GASTOWN MAGAZINE
FEATURED
BREEZE BAR.
HOT DOGS, CAVIAR, AND DISCO UNTIL MIDNIGHT. Story Caitlin Goff.
Breeze Bar isn’t trying to be something it’s not. That’s exactly why it works. Tucked into one of Gastown’s oldest buildings, which doubles as the legendary brunch spot Twisted Fork during the day, the wine bar trades fine-dining formality for what co-founder Ryan Tanner calls “accessible indulgence”: wagyu hot dogs topped with Kaluga caviar, candlelit tables, and a wine list that has rotated through nearly 170 bottles since November.
“The idea is high-low, trashy-classy,” Tanner says. The menu is unapologetically fun. These are snacks, not small plates. One of his favourites? A wagyu hot dog with Cheese Whiz and caviar, chased with Gran Reserva Cava. It’s ridiculous, and kind of perfect.
Tanner arranges the flowers himself each week—a quiet ritual that brings colour to the exposed-brick room. When the sun drops, the candles come out. The music leans disco. “It’s a weird mix of vibes,” he says. “But it works.”
And it does. Breeze Bar feels looser than a reservation, sharper than a dive. Some swing through for a snack, others settle in and ride out the night. It’s built for momentum: lighting that shifts with the hour, wine that keeps moving, a room just structured enough to hold it all together.
Gastown, Tanner says, has the richest culinary history in the city. He rattles off favourites from the past—Boneta, Judas Goat, Notturno, Salt—and says he opened Breeze Bar to be part of that story. “It’s the perfect mix of grit and polish,” he says. “People are doing interesting things here again.”
And maybe that’s the point. Breeze Bar doesn’t overthink it. It just adds to the neighbourhood in a way that feels fresh, without forgetting where it is.
GUILT & CO.
THE ROOM MAKES THE MOMENT.
Story Caitlin Goff.
The past two decades have seen Gastown’s nightlife shapeshift with the times. Warehouse parties, velvet-rope clubs, or concept bars that didn’t quite land. But through it all, the neighbourhood has always had a core: live music, intimate rooms, and a crowd committed to showing up for the real thing.
That centre still holds. On any given night, you might catch a jazz trio at Pourhouse or 2nd Floor Gastown, a comedy open mic at Little Mountain Gallery, or a syncopated funk set at Guilt & Co.
“Music is in the air,” says Jordan Stewart, programming lead at Guilt & Co., a venue that’s kept its room full and its energy consistent for over 15 years. “We’ve earned the trust of our guests. They know they’ll see something good, whether they’ve
heard of the artist or not.”
With over 700 shows a year, Guilt& Co.’s calendar doesn’t sleep. “Same intentionally intimate venue, but a spontaneously different experience every hour of every night of every week,” Stewart says. This summer, that momentum moves outside with a new stage beside their 40-seat patio—part of a broader wave of live programming lighting up Gastown’s streets, which includes Gastown Thursday Nights and the new Gastown Sunday Set series.
As Stewart sees it, what people want from a night out has changed. “We’re living in an increasingly antisocial society,” he says. “But we crave connection.” And he’s right. Whether it’s a clever joke that hits across the room, lyrics that quietly wreck you, or a bassline that demands to be felt, these moments just hit different when you’re not the only one feeling them.
Gastown gets that. And its response to this shift lives in underground or second-floor jazz sets, mid-day pop-ups, and in rooms like Guilt & Co., where presence still matters.
SLEEP TALK TATTOO.
TATTOO RENAISSANCE RISING.
Story by Billie Norman.
There’s a quiet revolution unfolding in Gastown—inked with purpose and powered by a new generation of artists reshaping tattoo culture from the inside out. At the heart of it is Sleep Talk Tattoo, a collective run by female, non-binary, queer, and BIPOC artists. The studio feels less like a storefront and more like an open sketchbook. “Ten years ago, tattoo studios felt aggressive—hyper-masculine, rigid, intimidating,” says artist Justine Crawford. “Now? We’re creating spaces that feel safe, warm, and creatively alive.”
