Leah Blain
Contributor
G-Pops Diner and Sweet Shoppe is a fun step back in time with its 1950s style decor, memorabilia and menu.
Owner Debbie James says she has always liked the ’50s diner experience.
“I’m family oriented and I’m part Italian so food is family time,” she says.
The menu is filled with names like Wooly Bully and Rockin’ Robin burgers. They serve breakfast all day and they even have a special Elvis-styled pancake with banana, peanut butter and bacon.
“Elvis liked that in a sandwich, he was kind of famous for it but I didn’t think anyone would eat that so I did it in a pancake.”
Debbie is originally from North Delta and she spent many years working at the famous Rodeo Drive-in in Cloverdale.
“It was so cool. There was something about that era,” she says referring to the ’50s. “I knew that era would never die. It makes people happy and I like making people happy.”
She modeled G-Pops Diner and Sweet Shoppe after the Rodeo Drive-in. Besides the regular menu items there is a candy shop that has items such as salt water taffy, pixie sticks, fresh fudge (from Vernon), and flavoured popcorn which is made right there in the restaurant.
Debbie moved to Salmon Arm 18 years ago. She worked at various places such as Zellars and the Co-op gas station but her goal has always been to open her own restaurant.
“It’s been a dream of mine since I was a teenager,” says Debbie as she points to a large picture of James Dean on the wall.
“It cost me my first paycheck and I thought, ‘I’ll hang that in my diner one day.’”
G-Pops Diner and Sweet Shoppe is open from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily. In May they will be open 24/7. Besides the items on the menu, Debbie does custom ordered cakes and cupcakes for birthdays, weddings or any occasion. She likes to have a week’s notice for special orders. To contact Debbie, visit the G-Pops Facebook page or call 250-833-5730.
They are located at 2401 Trans Canada Hwy, right beside the Travelodge.
Downtown AGM at Meikle Studios
The Salmon Arm Downtown 2018 AGM takes place on April 18 starting at 5 p.m. at Meikle Studios Social Art House. Before the meeting begins there will be a 30-minute meet and greet with wine, beer and appies. Business topics will include the president’s report, financial report and elections for the board of directors.
Hygge Wellness & Spa unique spa
“There have been so many articles written about how Danish people are the happiest humans on earth. There is a reason behind it which is taking social podiums by storm,” says Skye Anderson.
A newcomer to the area, Skye has just opened Hygge Wellness & Spa. She explains it is “the art of building sanctuary and community, of inviting closeness and paying attention to what makes us feel open and alive.”
Hygge (pronounced “hue-gah) is all about creating well-being, connection with oneself and warmth, belonging to the moment and celebrating your body everyday.
“But what is hard to understand about hygge is that it varies from each individual, and can be hard to explain. Whether its a walk in the woods, snuggled up in a warm blanket or drinking a cup of tea with your favorite book, what it comes down to is a feeling,” says Skye. “Coziness is what I strive to provide you with while incorporating relaxation massage. The space is designed for you to find comfort, relaxation and a warm place to feel connected to yourself while getting pampered.”
Hygge Wellness and Spa is located at 201-310 Hudson Ave. NE.
To find out more, or to book an appointment, email hyggewellnessandspa@gmail.com, or visit Hygge Wellness & Spa on Facebook or call 250-803-1535.