It’s that time again.  Everyone’s  favourite: flu season.  It can mean some much needed rest time, but at the cost of feeling completely shitty.  There are a few things I like to eat and places I like to go when I start to feel a cold coming on.  Who knows if they actually do anything; the important part is that I start to cheer up and feel comforted.  Sometimes that’s half the battle, right?

Pho or Hot and Sour Soup
I love to eat spicy food when I’m sick.  It feels like the heat burns all the germs away. I love to grab a steaming hot bowl of pho or hot and sour soup.  For pho I like to go to Kim Penh Xe Lua at 540 West Broadway (by Cambie).  The bowls of soup are a bit on the smaller side for a pho joint, but still huge by normal standards. You can also hit up any Pho Hoa for a good bowl of reliable, late night pho.

Whole Vegetarian Restaurant is a great place for a vegan friendly bowl of hot and sour soup, plus other comforting treats.  My favourite, however, is the soup at Sunlock (4298 Fraser Street).  This one’s not vegan friendly, but man is it good.

Tea by T
Who wouldn’t feel better after some of Canada’s best tea?  Snuggle up with your favourite blend and a touch of honey to instantly make your throat feel better.  I love green teas when I feel rough, so I’m drawn to the Floral Jasmine or Wild Strawberry.  The Mocha Spice is also delicious, with a rich, coffee-like flavor.  Buy your own to bring home or settle into their tearoom (1568 Broadway) with a book.

Coconut Water
Seems like an odd choice, but there’s nothing better than coconut water to hydrate you quickly.  Doesn’t your mom always tell you to drink your liquids when you have a cold?  Grab some from Whole Foods (510 West 8th).  You’ll be surprised by how well it works.

Hot Toddy or Blueberry Tea
Most people avoid drinking when sick, but I say go for it.  I never overdo it, but I find a warm, alcoholic drink brings a welcome fire to my throat.  The Hot Toddy is a classic, and includes soothing honey for your throat.  Blueberry Tea is a fruitier option with a nice holiday flavour.  You can easily re-create either at home, but it might do you some good to get out of the house for a quiet night out.

~ Meghan Roberts