The Man and I lived in the Pacific Northwest for almost a decade and during that time our favorite upscale restaurant was the bar and grill tucked inside The Heathman Lodge in Vancouver. While the menu isn’t extensive; it specializes in local fare prepared with the chef’s distinctive flair. My favorite on the menu is the Gorgonzola Cheesecake, one of the appetizers, and I often ordered it as an entrée with a salad.
Presented simply with roasted garlic, a small side of artichoke salad and rustic bread, the Gorgonzola Cheesecake melts on the palate and will cause swooning… usually it’s The Man who swoons… but this rich, dense yet velvety, savory cheesecake brings me close to tears – it’s that good.
I spoke with the server to learn which Gorgonzola used; turns out it was an unbranded one supplied through their food distributor but based on the menu at large, I’m certain it was a quality cheese.
I rarely could finish the slice and happily took it home for a snack later in the day.
If you venture over into Vancouver and find yourself at the Lodge, take note that Happy Hour in the lobby from 4 to 7pm is raucous and it’s impossible to get a seat if you’re not there at 4pm. Happy Hour menu offers an amazing deal on many regular appetizer menu items and drinks… which is why the place is packed.
The cheesecake is not on the Happy Hour menu but is available from lunch through dinner in the dining room. The afternoon menu, while limited, does include the cheesecake.
One tip, order an extra serving of the rustic bread with the cheesecake.
Save the Date: Join us at Blue Haven Bee Company in Canon, Ga. for a Valentine Cheese, Wine, Mead, Honey and Chocolate tasting. 5 cheeses, a baked brie bite, 5 wines and mead plus prosecco, honey, Kelly’s Jelly, local honey roasted pecans, chocolate and a goodie bag. All for $40 per person. Make you reservations by calling 706 245 6586. February 10th at 6pm. Reservations are necessary – filling up fast – don’t miss out!!! 
And if you’re interested in keeping bees, join the Lake Hartwell Beekeepers for a one day short course on beekeeping: 8 classes, lunch, raffles, goodie bag and future hive inspections. $50 per person or $75 per couple. Reservation necessary. Please call 706 476 7089 of 404 219 7200 for more information and to reserve your seat.
Finally, our Facebook Cheese Study Group will be offering Mentorships for those taking the Cheese Industry Exam this July in Pittsburgh. We’re looking for CCPs to serve as mentors to make the 2018 the most successful class ever. Please check out details here.
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