Sunlight pours in. Tea brews in the back. Sketches, embroidery, and upcycled art fill the corners. At Sleep Talk, tattoos are just one piece of a much broader creative practice. “We’re redefining what a tattoo studio can be,” says Crawford. “This space doubles as a community hangout, an event hub, even a spot for sewing workshops. It’s our third space.”
Gastown’s creative DNA—its heritage brick, design roots, and walkable charm—make it the perfect backdrop. “Creativity begets creativity,” she says. “Being surrounded by artists, fashion, and design-forward businesses is fuel.”
Sleep Talk is part of a growing tattoo renaissance alongside studios like Growing Pains, Pacific Rose, and Patchwork Art Studio. Here, tattooing isn’t just about permanence—it’s about possibility. And in Gastown, that possibility is thriving.
213 Carrall St.
Photo. Albert Law. www.albertlaw.ca 1 Alexander St.
88 Powell St.
FEATURED
GRAVITYPOPE. STEPS AHEAD.
Story by Caitlin Goff.
Gastown has long attracted Vancouver’s most discerning retailers—those driven by longevity, not fleeting trends. Gravitypope is no exception. Tucked into a carefully restored space on Water Street, the boutique feels both storied and modern, quietly anchoring style in something that lasts.
“Gastown has always felt like the right fit for us,” says founder and CEO Louise Dirks. “It’s a neighbourhood defined by individuality and craft. That aligns with everything we do.” Though gravitypope first arrived in Kitsilano in 2004, the Gastown location opened in 2020 and gave the team a chance to express their point of view through space. “There’s a depth here,” Dirks adds. “It’s layered, architectural, and thoughtful. Like the best design.”
The shop itself is a study in detail. Ceramic chandeliers by Natalie Page cluster overhead. A large-scale aerial by Dutch artist Katrin Korfmann captures the precise geometry of an 11th-century Moroccan tannery. A commissioned mural by local artist Rubeena Ratcliffe adds a burst of colour. The shelves stretch like sentences, guiding you through the collection with quiet intent. What surrounds the product reflects the same care that goes into choosing it.
That mindset is rooted in something personal. “Growing up in a large family, we didn’t buy things often, so we learned to choose carefully and take care of what we had,” Dirks says. “That’s still the way I buy.” That philosophy carries through the collection: Italian-made Mary Janes from gravitypope’s in-house line, refined loafers by Sesa, and Dirks’ own musthave—the New Balance 990s. “They’re my everyday go-to. I’m honestly too embarrassed to say how many pairs I own.”
In a city where retail can feel transient, gravitypope has never wavered from its point of view. “We’ve never chased trends,” says Dirks. “We focus on quality, integrity, and timeless aesthetic.” Online may be convenient, but it’s the in-person experience that draws people in. The light. The materials. The knowledge on the floor. The feeling of discovering something you’ll wear forever.
And gravitypope isn’t alone when it comes to retailers with a distinct lens on enduring style. Rowan Sky, John Fluevog, Neighbour, and The Block—all rooted in Gastown—each bring their own edit of what timeless looks like. Together, they’ve cemented the neighbourhood as one of Vancouver’s most influential style districts.
LOVENOTE.
BRIDAL LOOKS DIFFERENT HERE.
Story Caitlin Goff.
There’s a shift happening in bridal, and Gastown is quietly leading it. Think locally made silks, vintage stones, expressive florals, and a sense of self that doesn’t get lost in tradition.
At the centre of it is Lovenote, a hybrid design studio and boutique founded by Gaby Bayona. Each gown is designed and made in East Vancouver, then styled in a Gastown space that leans more felt-form atelier than traditional showroom. The work is sculptural, personal, and shaped by emotional resonance. “We don’t just ask how they want to look,” Bayona says. “We ask how they want to feel.”
That perspective changes everything. The silhouettes are designed to follow the body, not work against it. Sleeves can be swapped in and out mid-celebration, or an entirely custom gown can take shape from the start. Gowns are fit-tested on multiple body types and offered in a size range that reflects the diversity of the women who wear them. Everything from fabric to finish is considered.
