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Summer Treat Alert: Killer Ice Cream Debuts in Kitsilano

Summer Is Here, and So Is Killer Ice Cream

With summer fast approaching, now is the perfect time to enjoy Killer Ice Cream, Vancouver’s latest frozen delight. The new shop lets you build your own ice cream, allowing you to choose your size, base, and flavour. Killer Ice Cream Debuts in Kitsilano.

Enjoy a Flavorful Experience

Currently, you can savor 12 delicious flavors, including strawberry, banana, passionfruit, basil, and mint. Each cone is a custom-made symphony of real fruit flavors blended with BC’s best ice cream, plant-based options, and frozen yogurt.

Immerse Yourself in a Vibrant Atmosphere

Step inside Killer Ice Cream and experience its colorfully immersive, vibrant yet mellow meeting place. The shop uses locally sourced, whole ingredients, complemented by the finest from growers and producers worldwide.

A Creation of Passion

Muralist and graphic artist Leslie Phelan Glik and her husband, German Glik, created this new venture. Leslie shared, “This project represents the coming together of our top three shared passions — business, art and design, and high-quality desserts made with the very best natural ingredients.”

The Perfect Location in Kitsilano

After searching the city for the ideal location, they chose Kitsilano, a beautiful beachside neighbourhood. Leslie aptly notes, “Ice cream and the beach; name a more iconic duo, right?!” Killer Ice Cream Debuts in Kitsilano.

Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash

New Residential Towers Proposed in Kitsilano

Transforming Kitsilano’s Skyline

Two new residential towers have been proposed in Kitsilano, set to reshape the neighborhood’s skyline. These projects, now in the city’s rezoning application process following the Broadway Plan approval in 2022, promise to bring modern living to this vibrant area.

2226 W 8th Ave: A Blend of Old and New

The first tower, a 23-storey building at 2226 W 8th Ave and 2415-2421 Yew St., aims to replace a 35-unit apartment building. This ambitious project also plans to integrate two historic homes built in 1912 into the new development, using them as amenity spaces connected to the tower. These preserved facades and newly finished interiors will provide unique communal areas for residents.

The proposal highlights various amenities, including a rooftop social lounge, basement fitness space, and a games room. The tower will feature 224 rental units, with 20% designated as below-market rentals for households earning under $80,000 annually. The mix includes 63 studio apartments, 73 one-bedroom units, 66 two-bedroom units, and 22 three-bedroom units. Additionally, there will be 90 parking spots for residents.

Proximity to Key Locations

This project boasts a strategic location near West Broadway and the forthcoming Arbutus SkyTrain station, enhancing connectivity. While the Millennium Line extension to UBC remains unannounced, its potential adds value to this development.

1855 W 2nd Ave: Urban Living Redefined

The second proposed tower, standing 20 storeys tall, is located at West 2nd Avenue behind the Petro Canada station on Burrard Street. This development will replace a 36-unit building from 1972, introducing 171 rental units to the area.

This project is designed with convenience in mind, featuring retail space on the ground floor for shops or commercial ventures. The top two floors are reserved for amenities, including a gym, co-working space, and multipurpose rooms. The unit mix includes 112 one-bedroom or studio units, 42 two-bedroom units, and 17 three-bedroom homes. Residents will also have access to 61 parking stalls. New Residential Towers Proposed in Kitsilano.

Enhancing Kitsilano’s Appeal

Both towers promise to enhance Kitsilano’s appeal, offering modern amenities and increased housing options close to shopping, transit, and recreational spots like Kitsilano Beach. These developments reflect the area’s evolving landscape while preserving its historical charm, providing a perfect blend of past and future for residents. New Residential Towers Proposed in Kitsilano.

Photo by Filipe Nobre on Unsplash

Exploring the Allure of Kitsilano Beach

A Beach with a Rich History

Hanging out at Kitsilano Beach is a quintessential Vancouver experience. Originally called X̱epx̱páy̓em by the Squamish people, Kitsilano Beach has become world-famous as a key part of Vancouver’s charm. Exploring the Allure of Kitsilano Beach.

