Sweets, Treats, and Holiday Meals: Vancouver Favourites at Easter

Spring has certainly sprung here in Vancouver: cherry blossoms have begun to bloom, daffodils are bobbing in the breeze, and the weather is warmer by the day. With the equinox falling on March 20, and Easter right behind on the first weekend of April, now’s the time to celebrate all things spring. As we continue to focus on staying close to home, here’s our local (and tasty) favourites to get the whole family in the mood, from specialty chocolates, seasonal sweets, and full Easter meals, ready to go:

Chocolate Choices

Daniel Chocolates – Vancouver and Port Coquitlam

Ever since chocolatier Daniel Poncelet opened the first Belgian chocolate shop in Vancouver on Robson Street in 1981, Daniel Chocolates have been making a name for themselves as a top-tier choice for fresh, creative chocolate options. With several stores in Vancouver, along with more stores in Port Coquitlam, Kelowna and even as far now as Toronto, it’s easy to find something for any occasion – and Easter in particular, with a wide array of boxed chocolates, eggs, and of course, bunnies.

ChocolaTas – Granville Island, Vancouver, and Abbotsford

Some unique offerings at ChocolaTas this Easter, including beautiful speckled chocolate eggs and a chocolate Easter puzzle. The Granville Island-based store has expanded to a second location in the Fraser Valley, so there’s options close to home for the chocolate fan – at Easter, or any time of year.

Charlie’s Chocolate Factory – Burnaby and Port Coquitlam

If you can think of a theme, chances are good it’s at Charlie’s. The long-time Burnaby chocolate shop, which has expanded into Port Coquitlam as well, is known for the diversity of chocolates they offer. With designs that range from soccer balls to race cars, flowers to gold coins, there’s something for everyone. Holidays always feature a unique range of seasonal options. For Easter, there’s foil wrapped eggs in pastel shades, bunnies, hens on their egg-filled nests and much more.

Chocolate Bear Shoppe – Tsawwassen

For more than 40 years, the Chocolate Bear Shoppe has been providing chocolate treats for holidays, gifts, and special events. Featuring a variety of boxed chocolates, as well as a selection of themed choices – along with a variety of small gifts and cards – it’s a best bet for anyone in the Delta area.

Special Sweets

Chez Christophe – Burnaby and White Rock

Check out the exclusive geometric style specialty eggs at Chez Christophe for a unique and modern twist on the Easter treat. But don’t stop there: they offer pastries, special Easter desserts, and much more – including a “smashable” egg that breaks open to reveal treats hidden inside. Pre-orders are recommended.

Sinfully The Best – Steveston

From cakes to cookies, chocolate mousse to chocolate truffles, this company has it all right in the heart of historic Steveston. For Easter, they’ve got speckled eggs, fluffy sheep, and plenty of bunnies. There’s two shops in the small tourist-friendly community, the first one – dubbed Original Sin – and a second one, called Sinfully Too.

Thomas Haas – Vancouver

It’s possible that Thomas Haas knows a thing or two about fine pastries and hand-crafted chocolates. He’s a fourth-generation pâtissier, and he got his start working in the shop his great-grandfather opened in Germany in 1918. After training and working with top chefs around Europe, he brought his skills to Vancouver – and the rest is history. Their Easter collection is full of whimsy and fun, with a bunny in a roadster and a duck in an egg, among others.

Soirette Pastry Boutique – Vancouver

Soirette has made quite a name for themselves since opening in Vancouver several years back. Pastry chef and owner Shobna Kannusamy is known for her delicate pastries and beautiful designs. From macarons to cakes, cookies to cupcakes, the shop is full of beautiful options sure to delight, including a mixed gift box made just for Easter.

Butter Baked Goods – Vancouver

Looking for something sweet and delicious but don’t need it to shout “Easter Bunny”? Check out Butter Baked Goods for a spectacular menu of scones, muffins, cupcakes, whoopie pies, bars and more. With specialty lemon meringue pies and homemade marshmallows, there’s something to tempt every age and preference.

Beaucoup Bakery – Vancouver

Check out Beaucoup for a new twist on Easter favourites, including a variety of unique hot cross bun options and Easter eggs with a fun dinosaur theme. Pre-order your favourites for a great treat on Easter (or pop in any time for the regular menu that’s full of flavourful and classic options.)

Easy Easter Meals

Pat Quinn’s Restaurant – Tsawwassen

On the hunt for a holiday meal early in the day? Look no further. Reservations are required for this Easter brunch, as spaces are limited. The menu will run on the morning of April 4, with plenty of brunch classics to help round out your Easter Sunday.

Hy’s Steak House – Vancouver

Skip the mess of making your own holiday meal and let Hy’s do it for you, with a dinner for four that includes Caesar salad, chateaubriand, and specialty cheesecake. The Easter Take Home Package must be ordered in advance through the website.

Edge Kitchen – Vancouver

Want to mix and match your way into a great holiday menu? Edge has a variety of options, including brunch, mimosas, and Easter dinners for 2, 4, or 6 with ham, lamb or vegetarion options. For a special treat, add on the cookie package: a box of 12 cookies with icing, for a fun decorate-your-own-dessert treat.

Tap Restaurant – Surrey

Classic holiday meal options are available for an Easter Take & Bake from Tap on April 3. The meals are fully cooked and simply need to be re-heated on the big day. The menu includes turkey, ham, stuffing, potatoes, carrots and more – along with a berry trifle for dessert.