lodge. Alas, not this time around. That cabin was rocking our world, but at some point we had to head down for breakfast…..

Thank goodness we did! The beautiful breakfast surprise that awaited us, was nothing less then amazing.

Seeing as how we were fashionably late, they had so graciously set up a table for us on the patio(which we had all to ourselves), and Josh & Ryan, treated us to some more incredible culinary delights.

Seriously, however Josh cooked those eggs, I am telling you, for sure the best scrambled eggs I have ever had.

Between the view, and the spectacular breakfast it was hard for me to put my camera down and just enjoy the moment. This was something that had to be shared. Oh the life of a blogger. Before we continued on our adventures and ‘tore’ ourselves away from this amazing piece of heaven we had to take one last walk around the area to get the last feel for it all.

There is a very comfy little lounging area upstairs that is more so used in the winter.

But the property is pretty amazing in and of itself.

All I could think of was how badly I wanted to climb up to those mountain peaks. Being such a short and whirlwind trip this time, it only means that I have to return.

You can check out my Video Blog about the experience.

There are so many reasons that Heather Mountain Lodge is so special, but one of the main things that stand out is how the staff treat it as their own, and welcome people as if welcoming them into their own home. They love what they do, and they love the lodge, and it creates an environment that you feel warm, welcomed and pampered. I want to give huge thanks to the phenomenal people at Heather Mountain Lodge that made this such an unforgettable experience.

This lodge, is not a place to be missed if you find yourself in the area. Heck, even if you don’t find yourself in the area, plan a trip there. You will not soon regret it.

Epic Eats And Treats At the Corner House Cafe

We all know that I like a classy establishment where I can dress up and put on my heels, but I am a small town girl at heart, so sometimes I like those down to earth, home cooked flavors in a more rustic ambiance. I have driven by ‘The Corner House Cafe‘ many times and it always caught my eye – I knew I had to stop and check it out at some point.

Finally, long behold I was once again in the area visiting my family, and this time I made it a point to stop in! It had to happen. I am also the type of person that once I get something in my head, I will not be able to get it out of my head until I have tried it or done it. This situation was no different.

It has a charming, warm and inviting feel. There was just something about it. Clearly, otherwise it wouldn’t have been calling out to me for so long.

Upon entering I was pulled right in to the homey ambiance.

Not a bad view.

It’s family run, quaint, busy, and very friendly. Apparently from what I am told, they are always very busy, which doesn’t surprise me, I can absolutely see why.

It’s a great place, with great food. I was impressed with their little menu.

We were all in need of some grub at this point.

Being Sunday they were only offering breakfast, which really was not a problem for me as a Sunday Breakfast was exactly what I was after.

I was stoked to see that they made smoothies, and the smoothie of the day had loads of green ingredients in it, and for me the greener the better! So I was one happy patron.

I made sure to share it with my nephew, I do believe it’s never to young to prepare for a life of health and vitality.

Train those taste buds as soon as you freaken can!

All in all, it was a pretty awesome experience, and I was finally able to check it off my list(let’s not forget how important that is to me). I will say – if you ever find yourself in the Millarville area and happen to come across ‘The Corner House Cafe‘, pull on over and treat yourself! It was pleasantly surprising, and I will absolutely return to try out their lunch menu.

Keeping it random, local and classy every day of the week.

Eating typically traditional in Palma at La Cueva

One thing to remember when embarking on a dinner mission in Spain – ‘Most restaurants don’t open before 8’. Freaken heck though, most westerner’s don’t like to eat after 8. It can be a tad bit of an adjustment. Seeing as how I am programmed to have dinner quite early in the evening, I always tend to forget this late dinner fact.

My friends and I had dinner plans, and we decided to just wing it – meet up, be spontaneous and just find a place. It just so happened to be about 6 pm, and the streets were quite and most restaurants chained up, dark and lifeless. Yes it was way to darn early. ‘Dang’ we thought, where the heck are we gonna get some chow?!’

