Dina

What tours do you host?

I host the Gastronomic Gastown Tour and the Granville Island Market Tour.

What does food mean to you?

Food is the means of gathering. It’s the common thread that can draw people together like almost nothing else can. Being able to share my home and table with others is one of the greatest joys I have as it is the gateway allowing us to know one another more intimately. 

What do you love about Vancouver?

I love that you can live in the city, all the while being so close to such vibrant nature. The people, food, and nature diversity is spectacular.  I love being able to drive up for a half-day snow shoe or paddle and be back in the city for an amazing bowl of ramen or poké same day. 

What are your hobbies (aside from eating)?

Spending time with my family and friends outside. Camping, hiking, simply sitting by the beach, you name it. (Always with amazing food of course.)

Do you have a fond food memory?

Thanksgiving has always been my favourite holiday. I love the smorgasbord of all the foods you only have that one time of year and the gathering of loved ones… and often times strangers! My mom passed down an exceptional gift of opening our home to those who didn’t have a place to be. 

One year, I made a turducken (a chicken, in a duck, in a turkey) layered with bacon stuffing. It was a labour of love to be certain. But whoa. It was tasty. And that gravy from the drippings…

Wow factor + flavour bomb success.

Why do you love hosting Vancouver Foodie Tours?

I love getting to know people from around the world and learning from their cultures and experiences. Life is so full when you enter into the joys of others all the while introducing them to some of your city’s best bites. It doesn’t get much better than that!