And that’s a wrap, summer 2021. While not exactly the season that we’re typically used to, we are pretty darn proud of this community for coming together and pulling through. From pop-ups to patios, we have watched Gastown slowly, but surely, come back to life. But don’t make your great escape back into hibernation yet…
With fall just around the corner, it’s time to switch things up. Maybe you’re heading back into the office. Maybe your WFH office is due for a refresh. Maybe you’re sending the kiddos back to campus. Whatever the case may be, we’re here to guide you through the change of season.
Shop + Style
Time to Retire OR Upgrade the Sweat Suit?
September has been the date on everyone’s mind for office spaces to reopen around the city. While this date has been pushed back for many, it doesn’t mean that you can’t start planning ahead. Keep your future HR team from pulling their hair out by showing up in your professional best!
Kit and Ace has officially re-opened their Gastown doors. Remember that “go anywhere” clothing that’s smart, comfortable, and stylish? You know, the perfect upgrade to your sweat suit? Welcome back friends – we’ve missed you around here.
New shop hours are 11am to 6pm, Wednesday to Sunday (closed on Monday and Tuesday).
The perfect balance of casual and classy. Artemisia has an outfit for it all (especially their dresses and jumpsuits). Located on West Cordova, Artemisia makes the perfect first-shop-stop for a day of retail therapy.
Still, working from home? Maybe it’s time to refresh the cozy clothing situation. For your sake, we recommend starting from the bottom up with some new slippers. Glerups will keep your toes warm all autumn long, and can be found at Australian Boot Co. on Water Street.
A’s all around!
From pre-k to pre-med, September marks the start of the new school year! Gastown has the back-to-school basics for students of all ages!
Update your school supplies at Out and About! This boutique has a selection of stationery made for any teacher’s pet. We recommend their daily planner to keep on top of the hustle and bustle. Don’t forget to pick up a pen or two as well.
After grabbing the supplies, head to Herschel Supply! Call us strange, but we can’t get enough of that new backpack smell (ok, just us?). “Accessories with a purpose” is in this Vancouver-based brand’s DNA.
For every change in season, there is a jean for that – just ask our friends at Dutil Denim. Voted one of the best jeans stores in the world, we are telling you to get your booty there – it will thank you later.
Looking for more? We’ve put together this handy little guide to direct you to all of the hottest BTS, BTW, WFH gear. Spoiler alert: there are store specials that cannot and will not be beaten!
View our Shopping Guide HERE.
Food + Drink
Evening Study Date?
Need an afternoon caffeine break, or maybe you need to cram for a few more hours before heading home! The Coffee Bar and Buro are your go-to places for serving up brainy brew into the evening!
Looking for more caffeine hits throughout the day? Find what java stop is next on your list and flip through our Coffee Map HERE.
Did Someone Say Oyster Bar?
Pucker up and kiss those post-summer blues away with the shuck and a slurp. Introducing the new oyster bar at the Flying Pig – open every Thursday to Saturday from 4PM to close and it is first come first served (8 seats at the bar). Plus it’s always oyster season at The Portside Pub and Rodney’s Oyster Bar (note: stay tuned for re-opening date).
Besides, we’ve all heard the rumour about oysters and can’t think of a more romantic place to enjoy their romantic lore than Gastown (refer to our Arts + Culture section below).
New Menu, Who Dis?
Think prime rib dinner, pan-fried veal, seafood platters, crème brûlée, wine dinners (ok, now we’re salvating) – ’tis the season for fresh items being added to menus around Gastown. Better get out there and taste for yourself…
Design
The Eternal Homebody
Our homes have transformed into many things over the last two years: Schools, offices, art studios, etc. Pick up something from Old Faithful to refresh your old faithful home. She’s been real good to you these days.
Entertainment
Get Loosey Goosey and Golfy
Golf and drink in style because Gastown restaurants have partnered with Grey Goose in celebration of the Smooth Putt mini-golf course popping up at Waterfront Station parking lot (outside Steamworks Brew Pub) starting this weekend. Look for the Gastown flags and enjoy some après-golf specials PLUS enter to win a round of golf from now until September 6th. Get your tickets here.
Restaurant participating
@waterstcafe @smithsofgastown @julesbistro @steamworksbrewpub @roguewetbar
Art + Culture
Calling all Photographers!
Has your lockdown hobby become a full-blown obsession? Do you speak at shutter speeds? Do you love how brick looks on film?
TAG US!
@mygastown #mygastown #ourgastown
We love seeing photos of our hood and sharing them on our Instagram! Whether it’s a Steam Clock close-up, a fashion photoshoot, or candid couple pics we want to feature your work!
**Full credit always given**
Business
Expand Past the Home Office
There is something about exposed brick, wide-open windows, and nearby cafes that improves productivity. If you are looking to expand your crafting station or create a professional non-zoom work spot, Gastown has room for you. Join our community! Learn more about our commercial spots here.
