Destination Vancouver/Nelson Mouellic
Gastown, as a historic area of Vancouver, has much to offer along its iconic cobbled streets, including the popular Steam Clock, heritage architecture, top-notch restaurants and bars, and plenty of unique stylish boutiques.
Below is an overview of some of the key shopping spots in Gastown. Expect plenty of charm, local designer finds, as well as curated selections of beautiful and well-crafted items.
Fashion
Photo: John Fluevog Facebook
On the whole, shopping in Gastown contains local designer studios and shops carrying exclusive and carefully selected high quality goods. And, the stores with multiple locations internationally are still of a niche nature, such as Montreal-based Frank and Oak, the Australian Boot Company, Vancouver-based Kit & Ace, Filson (American outdoor wear), and COS (H&M’s higher end brand),
The store Neighbour Gastown has three locations in the area: 45 Powell Street devoted to women’s items, 125-12 Water Street to men’s, and 51 Powell Street to objects. Garments reflect a modern sensibility with clean lines and striking colours and textures. Brands represented include Hiro Yamamoto, Eleph, and Frank Leder, reflecting designers from all around the world, including ones from Europe and Asia. At their objects store, you can find whimsical curiosities, such as candle holders, fountain pens, multi-coloured cutting boards, and intriguing glass tumblers.
There are many other shops that bring together a curated array of clothing and accessories. Artemisia Clothing focuses on women’s apparel, with offerings from local, American, and European designers; Bia Boro specializes in men’s fashion, offering an array of both casual and more formal options; CNTRBND stocks exclusive brands both local and international, with friendly staff; Dutil Denim will help you find your perfect pair of jeans; HAVEN offers clothing that prioritizes functional modern design; and jWs focuses on timeless women and unisex pieces that are about quality and effortless style.
Footwear options in Gastown lean toward the imaginative and ground-breaking. Gravity Pope brings together cutting-edge brands that will keep your feet stylish—and comfortable. Meanwhile, the Vancouver-based John Fleuvog has become an icon in the shoe world for funky shapes and interesting patterns on his footwear. And finally, Native Shoes, another Vancouver success story, has developed a reputation for planet-friendly options.
Numerous designers have studios in Gastown, such as Hailey Gerrits, who creates gorgeous jewelry using artisan-cut gems and reclaimed metals. There are also many studios and shops that create bespoke garments and accessories, such as Jason Matlo Atelier (who offers tailoring as well as garment design, with particular expertise in a French aesthetic), BK Tailors (who do alterations and dressmaking), and Cappelleria Bertacchi Italian Hatcrafter who stock a wide range of chic hats, as well as resize and repair existing ones. You can even get handcrafted eyewear at Durant Sessions.
Furniture and Décor
Photo: Old Faithful Facebook
Gastown has become a destination for furniture and home décor stores. Old Faithful, like its name suggests, prioritizes long lasting furniture and household items. Everything, from towels to lighting, is design-oriented and simple, yet eye-catching.
Vancouver-based Fable Home Goods elevates your table with long-lasting and sustainable flatware, glassware, and serving dishes. All goods have a stylish aesthetic, perfect for casual at-home meals as well as fancier entertaining. Out and About is a boutique that sells clothing and household objects and personal accessories, with a focus on brands from Japan, such as Kaneko Kohyo Ceramics and BEAMS Japan. Those on the hunt for sustainable luxury linen goods for the home, such as bedding, can visit Sömn, a Vancouver-based company that designs locally while producing in Europe.
Meanwhile, the neighbourhood is a hub for companies that specialize in transforming interior spaces through design and well-crafted furniture and accents. Arcade Showroom features the wood furniture of Lock & Mortice and the lighting of Matthew McCormick Studio (by appointment). Inform Interiors sells modern furniture pieces, such as wishbone chairs and minimalist floor lamps, and they also can aid you with kitchens, bathrooms, and storage solutions. Kitchen Infinity Atelier has expertise in kitchen and bath transformation, and finally, Bulthaup breathes new life as well as functionality into kitchens and other living spaces.
Well-being and Beauty
Home to numerous salons, Gastown contains a couple sought after skincare and wellness brands. The Australian luxury company Aesop has a store in the neighbourhood for various fragrance, skin care, and body and hand products, while Le Labo is known for their lovely perfumes, scents for the home, and other body care and skin care products.
Souvenirs and Gift Items
Photo: Makers Gastown Facebook
Since Gastown is a popular area for visitors, you’ll find shops devoted to souvenirs and gifts, including Hudson House Trading Company and Gifts and Things (Smiley’s). If you’re looking for more artisanal creations, head to Makers, which celebrates local crafters through the stocking of gift and household items, such as jewelry, bubble bath, and candles.
The neighbourhood contains many other specialty stores, including Cuban Best, EZ Dog, EC Rare Books, and Honey Gifts (lingerie and toys).
Art
by Corinne Hunt; Photo sourced from Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery
Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery is both a gallery as well as a boutique that supports the creative work—both traditional and contemporary—of Indigenous and Inuit artists. The collection features a range of mediums, including jewelry, print-making, and carving.
Where to Go for a Bite in Gastown
Photo: Di Beppe
Shopping always pairs well with food and drink! As an area of settlement that began with the relocation of a saloon, Gastown has a long history with drinking spots. You’ll find no shortage of places for a pint or a cocktail, as well as comforting pub/bar eats. Options include Clough Club, The Lamplighter Public House, Greta Bar, Steamworks, and Pourhouse (especially good for expertly made classic cocktails).
If you’re looking for a coffee and a pastry, places like Purebread, Milano, and Praguery (chimney cakes) will fit the bill.
There’s also diverse casual fare in Gastown, such as great tacos and other Mexican dishes at Tacofino, Lebanese eats at Nuba, Italian pasta and pizza at Di Beppe. Meanwhile, Water St. Café serves West Coast Italian cuisine in elegant yet inviting surroundings.
Finally, if you’re you’re looking for a more upscale experience, consider dining at L’Abattoir, for French West Coast creations or PiDGin, which melds French and Asian influences in inventively delicious ways.
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