“There is something incredibly special about being able to tell brides that every stitch of their gown is made by hand, in a studio just a short drive away,” Bayona says. “In times of fast fashion and outsourcing, this is a huge point of pride for us.”
Equally important is the atmosphere where those dresses are
chosen. “Our biggest goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where brides feel comfortable exploring their options without pressure,” she says. That kind of care carries through the entire experience. The balance between polish and ease, drama and function, is what keeps Gaby’s work feeling so modern.
That same sensibility carries through Gastown’s indie bridal scene. Evorden stocks vintage and ethically sourced rings that feel deeply personal. Bita W Florals leans into moodier compositions with gesture and structure. Local photographers shoot weddings like photo essays, balancing beauty with intimacy. Even dinner has an edit—L’Abattoir is a favourite for couples who want atmosphere without excess.
The modern wedding isn’t about the rules. It’s about resonance. And in a neighbourhood that’s equal parts character and edge, that feels entirely within reach. “There’s something about Gastown that reflects the kind of bride we see now,” Bayona says. “She’s confident, intentional, and she’s not afraid to do things her way.”
The result isn’t just a dress. It’s a point of view. Something considered. Unrushed. Rooted in design, but also in feeling. Whether it’s a silk mini and sculptural band or a custom gown that tells a personal story, it’s all her, and it’s all hers.
GLOBAL RELAY.
ABOVE THE COBBLESTONES.
Story Billie Norman.
Gastown looks like history. But inside its brick-and-beam buildings? The future’s being built—fast. Just ask Global Relay, a world leader in cloud-based communication archiving, powering some of the most highly regulated industries on the planet. And they’re doing it all from a few floors up. “For over 25 years, we’ve grown from this neighbourhood. Gastown grounds us—and pushes us to innovate,” says Director of Business Operations Kelvin Ng. “It’s old soul meets bold thinking.”
That energy fuels more than just technology. In 2012, Global Relay brought back the Gastown Grand Prix, the iconic bike race with roots dating back to 1973. Held every July, the event transforms the streets into a world-class criterium course and a full-throttle celebration of grit, community, and excellence. It’s one of the most anticipated events in the city—and one of the proudest moments of the year for Global Relay’s team. Beyond race day, they keep showing up: funding arts programs, mentoring young talent, and supporting Canadian cyclists through the Bridge the Gap fund. It’s all part of a bigger belief—when you invest in where you are, you create momentum that moves everyone forward.
And they’re not alone. With neighbours like Microsoft, Quietly Media, ThoughtFarmer, and OXD, the upper floors of this historic neighbourhood are humming with visionaries building what’s next.
Because here, innovation doesn’t hide behind glass towers. It lives above the cobblestones.
Photo. Cliff Ma
73 Water St.
Photo. Kimberly Ronning.
235 Cambie St.
Photo. Rebecca Benoit
GASTOWN STYLE
JENNI LEE dress from THE BLOCK. BOULET boots from OK BOOT CORRAL.
GASTOWN STYLE
STORE knit top from THE BLOCK. ACNE STUDIO pants from RODEN GRAY. RED WING boots from ROWAN SKY
DUTIL LAX SUN-12 sunglasses from DURANT SESSIONS FILSON aviator work jacket.
CICA Vancouver. 228 Abbott St. Daisy Parris Tote Bag & Embroidery Pin
Limited-edition tote and pin set made in close collaboration with Daisy Parris, created to mark their Clouds for Breakfast exhibition at CICA Vancouver.
THE
DUTIL DENIM. 303 W Cordova St. Dutil x Tone Edition Bucket Hat. A limited edition Dutil x Tone Edition collaboration bucket hat designed and made in Gastown.
NEIGHBOUR OBJECTS. 51 Powell St. Shiloh Sukkau Handy Wall Hooks. A pair of wall hooks, offering a helping hand to your wall storage needs.
BIA BORO. 83 E Cordova St. Goorin Bros. Lucky Trucker Hat.
Set.
ROWAN SKY. 334 W Cordova St. G.H. Bass Whitney Weejun. Dressy and elegant with the genuine comfort of a moc, the Whitney is the perfect shoe to elevate your style. Crafted in El Salvador.
