yogi

Correct. The second earls location in Arizona has closed, and is no more. Again, a challenging location seems to have been one of the reasons for the demise.

Great topic. Lots of interesting tidbits of culinary wisdom. Looking forward to keeping up with all of them and hopefully adding a few of my own.

Well, I must get back there if for nothing else than to try the shrimp lollipops. Not only have you mentioned them a few times, but that is one dish, along with the Octopus salad, that comes up every time someone mentions the restaurant. I will try to make it in over the next few weeks, as I am hoping to get down to the Heritage festival this upcoming weekend.

I will go back and give it a try as well. No doubt, they will do well, and the "buzz" is still postive about the location. Actually ate at Golden Bird recently, and I must admit that they do a fantastic job and it was probably the best Asian meal I have had since I left Vancouver 6 years ago. Honest, authentic and reasonable.

Sounds like you spent some time working there from your reply. No doubt, the US was a poorly executed idea. I do think that Joey's has really distanced itself from what earls was, and what they are. Step into any Joey's now, and it is hard to believe that they were once the same company. It will be interesting to see what OPM brings to the Edmonton market, and no doubt the West Edmonton mall location for Earls will be intriguing. I have seen the sign advertising it's arrival. Anyone know when it is supposed to open?

I don't believe that the two sites, OPM & Publik are related with the food or wine programs, and the food at Publik is definately a work in progress, as mentioned earlier. Tried a few dishes thier last night, nothing really WOW, but we were told that the menu is under revision. Should be interesting to see where it ends up. Seems very disjointed now; night-club feel, pub-type food, mixed crowd.

I also visited Wild Tangerine recently. The octopus salad was great, and all who were with me thought it was a super item...refreshing and interesting. The Wok Stickers (?correct name?) were a little disappointing. Interesting drink menu, and challenging location. Will go back to investigate menu further, and wish them well.