Cactus Club

I must admit, I never thought I would review The Cactus Club. But after my recent visit to their new location at Coal Harbour, I thought just based on the atmosphere and view (the ocean and mountains!!) that it would be worth sharing my experience. I went with a good buddy for a late Friday lunch. To start, we shared the mini burgers – certified angus beef®, cheddar, alder smoked bacon and red pepper relish ($12.50) and the always very tasty tuna tataki , locally caught oceanwise seared albacore tuna, green papaya slaw, orange, avocado, pine nuts and yuzu vinaigrette ($14.50). We also had to try one of my favorites the ceviche; Ocean wise steelhead, sustainably harvested prawns, red onions, Thai basil, mint and cilantro ($14). We decided not to order any mains courses and simply stick with more starters to complement the drinks. We tried: Tuna sushi cones, spicy ocean wise albacore tuna cones, avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, tempura, soy paper wrappers ($ 8). Very delicious, plus the kobe style meatball trio roasted tomato sauce, freshly grated parmesan($10.50).

With what I would say is the biggest and busiest restaurant in town, the new Cactus Club at Coal Harbour is sure to deliver on atmosphere, and just shear energy. The place was rocking, the service was excellent and Top Chef Rob Feenie was actually there tasting the food and overseeing quality control.

Giesen Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2012

The Marlborough region of New Zealand produces some very tasty Sauvignon Blanc and my usual go to is the Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc (as I have written about before). A suggestion from the BC Liquor Store consultant had me purchasing the Giesen Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2012. This wine is pale yellow in colour with green hues with strong aromas of grapefruit, gooseberry and crushed herbs with a delicate mix of tomato and blackcurrant leaf. The palate has wonderful vibrancy and fruit weight, with crisp and clean acidity culminating in a lengthy finish. Although this won’t replace my favourite, it is a great value at $15.99 and can be found at your local BC liquor store.