If you’re able to stand still, and rotate yourself 360 degrees and you see an ocean, a rain forest and a mountain range, you might just be in North Vancouver. The place where you’ll always find a cold beer, great food, a friendly face and an atmosphere mirroring the comfort of your happy place. Welcome to the Lonsdale Avenue corridor!
So, what’s it all about? The oldest city centre has become the newest hot spot on the North Shore. Since before the Lions Gate Bridge, Lonsdale has stood strong, connecting what once was a quiet fishery neighbourhood, to greater Vancouver by a small ferry. With forest trails and mountain hikes just outside our door, there is a nature oriented atmosphere here. Even the sidewalks are lush with greenery, not to mention the fantastic backyard gardens and the stacked balconies curtained with hanging baskets. There’s quite a beautiful historical feel here.
Home to countless flavors of life, the out of place becomes the standard. The irregular becomes the norm, and the unsure, the alone, and the afraid become the united. This eclectic neighbourhood is rich in vibrancy and full of life. There is something to be said about a neighbourhood that can fulfill all your needs just by existing.
As we enter into our summer months so brings patio season and excellent craft beer… a culture completely of its own, the district is home to many craft breweries such as the popular Beere Brewing, North Point Brewery, Streetcar Brewing, and House of Funk. All located within several blocks of each other, take a tour through these outstanding breweries. Some are even dog friendly! The accessibility of these establishments creates an environment where everyone can feel welcome. Don’t forget, there is always the option to order out, and take some cool beverages down to the pier at The Shipyards District to watch the sunset. It’s allowed!
Lonsdale is also home to some incredible local galleries, with an extensive art culture you can spend the afternoon dipping into these wonderful galleries filled with local artists. We are home to many art installations throughout the area, such as the Polygon Gallery, located near by the iconic Lonsdale Quay.
Feeling peckish? Well we’ve got you covered on that end too! Home to excellent food options, you can travel the globe and never leave the corridor. Sushi shops and fresh grocers line the streets nestled between authentic Italian cuisine. Places like Bravo Cucina, Albarello Pizzeria and Palermo Cucina are reliably delicious with excellent wine selections, and knowledgeable staff. Looks like date nights just got a whole lot tastier!
But don’t fret, these aren’t your only options. Check out Jagerhof, a cozy German restaurant with the best schnitzel around! Or pop into Tacomio, for tacos bursting with delicious fillings.
Looking for a more modern approach? Head on down to the waterfront, located at the historical Burrard Dry Dock, and full of interesting options. Joey Restaurant has just opened their newest location here, along with Vancouver favourites such as Nook Restaurant and Jamjar Canteen. Or head into the Lonsdale Quay Market itself which is full of culinary options.
Interested in dinner with a view? Check out Tap&Barrel, with an extensive menu from fried chicken sandwiches to quinoa salads located right on the waterfront. You can never go wrong there! Did I mention their extensive beer selection?
This article is part 1 in a series and contributed by Brie Miachika – a long time North Shore resident, Brie resides in our cultural corridor with her long term partner, Eric. Battling health deficits resulting in the loss of most of her vision, she has persevered and strives to channel her experiences through writing. A voice for her community. She takes refuge in our local yoga studios and can often be found in the public parks, trails, local breweries and is always happy to engage with our other residents. Inspired by people and their stories, Brie strives to capture the unique wherever she goes. Her stories are framed through her photography, her journaling and her artistic abilities.