HAVE A SEAT. Story Caitlin Goff.
As the summer sun begins its gradual descent over the cobblestone streets of Gastown, a palpable sense of anticipation fills the air. With the recent announcement of car-free zones along Water Street, the heart of this iconic Vancouver neighborhood is primed to undergo a captivating metamorphosis, ushering in the much-anticipated patio season.
Gastown, renowned for its historic charm and vibrant energy, is poised to become an outdoor haven, enticing both locals and tourists to revel in the al fresco dining experiences. Restaurants throughout the area are seizing the opportunity to expand their seating options onto the streets, with plans to adorn the thoroughfare with over 1,000 outdoor seats.
From quaint pocket patios nestled along the curbside, like at
QU’EST-CE QUE C’EST? Story by Caitlin Goff.
“I love food. And I love wine as much as I love food,” says Kovic Prévost, Owner/Chef of the coveted wine bar Is That French. Nestled within the historic confines of Blood Alley in Downtown Vancouver’s Gastown, Is That French has swiftly emerged as a favored spot for both locals and tourists seeking an inventive twist on Pacific Northwest cuisine.
Prévost’s dynamic menu presents a medley of dishes crafted from locally sourced, seasonal produce procured from nearby farms and markets. From their meticulously shucked coast-to-coast selection of oysters to a bounty of sustainable seafood at the raw bar, there’s a culinary delight to suit every palate.
But it’s not just about the food—Is That French beckons patrons to linger with its extensive wine list, featuring a curated array of minimal-intervention BC wines. Each bottle is handpicked and thoughtfully paired with tapas-style offerings and a narrative that transcends mere tasting notes, often delving into the stories behind the winemakers and their community contributions.
At its core, Is That French is a hub for community engagement, fostering connections over fine wine, delectable
Bar Tartare, to expansive terraces illuminated by twinkling lights, like at Local, Gastown lays claim to the densest patio district in the city. The allure of dining under the open sky proves irresistible, drawing crowds eager to immerse themselves in the dynamic ambiance of this bustling neighborhood.
Live music drifts from select patios, infusing the streets with a melodic backdrop to evening festivities. Every Thursday night, the air resonates with the sound of local musicians, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the already vibrant scene.
For those seeking a moment of respite amidst the hustle and bustle, plazas dotted along Water Street offer secluded corners of relaxation. Here, amidst historic architecture and cozy seating, patrons can unwind and soak in the lively energy of Gastown. Check out charming spots such as Six Acres, Pourhouse, or the Water Street Café.
fare, and the occasional musical interlude. Every Thursday, the ambience is elevated with live jazz performances, while l’apero (happy hour) on Friday and Saturday invites early revelers to indulge in a pre-dinner repast accompanied by a glass or two of wine.
Prévost aims to create an authentic, approachable atmosphere. He says, “The idea was always to have anyone and everyone be able to come through the door and enjoy the evening.” The restaurant offers dishes ranging from $5 to $30, ensuring accessibility for all patrons.
Community and sustainability are also paramount. Prévost prioritizes local suppliers, seeking to connect with their stories and support their efforts to improve the planet. “I want to support people that are trying to leave the planet a bit better than when they found it,” he asserts.
Is That French defies categorization, embracing its versatility as a wine bar, oyster bar, and purveyor of French-inspired cuisine. This blend of fine dining and laid-back ambiance promises to redefine Vancouver’s culinary landscape, leaving a lasting impression on the city’s gastronomic scene. For more elevated French-inspired dining and vin selections around Gastown, check out L’Abattoir, Petrichor, and Bar Tartare.
In the heart of Vancouver’s historic Gastown district lies a hidden gem cherished by locals and visitors alike: The Block. Established in 1999, this independent boutique has carved out a niche for itself, specializing in unique and classic clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories for both women and men.
Owner Jennifer MacKay is not only passionate about fashion but also deeply enamored with Gastown itself. “I love Gastown,” she enthuses, her affection for the neighborhood evident in her voice. “We have so many customers that have lived and worked in the neighbourhood for years. We have a very supportive community; we would not be in business without our neighbours.”
Indeed, Gastown’s vibrant tapestry of local businesses and rich history serves as the backdrop for The Block’s success. MacKay marvels at the neighbourhood’s charm, remarking, “There are so many local businesses, it is a very eclectic part of town with so much history.”
