Vancouver is a fly trap for the free-spirited and cool hunters. One day you book a flight to visit this gorgeous city, you blink, and suddenly you’ve been living here for a few years (at least, that is what happened to me).

With a plethora of chic goods and crafts stores and cozy cafes, Vancouver will quench your thirst for adventure and punch you a ticket out of the mundane by just stepping outside your (probably overpriced rental) apartment. Here at GMD, we like to obsess and share our lucky come-ups and hidden gems that make Vancouver a maelstrom for all of you culinary enthusiasts, coffee aficionados and trinket collectors.

Here is a list of places we have handpicked as our favourite local spots to visit during the holidays:

 

Itsumo
279 East 6th Ave., Vancouver

For the minimalist in your life, find high-quality and well-designed Japanese goods and craft items at Itsumo. Discover essential tools for living at their retail location, situated near the corner of 6th and Main St.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/itsumolifestyle/

Itsumo Goods and Crafts

 

Regional Assembly of Text

VANCOUVER:  3934 Main Street    

VICTORIA:  #116 – 560 Johnson Street

Let delight, curiosity and enjoyment fill your shopping experience at the Regional Assembly of Text. Inspired by all things nostalgic, you’ll find paper goods, vintage office supply, old textbooks and product designs from days gone by.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/assemblyoftext/

Regional Assembly

Vancouver Special

279 East 6th Ave., Vancouver

Inspirational and noteworthy home goods, textiles, stationery, books, and furniture for the design lovers in your life. Shop online or visit their shop in Mount Pleasant.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/vanspecial/

Vanspecial

Murata

15 E. Broadway, Vancouver

Shop distinct Japanese tableware and gifts at a good value at this local shop on Broadway, just a few skip away from the future Broadway & Main Street skytrain station. The shop has a serene ambiance, but look closely and you’ll find many small delights throughout the shop. 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/muratawalife/

Murata

 

Red Cat Records

4386 Main St., Vancouver

Independent Record Store with a great collection of new and used records as well as live gigs. Co-owned by local musicians. 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/redcatrecords/

RedCat

Sushi Aboard

1047 Denman St., Vancouver

Sushi Aboard is an incredibly unique dining experience that’s accompanied by some good sushi. The bullet train service and touch screen ordering system are both fun and easy-to-use additions to the dining experience.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/sushiaboard/

Sushi Aboard