Asparagus and terrace season, plus opening a microbrewery

hail asparagus season

While picking up asparagus at the Edgar Farms booth last Saturday I was struck by the thickness of the spears. Generally in the early season, which is now, spears are more narrow.” It all came up in a rush,” said the nice lady selling the asparagus. We like the thick spears grilled for a few minutes on a hot barbecue (until they start to char a bit) served with shavings of Parmigiano Reggiano. You could drizzle with a bit of aged balsamico, oh yeah.

more monkey business

The Glass Monkey (5842 111 Street, http://www.theglassmonkey.ca/) offers a fun food and wine pairing experience called Monkey Business — five courses with five wines. The next is June 1, $79/p++. TIX: Janine at 780-760-2228 or email janine@theglassmonkey.ca. And, their intimate, secluded patio is now open. Lovely.

Photo courtesy The Glass Monkey

wanna open a brewery?

Strathcona County wants to help you. They are holding an info session June 8 at the SPARK Centre with Terry Rock (Alberta Small Brewers Association), Tara de Munnik (Economic Development and Tourism) and reps from AGLC, the Alberta Government and Strathcona County’s Planning and Development. Tix: $25, 7pm start: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/so-you-want-to-open-a-microbrewery-tickets-33896799239?aff=ehomecard.

get your poke here

Poke, the Hawaiian way to eat raw fish has arrived with a splash. “On opening night we made 300 bowls,” says Angela Wong, owner of Splash Poke, 10079 109 Street. “The line up was around the corner, down Jasper Avenue. People were really patient.” Prices range from $9.95 (single protein, two toppings) to $15.95 for the Triple Splash of three proteins and all the toppings you like. The sashimi grade fish is sourced from several suppliers including Wismettac Asian Foods in Richmond. “We mix on the spot so the fish doesn’t sit in the sauce or marinade for too long,” says Angela. The bright and cheerful spot seats about 14. Check it out!

Splash Poke owner Angela Wong

it’s free!

Here’s a way to look at more art. The AGA (2 Sir Winston Churchill Square, http://www.youraga.ca/) now offers free admission on Tuesday and Wednesday nights from 5pm-8pm. While you are there enjoy Zinc’s Tuesday Tapas Menu on the terrace, all items are under $20.