B.C.

Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood Guide

We ask style blogger Alicia Quan to play tour guide – find out where she eats, shops and hangs out in Mount Pleasant

By Alicia Quan /

Credit: Peter Holst (Mount Pleasant) and Clinton Hussey (Alicia Quan)

Style blogger Alicia “Fashionista” Quan reveals her favourite haunts in Mount Pleasant

WHY ALICIA LOVES WHERE SHE LIVES

“Mount Pleasant has arts and culture, and oozes personality. I love that different types of people and places are embraced and celebrated. It’s amazing how everyone supports independents and small businesses. It’s a magical place with trendy city vibes that also feels like a tight-knit community. And it’s very walkable.

“A lot of people think Mount Pleasant is unsafe. Yes, we’re in East Van, but there are tons of young families and great people. I mean, strangers even smile and say hello when you walk down the street. Would I suggest leaving your door unlocked? No. But, I also wouldn’t advise that anywhere in the Lower Mainland.

“Mount Pleasant is rich with the city’s history and it’s an area that begs to be explored. It’s best seen on foot or by bicycle. If you’re looking for hidden gems, there’s a small but beautiful mural on East 8th near Quebec.”

Click through for Alicia’s favourite places to eat, drink, shop and play in Mount Pleasant.

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Credit: Tyson Fast

Fave places to eat in Mount Pleasant

“For takeout, I’m a sucker for Budgie’s Burritos on Kingsway. It’s quick, inexpensive and vegetarian. The Potato Mash Pizza at Don’t Argue! Pizzeria on Main is heavenly, and a must-try (as long as you’re not weirded out by mashed potatoes on your pizza). The General Public, also on Main, is my go-to for sushi cravings because they have imaginative and delicious rolls. I’m also a big fan of Mexican food, so I get my taco fix at Los Cuervos on Kingsway – the tacos and margaritas are some of the best in the city. There isn’t a ton of formal dining here, but if you’re looking to treat yourself, I’d suggest The Acorn (pictured) on Main for an amazing vegetarian meal, Les Faux Bourgeois on East 15th for delicious French fare and Chicha on East Broadway for Peruvian tapas.”



Fave places to drink in Mount Pleasant

“The Narrow (Main and 3rd) is a hidden gem that boasts some of the best cocktails around. It’s not advertised at all, though, and the entrance is marked only by a red light, which makes the entire experience that much better. You also can’t go wrong with one of the breweries nearby like 33 Acres on West 8th or Brassneck on Main. They both have a casual and inviting atmosphere as well as great brews. If you prefer a caffeinated beverage, my absolute favourite spot in all of Mount Pleasant is Matchstick Coffee Roasters on East 15th Avenue (pictured).”



Fave places to shop in Mount Pleasant

“I do most of my shopping on Main Street. For clothing, I frequent The Archetype, F as in Frank and 8th and Main. Pulpfiction Books is a fun place to check out and I can’t walk past Much & Little without browsing the home decor and gift items. I often walk up to The Flower Factory for a floral fix (pictured). The staff is always incredibly helpful and they create absolutely gorgeous bouquets.”



Credit: Filckr/Ruth Hartnup

Fave places to play in Mount Pleasant

“Dude Chilling Park is really great. In the summertime, it’s always buzzing with groups having picnics and playing games, and it hosts a weekend Farmers Market. For inexpensive concerts or a really lively night out, I highly recommend The Biltmore Cabaret.”