Life in the Lower Mainland (BC, Canada)

It's Fan Expo weekend and ManCakes doesn't have special cupcakes for the Fan Expo. But they have them for Easter. Is something wrong here? Has Hello Kitty done some sort of corporate takeover on this cupcakery? It's a small store, with your choice of low tables in a lounge-like space, or bar seat and a narrow table at the windows. If neither appeals, get ready to have them to go and maybe try finding space around or in the Vancouver Public Library. Cupcakes are standard sized and $3.75 each! At that price, to be honest I'm looking for more than interesting. I'm looking for perfect. What ManCakes offers is definitely interesting. Each cupcake has one of their standard "bases", like chocolate or spice. On top and injected inside is a complex cream, and then any sprinkles go on top. As cupcakes go, the bases are good, though maybe a bit too fragile, especially after the injection of cream into them. There is a chance that just tearing off the paper ...

Yes, Cartems Donuterie serves lunch . No, it's not donuts. Each plate of two deep-fried "savoury donut" + small salad is $6. Plus one donut ($3) adds up to a light to medium lunch for just under $10 before tax and tip. I was there on a Wednesday afternoon around 1.30pm and there were a few diners and zero lineup. Still quite a selection of donuts in the counter as well. Since the lunch rush was apparently over, our savoury lunch donuts took a little while but came hot and fresh. Presentation is ace in texture of the fried products and colours on the plate. You are getting pricey Yaletown plating in a bright, clean space amid a dilapidated looking neighbourhood. Truly the definition of "neighbourhood gem". Japanese Curry Bun ($6) Savory donut filled with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and edamame. Served with a white miso garlic aoli, Sriracha sauce, and a daikon salad with ponzu sesame dressing Each "donut" is about the size of a tennis ...