Despite its small size, Gastown offers an abundance of culinary delights and hidden treasures. MacKay’s favorite haunt? “Di Beppe is great,” she shares. “Perfect place morning, noon, or night. From coffee to cocktails, they have it all. Great food too. We send lots of customers there because there is something for everyone.”
And nestled just a few doors down from The Block lies
Be sure to check out Is That French or Gringo in Blood Alley for an unforgettable Gastown dining experience.
As the evenings progress and the stars emerge overhead, Gastown remains ablaze with activity. Conversations flow freely, laughter resonates through the streets, and the spirit of summer envelopes every corner of the neighborhood. For residents and visitors alike, patio season in Gastown transcends tradition—it embodies a celebration of community, culture, and the simple joys of life. As night falls and the cityscape is bathed in the glow of twinkling city lights, the magic of this outdoor oasis lingers, etching itself into the hearts of all who wander its delightful paths.
another hidden gem: Bear with Me, a curated kids’ clothing store brimming with brands from Korea. “It is a lovely, curated kids clothing store,” MacKay reveals, adding to the mosaic of unique offerings that define Gastown’s allure.
But perhaps what sets Gastown apart is its proximity to everything Vancouver has to offer. “Gastown is so close to everything,” Jennifer emphasizes. “Downtown, Chinatown, even North Vancouver is just a sea bus ride away.” This accessibility makes Gastown not just a destination but a gateway to the city’s myriad attractions.
As The Block continues to thrive in its cozy corner of Gastown, it stands as a testament to MacKay’s unwavering dedication to both fashion and community. And for those who wander through its doors, they’ll discover not just clothing and accessories, but a slice of Gastown’s rich tapestry woven into every thread.
When asked what her favourite pieces in-store are (currently), she had a few to name. “Everything by Berlin brand Anntian,” she says, “Especially this season’s Horse Tank and the Hand Embroidered T-Shirt. Their clothes are so thoughtfully done, they are pieces of art.” Another favourite: B SIDES Denim, specifically B SIDES Denim Relaxed Cuffed Lasso in Vista Blue. “B SIDES makes my favourite denim, hands down,” she says. “It is the only denim brand The Block carries now.” Be sure to check out The Block for all your summer fashion escapades.
FROM ANOTHER. Story by Christine Jairamsingh. STREETWEAR DESTINATION.
Follow the curved cobblestone path down Carrall Street and you’ll encounter From Another, one of Gastown’s newest streetwear destinations. The storefront opened just last year and has quickly registered as a prime location for curated sneakers, streetwear apparel, and as a gathering spot for the community. Streetwear can be elusive to those who aren’t familiar with it, but owner Keaton Chalifoux believes, “From Another is for everyone. We have customers from 10-years-old to 60.” The boutique carries used, vintage, and new pieces, placing the focus on individuality and sustainability. “There’s so much nostalgia tied around the vintage pieces… anyone who comes in could find something they love,” Chalifoux says.
Sneakers have always been at the heart of streetwear culture and over the years, its popularity has permeated the mainstream. From Another’s shelves are stocked with styles ranging in appearance, visually displaying this dynamic evolution. A pair of classic red, black, and white Air Jordans (as in Michael Jordan, the iconic basketball player) sits next to modern earth tone Adidas with a subtle camouflage pattern. The contrast is intriguing and further proves From Another is a place where anyone can find and shape their
The lasting allure of streetwear and sneakers is fascinating, and can hold different meaning depending on a person’s entry point into the culture. Skateboarding and music scenes, such as punk and hip hop, have long been associated with the rise of streetwear, but ultimately it has expanded to be open to interpretation and inclusive of a wide range of looks. “For me, growing up and skating in the 2000s, sneakers and streetwear were synonymous with that culture. Some people find it through music or through sports, but I think at its core, streetwear is an expression of yourself through clothing,” Chalifoux explains.
Gastown has secured itself as a home for this type of expression with several streetwear retailers thriving alongside the communities that they support. When faced with choosing a location, From Another’s founder knew he had to add his shop to the list: “…when we found the location it was a no-brainer. With lots of mainstay streetwear and sneaker stores already existing in the neighbourhood, we knew we would be a good fit.”
In addition to From Another, browse curated sneakers and apparel in Gastown’s bustling streetwear community by visiting Stussy, CNTRBND, NFS, Heat Vault, Studio By The Headquarter, and Menu Skate Shop.
CULTURAL SHIFT. Story Caitlin Goff.
Amidst the urban pulse of Vancouver, Felix Cartal has orchestrated a symphony of sonic innovation, turning the city’s soundscape on its head. With his visionary prowess as a music producer and DJ, Cartal has pioneered a cultural renaissance with his avant-garde approach to sharing music.