CHAMPLAIN. www.champlain.club. Pique Ruby Shirt. Experience comfort and style with this Pique Rugby Polo.
LATEST SCOOP. 305 Water St. Minori Blush. A versatile blush for your flush of color. Soft and velvety, longwearing, cream-to-powder formula beautifully blends into the skin without smudging foundation or feeling tacky.
CAFÉ KITSUNÉ. 157 Water St. Glass Duralex “Le Picardie” 25cl. Duralex Picardie clear colored glass. Café Kitsuné Paris logo on the front.
INFORM INTERIORS. 50 Water St. Extra Green Virgin oil in ceramic Cruet. The oil is green with golden highlights, possessing clear and strong olive and green aromas, with a light, peppery taste.
OLD FAITHFUL. 320 W Cordova St. Gemini Espresso Maker. Elevate your morning ritual with the Gemini Espresso Maker Set, a compact yet sophisticated tool designed for effortless brewing.
RODEN GRAY. 8 Water St. FOR REST Eau de Parfum. A therapeutic and woody accord, opening on spritzes of fresh yuzu paired with the subtle familiarities of a nutmeg and black pepper.
AZZURA. 231 Cambie St. Hand Crafted “Solange” Avant-Garde Ring. Made from rubber and recycled materials by Paris designers Alex & Svet.
ANNA KOSTUROVA. www.annakosturova.com
Handmade Crochet Bandeau Top. Added gold lurex filament that creates a subtle golden shimmer throughout.
SIISTA. 315 Cambie St. Annemette Earrings. Feel the Love! The gold-plated or silver-plated earrings from Pilgrim are your go-to accessory when seeking romance with an edgy twist.
THE BLOCK. 350 W Cordova St. Henrik Vibskov L’eau Rouge Nature Perfume. A grassy zestiness of basil and the invigorating essence of tomato leaf.
MOSH FRAMEMAKERS. 318 Homer St. Studio 200 “Secret Admirer”. Mosh Originals are where your eyewear dreams take shape in spectacular style.
MAKE. 170 Water St. This t-shirt was designed and handprinted in Vancouver, BC.
OUT & ABOUT. 321 W Cordova St. The ÉPICE Paris KANPUR Tote Bag. Crafted with a double-layered mesh design and our exclusive X pattern, this bag is both stylish and versatile.
BRIOCHE RISTORANTE & WINE BAR. 103 Columbia St. Tiramisu. Daily made gourmet desserts.
OK BOOT CORRAL. 205 Carrall St. Ladies Leather Sole New Snip Toe. Unleash your inner cowgirl with OK Boot Corral’s stunning collection of cowgirl boots!
NIKA DESIGN. 309 Cambie St. Spikes & Sparrow Bag. Great work bag in 100% leather with long handles and shoulder strap. Vintage, tough style with a clean design.
JOHN FLUEVOG SHOES. 65 Water St. The Damsel: Lara. These courageous and stylish Mary Janes from our Damsel family have got you covered, and will never leave you (or your style) in distress.
SHOP MAKERS. 38 Water St. The Indentation Bud Vase. Made to hold a single dried flower, letting the whole stem be seen in its entirety. Its name comes from the idea of creating space.
BRUSH SALON. 62 W Cordova St. Italian resin hair pick by Oribe.
GASTOWN STYLE
FILSON aviator work jacket. AND WANDER skirt from OUT & ABOUT DUTIL crop top. DUTIL LAX SUN-12 sunglasses from DURANT SESSIONS. VEJA sneakers from ROWAN SKY
GASTOWN STYLE
B SIDES JEANS from THE BLOCK. THE LINE by K top from SIISTA. REIKE NEN boots from THE BLOCK. SHYLA RAFELLI earrings from OUT & ABOUT
PROFESSOR E. top from RODEN GRAY. CAMIEL FORTGENS pants from NEIGHBOUR MEN. UNIVERSAL WORKS coat from THE BLOCK OFFICINE CREATIVE boots from GRAVITYPOPE.
