The Vancouver Branch enjoyed a very special treat from a past executive Chef of the Four Seasons Hotels when Chef Wayne Martin, owner of Crave restaurant on Main Street prepared a superb six-course dinner for our members. Crave is a delightful small bistro with lots of atmosphere and a patio and outside garden and an excellent culinary and service team that excelled themselves with a wonderful meal, especially planned and prepared for our group. Our wines were a truly International selection with representatives from around the world.

We started with Chef's selection of hors d'oeuvres and a 2002 Marques de Gelida Cava Brut Exclusive Reserva from Spain on the patio then took our seats for a Halibut Carpaccio with Organic Herb Salad and Citrus Parsley Juice accompanied by a South African 2004 De Wetshof Estate Sauvignon Blanc followed by Seared Baja Scallop with Shaved Fennel and Crab and an Artichoke Veloute and a 2006 Mission Hill Family Estate Reserve Pinot Gris from Canada.

This was followed by a Pan Roasted Pheasant Breast with Puy Lentil and Cipollini Onion Ragout garnished with Crisp Sage and a 1995 Château Thieuley from Bordeaux. Next came a Beef Daube, served in its own ceramic pot, with Pancetta and Stilton accompanied by a lovely 1998 Ballantine Cellars Zinfandel from the Napa Valley. Our Fifth Course was a Roasted Rack of Lamb with Chanterelle and Barley Risotto, Parsnips and a Natural Reduction with a robust Australian Shiraz from Rosemount Estate.

Finally, for dessert we enjoyed a delightful Vanilla Panna Cotta with Vanilla Poached Peaches and an Italian Passito de Pantelleria from Carlo Pellegrino - a sweet finish to a wonderful meal! Thank you Chef, and your great team, for a magnificent evening!