Known for his catchy electronic-house beats and dynamic performances, Cartal has taken his talents to the streets hosting a series of pop-up DJ sets in unconventional locations. From the sandy shores of the beach to the close confines of the SkyTrain, and even to a clandestine spot nestled within the cobblestone streets of Gastown, Cartal has brought the party to unexpected corners of the city.
“I’m grateful for the longevity of my career in DJ’ing, but I wanted to shake things up,” he says, “…the pop-ups have turned into something truly special. The randomness is something I look forward to, as much as the people who attend.”
With each spontaneous set, Cartal showcases his transcendent musical aptitude, captivating crowds with near-magical virtuosity. Like a modern maestro, he creates
moments of pure euphoria—a spontaneous way for people to escape and be a part of a moment—lost in sound and frozen in time.
In many ways, the pop-ups are a way for Cartal to give back to his fans and the city he proudly calls home. The musician has a deep appreciation for Gastown and its vibrancy—from grabbing a coffee at his favourite coffee spot in town, Timbertrain, or grabbing a donut at Lee’s, their newly opened location on Water Street, Cartal makes an intentional point of keeping it local.
Cartal’s pop-up parties have fostered a sense of community and camaraderie. With a deft touch, Cartal metamorphoses mundane public spaces into pulsating dance realms, creating opportunities for strangers to come together, united by their love for music. His music, much like his character, is praiseworthy.
FELIX CARTAL is playing in Vancouver July 28, for Rose Disco at the PNE.
On a northern stretch of West Cordova Street sits Durant Sessions—a luxury eyewear boutique specializing in finely curated brands and designs. A staple in historic Gastown, the storefront launched in 2015 and can be found in four additional locations in North America, including Los Angeles’ trendy Melrose Ave. Durant Sessions has established itself as a novel destination for high-end eyewear globally: “[We sell] eyewear and sunglasses that nobody has in the world,” notes founder and designer Eric Dickstein.
Dickstein is well-known in the industry, having previously worked for renowned eyewear brand Oliver Peoples. Inspired to pursue a new venture, he envisioned a space that unites art and science, while providing “people that care about quality and nuance” a reliable experience. With its sophisticated interior, the Gastown location accomplishes this by offering elevated optical design and appointments with leading optometrists.
Durant Sessions houses a refined selection of brands like Jacques Marie Mage, Persol, and Eyevan, along with Dickstein’s own label Dutil Eyewear—a name shared with his denim boutique, Dutil, located a few doors down. Made in Japan, Dutil Eyewear is an extensive range of optical and sunglass frames intended to accentuate rather than overpower. “Our client wears Dutil, the brand doesn’t wear them,” Dickstein says. One client being Meryl Streep, who was spotted wearing a pair of Dutil Eyewear frames at this year’s Grammy Awards. Opening two stores in Gastown (the second being neighbour, Dutil Denim) is a testament to its appeal: “The DNA of Gastown heritage architecture interconnected with [its] creatives,” is what secured Dickstein’s decision to choose the neighbourhood. It’s a foundation where luxury and fashion can thrive.
a wide range of
45 Water St. Bon Parfumeur creates captivating fragrances blending sensory pleasure and tradition. This daring scent features frankincense, leather, and tonka. Made in France, cruelty-free.
THE HEADQUARTER. 332 Water St.
Customize your own shoes in our Do-It-Yourself class with different paint and fabrics. Perfect for the next date or birthday.
COMMUNITY ACTIVATIONS
EVERY THURS. (JUNE - SEPT.)
