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Dirty Apron Cooking School & Delicatessen
Categories: Education Specialty Schools Cooking Schools Event Planning & Services Caterers Cooking Schools, Caterers
540 Beatty StreetVancouver, BC V6B
Neighbourhood: Downtown
(604) 879-8588
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 10 am - 8 am
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
46 reviews for Dirty Apron Cooking School & Delicatessen
46 reviews in English
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Review from Deniz T.
4/28/2012
I like church music, the gospel that would be. I used to stop by every Sunday, the whole thing and the quarrel of God's existence aside, music was the best part of the experience. Sometimes it would be good, sometimes painfully bad... But I learned to see the sincerity behind it. People writing songs to something that they truly believe, you appreciate that kind of honesty. And then I heard Ray Charles or Elvis singing gospel and taking it to the next level with keeping the simplicity behind it ... I still listen to The King singing hymns every Sunday morning as a ritual, and get goose bumps when he does Peace in the Valley.
That is exactly how I feel about Dirty Apron's chicken baguette. Freshly baked baguette and perfectly roasted chicken... The baguette has a softer crust than regular, which I had mixed feelings at first, because I really like hearty and a crusty bread. But when you chew into it, you understand the whole harmony and the mechanics behind it. Also we live in a culture that trims the crust of a Dempster's white loaf when making sandwiches, which I never understood why...
The baguette is wonderfully fresh, every bite points out to roasted chicken flavor, nothing stands in front of it, accents would come from a sundried-tomato, again which is a powerful alternative to a fresh tomato slice. Just moister and acid content removed from a Mediterranean tomato, left with intense flavor with a sweet chew. Watercress does the lettuce part with character, parmesan and anchovies -you have to get it with anchovies!!!!- takes care of rounding up the seasoning. It reminds me of meat sandwiches, left alone to shine for what they are. Just like at my grandpa's house, when they spit roast a lamb, you would run to it, use your flat bread as a mitt to pull out some soft, succulent meat and quickly shove in your mouth when your brain repeats rapidly; I will remember this for the rest of my life. It is that good, simplicity taken to the next level... Flawless...Listed in: My top Vancity Eatries
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Review from Megan S.
Vancouver, BC
5/24/2012
DELI REVIEW:
Each sandwich is grilled to perfection, allowing the delectable combination of flavours to slowly melt together into divinity. I always consider the daily special or tasty-sounding salads, but the sandwiches are addictive as crack and I'm not giving up an opportunity to consume them.
The metal seats are unbelievably uncomfortable. You can sit in a long communal table in a separate area, but then you have to sit next to (or even across from!) strangers. And I, being a misanthrope, freaking HATE THAT. So I suffer, and it's worth it, because the sandwiches are THAT GOOD.
Minus one star for imprinting a metal ridge in my ass every time I eat there. Otherwise, consider this one of the best sandwich places in the city (that offers veggie/seafood options for a picky pescatarian like me.)Listed in: EAT ME.
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Review from Katie F.
4/22/2012
Cooking school review:
Fabulous fun evening! It's hard to find good gifts and since both hubby and I love food, I thought this would be a perfect date! Had great feedback from yelp and in real life, so I parted with my cash ($150 pp for 4 hours), and checked the calendar!
Great selection of classes, and we picked an Italian one for our first class. I love the initial demo, then there's enough work stations for everyone to work in pairs. The ingredients are all pre-measured for you and there's minimal clean-up, so it's a fun evening! You eat as you go along, and I like that they have some nice charcuterie and wine to drink as you do the cooking since your first course isn't ready until 8:30 pm and I was already starving by the time the class started.
Great tips throughout and you come home with some new recipes to try! Love the small touches like having aprons and folders with your names on it, a variety of beverages throughout the dinner, etc...
Totally recommend this for a date night! -
Review from Deanna S.
4/17/2012
I've never taken a class here, but the food is really good! Everything is of great quality. If you're in the area, stop by and try it out!
My only qualm is that I have no idea what the hours of operation are for the deli... I live in the building... and it seems to change quite often. I've gone down there a few times when I SWEAR it was open a that time just the last week (more towards the end of the day), and it was closed. I mentioned that once to one of the girls at the counter and she kind of laughed and said the owner keeps changing his mind... I was relieved. I thought I was going crazy (but seriously, dude... make up your mind)!Listed in: Eats
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Review from Nicholas N.
Vancouver, BC
4/17/2012
As far as cooking schools go, I found this one to be fantastic. I liked the individual work stations and meal preparation, the instructors were polite, organize and well educated.
