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!
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