Gastown Thursday Nights Live Music Series, 4:30pm-7:30pm
JUNE 28 - SEPT. 2 Water St Pedestrian Zone Pilot
JULY 2 - 6 & AUG. 2 - 8 Aeriosa Dance Society @ 21 Water St
WED. JULY 10
Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix, 5:30pm-9pm
AUGUST - OCTOBER
Gastown x Van Mural Festival x Spark Indigenous AR Gallery @ Le Magasin Alley
THURS. AUG. 1
Pre-Pride Party @ Maple Tree Square, 4:30pm-7:30pm
AUG. 8 - 11 Van Mural Fest
THURS. AUG. 15
Meet Me In Gastown, Lee’s Donuts 45th Anniversary Party, 4pm-8pm
SUN. SEPT. 22 East Side 10K
MONDAY
TUESDAY Guilt & Co Live Music
Lamplighter Pub Trivia 2nd Floor Gastown Live Music
WEDNESDAY The Blarney Stone Trivia Guilt & Co Live Music The Lamplighter Bingo
Mountain Gallery Live Comedy/Improv
Portside Karaoke
Smith’s Paint Nite
2nd Floor Gastown Live Music
THURSDAY The Cambie Karaoke, Live Music Outside
Guilt & Co GroundUp Live Music Is That French Live Jazz Music Little Mountain Gallery Live Comedy/Improv
2nd Floor Gastown Live Music
Smith’s Live Music
FRIDAY The Blarney Stone Live Music The Cambie Live Music
Gastronomy Gastown Live Comedy
Guilt & Co Live Music
Little Mountain Gallery Live Comedy/Improv
Smith’s Live Music
2nd Floor Gastown Live Music
SATURDAY The Blarney Stone Live Music
The Cambie Live Music
Guilt & Co Live Music
Little Mountain Gallery Live Comedy/Improv
Smith’s Live Music
2nd Floor Gastown Live Music
SUNDAY Guilt & Co Live Music
Is That French Live Jazz Music
Pourhouse Live Music
Six Acres Sunday Social x Chess Gallery
Smith’s Live Music
2nd Floor Gastown Jazz Brunch
Visit gastown.org to find the most up-to-date event details or follow us on social. mygastown gastown mygastown
FASHION STORY. Models. JESSI with RICHARDS MODELS and MCKINNON WALSH with FAMILY MANAGEMENT. Makeup & Hair. LUCYANNE BOTHAM @lucyannebothammakeup.
Production Assistant. ANASTASIA MILOVANOVICH. Styling CLAUDIA SCHULZ @cs.xandra. Photographer. TREVOR BRADY @trevorbrady1. Creative. CREAME @creame.ca
On behalf of the Gastown BIA, we are beyond thrilled to be launching the second issue of Gastown Magazine; a lifestyle and culture magazine focussed obsessively on the city’s original neighbourhood – Gastown.
Summer 2024 meets us with a sense of exhilaration; the anticipation hanging over us like a live wire. Cue the outdoor haven lined with alluring patios and plazas and a schedule chockfull of arts and cultural experiences, reinforcing Gastown’s reputation as the creative centre of Vancouver. We will see the return of longstanding events, such as the Gastown Grand Prix bike race on July 10, and emerging festivals, such as Meet Me In Gastown on August 15, take over Water St. New-to-theneighbourhood artists from Aeriosa will suspend themselves to the sides of our historical buildings, transforming the brick facades into their vertical dancefloor in July and August. Accessibility to the arts will continue to be at the forefront as Spark Indigenous
artists transform Le Magasin Alley into an immersive outdoor AR gallery in early August. There is a renewed energy in the neighbourhood that cannot be ignored – and we are looking forward to meeting you on the cobblestone streets for an unforgettable season.
While Gastown will be undergoing some changes this July and August, this is a gentle reminder of the generations of businesses that have prudently affixed their own layer of life into the neighbourhood and continue to stand tall throughout it all. This is the time to explore the over 85 retail shops (from fashion and furniture to vintage and handmade), 70 hospitality spots (from live music venues and speakeasy-style pubs to sophisticated coffee houses), 6 art galleries (from local visual art and writing to world-renowned contemporary and traditional exhibits), 70 design studios (from architecture and interior designers to multimedia and creative agencies), and 50 wellness boutiques (from salons and barbershops to tattoo and fitness studios). Many of which are highlighted in the 12 pages that lay before you.
A special thanks to the businesses who offered up their spaces, objects and voices, along with the very talented, and neighbourhood locals, Claudia Schulz, Style Director, and Trevor Brady, Creative Director. We cannot express enough gratitude for all of the support received as we continue to embark on this inspiring endeavour.
This is only the beginning.
Yours Truly,
The Gastown BIA CONTRIBUTORS
Style Director Claudia Schulz
Creative Director Trevor Brady
Editor Elise Yurkowski
Executive Director Walley Wargolet
Publisher Gastown BIA/Gastown Business Improvement Society (GBIS) - programs@gastown.org
Mckinnon: Vintage letterman jacket from KAMUY VINTAGE. ECKHAUS LATTA crochet shirt and COMME DES GARÇONS shorts from RODEN GRAY. MOMA boots from GRAVITY POPE. SOUTH LOW chair / MAGIS from INFORM INTERIORS. Photographed on WATER ST, GASTOWN