At the bar

Spirits, spice and everything nice

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At the Indian-French fusion Peya, Chris Enns mixes up an irresistible cocktail

At Peya, influences from France and India flavour both the food and cocktails like this Curry Gibson, garnished with a masala-inflused pearl onion. Roxanne Mailloux photo

On an unassuming corner of East Hastings Street near Victoria Drive sits one of Vancouver’s most exciting and underrated cocktail lists.

It’s here, at the Indian-French restaurant Peya, that award-winning bartender Chris Enns works his singular magic. Peya, which debuted in the base of a brand-new East Vancouver housing development, has been quietly and humbly serving the neighbourhood since it first opened its doors in March. But Vancouverites from other neighbourhoods should take note: This cocktail menu is worth a pilgrimage.

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The Alchemist

How to pair tequila with food, according to a tequila sommelier

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Audrey Formisano is the tequila sommelier at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa teaches guests how to pair tequila with a variety of cuisines. Photo courtesy of Marriott Puerto Vallarta

While tequila’s most iconic sidekicks might be a lick of salt and a slurp of lime, those are far from the only flavour pairings that work for the iconic Mexican agave spirit. Tequila makes a surprisingly great sipper and pairing alongside a variety of foods—not just Mexican cuisine.

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Have Glass Will Travel

Where to drink in Tofino right now

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Tofino’s cocktail scene might be small, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking.

The Wickaninnish Inn’s On The Rocks Bar features classic cocktails done right, paired with stunning views of Chesterman Beach. Jeremy Koreski photo

This beloved Vancouver Island surfing town is known for its food, and for good reason: dining here is fresh, inventive, and fun. The drinks at these establishments, however, are equally worthy of praise. Here are five places in Tofino to grab an expertly-crafted cocktail.

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