A Scenic Urban Oasis

The beach boasts clear sandy shores, thanks to efforts from over 100 years ago, with stunning views from UBC to the North Shore Mountains. It’s impressive for an urban beach so close to the city center, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

A Popular Hangout Spot

It’s no surprise that Kitsilano Beach is a popular hangout. This trend isn’t new, as these historic photos reveal. People have flocked to Kitsilano Beach for generations, initially drawn by its abundant resources. Local First Nations harvested food from both the forest and the sea in this area.

Evolution of Beach Life

European settlers from the east turned the beach into a popular relaxation spot. However, early beach life differed significantly from today, with women in large dresses and men in suits. From the 1890s to the 1950s, beachwear evolved drastically. Initially, large wool bathing gowns were common, and the modern bikini only emerged after World War II.

Transformations Over the Years

By the late 1950s, beach attire had changed dramatically. Men and boys wore just shorts, and women opted for more revealing swimsuits compared to previous generations. Kitsilano Beach itself evolved too. Initially, it resembled any other sandy beach on the west coast. In 1901, efforts were made to clear the beach of obstacles and a permanent structure was built. Exploring the Allure of Kitsilano Beach.

The Iconic Kitsilano Pool

Shortly after, campsites were advertised, attracting visitors by boat from other parts of the city and region. The original Kitsilano Pool, built in 1931, was a massive seawater-filled space, even housing octopuses in its early days. Although the current pool, built in 1978, is smaller, its legacy as a landmark remains.

Kitsilano Beach continues to be a vibrant part of Vancouver’s cultural and social landscape, blending its rich history with modern-day charm.

Photo by Museums Victoria on Unsplash

Lumiere Cafe opening second Kitsilano location

Lumiere Cafe clearly has a fondness for West Broadway. Earlier this year, their first location celebrated its first birthday on West Broadway at Cambie Street. Now, they are already expanding to a second location, also on West Broadway.

Signs are up at 2815 West Broadway in Kitsilano, alerting the community to a new cafe opening soon. The original location is at 521 West Broadway.

Lumiere Cafe is a relative newcomer to the city’s coffee scene. They roast their own beans and offer a variety of baked goods and coffee shop fare. Their goal is to create “an elevated cafe experience” for customers. With warm weather incoming, they also provide a selection of iced options.

The coffee comes from various sources, while the food options include a fusion of typical, yet fancy, coffee shop items with Japanese influences. Their offerings range from chocolate to salted egg yolk croissants, hazelnut matcha cookies, sandwiches, and muffins.

Moreover, their beans are available for purchase, either for home brewing or wholesale. Previously, 2815 West Broadway displayed signs for a Thirstyyy convenience store that may not have ever opened. Prior to that, it was a Change Lingerie store.

The upcoming cafe aims to blend quality coffee with unique food options, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors. Transitioning from their first successful year at Cambie Street, Lumiere Cafe is set to make its mark in Kitsilano. Keep an eye out for the grand opening and prepare to enjoy their distinctive offerings. The new location promises to be a vibrant addition to the West Broadway scene, continuing the trend of excellence established by the original cafe.

As Lumiere Cafe expands, it brings a touch of sophistication and innovation to the coffee culture in Vancouver. Be sure to visit both locations and experience their exceptional coffee and delicious treats.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Vancouver’s Beaches Pilot Program to return this summer

Vancouver beachgoers can once again drink at select beaches this summer, thanks to the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation approving the relaunch of its Alcohol on Beaches pilot program. From June 1 to September 30, 2024, adults over 19 can bring and consume alcohol at the following beaches between 11 am and 9 pm:

  • Jericho Beach
  • Spanish Banks
  • Locarno Beach
  • Second Beach (Stanley Park)
  • Kitsilano Beach
  • John Hendry/Trout Lake Beach
  • New Brighton Beach

However, drinking alcohol will not be permitted at the following beaches, based on guidance from the Vancouver Police Department and the Park Board’s analysis of last year’s pilot:

  • English Bay Beach
  • Sunset Beach Park
  • Third Beach (Stanley Park)
  • CRAB Park Beach
  • Beaches along the Fraser River

This year’s program builds on findings from last year’s pilot. While much feedback from both the community and staff was positive, there were challenges, such as disorderly behaviour at English Bay and increased levels of garbage at beach sites, including Kitsilano Beach. Beaches pilot program.

