MOUNT PLEASANT – Vancouver Neighbourhood Watch – Voted 40th Best Neighbourhood in the World by Time Out in 2021
What I love about Mount Pleasant is that it is ever evolving and there is always something new to discover. This historic area of East Van is known for its eclectic residents and collection of eateries, gastro pubs, galleries, distinct businesses, indie shops and the many colourful multi storey murals.
This mishmash is all centered on and around south Main Street – and for this reason it is locally and affectionately known as SoMa.
The areas residential, commercial & industrial heritage has formed a community that embraces individuality, creativity and entrepreneurship and for this reason it made it into the top 50 of Time Out’s Best Neighbourhoods in the World for Living in 2021.
This vibrant and colourful area of East Van is one of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhoods and thankfully many of the older buildings were not demolished but restored, resulting in an area that has an interesting mix of new and historic buildings.
A Neighbourhood for Eating, Shopping & Exploring
A PEOPLE PLACE
SoMa is a place one goes to for relaxation and wandering around. There are Craft Beer & Street Art Tours, and Vancouvers annual Mural Festival takes place in and around Mount Pleasant in August, which is when the streets really come alive with Block Parties, Mural Tours, Musicians and just about anything and everything else.
SHOPPING & EATING
This neighbourhood is testament to why Vancouver has become such a Foodie destination – here you will find some award winning restaurants,… a mix of Japanese, Thai, Middle Eastern, Vietnamese, Spanish, Fusion, Mexican, Italian, Cuban and more ….its all here.
Some hot spots to consider are Sing Sing, Chicpea (vegan middle easetern), Maizal, General Public, Yogo’s (japanese & french fusion), Sawasdee Thai, Longs Noodle House, Anh & Chi and Tocador (cuban kitchen) to name a few.
There is also a multitude of Cafes for coffee and desserts …a few that come to mind are 49th Parallel, Beta5 Chocolate & Liberty (Nordic Bakery Cafe).
If youre after something a bit more boozy – head to the Shameful Tiki Room for a vintage style cocktail or try Key Party Lounge for a multitude of unique drinks and cocktails, you could also head over to Boxcar (a casual creative chill out spot)… or if its a pint youre after head over to the neighbourhood brewery Brassneck, or try Mainstreet Brewing Co or 33 Acres Brewing Company ..the choice is yours to make.
After stuffing yourself head off shopping .you’re bound to find something you like or need …from retro furnishing to fashion, records, books, galleries or unique gift stores … browse or buy.. and expect the unexpected!