Some people have complained of the price but in my view, it is well worth it for 4 hours of entertainment, a 3 course meal and wine.
I have attended 5 classes so far and plan on taking more. -
Review from Liza M.
Marpole, Vancouver, BC
4/9/2012
My best friend treated me to a cooking session here as a gift for my birthday.
It was so much fun!!!
We signed up for the Japanese class and learned how to make gyozas and sushi. The class was small about 6 people. Everything was provided for you, the apron, the tools and all the ingredients needed.
The best part was eating all the food we made and there was a lot. After the cooking class my friend and I shopped at their store next door.
We purchased some goodies to take home. This is a great place to go to if you want to learn how to cook or just buy ready made yummy food!!
They have different classes like Italian, sausage making ... etc, so check the website. We're definitely signing up for more classes in the future.
I'd score the Dirty Apron "5" stars but I thought their prices at the store was a tad on the high side. But still a must to go and check out. It's a gem of a place!! -
Review from Mim B.
Vancouver, BC
4/17/2012
I tried the place 3 times before hoping to find those fantastic sandwiches everybody is talking about but I didn't. Very average taste in fact. The last time I tried the pork belly on Thursday & got sick! Felt sick half an hour after having it and the abdominal pain & ... Continued till Sunday that I had to go to the hospital & I was told that I've had food poisoning! I hate this restaurant!
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Review from Tanya B.
2/6/2012
Excellent QUALITY items.
Flavours and variety are generally good.
The Mac and Cheese is superb.
Great sandwich selection but they're lacking in girth. The sandwiches are very tastly but thin: as in ONE single, thin slice of meat. I thought the first time was a mistake but it was pretty skimpy the second time too.
The specials are hit and miss for flavour... and a bit too pricey for the portion size but I still go there.
Try it. -
Review from Karla J.
Vancouver, BC
1/18/2012
I can't stop raving about The Dirty Apron!
I was given a cooking class at the Dirty Apron with Vikram Vij of Vij's for a Birthday present...Best Birthday Present EVER!
From the moment I walked in the door I was very well taken care of...I wasn't there more than 2 minutes...and my coat had been hung up...I had been given a portfolio with the recipe's we would be cooking that evening...I had been seated...had a glass of wine in my hand...and Vikram Vij was serving me appetizers!
The evening moved swiftly from instruction to cooking to sitting down to eat...and doing it all over again. Kudos to the Dirty Apron for being so well organized...while you are eating your creation in the dining room...little elves come and clean your cooking station up for the next round!
The food was fantastic...so was the wine...and the company!
I enjoyed it so much I have already enrolled for another class...next up Sausage making! LOL
I have yet to eat at the deli...but I follow them on Twitter...and I drool over their daily menu items!
If you like to cook and want to learn something new in a fantastic environment...I can't say enough about the Dirty Apron Cooking School! -
Review from Simon K.
11/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Being tricked, I mean, being surprised by my significant other for a night of dining and dating, or is it dating and dining I was brought to a place I wouldn't think of coming to, as no one I know would be taking me (I guess I was wrong by a long shot). On this fateful evening, being advised we would be around the area of Chambar, I walked (without doing research) with her guiding my every step to her plans of the evening ahead.
Taken aback by the spectacle of coming into this highly raved place I entered, knowing the background of this place, but not really knowing what main topic the night would be about. Greeted by the people there once we entered the doorway, and also having my jacket taken to hang, I was quickly presented a mixture of prosecco and pomegranate juice to warm my senses to the mind-blowing experience of the night ahead. I learned from my partner that 'David Rocco' from Food Network's Dolce Vita would be the main guest to show us his magic on the open kitchen/stage display, with wine pairings per dish.
As the people were shuffling in from the coldness of the outside, and warming up, just like how I was warming up, with prosecco in hand, I noticed how diverse the crowd was, and how enthusiastic everyone was for this special guest. The workers here were practically swimming through all the people providing small entree's for the night, from sage and anchovies, to a nice ball of goodness that I couldn't name with my memory, but filled with a tomato base, cheese, and just a thrill for the mouth that I had three. There was another one which was a delectible delight of mushrooms on bruschetta that I have to say readied us up for the night with David.
I know from others who have went that usually when they are here, they are taught hands on, to cook, this was a different sort of 'show', and it was more hands off, but it was an entertaining good time to see how fast and simple David prepares and cooks the food that he shows on his show. Starting off with a salad with selectable beef to start, a red wine based risotto, a chicken that had the phrase on the menu "that jumps off your mouth" and to end it off, three delicious cheeses, and an easy "man's" tiramisu.