To address these concerns, City Council approved additional resources and funding for this summer’s pilot. This year’s program includes more VPD members and Park Rangers on beaches, including English Bay, and an expanded communications campaign focusing on responsible behaviour when drinking at the beach.

The success of the Alcohol on Beaches program relies on beachgoers acting responsibly and considering others. Please avoid entering the water when intoxicated. Respect other beach users and help keep green spaces clean. Properly dispose of trash or take it away with you. When consuming beverages in parks and beaches, avoid bringing glass bottles or containers. Instead, use cans, reusable, plastic, or paper-based containers.

After this summer’s pilot relaunch, staff will review data and feedback to determine if legal alcohol consumption on Vancouver’s beaches can be implemented permanently or if further analysis is needed.

For more information on the Alcohol in Parks and Beaches program, visit vancouver.ca/alcohol-in-parks.

Photo by Levi Guzman on Unsplash

Fondue and Piano lounge opens in retro Kitsilano diner

Longtime Kitsilano breakfast and brunch spot Sunshine Diner now has an evening sibling. Inevitable Fondue and Piano Lounge opened in April, using the same space as the decades-old diner. Run by Jessica Pantsios and her husband, who has owned Sunshine for over 30 years, Inevitable introduces a new concept for the retro dining space. Fondue and Piano lounge.

“We turned the restaurant into a completely different platform. It’s a night-time vibe; it’s a completely different concept.” The concept, as the name suggests, features live piano performances each night Inevitable is open. The menu switches to small eats and fondue, both cheese and chocolate.

Previously, they tried opening Sunshine in the evenings, but Jessica says it was never successful for dinner service. Having enjoyed fondue in places like Whistler and noticing a lack of this warm, gooey Swiss dish in the city, they decided to pursue it. At the same time, there is a lack of live music in Kitsilano, Jessica notes.

Given that they both enjoy fondue and live music, and seeing an opening for something new in Kitsilano, they decided to create Inevitable as an evening counterpart to Sunshine.

“It’s this personal but unique and amazing experience we created together,” she says.

The name is personal, too. It comes from a comment Jessica made to her now-husband decades ago while they were dating.

“I told him it would be inevitable we would end up together,” she says, adding that they are married with two children.

They have partnered with local pianist Peter Tam on the music program. Sometimes he performs, and other times he organizes other performers. Fondue and Piano lounge.

Jessica says they have been surprisingly busy, though unevenly.

“We just want to make people happy and want them to come out,” she says.

Inevitable is open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each Thursday to Saturday at 2649 West Broadway.

Photo by angela pham on Unsplash

Kitsilano’s Best Patios

Kitsilano might be the best place to enjoy a patio in the summer, thanks to its proximity to the beach. Whether you want to take in ocean views or make a quick pit stop before heading to the shoreline, here are a few patios worth checking out in Kitsilano. Kitsilano’s Best Patios.

First, soak up the sun at Las Margaritas on the patio, which features some kitschy Mexican charm. While enjoying a slushy margarita, you can admire terracotta fixtures, blossoming flowers, and Mexican-inspired art. Plus, they offer one of Vancouver’s most extensive tequila menus.

Next, Romer’s Burger Bar on West Fourth is a must-visit. You can always tell when warm weather is coming because Romer’s starts to build out its patio. Impressively, they rebuild their patio every spring to utilize the parking lot next door. Need another reason to visit? This patio is famously dog-friendly.

Then, head to Chewies Smoke & Oyster Bar, a popular spot just a few blocks from the beach. Locals know Vancouver has a great selection of oyster bars, and Chewies is one of the best. Guests can enjoy freshly shucked oysters on the wrap-around patio for as low as $2 each during happy hour!

Additionally, the Boathouse is a Kitsilano staple, gloriously located right on the beach. Found on the second floor, the patio overlooks the shoreline, making it a great spot to watch folks stroll by, play beach volleyball, or take a cold plunge.

