Guide to
Gastown WO R D S BY J U S T I N L I P H O T O G R A P H Y BY J O H A N N WA L L
As Vancouver, British Columbia’s very first downtown core, Gastown has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the past century. A neighborhood once overrun with poverty, and neglect is now home to some of Vancouver’s best independent retailers, cafés and restaurants. Although signs of its former self remain, Gastown continues to be a requisite stop for those in search of contemporary menswear and perfectly prepared macchiatos. Inevitably, its rebirth has not come without some controversy. Debates have been ramping up between advocacy groups, independent business owners, and the city – all of whom are vying for a balance of growth and equality in an area historically with neither. Bigger names with no shortage of cash are beginning to trickle in and capitalize on the neighborhood’s appeal, threatening the survival of the independents that have helped rebuild the community as a whole. Here are a small handful of the people and places that are giving Gastown its increasing reputation as the place to visit, and/or set up shop.
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