Edo Japan restaurant has been busy since it opened its first location in the Cowichan Valley at Beverly Corners, on Beverly Street, last week.
Edo Japan is a Canadian founded, Japanese-inspired restaurant chain that currently has approximately 200 locations.
The restaurant’s core menu items are made-to-order using a signature teriyaki sauce and cooked on a 232 C teppan grill. The menu includes Japanese dishes such as sushi, udon soups, bento boxes and many other Japanese favourites.
Owner JB Gill has been in the restaurant business for 18 years and operated a Ricky’s All Day Grill and a Booster Juice franchise in Edmonton.
He still runs the Booster Juice location along with his business partner Sukh Chahal.
Gill said he and Edo Japan’s corporate headquarters had been looking for a suitable location to set up a franshise in the Cowichan Valley for two years when they found the place they were looking for at Beverly Corners, and he finally opened it with his wife Gusjeil and more than a dozen staff members on May 2.
“I like to provide customers with healthy foods and everything here is made fresh when ordered,” he said.
“We’ve been busy since we opened. The people here are so friendly and we’ve been welcomed with open arms.”
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The ever popular Duncan Garage & Bakery on Duncan Street has new owners.
Matthew Huotari, Brennan Morgan, and Casey Thompson have taken over the business from Susan Minette, who has run it for the past 21 years.
The restaurant and bakery’s Facebook page said the staff are deeply grateful for everything Minette has done to create such a warm, welcoming and nourishing space in the community, and her commitment to serving nutritious organic food made with love has made The Garage a beloved hub in the Cowichan Valley.
“As we embark on this new chapter, we’re thrilled to introduce the new owners,” the Facebook posting said.
“Together, we’ll continue Susan’s legacy of spreading love and joy through wholesome eats and heartfelt hospitality. While this is a big change, we are committed to preserving the beloved essence of The Garage and staying true to its roots.”
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Victoria-based Empire Donuts is opening a new location at a kiosk inside The Old Farm Market in Duncan.
Named after the Star Wars franchise, Empire Donuts said on its Facebook page that it intends to open up it’s third location at the market on May 10.
The other two stores are located in Victoria.
From its creative donuts, including the amazing Earl Grey, to its cakes and pies, Empire Donuts consistently sells out week in and week out.
“We expect the Duncan location to be no different,” the company said on Facebook.
“More details and announcements on special events to come.”
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The Downtown Duncan BIA will hold its AGM on May 13 at 7 p.m. at Duncan United Church.
The AGM will serve as a pivotal moment for accountability, engagement, and collaboration, as DDBIA members gather to review the past year’s activities, elect new board members, set priorities for the future, and celebrate the collective achievements of downtown Duncan’s dynamic business community.
At this year’s AGM, the business organization will also unveil the winners of the DDBIA Business Awards, showcasing the outstanding contributions made by downtown Duncan retailers, professional service businesses, and not-for-profit organizations.
These awards symbolize the dedication, innovation, and hard work demonstrated by DDBIA members.
The two prestigious awards up for grabs are the Excellence and Innovation Award and the Best New Business (or Organization) Award.
To be eligible for the Excellence and Innovation Award, for which there are nine nominees this year, the nominees must have actively operated within the downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area since May 1, 2022.
For the Best New Business Award, which has four nominations, eligibility requires active operation within the downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area after May 1, 2022.
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Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce members and their guests are invited to the next Mix & Mingle evening, hosted by Valley Carpet One on May 9, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
This free gathering, which will also have door prizes, is a fantastic opportunity to relax, enjoy some great food and drinks, and perhaps leave with a fabulous prize.
“Discover the latest trends in flooring and interior design within the beautifully curated space of Valley Carpet One,” the chamber said.
“Whether you dream of a home makeover or seek inspiration for your next project, this is the place to be. You can also discover local flavours by sampling some of Red Arrow’s finest craft beers and a handpicked selection of wines guaranteed to please your palate. And who can resist the classic combo of DQ burgers and ice cream? It’s comfort food at its best, sure to bring a smile to your face.”
Register online, call 250-748-1111 or email chamber@duncancc.bc.ca.
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Another free chamber Mix & Mingle will be hosted by Purely Wellness, whose staff are eager to share their holistic approach to personalized health care, on May 21.
Guests will have the opportunity to engage with expert practitioners and learn how tailored wellness services can meet their individual health needs.
The event features a selection of nutritious snacks — fresh fruits, crisp vegetables, and assorted cheeses — complemented by a variety of wholesome beverages such as herbal teas, artisanal coffees, and fresh juices.
This Mix & Mingle provides the perfect environment for exploring new health strategies, meeting like-minded wellness enthusiasts, and deepening connections within the community’s health and wellness sphere.
“Purely Wellness looks forward to supporting each guest on their journey to better health in an evening rich with insightful conversations and community spirit,” staff said.
The event begins at 5:30 p.m.
Register online, call 250-748-1111 or email chamber@duncancc.bc.ca.
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The Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre is looking for more volunteers to join its team.
If you have a passion for the Cowichan region and enjoy connecting with others, volunteering at the visitor centre is a fantastic way to make a difference.
It’s a chance to meet new people, learn more about our area, and have fun while contributing to our community’s warmth and welcoming nature.
“Please reach out to us to learn how you can become part of our volunteer family,” the CRVC said.
“Let’s continue to share the magic of Cowichan together.”
For more information, email tourismrelations@duncan cc.bc.ca.