Long behold, we came across ‘La Cueva’. With 20 people standing outside(well maybe 10, but in dead streets it looked like 20) we figured there was a good chance it was open. We took a peak inside – and damn straight, it was OPEN! Score! We were in there like flint.

Not before having a photo shoot in front of the door.

From the entrance we had to go down a few stairs(I know from the previous photo you would assume up, BUT, it was down), and enter into the restaurant which is very much like a cool ass little cave. With ‘La Cueva’ translating to ‘The Cave’ in English, it only made sense really.

I am all about fresh and local ingredients, and they definitely had the fresh part going on. I didn’t have a chance to ask about the local part though.

My eyes were already liking what they were seeing. Although, once menu was in hand, and you are presented with what appears to be loads of delicious plates, it ain’t so darn easy anymore.

Oh geez, what the heck to choose?! How about just one of everything?

OK, ok, that’s excessive, it would be far too much…… So we each just chose 2 tapas each for the table.

It was still way too much in the end, but at least we got to try a bit of everything. They have their system down pat, and are ready to rock with the plates at any given moment. It was very good service. The only thing I did notice was the microwave.

We were a bit shocked at how incredibly fast it came, and not being someone whom uses microwaves myself, it was a small bit daunting, but being as hungry as we all were – we weren’t about to complain, and in reality, its not like they were hiding the fact they use a microwave for some things. Everything was made fresh, and I suppose it was necessary to keep up with the capacity of clients they receive. So really, it is what it is. No biggy what-so-ever.

We opted to choose a different Vino then the one on the table, and instead went for the Jose. L. Ferrer. One of my favorite vineyards in Mallorca . We tested out a bit of everything food wise. From olives and aioli,

onward to, potatoes with aioli, mushrooms, pepper padrons(one of my all time Mallorcan favorites), Mallorcan bread and cheese.

Not to mention, shrimps still sizzling.

Calamari, octopus, and shaved ham.

Don’t forget to share – sharing is caring.

The food was all ridiculously good to be honest, and super traditional. If there is one thing I enjoy most in life, it’s taking in as much of the local cultures and traditions where ever in the world I may be. Even when it happens to be in my own Country of Canada.

Just when we thought we were having the time and feed of our lives – in came the live music. My little world would not turn without music, and I am ALL about live music, in any and all forms. So this rocked my darn world.

In came the cavalry.

Pucker up princess. They were freaken awesome! And such good sports. Not to mention, I do love the accordion oh so much! I am into the most random things. I also happen to play a few tunes on the harmonica. Bet you didn’t expect that.

My time was running short in Mallorca. Even though I am never gone that long, I like to end my time here with the most Mallorcan experiences as possible. Considering we thought we were outta luck unless we waited for places to open – we were pleasantly surprised. A feast for a king – a hungry king at that. This little gem of a restaurant was absolutely great, and I would go back to ‘La Cueva‘ in a heart beat.

Hungry for some traditional tapa’s before 8 pm? Well meet me at La Cueva.

Palma pallete adventures at OMBU.

Treating your taste buds to culinary seduction is always a sensory event not to be missed. It was a ladies do dinner day, and we weren’t quite sure where to go. After gallivanting all around the city,

enjoying the epic ambiance, and of course being awesome – we needed to pick a place to wine and dine ourselves. We were after someplace new, chic and darn delicious.

Palma has an endless selection of fab establishments to choose from. Mallorca in general actually. You could eat your little heart out with new places to try. So that being said, competition can be stiff -and my love story with Mallorca never ends.

We came across OMBU on our adventures, and having heard so many rave reviews about it, it obviously was a must try.

OMBU is part of 2 other restaurants, Forn & Koa. Each offering different menu’s, and different ambiance’s. I have eaten at both of the other establishments in the past, and had great experiences. Soooo, how could we really go wrong with this choice?!

