Put away your parka, hang up that wool scarf, and store away those winter boots because Spring has officially arrived. For us on the West Coast, this season usually means mild weather, rain showers, and overcast skies, but us Vancouverites know how to take advantage of warm Spring days like none other. One of our favourite local spots to visit when the sun is shining? VanDusen Botanical Garden, just a short walk from our Oak townhomes.

We had the chance to visit Truffles Fine Foods, a quaint local cafe situated on the grounds of the VanDusen Gardens. A warm, cozy atmosphere with a big lunch crowd, we took a seat by the floor-to-ceiling window that overlooked the garden. A perfect way to unwind and relax with family and friends, and also ideal for parents who want to bring their little ones to a kid-friendly establishment. Along with a few others in the cafe, we ordered Afternoon Tea for two, served from 11am to 4pm.

First we tasted VanDusen’s own private label black tea, which was a delicious blend of earl grey tea infused with lavender, created by the Secret Garden Tea Company in Kerrisdale. Our tea was nicely complemented by brown rock sugar and milk if needed. Truffles Fine Foods also offers an assortment of organic teas by MoTeas from Kelowna, BC.

Our three-tier tray arrived piled high with savoury goods and sweet treats. Starting from the bottom, we were offered the daily sandwich, a filling turkey club, and a freshly made green onion and cheddar scone. We moved on to a large croissant, coconut macaroons, and shortbread cookies. Everything was complete with VanDusen’s own unpasteurized organic honey, the Chef’s house-made strawberry jam, and devonshire cream. Full yet? We haven’t even made it to dessert!

We finished off the Afternoon Tea with mint and white chocolate truffles, pistachio and lavender french macarons, and petit-fours in a lime and peanut opera cake. We couldn’t choose a favourite even if we tried. The desserts were the perfect amount of sweetness to finish off our lunch.

Although Truffles Fine Foods offers a more relaxed version of High Tea than other Vancouver establishments, we found the portions to be generous and the quality was superb. The best part of all? Truffles Fine Foods is teaming up with Listraor to give away a free Afternoon Tea for Two! Enter below for your chance to win.

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A huge thank you to Fanny Dufour and the Truffles Fine Foods team for welcoming us so warmly. Afternoon tea at Truffles Fine Foods in the VanDusen Botanical Garden is offered at $35 for 2 and $60 for 4, located at 5151 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC.