Northern Roots Lifestyle

The Irish story in Canada is one of resilience, renewal, and extraordinary determination.

From famine crossings and the profound hardships at Grosse Île to the building of new communities, Irish Canadians helped lay the foundations of our nation in lasting ways.

On Saint Patrick’s Day especially, we are reminded of the deep cultural ties that continue to connect generations on both sides of the Atlantic. 🇮🇪🇨🇦

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh! ☘️

CHINATOWN VANCOUVER: PART 2 🪭

We celebrated the second part of our Lunar New Year adventures at , a beloved fixture of Vancouver’s Chinatown dining scene, for an unforgettable evening of exceptional Chinese fare and a vibrant lion dance welcoming the year ahead.

A centuries-old tradition, the lion dance invites prosperity, protection, and renewal. Accompanied by rhythmic drums and cymbals, the lion moves through the space symbolically sweeping away negative energy and awakening new beginnings.

And the food? Truly some of the best Chinese cuisine I have ever experienced. 🥢

Bao Bei is truly special not only for what happens on the plate, but for what it represents.

Since opening in 2010, this intimate dining space has played an important role in the modern revival of Vancouver’s historic Chinatown.

Much like the neighbourhood itself, Bao Bei invites guests to experience a unique intersection of cultures and ideas, where old world heritage and contemporary creativity converge.

The menu reflects this spirit, blending regional Chinese and Taiwanese influences with global inspiration, resulting in refined yet deeply comforting dishes designed for sharing.

Honoured to have welcomed the Lunar New Year surrounded by culture, community, and truly extraordinary food.

CHINATOWN VANCOUVER: PART 1

Yesterday, in celebration of Lunar New Year, we spent the day exploring the living history of Vancouver’s iconic Chinatown.🏮

We began with a peaceful hour wandering the classical pathways of - a serene park in the heart of the city - to reflect and set intentions for the year ahead. 🐎

For lunch, we tucked into a local favourite, — a casual gem serving comforting dim sum that felt generous and very authentic. 🥢

Followed by delicious sips ☕️

A major highlight was visiting the - Canada’s first permanent exhibit space dedicated to preserving and sharing the Chinese Canadian journey from the very place where it all began.

There, we had the privilege of meeting Ramona Mar, co-curator and co-author (alongside Carol Lee and Susanna Ng) of Vitality: Iconic Images, Hidden Stories.

She guided us through a fascinating exhibition featuring sixteen photographs by the legendary , paired with dozens of intimate family images and stories that together form a vibrant portrait of community and continuity.

Established more than 135 years ago, Vancouver’s Chinatown is among the city’s oldest neighbourhoods and remains a historic epicentre of culture and connection.

Through shared memories, stories, and preserved artefacts, the is deeply committed to ensuring this vibrant legacy endures for generations to come.

Chinatown’s story, in Vancouver and across the country, is one of vision, perseverance, and collective strength. This immersive experience was a powerful reminder of the enduring contributions of Chinese Canadians to Vancouver and to Canada as a whole — a legacy central to our nation’s story and ongoing evolution.

Winter produce in Canada is about quality and practicality.

Root vegetables take centre stage, alongside storage crops, greenhouse specialties, and preserved harvests form the foundation of this season’s cooking. ❄️

Choosing what’s in season provides fresher food, while supporting our local food systems and communities at large.

Save this short list for your next grocery shop.