As any foodie knows, gastronomy is the in culinary craze. Gastronomy is the concept behind OMBU, and their menu specializes in Tapa’s & Cocktails. The décor is modern chic and inviting.

‘Come on in’, it says.

Well, I don’t mind if I do.

Always do;)

We began our OMBU experience sipping on some vino outside, indulging in some people watching.

I do so enjoy a good people watching sesh. Just about as much as I enjoy a good vino sesh. They do go really well together. Like two peas in a pod.

Wouldn’t you agree that it’s just darn fantastic how most restaurants in Palma have little fires by the tables to keep you all toasty warm in the winter. My Northern Canadian blood likes a little chill, but a warm chill. I also love the fact I still get to sit outside. Later on though, as the sun had gone down it did get a bit too chilly to dine outside, so we moved on to get the feel for the inside, and grab a cocktail.

We both went for the Psycotonic.

It was so delish too! Made with ginger and grapefruit juice. Those just so happen to be a couple of my favorite things.

The menu had a nice little selection of Tapa’s to choose from, and in true tapas fashion, you order a few different things for the table to share.

We ended up having Spanish bread, cheeses, lamb and a couple other meat dishes.

The lamb in the martini glass was one of my faves! But seriously, everything was so good. Very well flavored and prepared. We were both very impressed with the food and service.

Our awesome server made sure to bring us an aperitif. Most places in Spain do always offer you a shot after your meal. It’s too good to pass up. So down the hatch it went.

We also were graced with the presence of our friend Paola for a quick catch up.

I would definetly say that if you wake up and find yourself in Palma, do give OMBU a try. It’s super good, and checked all my boxes.

Cheers to another successful dining experience.

Living Dreams in Santa Maria

There is nothing like a Mallorcan adventure. More so, just a nice afternoon excursion out of Palma. It’s always good to get out of the city when you can, there is just way too many things to experience on this wondrous island. The winter weather has been so incredibly awesome, it just asking to be basked in.

Santa Maria was the destination on the dice. A beauty of a little town on the interior of the island. No massive plans really, just take a nice walk around, find a beauty of a spot to enjoy some lunch, and sip on some fine wine.

Previously I have been to Santa Maria, but only by car. This time around, we were taking the train. You would be amazed at the awesome little metro system here on the island. I sure the heck was. I had been planning on taking the metro for years here on the island – just for something different, but always ended up driving everywhere. Knowing we had the intention of indulging in some vino, driving was not the mode of transport for us classy ladies.

The trains actually come much more frequent than expected.

We grabbed our tickets, and it was GO time!

Aaaalll aboard. Next stop, Santa Maria.

Ok, not the classiest looking train stop.

The rest is damn classy though. You just hang tight…..

It’s such a nice and quaint little town – epic little place to enjoy a stroll.

This little gas station was too cute not to photograph.

Let’s not forget that it was also during the hours of siesta. So it was extra quiet in the streets. There is no messing around when it comes to siesta time in these necks of the worldwide woods.

Suddenly along our path, we came across an establishment called ‘Livingdreams‘.

With a name like that, I was intrigued and drawn right in. It has such a crisp modern chic and naturally minimal appeal to it.

So we grabbed a table in the front and preceded to get on the vino and olive wagon. The service was given with all smiles, and super welcoming personalities. I was diggin it -that’s for darn sure.

A little while into the day dreaming, nature was calling. That vino was going right through me. So I had to search out the ladies room. I didn’t expected to be astonished. Little did I know, I was absolutely about to be living a dream. A kick ass one that you are happy to not wake up from for as long as you possibly can.

I was pleasantly surprised just walking through the lux establishment, absolutely thinking, ‘well hello, this is enchanting now isn’t it?!’

Very appealing on the eyes.

However, upon entering the courtyard to which I was directed in order to find the ladies room, my eyes widened with sheer delight.

