WEST VAN BOUTIQUE OFFERS MIDDLE EAST FASHION, FOOD
Hungry for a taste of fine Middle Eastern foods and fashions but can’t afford to jet off to an exotic locale? You’re in luck. Ali Shahpour, owner of Saffron Palace, recently spoke with Aleesha Harris about his new boutique, what made this the right time t
Q For those who aren’t familiar, what is Saffron Palace?
A Saffron Place is a go-to destination for the finest premium culinary and arts from the Middle East, the cradle of modern civilization. The store is based on a store that Ali Shahpour, the founder, had been successfully operating for 15 years inside a five-star hotel in Dubai.
Q What can people expect to find in the store?
A Saffron Palace has the vision to deliver access to the selection of fine premium food items such as saffron (known as red gold), dates, caviar, nuts, local sweets and baklava, along with enamel, handmade jewelry, all under one roof. Many of the products are imported to Canada for the first time and some are not available anywhere else in North America.
Q What made this the right time to open?
A There is a growing population of migrants from the Middle East who seek local suppliers of quality, high-end products that they are familiar with from their home country. Also, growing awareness in other mainstream and ethnic communities of Middle Eastern culture and cuisine is attractive to those seeking elegant and refined products from the Middle East.
Q And why in West Vancouver, specifically?
A West Vancouver is convenient to residents throughout Metro Vancouver and also being particularly close to a large affluent population in West Vancouver. The location facing Ambleside Beach is particularly attractive to the target demographic who like to shop in areas where they are also attracted to for relaxation and recreation.
Q What makes it different from other shops?
A Saffron Palace, as expressed by the rich interior decor, is positioned as a boutique offering prestigious high-end culinary and fashion accessories that represent the finest selection of cuisine and art that represents Middle Eastern culture and cuisine. Most of our products come from Iran and Dubai, and we will soon be adding Turkish products to bring a wider regional selection of Middle Eastern delicacies.