GASTOWN STYLE
DUTIL X TONE EDITION collaboration jeans (presentation event June 19, 6-8pm at Dutil Denim) and DL1961 jacket from DUTIL DENIM. ACNE STUDIO top from RODEN GRAY
CECILIE BAHNSEN shorts and MARIA LA ROSA socks from NEIGHBOUR WOMAN. ELIZA FAULKNER top and JENNY BIRD earrings from SIISTA. CAMPER shoes from GRAVITYPOPE
EVENT CALENDAR
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Every Thurs. (June - Sept.)
Gastown Thursday Nights Live Music Series, 4pm-7pm
Every Sunday (June 15 - Aug. 31)
Gastown Sunday Set Car-free Series, 11am-6pm June 15, July 27, Aug. 31
Streetside Sessions Coffee Party, 11am-5pm
June 19
Dutil Denim x Tone Edition Collab. 6pm-8pm
June 22, July 13, Aug. 3
Open Air Atelier Art Battle June 29, July 20, Aug 17
Gastown in Bloom Flower Market
July 9
Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix, 5:30pm-9pm
July 12-13
Carnival Del Sol
Aug. 14
Meet Me In Gastown, 4pm-8pm
Aug. 17
JCI Fashion Show on the Streets
Sun. Sept. 21
East Side 10K
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to Issue #4
Dearest Readers,
I’m lucky enough to be writing this from a sun-drenched patio in the heart of Gastown. It’s the kind of day that reminds me why I love this place—music in the air, sidewalks buzzing, and that unmistakable sense that something’s about to happen. City of Vancouver trucks are out, making way for the next version of the Pedestrian Zone Pilot. Expanded patios, more public space, and pedestrian-first streets are transforming Gastown into a living canvas—where artists, curators, DJs, and businesses are co-creating the summer. From the weekly Gastown Sunday Set Car-free Series and Gastown Thursday Nights, to the return of icons like the Gastown Grand Prix and Meet Me in Gastown, the season ahead is all about collaboration. Culture meets commerce. Streets become stages.
WEEKLY
MONDAY
Guilt & Co Live Music
2nd Floor Gastown Live Music
TUESDAY
Guilt & Co Live Music
The Lamplighter
AUGUST 14 4PM-9PM
MAPLE TREE SQUARE
Celebrate the spirit of Gastown at this vibrant community event!
Enjoy an exciting food festival featuring a diverse range of flavours from your favourite local restaurants, plus live performances throughout the event, including a special jazz set by the Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra. Cap o the evening with an after-party in the Carrall Street Alley.
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
THURSDAY
On and off the streets, Gastown continues to lead as Vancouver’s style authority. Our retailers are tastemakers. Our restaurants, genre-defying. Our galleries, quietly world-class. From heritage storefronts to boundary-pushing studios, there’s an energy here that refuses to be replicated. It’s sharp, intentional, and effortlessly cool.
In this issue, we spotlight the minds behind some of these influential spaces—from boutiques with staying power to chefs reimagining the dining experience. You’ll find stories of quiet craftsmanship, bold experimentation, and the people shaping Gastown’s next chapter in fashion, hospitality, design, and beyond. To the many businesses who helped shape this issue: thank you. Your spaces, stories, and visions are what make this magazine, and this neighbourhood, so compelling. Gastown Magazine remains one of our most beloved initiatives to date. It is a living reflection of the district: stylish, layered, and unapologetically original.
From the cobblestones, The Gastown BIA
CONTRIBUTORS
Style Director Claudia Schulz
Creative Director Trevor Brady
Editor Elise Yurkowski
Publisher Gastown BIA/Gastown Business Improvement Society (GBIS) - programs@gastown.org
Fashion Photography. Trevor Brady
Stylist. Claudia Schulz
Models. Tallyn, Wild Management. Ryan. Family Management
Makeup & Hair. LucyAnne Botham
Production. Susanne Jeffs
GASTOWN MAGAZINE
ELIZA FAULKNER top and JENNY BIRD earrings from SIISTA CLAUDIA SCHULZ cap.