Total Pageviews

Wednesday, January 09, 2013

RIDGE MEADOWS DAILY DISH JANUARY 9 2013

CHAMELEON CAFE

Nestled between the concrete jungle of downtown Maple Ridge is newly opened Chameleon Cafe.


From the outside, it looks similar to the rest of the street. When you walk inside, the world around is transformed. Chameleon is an upscale New York City/Paris style tapas bar.

The exquisite woodwork alongside the white leather in the seating areas, give the cafe a chic feel that is unpretentious and welcoming. A long arched staircase leads to a cozy balcony seating area. Eight tables elegantly set and ready for a meeting or party. With another eight tables on the main floor, Chameleon caters to smaller crowds with big appetites.  

'The Cuban' sandwich showcases pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, dill, mustard and mayo served on your choice of bread (including gluten free for a $2 extra charge). It is served with a side of fries or salad for $12. 

If you are looking for something a little more exotic. Try the 'Lobster macaroni and cheese' served topped with sourdough breadcrumbs for $15.  The food presentation is amazing.  From the personal french fry baskets to the pristine white geometric plates. It is all a symphony in perfection.


Not looking to dine, how about some wine? Perhaps a glass of Hennessy while catching a game on their television. Chameleon has you covered for that as well. A great selection of premium, signature and domestic beverages to choose from. All reasonably priced.

You've wined. You've dined. Now it's time for dessert. A verbal dessert menu to finish off the experience.  A vast array of decadence to entertain any palate. My personal favorite Tiramisu was served with fresh raspberries and a raspberry coulee. The texture is dense but light with the luxurious taste of espresso and marscapone.

Think this is just for adults? Nope, they have a great kids' menu as well. 

Overall, this is one restaurant that is a true class act. 

Open seven days a week. Monday - Friday from 8:00am-10:00pm and Saturday from 9:00am-10:30pm and Sunday 10:00am-10:00pm. 

They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Free Wi-fi is also offered for all patrons. Chameleon also offers group bookings. 

You can find more information on Chameleon at the following:

http://www.chameleoncafe.ca/index.html
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chameleon-Cafe/244091035650127
http://magda-newblogspot.com/
@magda1968 on Twitter

Chameleon Cafe
11965 224th Street
Maple Ridge
604-467-5664

RAVENBRAN RATING $-$$$ 

Tuesday, January 08, 2013

RIDGE MEADOWS DISH 2013 EDITION


HOCKEY NEWS IN RIDGE MEADOWS
Sher Boudreau


Hockey was alive and well in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge this past holiday season. Ridge Meadows Minor Hockey hosted it's Annual 'Night After Christmas' Tournament. Showcasing eager hockey players ranging from H1 to Atom.  The tournament was held from Dec 27th to Dec 30th and was at both Planet Ice and Pitt Meadows Arenas.

For six and a half year old Keegan Araki, this was his first hockey tournament. Soaking it all in, Araki who plays for Ridge Meadows H2 C4 was shredding the ice smiling all the while.

At the other end of the minor hockey spectrum, was the 2nd tournament happening in Maple Ridge. The Annual Juvenile Christmas Tournament was also held the same weekend at Planet Ice.  The juvenile division which is the eldest of divisions in minor hockey (18, 19, 20 year olds) had six teams from the Lower Mainland and one team from Vancouver Island.

Both tournaments showcased the very best in team sportsmanship, healthy competition and a love for the game. In a season where NHL fans were being deprived of their beloved game, local minor hockey is thriving and keeping the dream alive.

Whether it is a new player like Keegan or a veteran of the juvenile team, hockey is a long standing tradition for Canadians.

For organizers Penny Butler and Mike Lourens, the tournaments are like another child that needs constant nurturing, patience and stamina.  The gruelling hours of running a tournament take a toil on all the volunteers, families and players alike.  It is the drive to give kids an amazing sporting experience that keeps organizers motivated.

Ridge Meadows A1 affectionately known as the 'Moose', has hosted the juvenile Christmas tournament for the last nine years.  Coached by Derek Ferguson, Derek Bedard and Karl Ralph (all veterans of the very same team) faced all the competition head on and were victorious over their tournament and seasonal rival Langley.
While our gold medal hopes were quashed at the World Juniors. Minor hockey gold was shining brilliantly in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge.