Alison Cairns has been working in writing and publishing for over a decade. A devoted Vancouverite, she loves exploring the hidden gems and new happenings — both cultural and culinary — in the city. She is also a lover of coffee, wine, craft beer and pretty much all food except sea urchin. She staves off the results of these loves by running the seawall, cycling the city and hiking the mountains.
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Centred around Main Street, Vancouver’s historic Chinatown has maintained its bustling vibe despite the rapid development of a neighbourhood known for being a bit rough around the edges. Recently, it’s become a destination for some of the city’s coolest nightspots. Hit up any of these before your next concert at one of the nearby venues.
Hop aficionado? Sour beer lover? Just thirsty? Check out this list of Vancouver's best craft breweries in East ("Yeast") Van.
Vancouver has an impressive and diverse theatre culture. From local independent troupes to large-scale musicals, internationally acclaimed productions and major festivals, patrons of the arts have a wide array of choices when it comes to live theatre. Take in a show at one of these impressive stages across the city.
There’s no shortage of stunning water views in this city, but there’s a surprising lack of dining establishments steps away from the sand. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your dinner with a dose of sun and sparkling ocean. These restaurants ensure you will.
As one of the more bustling retail and start-up commercial areas in town, Gastown boasts its fair share of daytime workers, as well as just a few tourists come summer. For a quick lunchtime break, hit up any one of these cafes for an excellent sandwich and an ultra-hip vibe.
While shopping for swimwear may not be everyone’s idea of a good time, it does signal the start of beach, lake and pool season or perhaps the upcoming tropical holiday you’ve booked to escape the winter doldrums. Make the experience as painless as possible at any one of these local boutiques where you’re sure to find the perfect fit. You’ll be made in the shade (or sun or water).[Photo credit: iStock.com/gradyreese]
There’s wide consensus among all who visit that Granville Island is one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. With the Market's incredible produce as well as a thriving artisan population, the unique location also plays host to the Vancouver Writers Festival and the International Children’s Festival. After a family day of sightseeing and entertainment, refuel at one of these nearby restaurants, all happy to feed a crowd.
As one of the more popular neighbourhoods for young families, urban hipsters and long-time locals, there’s no shortage of excellent coffee shops in Mount Pleasant to fuel the area’s caffeine addiction. From 7th south to 30th, these cafés are worth spending some time in.
It is said that Vancouverites’ love of coffee is almost as strong as the bold double espresso in their cups. We’ve honed in on one of Downtown’s oldest neighbourhoods to investigate the crop of new and established coffee shops well worth visiting. Perk up—it’s time to find your new favourite.
Vancouver coffee culture was born on Commercial Drive. Also known as Little Italy, the neighbourhood has no shortage of cafés to meet friends, read the paper, tap on your laptop and of course, sip java. From traditional to modern here are a selection spanning the strip from Venables to Broadway.
Vancouver’s love affair with coffee is legendary, as is our infatuation with foodie culture. It’s no wonder, then, that the local roasting of beans and combining art and science to pour the perfect cup have become expectations among sippers. A crop of Vancouver roasters has sprung up to meet the demand.
What could be more comforting and nostalgic than a grilled cheese sandwich? In the recent trend of upscale comfort food, there’s no shortage of this lunch staple on menus in Vancouver. It’s simply understood that, if the below don’t come with tomato soup, you will definitely order a bowl.