One of the West Coast city's drag veterans, Mina Mercury, is as captivating in casual conversation as she is on stage. In the drag scene for well over a decade, Mercury is well known for her attention to detail and uncanny impersonation of different artists such as Madonna and Freddie Mercury, just to name a couple.
Mina demonstrates her belief in giving back to her community by taking part in many fundraisers in and around the community. More recently, Mina has begun hosting a drag bingo event at Chicha Restaurant. The event serves as a partial weekly fundraiser and has raised a substantial amount of funds (and continues to do so) for The Foundation of Hope.
Not one to rest on her laurels, the talented queen is currently finishing up on her first album with the help of producer Tony Reynolds. The singles "In My Room" and "Jet Boy Jet Girl" can currently be purchased and streamed via iTunes and all streaming sites.
You can currently catch Mina performing in Vancouver in her own show, Soda Pop, every first and third Sunday of the month at 1181 Lounge, as well as hosting Mina and Her Chica Drag Bingo every Thursday night at Chicha Restaurant.
Breakfast
Aphrodite's, located outside of the West End, is a fun little getaway spot with the most delicious organic food and veggie options. They are famous for their pies, but my favourite thing to order here is the Goddess Bowl for breakfast!
Lunch
Railtown Cafe has a cool and fun atmosphere, but the best part of this place is the chicken club sandwich! I am obsessed with club sandwiches and this one is the best I have ever had in Vancouver! It's made with great quality and freshly cooked chicken too. Everything about this sandwich is the best! I want one right now!
Dinner
My new favourite spot lately is Chicha! Recently, I was approached to host bingo weekly at this spot on East Broadway! I never leave the West End unless I have to or if I head over to Aphrodite's, but I was invited to come to the restaurant for an initial meeting and the kitchen created the most amazing spread for us to try. I absolutely fell in love with the Peruvian cuisine here! The empanadas are a favourite, along with the doughnuts for dessert. And you can't forget to have the delicious Mina Margarita.
Drinks
I was really trying to think of one amazing spot that I enjoy a fun drink from time to time, but it's absolutely a tie for me between 1181 Lounge and Mary's Diner. These two spots not only hold a great place in my heart, but they are also two of the biggest staples in our community.
1181 Lounge is a fun, cozy and intimate space that has some of the most amazing staff. They have this incredible cocktail that was created for the summertime and can be enjoyed while taking in Soda Pop Sundays on the first and third Sunday of the month--hosted by me *wink*.
The Tea is an Earl Grey infused vodka served with a sparkling ice tea! It is so yummy and sweet... much like the host of the show!
Mary's Diner has the most incredible staff as well. Friendly, funny and fun! They are still serving up their most iconic boozy shakes after all these years and they are wonderful! My favourite one is the Crispy Crunch. Let me tell you, girl, you haven't lived until you have had a Mary's boozy shake in this classic 1950s inspired diner!
