I love going airports. Whether I’m picking someone up or flying away for travel, airports are fun places to be. I’ve had my share of airport delays and other issues, but it all seems to work out in the end.

On my way home. Thank goodness. My stay in Vancouver was made much longer due to some unexpected (...and major) vehicular issues.

I remember going to Banana Leaf Malaysian Cuisine back in my days in uni; back when Ais Kacang was still on their dessert menu. The initial Broadway location was located further west down the street. A Taste of Vietnam Restaurant occupies the old space now. The faded Yoplait Source yoghurt container that Banana Leaf used to hold their take out menus is still hanging outside the original location.

I’ve been cooling it with sushi lately, but due to an extended stay in Vancouver I find myself in Kerrisdale. Well now, I decide to treat myself to a roll or two. Ajisai Sushi is a compact Japanese restaurant. The floor space is a bit awkward but it works. It’s elbow to elbow in here today, but I find bar seating in front of the window.

Assorted Sashimi ($16.00)

The Kingsway Deli sits next to Tung Hing Bakery, near the corner of Kingsway and Inverness. For years I've been playing out my own version of the Battle of the Bánh Mì between these two. If you come to get a bánh mì at the Tung Hing Bakery, then you must stop by Kingsway Deli as well. They also serve bánh mì, and it is tasty too. Kingsway Deli's subs are slightly cheaper than Tung Hing, but the real reason why I come here is for their popsicles. Yes, my friends, the frozen fruit pops!

Or Tung Hing for short...We’ve been purchasing our bánh mì here for several years. Back when the most expensive sub on the menu came to a whopping $2.00. The price has crept up over the years, but at a thrifty $3.25, they are still far cheaper than any other sub sandwich.

Congee Noodle House is a reliable spot to get cheap, fast eats. I haven’t been here in yonks, but it’s nice to know its still here. Congee Noodle House is one of the restaurants you can count on to be open late in the Broadway and Main area. So here we are. It’s late, and I’m a bit nibbly.

Soy Pork Hock with Noodle ($7.25)

Quick coffee and snack grab at Bocca, which is located in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter.
Bocca is busy. I sit through three waves of line-ups before I decide to get in the queue for my coffee today.

Large Coffee ($2.50)

Here I am in Nanaimo, again. I really didn’t want to make another ferry trip out so soon, but it is what it is. I discover a new little eatery while I am here, so that’s worth it, no? After I finish with my tasks a few doors down, I happen to walk up the street and I notice this new restaurant where a Thai restaurant used to be. It was one of those, “Hey, this was never here before” moments.

On the road again... I stop for afternoon tea in Abbotsford at Serendipi Tea.
The space is very feminine with dainty china and shabby-chic décor. Pretty little tea house.

Afternoon Tea Service ($18.95 per person)