hi phil,I'm an aussie living in vancouver and I'd have to say you're right about the cafe. It is a particularly good one. As for the world's best city... wow that's a big call, but I think Vancouver would be in the top 5 at least. Make sure you go to Rasputin restaurant if you can. It is absolutely fantastic. Or if you prefer greek, stephos on Robson is amazing. Best roast lamb I've ever had in my life. BTW - you mentioned you cooked a roast lamb. Where did you buy it? I find it really hard to get a good roast lamb here.

Oh right! Caffe Artigiano! How could I have forgotten about that one? I love their latte art! Very neat. I have a friend who said this guy that works at one of the locations looks a lot like Colin Farrell [hint: main actor from upcoming Alexander the Great movie]. As for the dinner [you guys call it tea? i'm confused]... it sure look like you cooked up a pretty yummy meal! And with the scenery downtown/seawall/False Creek area... it "is" pretty nice. And I can definitely imagine how lovely it is to look at the snow coating the mountain tops! Oh how I wish the skiing season is open now!

Although Artigiano are fantastic ,their staff are well trained and they serve latte art as standard (in fact co-owner Sammy Piccolo was a runner up in last years World Barista Championship). If you are that close head down to Seattle to get the real coffee. Possibly the best coffee in the world is to be found in David Schomers cafe, Espresso Vivace. David is a world authority on espresso who has published books and dvd's on professional espresso preparation. Also Caffe Vita, Victrola and Hines would be the other required espresso stops. Victrola does an amazing job profiling single origin beans and their roaster out the back makes it well worth the visit.

Corey

Having traipsed the streets of Vancouver on several occasions (one could think of worse things to be doing) and willingly by-passing the omnipresent Starbucks and their distant cousins (Read: Imitators) I commend Phil on his discovery and selection of Artigiano...4.5 Cups!

Oops - forgot to add Cafe Crepe on Robson St - a pleasant surprise. Having said that, can't wait to take Corey's tip on Espresso Vivace (might as well try his other tips as well when I am there next) - will let you know when I have.