A fair share of wine was paired for each dish, but the one thing that I have to say is when a meal is not just a meal but an event, and this was one of them. For the amont of time we were there, it just went by fast. 3 hours of entertainment, and also getting to know other people standing at our table, as it was 5 to a table, and getting to understand and know their cravings and what brought them here for the night's festivities.
When you have a celebrity in the house, it just makes the night more enjoyable, with pictures, chatter, questions being thrown across the room (including one thrown by my partner) and seeing David be himself, with some good choiced words coming out of his mouth, that you definitely will not hear on the Food Network. It all ended off with pictures with him, and a custom book signing.
It was a 5 star experience, and I still am blown away from this, and it intrigues me for more of what this place offers, but I now know a part of the experience of coming to this place! -
Review from Colene C.
11/3/2011 5 Check-ins Here
Dirty Apron is the downtown answer to foodie heaven. Peruse the well-stocked store looking for gourmet & specialty items then meander to the front where you can choose between sandwiches made to order and a rotating menu of daily specials.
I've been a few times for lunch and while there are some things that have stood out for me more than others (hot items over sandwiches), everything is well presented and hearty. The curry is one of my faves.
If that wasn't enough, they also offer cooking classes. I've never done it before, but with the care and presentation that I see in their store / food offerings, that's enough to sell me on taking one! -
Review from Trish R.
12/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
Fantastic deli...!
Finally! A place for a foodie to get take-away, or have a quick lunch alone or with a friend where the food is really, really good.
The soups are fantastic, sandwiches are really good, the salads inspired and fresh, baked goodies are exactly what you'd expect or better, and the daily hot specials I've tried have been spectacular.
They only have a few communal tables with stools and benches, so beware that it's not a place for spending a long time lounging... but it's comfortable enough for a quick, gorgeous lunch. -
Review from Vicky L.
Vancouver, BC
3/19/2012
Stopped here for lunch over the weekend with my friend. I love the atmosphere!! It's a little paradise for people who love to cook. They carry a variety of spices and cooking sauces! There were people on the other side of the deli having their cooking class, it looked like they were having a blast. I think I'll be back to take a cooking class!
Onto the food, I had the shepherd pie. It's simply delicious!!! The spinach, butternut squash with pecan salad was a delight as well! For sure, I will be back to try out their sandwiches. -
Review from Kalina M.
North Vancouver, BC
1/3/2012
Transported to NYC!
I was killing time before I met a group of people to go to the German Christmas Market. I wanted to catch a bite to eat before as you may know that German Food and Vegetarian can't really be in the same sentence.
At first I thought I would have to break down and eat a Veggie Burger at Fat Burger but then I discovered Dirty Apron as I was browsing the street!
As I walked in the door to the little deli, I felt like I had be transported to one of the cool little deli's in NYC.
They have great gourmet items along with a fabulous selection of sandwiches, soups, baking and other yummy things to grab. They were out of their Veggie sandwiches for the day but they graciously made me a fantastic baguette "freestyle"! Pared with a fabulous healthy soup I was in heaven.
I had forgotten my e-book I usually carry and so was browsing their gift box catalogue...
I found some great Guy Themed Boxes! For the guy who really wants nothing and has everything. I picked up two great add on gifts for my husband and brother: 'The Dude' and 'Snack Attack'. Fabulous custom packaging with great gourmet content!
Love, Love, Love! -
Review from Theresa W.
Vancouver, BC
10/8/2011
Hands-on cooking class! I've done the cookshop and I've tried the PICA class, and I can honestly say that this place rocks my socks. I love the attention to detail this place puts out - the apron and name tag everyone gets upon arrival, the easy-going and friendly attitude of the chef, the fact that everyone gets their own stove & oven! I mean, how is that not awesome? Almost everything is DIY, not huddling amongst four people for communal food (alas, if you screw up - you'll have no one to blame but yourself).
And the communal dinner room service is divine! The service was amazing! We were served wine while we ate our hand-crafted and plated meals in a sit-down environment, and there was tea and coffee laid out while we scrapped clean our own chocolate souffle.
The cooking class accommodates 22 people at most I believe, and there is never a dull moment. You can't go horribly wrong with your learnings, especially since they have helper chefs walking around to assist and ensure you're not setting their kitchen on fire. Ingredients are already portioned out for you, removing you from doing the mundane tasks that result in spillage of flour and spices everywhere.
