Food & Drink
The Etiquette Behind Afternoon Tea
In our busy, time-poor lives, what is nicer than momentarily stopping for a scone and a pot of tea? Afternoon tea gives us a break in the rush of modern life, just like it did back in the nineteenth century, when the custom originated.
Afternoon tea has been around for many centuries, but became popular in the 1840s by Queen Victoria’s best friend, Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who suffered hunger pains during the long afternoons between lunch and the late evening meal. She would have scones and tea in her boudoir to satisfy her cravings, and it soon became the it thing to do, eventually turning into a social affair among the English aristocracy.
Recognizing that we all live in a world where it is too busy to make time for one another, a group of women from all over the Fraser Valley got together and planned an afternoon tea event to share the significance of reconnecting with one another. Held last weekend on May 28, 2016 at Fleetwood International Church, the elegantly intimate afternoon was a stylish opportunity for nearly one hundred women to sip on sponsored Tega Teas, nibble on savory sandwiches and sweet treats, and just be girls again.
Top 10 Do’s & Dont’s for Afternoon Tea:
1. It should never be referred to as “high tea”. High tea is a hearty, simple, sit-down meal that the Industrial Revolution workers of the 19th century originated. The workers came home in the late afternoon from the fields, factories and mines starved after a long and hard day of work. Traditionally, the high tea meal was served in the late afternoon. It was set-up family style with tea to drink and meat to eat, now known as a supper buffet.
2. Sit up straight. Posture is everything.
3. Hold the cup by the handle and bring it up to your mouth — avoid leaning forward to drink. Never cradle the cup in your hands and avoid raising your pinky finger!
4. Take small sips and don’t slurp, and/or blow on the hot tea to cool it. The cup is put down on the saucer in between sips.
5. It is usual to enjoy two cups of tea; one is never enough and three is too excessive.
6. Savories are to be eaten first. These include your tea sandwiches, followed by the scones. Desserts are to be consumed last.
7. All of these accompaniments are put down on the plate in between bites, and eaten with the fingers, never a fork.
8. It is never pronounced “skōn”, but “skɒn”. The scone is to be broken in half lengthways by hand.
9. The purpose of this meal is to socialize. Talking about money is off limits, and similarly you would not ask someone what they did for a living. Opt for light conversation topics as you are there in a social capacity, not a professional or business capacity.
10. As expertly done by her Majesty herself at the end of meals, it is perfectly acceptable when in the company of everyone to quickly reapply lipstick while at the table.
Why tea?
Tea is the most consumed beverage in the world, has more health promoting properties than coffee, has more variety and diversity, and herbal teas like Tega Organic Rooibos teas are non-addictive and can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
All teas, whether green, white, oolong, black or herbal, contain powerful antioxidants and health promoting properties. Tega Organic Rooibos teas are naturally caffeine free, calorie free and are smooth and delicious.
Unlike teas which get bitter when steeped too long, Tega Rooibos teas won’t get bitter. Not only does it maintain its smooth, rich flavor, but it is de-stressing.
Looking for a clear alternative to unhealthy and non-organic beverages? Voted #1 for Canada’s Favourite Fairtrade product in both 2012 and 2014, you can order their tea online, or find it at your local grocery in Save On Foods, Urban Fare, Whole Foods, SPUD and Nature’s Fare, just to name a few.
There is nothing to lose by kicking the caffeine and drinking a good ol’ fashioned cup of tea. Brew your batch now and begin experiencing all the benefits of this healthy beverage.
See more photos of the event below.
If you thought you had to make the trek to Downtown Vancouver just to eat well, think again. There are pockets of great places to eat right here in Surrey’s City Centre. Check out this list of five of the best restaurants and bars to get your fill of good eats in Central Surrey.
Central City Taphouse & Kitchen
The Central City Taphouse is a staple, and one that truly caters to everyone. It lands consistently at the top of any Surrey eatery list and offers everything from brunch to pub-style food and drinks, including happy (or “tappy”) hour specials. Enjoy a warm meal with family or watch the game with friends. The large patio, beautiful courtyard, and excellent food are destined to provide you with the perfect ambiance.
