Ferry-reliant Coasters aspire to build their own sustainable food systems, for less reliance on the Lower Mainland and beyond. Find all kinds of locally produced goodies at the Gibsons Public Market (buy a passport for discounts around town) or gourmet shops like the divine Plethora in Sechelt.
By Charlene Rooke
EVENTS
The Halfmoon Bay Apple Festival includes a taste of local Bricker Cider (try the Suncoaster, made using local donated fruit). The Sunshine Coast Mushroom Festival and Mushroom Show includes guided walks, cooking demonstrations and speakers. Watch for dates in October.
FUN
Northern Divine Caviar in Sechelt produces the only sustainable, organic sturgeon caviar in the world (the Duke and Duchess of Camridge even tried it when they visited B.C.). They also produce smoked canned sturgeon and “sturgeon tail” treats for dogs: you’ll see it for sale and on menus all along the coast, or buy online at northerndivine.com.
FARMS
In Powell River, the Coast Berry Company offers strawberries, blueberries and preserves for sale at the farm.
Persephone Brewing, on the outskirts of Gibsons, is more than a craft brewery. It’s a community agriculture hub, with egg and honey operations run by local partners, and a farm that sells fresh veggies in the tasting room and at on-site Sunday farmers markets. Locals can order a CSA box bursting with farm-grown tomatoes, squash, peppers, sweet beets, rainbow chard–plus beer!
FARM TO BOTTLE
Bruinwood Estate Distillery in Roberts Creek is a family-farm operation producing terroir products that taste of the region–from refreshingly crisp blackberry vodka to rhubarb gin.