Everything about this place is grand. Except the price tag. I know I know, for this kind of service you're bound to pay a bit more, but man I wish I could afford this stuff more often. I guess I'll keep saving them for special party options (I always push for a cooking class hard at bridal showers and birthdays brainstorming sessions).
The shop area is full of some fantastic and rarer-than-your-average-grocery-store stuff, at reasonable prices. Their sandwiches are YUM too, so stop by for a lunch sometime! :)Listed in: 30 Day Review Challenge, 2011 Best Of
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Review from Suzie F.
Vancouver, BC
1/27/2012
I am loving their Hummus Avocado sandwich, it is my new Gastown favorite, so creamy and healthy tasting.
I have taken the Mama Mia class there as well and would definitely recommend it. The class was fun and informative and they were fast to bring me new ingredients when I burnt my sauce on the first attempt :) I only wish they gave you more then two glasses of wine for the entire evening. -
Review from Marje B.
Burnaby, BC
Great lunch place!
My girlfriend and I usually go to Cafe Medina but it was busy so we walked over to Dirty Apron.. We got there just before the lunch rush, the eating area is limited.
I had the pulled pork baguette sandwich. Delish! It tasted like a Vietnamese sandwich--- because of the carrots and cilantro.
It was around 8.00 for the sandwich.
My girlfriend had a salad with kale, broccolini, and beets I'm not a big beets fan but I must say this salad was really good I light dressing went well with it. -
Review from Shelley B.
Vancouver, BC
8/12/2011
Oh yes, I'd ode-to-Dirty Apron any day; the only place I've seen Haloumi cheese. I had grilled Haloumi once at Jamie Kennedy's in Toronto where you sit at the bar and watch them cook. He simply panfried the whole chunk of it, and when I saw this on sale at Dirty Apron I had to try it. It seemed easy, but can be hard to imagine that kind of deliciousness being so simple!! I grabbed a basil leaf and slid it under the Haloumi and pan fried it for a minute or so in olive oil, then flipped her over for another few minutes. Amazing.
The cooking school is fantasticol, the Italian class taught me how to make pasta from scratch, a brown-butter and sage sauce over homemade gnocci, it was delicious over a wine in the side room, and there was extra to bring home.
They are like a culinary magic closet! -
Review from Christine C.
Vancouver, BC
12/15/2011
I am so heartily in love with this place. Working downtown has its benefits for great lunches, but the dirty apron outdoes them all. I love their sturdy but slightly changing menu (the herb and goat cheese grilled sandwich is to die for), their inventive soups (today tomato, fennel and dungeness crab) and their wildly comforting daily specials (venison burger, chambar beer stew, etc etc.).
I've tried almost everything on their regular menu and have yet to be even slightly disappointed! Top all this with their friendly staff, communal seating and mini store/deli and you have one of my favorite places in Vancouver. -
Review from Siri W.
9/4/2011
This place is ever so cute. I'm not much of a cook, I must confess (although I do love to bake up a storm), but I find this place and many other cooking stores kind of fascinating. I love browsing through the bizarre looking contraptions and finding out that they're really a Strawberry corer or a cheese spreader. I had a good time browsing through this place satisfying my foodie curiosity one day as they really do have a fantastic array of kitchen gadgets.
I hear that there is now a deli and cooking school here as well. I would love to try it and so I shall leave this review with a "to be continued..." tag. I have dreams of being a fabulous cook and maybe one day this place can help fulfill them! -
Review from Eva G.
11/1/2011
The smoked ham grilled sandwich with piccalilli is amazing. As for the BBQ pork , we carried it on a hike and ate it at the top of our climb, so it was dried out; otherwise, it would've been yummier fresh off the stove.
The baked goods are not as memorable, however. The pistachio brownie is rather dry. But, it's still a pistachio brownie! I say OK; I'm a slave 4 you. I guess I'd still round out a picnic basket with a few cookies, scones, and croissants.
I peeked through the window and at the cooking class in session; it looks like such fun to be able to make things from their other amazing restaurants. -
Review from Jennifer L.
Vancouver, BC
10/28/2011
I usually pride myself in my sandwich making abilities but this place definitely earns mad respect for sammich-making.
I love their baguette sandwiches. So french and cute.
I ordered the crab and shrimp baguette. It was on the creamy side but the tastes were so subtle and complementing - something about watercress, cilantro and sandwich peppers that can make any crab and shrimp avocado combination explode in your mouth!!
Not to mention the soft chewy baguette... yumm!
Can't wait to go again for lunch!
Service however could be a bit friendlier....but hey if they can deal with me.. i'm a pretty annoying customer. -
Review from Megan M.
7/25/2011
Had planned to take the boy to Hubbub today, but since they were closed on Sundays we decided to trek over here instead. I had big expectations since Chambar and Medina are two of my favorite restaurants in the city.
One of the best parts of this place is being able to walk past the huge crowd of people huddled around Cafe Medina and into a very quiet, fairly empty delicatessen. The seating is cafeteria-style, but when we were in there only a couple of other people were sitting down as well.
I tried the chicken baguette, while my boyfriend got the smoked meat baguette (both $7.99). My chicken baguette came with chipotle mayo, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and anchovies. The baguette was long and thin, making it easy to take bites and get all those delicious ingredients in one bite. I often find baguette bread too hard and "scratchy", but this one was very soft and didn't make my mouth tired chewing it. I liked that the parmesan was freshly grated instead of being pre-packaged, and the sun-dried tomatoes had a delicious hint of spice that added so much flavour. I'm in love!
They have a small deli along with some specialty cheeses, crackers, oils, sauces, and organic fruit. I had fun browsing while waiting for my sandwich to be made, however I noted the prices were much higher than other places for items that could be found at other, larger specialty stors.
Once again, this family of restaurants didn't let me down. I will definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. -
Review from Annie W.
9/4/2011
Great deli sandwiches, perfect for a fast lunch or bite on the go. Also a great place to put together a spread for a party or picnic basket (cheeses, crackers, olives, cured meats, etc...).
I also love the little pantry store where they stock hard to find spices and ingredients, good quality oils and pastas, and nifty kitchen gizmos that will please even the most fickle foodie you know.
Prices are on the expensive side for both deli items & store stock. However, some items such as truffle oil are on par with other gourmet grocers. -
Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
8/14/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Wins: really good food, fresh, lots of options.
Fast service, decent prices, a great array of household knicknacks and kitchen cooking gadgets.
Loses: Although our server was really sweet, there was an air of tension when we got there, maybe it was the start of the lunch rush, but most of the staff seemed on edge or disinterested in what they were doing.
Not many gluten free options. Naturally it's a Deli so that's to be expected, but I thought I'd mention it anyway.
They have a really large selection of sandwiches, to be grilled or just served as a baguette, they had a few salads and a number of treats throughout the place. They had a bunch of cooking items (everything from soap dispensers to martini shakers) but their pricing on the items seemed really inconsistent with other kitchen wares stores.
Our service was pretty quick, but no one really seemed to be paying attention, one person would get the sandwich but then no one would get it from the grill to our plate. Or someone would grab one piece and then someone else would correct them or put it back.
The prices seemed steep. I think maybe it's just that I'm not used to buying sandwiches, but $9 for a grilled sandwich bread sandwich with some meat in it seems steep.
It was a decent experience, and we sat inside along the window, but I'm not sure I'd add this to my top of the city list. -
Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
4/4/2011
I'm a big fan of Medina's so when Dirty Apron Deli opened, I knew that it would not disappoint. After reading some great reviews from vancouver's top food bloggers - I went with a sandwich that I was a little skeptical about but wanted to take a risk - The albacore tuna on baguette with olive tapenade - something I have grown to really enjoy. They definitely did not go light on it, and slobbered on the tuna, which just made my appetite grow bigger by the second. Little did I know that the baguette for this particular sandwich was also toasted and presented to me by Nico S. himself - what a surprise :)
S - got the pulled pork baguette - less filing, but looked flavourful and had a great amount of cilantro to finish it off. We also ordered a Spicy Chili brocoli sandwich ... and boy did it live up to its name...too hot for my tastebuds.
I liked the tuna more than the pulled pork only because there was more filling. The flavours were completely different and delicious for their own reasons. The olive tapenade was very powerful, but worked perfectly with the tuna's flavours. I love baguettes and this one was soooo soft with every bite. I can eat baguettes everyday.
The sandwiches ranged from 7:99 - 9:99, which is comparable to what is offered in the area (meat & bread, finches), but I thought the salads at $2.49 / 100g was definitely a little steep. A few strands of broccoli for $4.50 was too pricey for my wallet.
Get the sandwich to go or make a new friend at the communal table - only offered if there are no classes happening. They also sell some great organic produce if you feel like making some great meals at home. They also have a daily dinner meal offered if you're in a hurry and on the run.
I cannot wait to come back to try the next great sandwich! -
Review from Jen D.
4/12/2011
This place is located right next to Cafe Medina, our favorite place in all of Vancouver. We popped in to check it out after finishing our meal and I learned that they carry the sauces here that Cafe Medina pairs with their waffles.
White Chocolate Pistachio sauce ftw!!! I picked up a bottle and smuggled it across the border back home to SF. SHHHHHH!!!
To sum up what the Dirty Apron is:
Dirty Apron = Dean and Deluca -
Review from Kat S.
2/1/2011
This review is for the store portion of the Dirty Apron.
I was wandering past on my way to dinner on Saturday evening when I noticed the Dirty Apron was still open. Huzzah! I was early and needed someplace to kill 15 minutes so this place was perfect.
What awaited on the inside was a food lover's paradise. They had tiny shelves packed full of goodness. Specialty sauces, and items made in house. Fanciful herbs in cute jars with the Dirty Apron label. Little bottles of truffle oil tempting the money in your pocket. And, what I actually purchased, two kinds of Fee's bitters! Yeah, peach and chocolate additions to the bar, you'll fit in nicely.
The small shop didn't just have food items, either, they even had tools of the trade, ready to be brought home to use with the fantastic new ingredients you just picked up.
The deli counter had some delicious looking prepared meats and salads, though I didn't purchase any. The cooler had pre-made heat and serve sauces, too. Yum.
And the prices? Not bad, actually. I was pretty impressed. I think the Callebaut chocolate was actually cheaper than Gourmet Warehouse. -
Review from Ann F.
7/8/2011
The shrimp and crab sandwich was THE. BEST. SANDWICH. I have EVER had. Fresh, crusty, perfect french bread, with lots of cilantro and some cherry hot peppers, which were a surprising but yummy addition that I had never tried before. Incredibly simple, yet incredibly delicious and sophisticated at the same time. Like a lobster roll, but way, way, way, way, WAY better. I can't say enough good things!
Their pastries also looked delightful, and the interior design in that place is stunning, to boot.
Go there now! -
Review from Kevan G.
Burnaby, BC
2/7/2011
Aw man, this was a ton of fun, and it was incredibly delicious. It's a cooking school and fine-dining experience all in one. 'Send my compliments to the chef' is a bit of a self-congratulatory line here; you made what you're eating. The concept is superbly executed: the chef and his staff have everything timed perfectly as you watch a demo first, then move to your personal cooking station to try it yourself, then move to the dining room to eat it. It's incredibly professional and utterly unpretentious. It's easy to follow along and yet engaging and challenging. The menu items are delicious, and you end up emerging from the night with more skills in your repertoire. And also a food coma.
It's the most absolutely perfect set-up for a date: a place you can both create and consume. A break from the passive entertainment options available all around the city, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in learning, sharing, producing and inventing. Couldn't recommend this more. -
Review from Betty L.
11/6/2010 ROTD 12/20/2010
I went last week for a cooking class and I had a wonderful time. My first impression of this school was that great. I signed up for a class and had to be on the waiting list. Finally a spot opened up, I nearly lost it due to miscommunication with their office. At the end, I went to the class with a little discount.
The cooking session lasted for a few good hours. Dirty Apron uses high end equipment such as stoves from Wolfe, and nice shiny kitchen gadgets. This is not your typical cooking class from the school board.
The chef would give a demonstration and we would go back to our stations and try to replicate what he did. The recipes were easy to follow. All the ingredients were premeasured. How convenient! We didn't have to clean up after cooking. Assistants would come into the room and quickly take away the dirty dishes and cooking equipment that we just used. These assistants were quick like elves!! Just love it. The end result for each dish was pretty tasty. I could make a souffle! Yeah.
I would definitely take anothe cooking class at Dirty Apron. -
Review from Heidi H.
Vancouver, BC
3/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have gift certificates for the cooking school from a past birthday and Christmas and look forward to attending my first class soon, but this review is for their awesome deli counter. The sandwich choices are awesome (crab & shrimp, roast chicken and some other ones I can't remember, but just think pure deliciousness. I even think there was a veggie option or two). I had their chicken sandwich some weeks ago and it was memorable (I even added the delicious and salty anchovies).
This trip however, I was on the hunt for 'warm veggies' for lunch. I know, a weird thing to want, but I am recovering from the flu (was out for a week) and wanted something healthy to balance out my 'just plain noodle dinner' last night. So I dreamt up a vision of perfectly seasoned roasted vegetables. And today - this was the spot!
