What a pleasant surprise we had today. Our good friend Phil asked us to meet for Sunday Brunch at GARY’S BISTRO in Qualicum Beach. It’s been many years since visiting Gary’s and this long standing restaurant has since changed ownership. My expectations were not high as it always seemed to be a burger kind of joint. How wrong was I. 

First of all, the joint was packed. Couples, families, singles. Surprisingly, Gary’s has a great Brunch Menu with no less than five flavours of Eggs Benedict including my choice, Mexican Eggs Benny. Eggs with Onion, Red Pepper, Salsa, jalapeños, Hash Browns and very good Hollandaise sauce. DELICIOUS! 

They also have Bistro Bagels, Breakfast Burritos, and regular Bacon & Eggs as well as Omelettes and Pancakes. 

On top of all that deliciousness, Corinna was an outstanding server. Efficient, cheerful and serving the entire restaurant by herself. 

Since Qualicum Beach is the venue for the huge Father’s Day Car Show, Gary’s is decorated with dozens of photos of hot rods that have been in the show. Plus a life size section of a vintage Cadillac on the wall. Friend Phil is hoping his recently purchased 48 Ford, aka Bessie Ford, will have its photo on the wall after the 2026 car show.

We really enjoyed Gary’s and will return for a weekday lunch. 

Gary’s is at 115 Second Avenue E in Qualicum Beach. 250-752-5800. 

Open for Breakfast and Lunch from 9-4 daily. 

Just saying…

For several years I searched the local food stores looking for pickled onions to no avail. I had had them often in restaurants as a garnish on a salad or in a Sandwich and I really like them. 

Since I couldn’t find any I made my own a few times. They are easy to make but my recipe suggested they had a short shelf life. 

Then, by chance, the other day I saw them in the local THRIFTY’S. Pickled red onions produced right here in BC. In Falkland BC, located between Vernon and Kamloops. Yes a young couple in Falkland make and market this wonderful product. 

BC BRINE  produce a whole line of pickles using fresh local vegetables which you can view on their website. https://bcbrine.ca

If you like pickles you must try these. Fabulous. 

Isn’t it great that we have ambitious young people who will start up a business like this. 

Just saying…

No doubt everyone has heard of the famous Montreal Deli, Schwartz’s. They have been serving up Montreal Smoked Meat since 1928 on St-Laurent Boulevard. 

This is their most popular sandwich. Smoked meat, mustard on Rye Bread. According to their website “Schwartz’s prepares smoked meat, beef brisket, the old-fashioned way, on location, using a secret blend of locally produced fine herbs and spices, marinated for 10 days; smoked overnight, steamed all day; and sliced “à la minute” by hand with love”. 

Here is some great news for all Smoked Meat lovers. My good friend Phil introduced me to this fabulous item he picked up at Costco. 

6 individual pouches of Montreal Smoked Meat. Take one, pop it in boiling water and slap it on your favourite bread or bun. 

It can be steamed or microwaved but boiling like this might be the best.

“Boiling is a straightforward method for reheating Schwartz’s Smoked Meat from Costco. Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Ensure the pot is large enough to fully submerge the vacuum-sealed pouch of smoked meat.

Carefully place the entire pouch into the boiling water. Allow it to cook for approximately 7 to 10 minutes, as indicated on the packaging. This process heats the meat evenly. Monitor the pouch to ensure it remains submerged throughout the boiling process.

After the designated time, carefully remove the pouch from the boiling water using tongs or a slotted spoon. Let it cool slightly before opening to avoid steam burns. Once cooled, slice the smoked meat and serve hot. Boiling is a quick method, but be mindful not to overcook”. 

Save the airfare to Montreal.. just slide by Costco and pick up a package. 

Just saying… 

Shopping this morning in Qualicum Beach led us to a light lunch at the FRENCH PRESS on Primrose. Not the first time, for sure, but we really enjoyed lunch today. 

You order at the counter and they call out your name when your order is ready. Here is the lunch menu. 

In addition they serve a variety of really delicious baked goods, particularly the scones. Of course a long list of teas and coffees is available. And they do their own coffee roasting. 

We were craving their Tomato Basil Soup so both ordered a cup. One with a large cheddar/Basil Scone, one with a Rueben Sandwich. 

I like the personalized receipts they use. 

Today the Tomato soup was outstanding with lots of Basil. Simply delicious. 

The Cheddar Scone was substantial and flavourful. The Reuben was perfect. Corn Beef, cheese and sauerkraut in a crusty Rye bun. Warm and cheesy and a nice size. Not overwhelming. Would have it again. 

If you are in Qualicum Beach French Press is a great joint for coffee or lunch. Breakfast is an option that we’ve not done but it looks good too. 

If you are not in Qualicum you can head to their other location in PARKSVILLE at 102- 425 Stanford E. where the roasting is done. 

Here is their website. 

https://www.fpcoffeeroasters.com

Just saying…