Of the many alluring things (the beach, the outdoor pool, the Kits Wing Mural and the secret swing) in Kitsilano, the one that truly keeps the neighbourhood lively is West 4th Ave. With a bounty of amazing boutique shops and cafes, delightful culinary experiences and an electric vibe, the street ensures we never tire of it. And while you’re shopping, you might as well hit up local shops in Kitsilano!
Plus, with the 10th Anniversary Khatsahlano Street Party coming up, the neighbourhood is buzzing and lively as ever. So make sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, July 8th, ’cause Khats Street Party is taking over ten blocks of the neighbourhood from 11AM to 9PM for a full day of festivities and celebrating all things local.
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On our recent West 4th Ave stroll, we discovered some hidden (of sorts) gems. And also added a few new faves to our existing list. Here are 12 of the most amazing local shops, bars and eateries in Kits that you ought to check out right now!
LOCAL SHOPS IN KITSILANO
Kokomo
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Just ICYMI, this iconic vegan eatery has a Kits location as well. And boy are we happy! Their “sun-inspired” menu of acai bowls, macro bowls, smoothies and salads is proof that plants taste amazing. And their Cocowhip dessert is simply to die for.
The Pie Hole
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A while ago this popular pie purveyor set up shop in the hood. And along came its never-ending list of out-of-this-world pies. Our recent indulgence: Pride Pop-Tarts and Raspberry Cream Crumble.
And if you’re really looking to indulge, The Pie Hole will be hosting Pie Eating Contests on Saturday, July 9th during the Khatsahlano Street Party. Run, don’t walk people!
Leis De Buds
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No matter the season, Leis De Bud will make you feel like spring all year long. With their locally and sustainably sourced fresh blooms, their inspired arrangements and range of accessories, it’s hard not to walk in. Or walk out without a few pretty blooms.
Plus, Leis De Buds will be hosting pop-up weddings in front of their store for the Khatsahlano Street Party. Yes, pop-up weddings, so this is one stop you won’t want to skip.
TurF
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Okay, we’ll admit, this isn’t a hidden gem but it’s a gem nonetheless. It’s a deadly combo of a fitness studio, bistro and shop. Great workouts, cool clothing & accessories and unbelievably delish vegan eats, the place has everything you need to keep your mind and body healthy.
TurF will be partaking in Khatsahlano Street Party festivities as well, this time with an extended patio for the day’s festivities.
La Ruota
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When they first opened shop in Kits, they promised “hand-crafted, artisan, stone oven-baked, authentic Neapolitan pizzas.” And they’ve been delivering more than promised. An elaborate variety, incredible taste and top quality— they sure made us fall in love with pizzas all over again.
Bimini’s Beer Hall
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As one of the oldest residents of the hood, Bimini’s continues to attract beer-lovers with its old-school ambience, a super chill vibe, quality craft beers on tap and a slew of delicious eats. And anyone who’s enjoyed a beer (or 4) at their back patio knows what heaven on earth feels like.
Stop by their extended patio during the Khatsahlano Street Party for a bevvy and good times!
DUER
The brand known for its comfy, pragmatic clothing opened its new flagship store at West 4th Ave last year. Not only can you try on clothes, you can also test their flexibility out at the performance lab section of the store where you can indulge in various activities such as swinging and biking.
Make sure you check out their activation at the Khatsahlano Street Party on July 9!
Fluevog
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The iconic shoe brand is a God-sent for lovers of colour, quirk and all things amaze. And they extend the same design aesthetic to their stores as well. The Kits store especially, is a whole vibe in itself. Brightly coloured murals and wall art, a blue couch, a pink checkout counter— the place is full of photo ops. And of course, their usual killer collection.
Mejuri
For the past few years, this fine jewellery brand has been our go-to every time we are in the mood for a guilty splurge. And their Kits store, the only Van store, lets us try all the pretty baubles before we bag them. The overall casual-meets-lush ambience perfectly compliments their collection.
Old Faithful
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Yet another new addition to the block, the brand has set up its second store in Kitsilano. And this beauty manages to make their classically designed home essentials and heirloom quality furniture and décor even more alluring. Definitely worth a visit, even if you’re just window-shopping.
Fatwhip
If you’re ready to join the ranks of the hip crowd and get yourself a cool new electric ride, Fatwhip is the place to be. From getting your hands on some of the best and high-performing electric scooters to their repair and service, the place has you covered all the way.
Frank & Oak
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Anyone who’s ever shopped at Canada’s own Frank & Oak knows that the brand isn’t just about sustainable, casual clothing. It’s about a personalized styling experience. And you’ll witness the best of this experience at their new Kits store, their largest location yet.
These are all the amazing additions to our list of must-visit local shops in Kitsilano along West 4th Ave. Make sure to hit them the next time you’re in the hood. In all likelihood, we might bump into each other.