Roasted squash with apples with a light curry seasoning and some fried sage. Roasted beets with pine nuts and cilantro. Plus a small cup of corn chowder with a small baguette. The total came to $12, but $12 totally well spent on a delicious, warming, healthy lunch.
And I can't forget to add that the service rocked! They humoured my delight at finding these dream vegetables as the loaded up my container (brought my own). -
Review from Hipster C.
Vancouver, BC
5/10/2011
Stumbled into the Dirty Apron before Brunch at Cafe Medina - wow!! A foodie's paradise. They even had their in-house milk chocolate lavender sauce for sale. (BTW, the Waffles @Medina were delish & decadent and the "Les Boulettes" meatballs were very tasty as well! You know that if you just spent $25 on brunch with a girlfriend and you both were left impressed and willing to come again the NEXT day, you have a winning combination going!)
The Dirty Apron has a deli and a cooking school portion. I would really love to try both one day. Apparently for the cooking classes you recieve a demo, you apply the techniques yourself and then you dine as a group - what a wonderful approach to food!
Bravo Chef Nico, you have captured my heart 4ever! Chambar + Dirty Apron + Cafe Medina = Foodie Heaven. Thank-you! -
Review from Kim L.
Vancouver, BC
7/30/2010
I've been to Dirty Apron twice already, and it has not disappointed me yet.
I took my first class last year when I first arrived to Vancouver and didn't know about the popularity of Chambar or Nico Schuerman, who was my instructor. The space and kitchen are beautiful, the staff are friendly and organized, and Nico was really passionate about food. I appreciated the folder that contained his recipes (including his famous lamb shank dish) and enjoyed the dining room where students can enjoy their creations at a communal long table. Wine is also served. Even though I braved the class alone, I made some friends with the group next to me.
The second time, I took an afternoon class with my visiting sister and she was skeptical at first, but ended up enjoying the seared tuna nicoise salad we made and the whole set up of Dirty Apron. Our instructor was David Robertson and he shared a lot of great cooking tips with us.
Yes, the classes can be costly for some, but my first class was a gift (great present for a foodie, budding chef or a corporate team building event) and the second class I booked during restaurant week, so it was a lot less than usual and I also received a voucher for 10% off my next class. If you're not in a rush, just wait for special deals...my first class also came with a 50% off voucher for anything in their store (hellloooooo salad spinner!).
The reason why I can't give the fifth star is because I would have loved to have been able to bring the apron home with me as a memento. Come on--the school is called Dirty Apron!Listed in: Bueller...Bueller...
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Review from Suiki S.
Vancouver, BC
3/24/2011 8 photos
Food - 4 stars
Ambiance - 4 stars
Décor - 4 stars
Service - N/A
Value - 3 1/2 stars
I had a late lunch yesterday due to the dreadful annual visit to the dentist; therefore, by the time I arrived at The Dirty Apron Deli - it was already 2pm. The Dirty Apron is located on Beatty and West Pender St - it is known for its hands-on cooking classes in the state of the art professional kitchen lead by former Chambar Sous-Chef David Robertson. In additional to offering cooking classes, they also have a wonderful Deil and Market that retails their Dirty Apron delicatessen, gourmet produce, kitchen accessories and utensils and cook books. They also have a gorgeous seating area featuring a wooden communal table and vintage crystal chandeliers where you can enjoy your lunch, a sweet or simply a cup of 49th Parallel Americano .
Their Deli serves hot lunch special, soup, salad, sandwiches and desserts. They serve a total of a selection of 5 already made sandwiches grilled to order and5 fresh baguettes that are made in front of you when ordered from prosciutto sandwich, crab and shrimp baguette to pulled pork baguette - average price of $9. Their soup, salad and hot lunch special changes daily - from curry squash soup ($4.99), salads: beets, grilled vegetable, potato and couscous salad ($1.99/100 g) to hot lunch specials: oxtail & pasta ($8.99), curry vegetables & couscous ( $7.99) and pork ragu ($7.99). By the time I arrived at 2pm, ALL the sandwiches were SOLD OUT - so I opted for the baguettes.
For Lunch, I had
Pulled Pork Baguette ($7.99) - featuring slow roasted pulled pork, picked carrots, jalapeño and cilantro - I was a little disappointed with this particular sandwich. I was expected a Southern BBQ Pull pork sandwich but it turned out to be a Vietnamese Bahn Mi Wannabe. The baguette was soft and superb but I didn't like the Bahn Mi ingredients - I have better and more authentic Bahn Mi elsewhere.
