A Thai-style rotisserie in New Westminster’s River Market and a beautifully set French bistro in Victoria’s Oak Bay neighbourhood.

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Free Bird Chicken Shack

#105-810 Quayside Dr., New WestminsterIt’s been quite a busy few months for Chef Angus An. In August his Fat Mao Noodles opened in Chinatown (see his recipe for cold sesame noodles on page tk) and now there’s Free Bird Chicken Shack, the casual Thai-Style Rotisserie spot that’s wowing them in New Westminster’s River Market with its minimalist mix of chicken, rice and salad in an ode to simple and inexpensive perfection. (freebirdchickens.com)

Confit Food and Wine

1871 Oak Bay Ave., VictoriaWith Confit Food and Wine the residents of Victoria’s Oak Bay Avenue have what everyone dreams of—a perfect neighbourhood French bistro (and prices that are actually bistro prices) that has an amazing back garden patio and uses local and sustainable ingredients. (confitfoodandwine.com)