Specialty Shopping Simplified

We love exploring new neighbourhoods and specialty stores, but when the holiday to-do list is long and the meter is running, we sometimes need a one-stop option. Luckily, Vancouver has some great specialty stores that make it possible to put a creative, holiday feast together while saving both time and money. 

For a little European flavour, head to Bosa Foods on Kootenay Street. The Kootenay Street store is our preferred location—while it’s a little hard to find (just off Boundary Road), it’s well worth the sleuthing. The prices are very reasonable, and you will find everything you need for your Italian-inspired menu, including two aisles dedicated to pastas and risottos, and an amazing deli full of salads, prosciuttos and cheeses. While there, pick up panettone for dessert, Italian dishware for that hostess gift, and, of course, a latte for yourself. 

For those who cook with an Asian flare, the newly opened Osaka Supermarket (owned by T&T Supermarkets) in Park Royal is not only a one-stop specialty store, but they also carry many of your grocery basics, too. In addition to their great selection of take-out sushi, dim sum and other pre-made dishes, they have a wide selection of hard-to-find fruits, meats, seafood, spices, sauces, and baking ingredients (at great prices, too), so that you can make Galbi (aka Korean braised short-ribs), Pad Thai or Chinese Sticky Rice for a holiday feast.

For those of you who love the idea of holiday baking, but never have the time to make it yourself, head to the Baker’s Market Saturday morning, December 4 or 11, from 11 am to 3 pm (note: the new location is Creekside Community Recreation Centre). You will be sure to find some amazing treats to enjoy throughout the holidays. In addition to the usual delectable goodies like artisanal breads, Parisian macarons, and cupcakes, these special holiday market days will include goodies such as Stollen, hand-decorated sugar cookies, fruit cake, gingerbread houses, mince pies and more.

With these great specialty options, you truly can be the hostess with the mostest this holiday season—with minimal effort.