Hiding in the back was a classy courtyard ambiance. The next big thing in my head was, ‘We are moving! right freaken now!’

Wait though on second thought, it’s best I visit the ladies room….. Gotta stick the with program.

After that business was taken care of, it was straight back to Kassandra to say my thoughts outloud ‘We are moving, right freaken now! You will see why.Let’s go’

It was incredible. Right up our freaken alley. We ran around loving the secret garden, taking photos like mad.

I had no problem imagining all the people I want to shared the little gem with(obviously this means you lucky duck).

Before that could happen, we needed to get back to business, sipping our vino and grab a little lunch.

It was all ridiculously good.The wine, the food, the ambiance. I can’t wait to go back for round two.

Yes you could definitely say,

I found my secret garden, with the fountain of Vino!!

The best part about having no plans or expectations, is that it always turns out better then you could have expected, as you didn’t have any – and more often then not, you always end up getting completely blown away by pure epicness.

Palma Indulginces at the San Juan Gastromarket

Gastromarkets. These concepts are a rave around the globe at the moment, popping up all over the show. For darn good reason too. Here in Palma de Mallorca, it is just the same. The art of food is a massive focal point for foodies – gastronomy is the craze. Enjoying a meal however, does always begin with your eyes. Although if it’s to be an incredible culinary art, as in a cut above the rest, something to write home about – it will bring something to the table that heighten’s almost all of your senses. That is a much more difficult feat. Yet is an astounding experience. I do very much appreciate gastronomy culinary art.

S’Escorxador is where San Juan, the newest and hottest gastromarket is located in Palma. Having opened in June, it has taken off very well. Since I returned to Palma, I had so many people telling me it is a must try; So I did just that. I went and tried it.

Considering it was raining, what better a day to choose to engage in an affair such as this. Sitting inside an exquisite establishment, sipping on fine wine, and indulging in an exceptional culinary experience. Yup pretty perfect if you ask me.

Okay, well actually, on that note – as a child when it would rain(or even hail) outside, I took it as the perfect opportunity to slap on the ol’ swimsuit, and head outside to have the time of my life in mother nature’s glorious shower. For hours my little heart would be content in it. Not gonna lie, even as an adult, I still like to play in the rain. Although I haven’t donned my swim apparel in quite some time for the occasion. Although the thought has crossed my mind. I mean, ‘why the heck not?!’ It’s refreshing, natural and fun. For a trip down memory lane, so little Petrena can live on inside of me. You catch my drift.

Second to that though, sipping on fine wine, and tantalizing my taste buds in a gastromarket – would be the next most ideal choice. One in which my sophisticated classy lady side happens to love.

S’Escorxador itself dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, and was the cities original central slaughterhouse. The re-vamp of the building has completely modernized it. I have a massive appreciation for history being restored and turned into something exceptional. Urbanization at it’s finest.

Upon arriving to S’Escorxador I immediately was drawn straight to the cinema posters. Dang, I love going to movies. They even played movies in English at this theater. Not that I mind watching Spanish movies, but to see a movie in my own language, is always enjoyable. Sooooo yah, 6pm movie after an afternoon gastromarket session, was exactly what my list of things to do entailed on this particular rainy day.

When I walked into San Juan I was instantly impressed.

I was digging the decor. Bright, crisp, clean, airy, and inviting. The lighting fixtures are very eye catching as well. It was undeniable, I was in for a fabulous experience. Seeing as how it is a gastromarket, and they have 17 gourmet food stalls there – you best be prepared to sample a few of the various delectable’s that are on offer.

First thing is first though. Get the vino flowin! Very important. Step freaken 1.

We grabbed a bottle of red called Damana 5 to get us going. Why on earth did we start with red?! Beats the heck out of me. Alright, alright, it was me who ordered it… I was eager to get the party started. So we did things backwards. First red, then rose, and onward. We were enjoying ourselves regardless of the wine sequence, and that is all that matters.

With Vino in hand, you can see Belle was ready to check out the various stalls. Let’s do this!

In accompaniment to the vino, we did do our utmost to sample various dishes. I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed how social it was sitting there. Different locals would come and sit beside us and would end up having a little chat. Socializing with different people absolutely adds to the experience. Bringing people together, one gastro experience at a time. Hmmm, new slogan perhaps?

Wendy was right in there being a gem and starting us off with some ceviche.

After which we had, Pad Thai, and some Mallorquin Ham and Cheese platters.

Onward and upward to some of my favorite things, Aperol Spritz’s and Oysters.

Oh heck yes. Now we were talking. Nothing like slurping an Oyster down the hatch, and then cleansing the palette with an Aperol Spritz(made with Cava of course). Oysters and bubbly just go hand in hand. Well in my case, hand to my mouth.

Wait she looks a bit unsure.

We even had a suck at some Percebe(otherwise known as goose barnicle).

As you can see the girls were absolutely loving them!

Wendy actually does love them though, I think she just got squirted in the eye.

Not my fave if you ask me, tastes a bit too much like a combination of rock and strong fishy sea water. Oh well, tis the way sometimes, I will always give things a try at least once though.

Space had become quite limited in our stomachs at this point. It was a must to go out with a bang though. Rarely do I eat red meat, but when its local, and a fine cut, not to mention, so tender it melts in your mouth like butter. Well, then its a different story.

It was ridiculously good. Save the best for freaken last – as they say.

After it was all said and done, we did still in fact take in our movie. The flic of choice was Desert Dancer – and it was nothing less then amazing. For myself it was one of the most emotionally moving movies I have ever seen. I loved it. Giver a go if your into an emotionally touching film. Its a fantastic little theater as well, with very friendly and happy attendants waiting to welcome you.

Well what can I say, San Juan did not disappoint.

We went, we indulged, we laughed, we socialized, and thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance. A gastronomic experience not to be missed.

Did I mention I love green juice?

Yes, there is nothing quite like a good ol’ green juice! For me the greener the better, but that’s from growing up in the Canadian wilderness and having my grandma feeding me all sorts of plants and things as a young girl when we were in the bush for their different nutritional value’s:) My palette is accustomed to it and my body loves it.

That being said, Camille and myself decided to head to one of our fave spots for some healthy treats and a good catch up sesh.

Located in the trendy little Santa Catalina area of Palma, there is this chic little Raw Vegan eatery. After a month of detoxing and no Vino, this is what I look forward too! It’s safe to say, I love green juice just as much as I love Vino. They both make me equally as happy. Oh and I do love raw food too! Although not as a 100% diet as I just so happen to prefer some things cooked. But love it none the less.

This little indulgence had Celery, cumber, parsley and greens. Heck yes, just like a party in my mouth. I have to admit, I really do like everything at Ziva. They have a fairly wide selection of things and offer everything from Green Smoothies and juices, various tea’s and organic coffee, delicious raw food, and a good selection of super foods. It is a bit pricey, but the quality of food is totally worth it. There is juicing magic happening right there.

I just so happen to be a huge fan of the Almond Cheese! Its ridiculously good.

I know it’s easy to make, but I don’t always have that kind of time! So this is always my go to option.

As with culture here in Spain, most restaurants have a Menu del dia(Menu of the day). It is always fresh, you get a few courses, and the cheapest way to go when you eat out for lunch.

Camille got the salad of the day, which was spiraled cucumber with red pepper, purple cabbage, and a miso-tamari-ginger sauce. Yes I tried a bit; And yes it was awesome. She loved every morsel too. You can see how focused she was,the anticipation of getting that fork full in her mouth was almost too much. It is a quaint little place, with a nice little atmosphere, friendly service, and people in deep converstation;)

Definitely not a bad place to spend a bit of your day. Especially when you are in fab company to boot. Bottoms up!

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