Pistachio Cheesecake Brownies ($3.99) - TWO THUMBS UP. This creamy and moist brownie has the texture of a brownie combined with cheesecake - it is softer and less dense like traditional brownies. The best part the brownie is the pistachio nuts and cream on the crusty top - it was Heavenly!
Overall, I enjoyed my experience at The Dirty Apron Deli. I would suggest arriving early during their lunch service to get their sandwiches - my foodie friend suggested the Prosciutto Sandwich. Of course - be sure to save room for their Heavenly Pistachio Cheesecake Brownies - the BEST part of my meal. -
Review from Roger B.
Richmond, BC
11/28/2010
Great place for cooks , non- cooks and food lovers. Very well done cooking classes with everything well thought out. The instructor/Chef counter is large and easy to view due to bright lights , overhead mirrors plus the students chairs are staggered in hight. They make it very easy to follow and learn.
The menu is beyond anything I could or would try and make myself but after the class I could and would make all we learned with ease.
Very high-end in every way from Viking Range/grills to All-clad cookware.
The bonus is you get to sit at the dinning rooms long, long tables and eat what you have made (better pay attention in class) with paired wines.
The class is about four hours long and you meet some great people so it's a better value than going to Yale Town for dinner in my opinion.
The only reason I never gave it Five stars was because the Chef/Teacher David Robertson had three of his buddies show up at the end of the class. They all sat in the store front part of the school and drank wine and chatted making most feel a bit out of place. Just a little unprofessional end to a very stelar night.
Over all I would recommend the school to anyone and everyone plus great for a few couples to try together.
I hope Chef David reads this review and makes a mental note. -
Review from Heather M.
Vancouver, BC
4/27/2011
I have lived on Beatty Street for over 2 years now, and it boggles my mind that I have just step foot inside this fabulous deli. I picked up some sandwiches for a picnic last weekend and was floored with how fresh, inventive and delish they were! A large portion of the deli is sourced locally, with beautiful baked goods produced on site. I finally found a place to pick up fresh croissant on a Saturday morning!
I haven't attended the cooking school yet, but it's on my list. If you're a foodie looking for fresh ingredients, cooking supplies and utensils or perhaps a cooking class I would highly recommend a visit to Dirty Apron. The folks who work here are really friendly and helpful as well. -
Review from Tony R.
3/25/2010 2 photos
I didn't actually participate in the cooking school, but we strolled through here as we waited for breakfast at Cafe Medina. The place looked really warm, and I'm going to try to sign up for a cooking class the next time I'm in Vancouver. My review is on the in-house store.
The store that's attached to the cooking school is reasonably priced, nothing too exorbitant. I found tamarind paste and concentrated tube tomato paste both for very cheap. I can never find tamarind paste in the states at HMart, Uwajimaya, or any local asian grocery store that I've been too, but they had it in abundance so I picked up a few for some pad thai making. The tomato paste in a tube was about $5 cheaper than Fred Meyer in Lynnwood, so we grabbed a couple bottles of that too.
The knife selection was really nice, and they had a row of beautiful pasta makers. Definitely a neat little place and the salesperson was really nice, I'll go back to try the school portion next time, especially since their emblem is a pig, yum! -
Review from Sunny S.
Vancouver, BC
9/17/2009
I attended the Dirty Apron Cooking School open house this past weekend and immediately fell in love with the space. As a person who is pretty useless in the kitchen, it made me want to learn!
Brought to you by the people who brought you Chambar and Cafe Medina, the Dirty Apron Cooking School is the new place for foodies, novices and aspiring chefs to learn some tricks of the trade.
Karri and Nico Schuerman and former Chambar sous-Chef David Roberstson have created a space for ease of learning and a place for a community to come together and socialize.
You can register for hands on or demonstration classes depending on your mood. There is also a picnic style table dining area for you to taste your creations after each session.
For a limited time, all bookings for 4 hour hands-on classes taking place during the first 4 weeks of opening (August 12 until September 9, 2009) will receive a FREE $50 gift card, and 2 hour demonstration classes booked during that time will receive a FREE $30 gift card.
All this talk is already making me hungry. Book you classes today and get your apron dirty. -
Review from Jeremy C.
8/20/2011
What a brilliant idea. This is a grocery, deli, cafe and cooking school all rolled up into a cute package. I've only used the deli service, so can't speak to the others - but if I lived in the area, I'd certainly take advantage of all four. I had a couple of sandwhiches and a desserts here, and was very happy with each. A perfect place to grab a quick bite for lunch.
