Brunch just got even more laid back with Gastown’s Calabash Bistro’s launch of their new brunch menu. Stop in and stay a while with dishes that feature Caribbean flavours with Western twists. Calabash’s house-made jerk spice makes a welcome appearance here, but nothing is too spicy unless you want to add a dash of their hot sauce; plates range from sweet to savoury.

The Escovitch Fish, $14: a traditional Caribbean breakfast of pan-seared fish, a tangy Escovitch sauce, fried plantain, fresh cucumber and rice & peas. Wonderful for those who prefer to start the day with a proper feast.

The Salara French Toast, $12: fresh-baked salara (coconut bread), fresh-cut fruit, house-made banana cream & spiced mango maple syrup is a delight for those looking for a sweet start.

Another win is the Ackee & Saltfish with Dumplings, $14: a classic Jamaican brunch. Saltfish, ackee, bell peppers, red onions, tomatoes, house-made coconut dumplings, rice & peas

Don’t miss trying their house-made mango butter and the Caribbean Crab Cakes served up eggs benny-style, with house-made rock crab, saltfish and baby shrimp patties as the base.

You’ll want to sample their cocktails here whether you go for a boozy Caribbean-inspired cocktail such as the Dark & Stormy or a virgin version that could just be fresh ginger beer or a lassi.

Calabash serves brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For a full taste of the island life, stop by the restaurant at 428 Carrall Street, Vancouver, or visit www.calabashbistro.com.

About Calabash Bistro: The Calabash is a vessel that supports food, drink, music and art. Calabash Bistro embodies the diverse backgrounds of its three artful owners by offering a refreshing Caribbean dining experience in a reggae-centric environment that celebrates island-inspired tastes, sights and sounds. With menus bursting with flavour and an authentic, energetic Caribbean atmosphere, Calabash makes for a unique dining and entertainment destination in the heart of Vancouver’s storied Gastown community. For more about Calabash, visit www.calabashbistro.com.