Address: 13450 102 Ave., Unit 190
Dominion Bar & Kitchen
For those looking for a truly “downtown” experience, this place is the top choice. From bunch, lunch, dinner, and late night mixers, Dominion Bar has a modern vibe and locally sourced ingredients that shine both in menu and drinks. Trendy, socially on-point, and providing a timeless dining experience with a mix of influences, this place is a must when you’re planning your night out.
Address: 13475 Central Ave., Unit D1
Bubble 88
For the last decade, Bubble 88 has been able to provide a trendy yet authentic flair of Taiwanese cuisine to Surrey. Easily one of the best bistros in the area, the chefs make each dish with passion and the presentation makes it just as beautiful as it is delicious. Of course, as you may have guessed by the name, bubble tea is also available.
Address: #102-10209 King George Blvd.
Neptune Seafood Restaurant
Although it is not unique to Surrey, the quality and fine dining provided at this Asian restaurant cannot go without being mentioned. With the best dim sum and arguably the best Chinese cuisine within Surrey, a large dining space, and the ability to host events, Neptune Seafood is worth adding to your foodie bucket list. Neptune has won several awards for their restaurant group, and of course for their dim sum as well.
Address: 1130-10153 King George Blvd.
Sumerian Grill
Perhaps considered a hidden gem to some, Sumerian Grill is often highly rated amongst those that have visited the restaurant. Providing Middle Eastern cuisine, the meals are rich in flavour and full of warmth. The menu offers the best in Surrey for Iraqi and Turkish dishes and wraps with colours of the Mediterranean.
Address: 10671A King George Blvd.
Sipping on a delicious coffee at a local cafe has a certain allure to it. And enjoying a local business, with a friend or alone, is extra special when it’s close to home and has that neighbourhood feel. When it comes to Surrey Centre or Guildford, these are the best coffee spots to check out.
Cafe Central
The most central you can get with a friendly vibe and some really good coffee. Cafe Central is the perfect stop on a busy day, to work, or school, or a break in between. While mostly being a “to-go” cafe, it does have tables and chairs for those who wish to stay a while. Located central, it also has hosts of convenience items and food. What people seem to enjoy most though is the caramel frappuccino.
Address: 10350 University Drive, City Centre Library
Prado
If you love coffee, then you will love Prado which uses coffee roasted by 49th Parallel. It first opened in Vancouver and has grown to multiple locations, including this Central Surrey spot. The place is vibrant and hosts a number of good eats and drinks and teal seats for a modern vibe. Outside of your regular items you will find things like pastel pink beetroot latte, citrus cake, apricot cookie, or the infamous cookie with no name.
Address: 13475 103 Avenue, Civic Plaza hotel
Stuffies Pastries
This cafe is better known for its stuffed pastries that are shaped like cute animals, than its coffee. Patrons can choose to stuff the pastries with a number of fillings such as Nutella, vanilla, dulce de leche and more. The soft pancake filled treats are enticing enough to make anyone check out this cafe. Located inside the Guildford Town Centre, it may not be a place to sit down and enjoy but it is a great spot to grab and go while in the mall.
Address: 10355 152 Street, Guildford Town Centre
Coffee Monster
Coffee Monster is a true coffee shop with interesting and delicious menu items ensuring there is something for everyone. Whether you are craving one of their signature cold beverages (such as frozen chocolate) or their Spanish latte, the drinks alone make this a great spot. However, the cafe is also known for its pastries, cakes, waffles and dessert treats like earl grey crème brulee. The vibe is relaxing and the menu is creative.
Address: 15285 101 Avenue, Suite C1B
Happy Jack’s Cafe
Known for its friendly staff, Happy Jack’s Cafe is a hidden gem in the area with delicious food and flavoured coffees. Plus, the brunch-like items — think blueberry pancakes — make it a perfect place to meet a friend and enjoy an afternoon together.
