Coffee addicts rejoice

A steady stream of bleary-eyed coffee lovers gave an almost a palpable sigh of relief recently as they returned to their daily pilgrimage to Lynn Valley’s new and improved Starbucks.


Back and bigger


A short walk across the street from its original location, Nancy Oldham and her team have opened the new Reserve store in Lynn Valley Centre, in the old Quiznos’ location on the exterior west wall. The larger space has been elegantly designed, with a dark charcoal accent well, warm wood and stunning wallpaper. It’s a polished upgrade from the previous store than encourages lingering.

“It is so good to be back. During the renovation I worked at several different stores,” said Oldham. “What sets Lynn Valley apart is the community – we serve the same 200 people every morning. We know the people here. That’s pretty unheard of.”

The new store features ample bar space – which highlights the difference between a Reserve and typical Starbucks store.


Roots recognized


“Lynn Valley was chosen for a Reserve store because of Starbucks long history in the area,” explained Oldham. “Lynn Valley was the fifth store outside of the United States. It’s originally lease was signed Howard Schultz [the Starbucks CEO credited with creating coffee cafe culture in North America].”

The long history and loyal customers made Lynn Valley the perfect place to add one of the new reserve stores, she said.


New brew innovations


“Reserve stores offer specialty, small lot coffees not available in the majority of Starbucks stores,” said Oldham. “The assortment of offers change over the year, with new coffees coming in four-six times a year. These coffees are offered by the half pound for sale, or for brewing on our Clover Brewing System.”

She explained the Clover Brewing System uses immersion vacuum extraction. The technique preserves all the coffee oils by eliminating the need for a paper filter.

“It makes an exceptionally flavourful, smooth cup of coffee,” said Oldham. “It is brewed to order, and guests can watch the experience as their coffee is made.”

Also along the warm wood bar are two taps – giving the entrance of the store a feeling closer to brewery than a coffee shop.  

“We offer Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew coffee on tap,” said Oldham. “Cold brew is made in-house, at cold temperatures, over 20 hours. This brew process allows the coffee to develop a naturally sweet taste with low acidity. We use a blend of African coffee, which gives a citrus flavour, and Latin American coffee, which adds the sweet chocolate notes. We pour the coffee over ice, or we infuse it with nitrogen gas, which gives an incredibly smooth mouth feel and adds even more sweetness to the cup.”

Who is your good neighbour?

It’s one of our favorite times of year here at Lynn Valley Life: The Good Neighbor Award season.  Year after year this is a highlight for all of us.


Our quiet contributors


Day-to-day we try to gather interesting and Innovative stories about Lynn Valley but one thing that is often missed are the quiet stories. The good that goes on in our neighborhood everyday – often unnoticed beyond the person or organization helped.  We have people step up in times of need, we have those that day in and day out give of their time, money and energy. We have those that invest in our schools, our community groups, our churches. We have those that are staples on our streets who step up and help neighbours and friends whenever it’s needed. From helping refugees to outstanding coaches to people who are practically community institutions.


Pillars of the community


Lizz Lindsay at Sharing Abundance.

The Good Neighbour Award has been going strong since 2012. We receive heartfelt nominations – some short, some long. Check out some previous winners and read their stories – whe have an exceptional community! Last year we had Tim Green, a tireless supporter of the Lynn Valley Services Society and Molly Nye House. Dave and Wilna Parry passionate advocates for refugees and immigrants. In 2015 we were proud to recognize Cath Bates Dimmock a volunteer with Argyle Secondary for more than 10 years! We have shared the astounding work of Lizz Lindsay and her charity Sharing Abundance that brings people together through food and programs address food insecurity and social isolation. We love hearing about who makes a difference in your life and our community.


How to nominate your good neighbour


Who might our Good Neighbour be for 2018? Please send us a note telling us why you think your nominee makes Lynn Valley a better place to be. It doesn’t have to be long and fancy – just from the heart! Please send your suggestions to [email protected] before December 31, 2018. Lynn Valley’s Good Neighbour for will receive a plaque, a restaurant gift certificate, and some well-deserved recognition!


Looking for more?


There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

Neighbourhood News – November 2018

There are still a few weeks left for some fun summer activities and adventures before it’s back to school time. July was a warm one and August started off slightly cooler and although we’re in the midst of another heat wave, some rain and reprieve should be coming this weekend. Stage 1 water restrictions are still in effect and can change quickly in August when there’s a lack of rain. Check the North Vancouver District site regularly for updates.

With summer fruit ripening in many Lynn Valley yards, be sure to keep bear awareness on your mind. Find out more in our article below. And it is sadly (or maybe happily) time to start thinking about back to school and Fall planning, we’ve got the scoop on some upcoming registration dates.

PS. Don’t forget to keep your eye on our Eye ❤️ Lynn Valley contest on Facebook for some great prizes.

Neighbourhood News – October 2018

There are still a few weeks left for some fun summer activities and adventures before it’s back to school time. July was a warm one and August started off slightly cooler and although we’re in the midst of another heat wave, some rain and reprieve should be coming this weekend. Stage 1 water restrictions are still in effect and can change quickly in August when there’s a lack of rain. Check the North Vancouver District site regularly for updates.

With summer fruit ripening in many Lynn Valley yards, be sure to keep bear awareness on your mind. Find out more in our article below. And it is sadly (or maybe happily) time to start thinking about back to school and Fall planning, we’ve got the scoop on some upcoming registration dates.

PS. Don’t forget to keep your eye on our Eye ❤️ Lynn Valley contest on Facebook for some great prizes.

Neighbourhood News – September 2018

There are still a few weeks left for some fun summer activities and adventures before it’s back to school time. July was a warm one and August started off slightly cooler and although we’re in the midst of another heat wave, some rain and reprieve should be coming this weekend. Stage 1 water restrictions are still in effect and can change quickly in August when there’s a lack of rain. Check the North Vancouver District site regularly for updates.

With summer fruit ripening in many Lynn Valley yards, be sure to keep bear awareness on your mind. Find out more in our article below. And it is sadly (or maybe happily) time to start thinking about back to school and Fall planning, we’ve got the scoop on some upcoming registration dates.

PS. Don’t forget to keep your eye on our Eye ❤️ Lynn Valley contest on Facebook for some great prizes.

Neighbourhood News – August 2018

There are still a few weeks left for some fun summer activities and adventures before it’s back to school time. July was a warm one and August started off slightly cooler and although we’re in the midst of another heat wave, some rain and reprieve should be coming this weekend. Stage 1 water restrictions are still in effect and can change quickly in August when there’s a lack of rain. Check the North Vancouver District site regularly for updates.

With summer fruit ripening in many Lynn Valley yards, be sure to keep bear awareness on your mind. Find out more in our article below. And it is sadly (or maybe happily) time to start thinking about back to school and Fall planning, we’ve got the scoop on some upcoming registration dates.

PS. Don’t forget to keep your eye on our Eye ❤️ Lynn Valley contest on Facebook for some great prizes.