Where to Shop and Eat at the New Britannia Beach Village

This might be a surprise to some, but Britannia has recently become more than just a beach and mine museum. What was once an environment contaminated by the copper mine has been privately revitalized over the past two decades with consultations from the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation into a (mostly) self-sufficient village. Now, Britannia Beach Village is slowly becoming a destination for visitors, and even an eventual blooming residential area.

The village had its grand opening on August 23, unveiling many of the new (or new-to-Britannia) businesses in restored buildings from the old mining neighbourhood. Here are the top six spots I visited on my tour of the new-but-old village that day—and now you can too.

1. Beaucoup Bakery and Cafe

The new Beaucoup Bakery and Cafe in Britannia is the perfect stop for a coffee and morning pastry or an afternoon sweet treat. This newest location for the iconic Vancouver pastry spot has a front patio porch and a cozy, log cabin feel on the inside, perfect to enjoy any of the French-inspired delicacies you order. Plus, exclusive to this location: donuts!

2. Copper & Fern

I might’ve just discovered your new favourite store to purchase B.C. products. Copper & Fern Boutique stocks local items perfect for your next thoughtful gift or home accessory. Featuring local brands like Sḵwálwen Botanicals, Conifer Homewares and Coco & Peluche, this super cute shop is a must-stop on your trip to Britannia Beach.

3. Kawartha Dairy

My favourite stop during my visit to Britannia (and I’m very biased here) was the new Kawartha Dairy located in the old church building. Named after cottage country Ontario, Kawartha Dairy is a household name for many out east (a.k.a., in Ontario). So I couldn’t be more excited to see this delicious ice cream brand expanding to B.C. as Western Canada’s first Kawartha Dairy shop. Indulge in the very healthy serving that is a baby scoop (pictured above) with one of our favourite flavours: Moose Tracks, Death by Chocolate or Mint Chip.

4. Autostrada Oyster Bar & Grill

Autostrada is another Vancouver staple expanding to a new location outside the city. The new Autostrada Oyster Bar & Grill at the old schoolhouse in Britannia balances familiar Italian-inspired dishes with the fresh West Coast seafood you love. The main showstopper: oysters, of course. I can confirm that an Aperol spritz on the sunny patio with that view of the turquoise blue water is just as amazing as it sounds.

5. The General Store

This store is everything wrapped in one place (which might be a bit self-evident). Channeling its rustic vibe, the General Store has groceries, general items, wine and liquor and a coffee bar. It even serves freshly-made pizzas in the in-house pizza oven (I recommend getting the prosciutto asparagus). If you’re just passing through, this is truly the one-stop shop in Britannia Beach.

6. Copper Beach Bar & Kitchen

This might be cheating a little. Although I didn’t get a chance to drink or dine at Copper Beach Bar & Kitchen, this restaurant has killer patio views. If you’re in search of relaxing with some classic comfort grub and a local craft beer or cider, check out Copper Beach Bar & Kitchen at Britannia.