Address: 110-10470 152 Street
Do you know of any other locally-owned cafes in Surrey Centre that we have to try? Let us know at info@surrey604.com.
7-Eleven Canada Announces “Sev’s 360 Summer – Roll With Us” Campaign Coming To Your Neighbourhood. Get ready for exclusive Slurpee and skateboarding events, contests and giveaways, all summer long.
7-Eleven Canada announces their summer schedule filled with events, contests, and giveaways designed for Slurpee, skateboard, and summer lovers.
In celebration of the partnership with Canada Skateboard and the National Team, Sev’s 360 Summer – Roll With Us Campaign invites fans to take a front-row seat to Canada Skateboard experiences and chances to win awesome swag and prizes.
7-Eleven Canada will be giving away one skateboard deck a day all summer long, exclusively to 7Rewards members.
Norman Hower, Vice President and General Manager of 7-Eleven Canada, says: “This year continues to be challenging for many Canadians and our goal is to provide ways to make this summer enjoyable and easy for all.
As Canadians head out to the beaches and parks to make the most of the outdoors, they can have meals, snacks, and drinks delivered to wherever they may be, or available to pick up on the go, and Sev’s 360 Summer Roll With Us campaign will add extra fun to the occasion.”
7Rewards members can enter for a chance to win by scanning 7Rewards with every purchase or placing an order with 7NOW delivery and can earn an additional 5 entries by scanning partnered products.
Rockstar Energy® Drinks is one of the partnering drinks, along with refreshing Slurpee frozen beverages, Crispy Classic Chicken Sandwiches, Chicken Wings, Fresh from the Oven in Minutes 24/7 Pizzas and delicious snacks like Old Dutch Chips and McSweeney Beef Jerky are also a part of the 7Rewards 360 Summer – Roll With Us contest to keep your summer days fueled.
Only at Sev, fill up an exclusive Canada Skateboard Slurpee Collectible Cup with limited time flavours including; delicious Pink Grapefruit Lemonade, Fanta Dragon Fruit, MTN Dew® Blue Shock ™ and Slurpuccino (yes, it’s back).
For more chances to win great prizes, play the Hide and Seek game on the Canada Skateboard Slurpee Collectible Cups, featuring the 2021 Canada Skateboard National Team, and the Sticker Slap AR game on the 7Rewards app.
Click here to see more details on Sev’s 360 Summer- Roll With Us campaign
To learn more about all the events and contests coming up with Sev’s 360 Summer – Roll With Us campaign, click here or visit 7-Eleven Canada’s Instagram Page.
Customers who are not yet a 7Rewards member can download the 7Rewards app by texting APP to 711247 or sign up.
Fans are also encouraged to check out 7-Eleven Canada’s new 7Now® Delivery App, where Canadians can get 24/7 around the clock pick-up and delivery within 30 minutes on groceries, necessities, meals, snacks, drinks and treats – like Slurpee drinks.
Every order through 7Now is one automatic entry in the 360 Summer – Roll With Us contest and with over 900 items to choose from, members will earn 7Rewards points with every order.
Recipes Courtesy of the BC Blueberry Council
By: Brooklynn Doucette on behalf of the BC Blueberry Council
On Sunday, May 9th, it’s time to celebrate Mom! Whether it be over the phone, via Zoom, outside, or in-person, our Mom’s deserve to be showered with love this Mother’s Day.
Start Mother’s Day off right with one of these delicious breakfast or brunch recipes, all featuring frozen BC Blueberries! Make sure your frozen BC Blueberries are from BC by looking for “cultivated” or “high bush” “Buy BC” “Product of Canada” on the packages.
3-Ingredient Bc Blueberry Banana Pancakes
Commemorate mom and the frozen BC Blueberry season with this delicious 3-ingredient BC Blueberry Banana Pancakes. Kid-friendly and ready in under 15 minutes, these pancakes are perfect for an impromptu Mother’s Day brunch.
Yields: 4 – 6 pancakes
Prep time: 2 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
(Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Paleo)
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup frozen BC Blueberries
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana.
- Add in eggs and mix well.
- In a medium non-stick pan, heat vegetable oil (or any neutral tasting oil) on medium-low heat.
- Pour a large spoonful into the pan.
- Flip when it turns golden.
- Stack it up and enjoy!
Bc Blueberry Breakfast Smoothie
The perfect accompaniment to a Mother’s Day brunch is this BC Blueberry Breakfast Smoothie. This recipe can be enjoyed with breakfast or on its own. Make mom smile this Mother’s Day by bringing her a smoothie in bed!
Yields: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) Frozen BC Blueberries
- 1 cup (150g) Frozen banana, chopped
- 2 cups (500ml) Unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ cup (40g) Hemp seeds
- 2 tbsp (30ml) Almond butter
- 2 (48g) Medjool dates, pitted (optional)
Directions
- Add all the ingredients to a blender.
- Blend on high until smooth.
Bc Blueberry Chia Oat Milk Pudding
Looking for a vegan Mother’s Day brunch idea? This BC Blueberry Chia Oat Milk Pudding is the perfect recipe. Pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes, add your toppings, and serve your mom a tasty brunch treat!
Yields: 2 cups
Prep time: 3 mins
Cook time: 17 mins
VEGAN
Ingredients
Chia Pudding
- 1/3 cup of chia seeds
- 1 cup of oat milk (or your choice of milk alternative)
- 1/3 cup frozen BC Blueberries
Optional for Serving
- 1/2 tsp maple syrup
- 3 – 5 pieces of sliced ripe banana
- More Frozen BC Blueberries!
Directions
- In a medium-sized bowl, add oat milk, chia seeds, and frozen BC blueberries. Whisk to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes (or overnight). The chia pudding should be thick and creamy.
- Layer with fresh or frozen fruit, compote, maple syrup (vegan), or honey, and enjoy.
- Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For more Mother’s Day recipes, visit bcblueberry.com or follow along on social @bcblueberries
Finding new ways to encourage and support local communities and initiatives has always been at the heart of The Joseph Richard Group (JRG).
JRG is proud to announce its most recent partnership and community initiative with The Phoenix Society. Earlier this year, the Phoenix Society launched a Mobile Community Kitchen, Phoenix Flame BBQ Food Truck, that helps to serve free meals to those in need during this difficult time. The free meal service program was launched to serve those living on the poverty line as well as those who are unhoused in Surrey and beyond. The mobile kitchen allows the Phoenix Society to meet vulnerable populations where they are at, serving food in single-use recyclable containers in an outdoor setting where the guests can safely distance.
“I was fortunate to meet Amy from the Phoenix Society through her work in local media when she and her son participated in JRG’s 2019 annual charity event called One Night Out. We are truly grateful to reunite with Amy and the team at the Phoenix Society to continue supporting our communities.” – Ryan Moreno, CEO & Co-founder of Joseph Richard Group.
The Phoenix Flame BBQ Food Truck has the capacity to serve up to 100 meals per day, three to five times per week, but lacks the revenue to sustain long-term residency. Partnering with The Joseph Richard Group, the Phoenix Society can provide ongoing meals and continued support for the community. JRG will be renting the food truck for pop-up activations across Metro Vancouver.
“In just two months we have provided close to 2,000 free community meals to those most in need, but our goal has always been to find ongoing revenue to help sustain the program in the long-term. We couldn’t find a better partner than Joseph Richard Group; a company that has a clear desire to give back to the community.” – Keir Macdonald, CEO of Phoenix Society.
In 2020 alone, the Phoenix Society provided services to over 2,500 individuals through our Surrey-based Residential Substance Use Treatment, Supportive Housing, Employment, Extreme Weather Shelters, Community Corrections, Home Ownership and Outreach Programs. JRG is proud to partner with this socially-minded organization and work towards building a more stable community for those who are facing poverty.
To learn more about the Food Truck and how you can support this community initiative, please visit phoenixsociety.com for the official announcement.
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