Good eating, good prices

KATHERINE BRODSKY SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH BULLETIN

In order to gain access to delicious food in a pleasant and unique environment, one doesn't need to shell out huge funds. The places listed below are just as affordable as they are scrumptious. Whether you are a university student or a parent of such a student, the following will fill your cravings for culinary quality at very reasonable prices:

Kaplan's Star Deli is Vancouver's own New York-style deli. It is warm and vibrant, but not especially roomy. The lack of space, however, is more than made up for by the food quality. There are many kosher salamis, traditional Jewish foods such as gefilte fish and latkes, as well as some imports directly from Israel. The actual dining area can get fairly noisy, so Kaplan's is most appropriate during lunch time. The prices, while not especially low, are quite reasonable for both the quality and the quantity of food that you get. You can easily get a full meal for just under $8. You can even try the chicken matzah ball soup or the Russian-style beet borscht with boiled potato at only $3.25 for a cup or $4.25 for a bowl. If you are just in need of a quick snack, the potato knishes are excellent (see cover story) as are the walnut croissants.

Kaplan's Star Deli is located at 5775 Oak St. The restaurant is open Monday to Wednesday, 11a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 11a.m.-8 p.m.; and Saturday to Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. The deli opens at 9 a.m. daily for take-out. Call 604-263-2625.

Rossini's in Kitsilano is perhaps one of the best restaurants in Vancouver for those trying to stay on a budget. The restaurant is cosy, intimate, warm and welcoming. The service is prompt and the staff is friendly. It is fairly empty during lunch time; however, during the evenings, the restaurant is packed by lively locals, mostly due to the nightly live jazz. There is no cover charge so, just for the price of the food, visitors are able to get some special tunes. The patrons range in age and, while most are in their 30s and 40s, there are also plenty of students to be found. The food is as delicious as it looks and the prices are unbeatable. There are plenty of pastas ($6-$10) and alcoholic beverages, but my favorite is the grilled halibut fillet with mashed potatoes on the side ($15.95). With drinks, food and a tip, the bill rarely goes over $20. Rossini's is located at 1525 Yew St. The restaurant opens daily at 8 a.m. Call 604-737-8080 for reservations. There is also a Rossini's in Gastown, at 162 Water St. (604-408-1300).

Think that fast food has to be about grease and taking risks with your health? Think again. Located in the same building as the downtown campus of Simon Fraser University is Joe Veg, a thriving fast food spot named after an owner who is always happy to greet "newbies" and "oldies" alike. Joe Veg deals in delicious organic (and vegetarian) foods at reasonable prices. Menus change daily and there are plenty of great specials from which to choose. There are juices, soups, salads, pastas, etc. There is even a watermelon soup! My favorite selection for that afternoon craving is the vegetable pasta (which runs at around $4.50) combined with an organic strawberry drink. Joe will even give you $3 off your first purchase and $7 free in food and beverages if you buy 10 meals. This is a perfect alternative for students who find themselves trapped in the otherwise unwholesome surroundings of a food court. This delightful and healthy spot is located at 555 West Hastings (in the Harbor Centre food court). Joe Veg is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Call 604-688-7216.

Café S'il Vous Plaît is much more than just your typical coffee shop. The comfortable environment, padded booths and the classic '50s-style décor is only the beginning. While many coffee shops offer the most typical, plastic-flavored dessert selection, S'il Vous Plaît has some of the finest desserts available in town. The home-made-style desserts include pies and healthy shakes. There are also plenty of snacks to choose from, such as baked lasagna, avocado and banana sandwiches, chicken, orange and ginger sandwiches, tuna with poppy seed sandwiches, as well as a selection of soups. Entrées run at about $7.50 and sandwiches range from $4.60 to $5.70. Prices have gone up slightly since the place came under new management, however the portion size and food quality was retained. Café S'il Vous Plaît is located at 500 Robson St. It's open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and weekends from noon to 10 p.m. Call 604-688-7216.

For more local restaurant recommendations, visit evalu8.org's excellent food and drink section.

Katherine Brodsky is a Vancouver entertainment writer.

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