Local Spotlight: The Roasted Grape

The Roasted Grape describes itself as "the first of its kind, fusing tea, coffee, and wine with fresh, simple food." I got in touch with co-owner Karie Karpes to ask her a few more questions about the bistro's local focus.


[M]: Why has the Roasted Grape chosen to use local ingredients for some of its menu items?

[KK]: We believe in supporting our neighbours as much as possible. The bistro is based on a community ethic; we want to create a space not only to participate in the local economy, but also to offer some fundraising opportunities for local groups and associations. 

[M]: What are your most popular locally-sourced items/ingredients at the Roasted Grape?

[KK]: We have a great breakfast menu that showcases farm-fresh eggs. Whether you want something light (like our Portobello frittata), hearty (try the ham and egg panini), or sweet (blueberry walnut chai-spiced French toast), the eggs pull each dish together to start your day off fresh!

Beyond breakfast, we have some great sharing platters, like our Fraser Valley Brie plate with local blueberry compote. But for a main meal, nothing beats "The BC" Sandwich: smoked steelhead trout and a citrus cream cheese mousse inside a flaky croissant. No matter the time of day, there are delicious and unique local options.

[M]: Is it difficult to maintain a local focus year-round due to seasonal availability of various ingredients?

[KK]: It definitely takes some planning. Fortunately, the Fraser Valley is invested in hot houses that fill our salad orders with local ingredients. Even better, food items like eggs, cheeses, and meats are available year-round. We also make use of canned jams and compotes that are likewise unrestricted by seasons.

[M]: In what ways are you (personally and as The Roasted Grape) involved in supporting local business and/or agriculture beyond the use of select ingredients?

[KK]: Like I mentioned before, we strive to foster a strong community feel in our business. Part of community involvement goes beyond the business side of things; we love to open the cafe to non-profit and community-based groups. As an independent, locally-owned and -sourced company, we are able to participate meaningfully on both levels: business and charity.

[M]: Do you have a favourite locally-produced food item?

[KK]: I have to be honest; I'm a bit of a wine aficionado. We have a variety of wines from the Fraser Valley, as well as from our neighbours in the beautiful Okanagan. We try to keep our selection fresh and interesting, so we're always on the hunt for new wines to pour. Come in and try them - our "Wino Wednesday" special keeps us pretty busy! 




It's great to find this high-quality establishment participating in the eat-local initiative. As local business owners themselves, supporting local food producers is a great way to doubly invest in the community of Abbotsford.


Having visited The Roasted Grape on several occasions, I've been delighted by the beautiful presentations and inventive combinations of their menu items. Their fresh take on sandwiches and salads is complemented well by their fine selection of coffee and teas. Find them on Facebook here, or follow them via Twitter, but don't forget to visit in person for a drink, snack, or meal!