For a completely different vibe, visit Local, known for its casual beach atmosphere and famous oceanfront patio. Located across from Kitsilano Beach Park, this giant patio is a popular spot for group activities and lively evenings. Ski shots, mimosa towers, and party pitchers without glassware are just some of the fun options on the menu.

In conclusion, Kitsilano offers a variety of patios perfect for soaking up the summer sun and enjoying the beach atmosphere. Whether you prefer Mexican charm, dog-friendly spaces, fresh oysters, beach views, or lively group activities, Kitsilano has a patio for you. Kitsilano’s Best Patios.

Photo by Charlota Blunarova on Unsplash

Sneak peek inside The Pie Hole’s new Kitsilano location

Late last year, The Pie Hole announced it would close its Kitsilano location due to the landlord terminating the lease. Fortunately, the shop quickly found a new home just a few minutes’ drive from the original location. Now, as it gears up to open, we got an exclusive sneak peek inside. Sneak peek inside The Pie Hole’s new Kitsilano location.

Upon entering, the store’s interior bursts with retro flair. You’ll see old-school signs, neon lights, and a mural painted by owner Jenell Parsons. Furthermore, the decor exudes nostalgia, with much of the furniture recycled from previous storefronts. For instance, some countertops come from the now-closed Kitsilano location at 1864 W 4th Avenue, Vancouver. Additionally, some light fixtures hail from the original Fraser store. Consequently, these elements combine to create a brand-new store literally built from its previous locations.

Excitement fills the air as The Pie Hole prepares to open its doors on Sunday, April 21, at 9 am. To celebrate this special occasion, the first 100 customers will receive a free 4-inch pie with their purchase.

Moreover, the new location is ready to welcome pie lovers with its unique charm and delicious offerings. As you step inside, the retro vibe immediately transports you to a nostalgic era. Specifically, the vibrant neon lights and vintage signs create a warm and inviting atmosphere. One standout feature is the mural painted by owner Jenell Parsons, which adds a personal touch that reflects the shop’s character and creativity. Additionally, the recycled furniture and fixtures tell a story of the shop’s journey and commitment to sustainability.

The excitement continues with the grand opening celebration. Therefore, mark your calendars for Sunday, April 21, at 9 am. Arrive early to be among the first 100 customers and enjoy a free 4-inch pie with your purchase. This generous offer is a perfect way to start your day with a delicious treat from The Pie Hole.

In summary, The Pie Hole’s new location promises a delightful experience with its retro decor, recycled elements, and mouthwatering pies. Don’t miss the grand opening celebration and the chance to savour a free pie. Ultimately, The Pie Hole is ready to welcome you to its new home, where nostalgia and deliciousness await. Sneak peek inside The Pie Hole’s new Kitsilano location.

Photo by Alex Lvrs on Unsplash

Kitsilano Pool Opens June 4th

Vancouver’s scenic Kitsilano Pool is gearing up for a grand reopening. The Vancouver Park Board has announced that this beloved outdoor saltwater pool will open on Sunday, June 4. Repair teams are currently wrapping up their work, actively filling cracks and testing mechanical systems that a January 2022 storm damaged. Kitsilano Pool Opens June 4th.

The cool, wet conditions this spring delayed necessary repairs to Kitsilano Pool, requiring at least 10 consecutive days of dry, warm weather to ensure the fixes properly cured and set. Work finally commenced in late April. Once it reopens, Kits Pool will offer 2½-hour swim sessions throughout the day. Due to expected high demand, the Park Board recommends that swimmers pre-register online via Showpass. Reservations for swimming times open at 12 p.m., three days prior to the desired date. While the pool does accommodate drop-ins, securing a spot cannot be guaranteed.

In the meantime, both New Brighton and Second Beach pools are already open and welcoming guests. Maple Grove and Hillcrest pools are set to join them, opening on June 15. Prepare to dive into summer at Kitsilano Pool starting June 4th and relish one of Vancouver’s most beautiful aquatic settings. Kitsilano Pool Opens June 4th.

Photo by Veronica Dudarev on Unsplash

Snacks, Snacks, Snacks!

A new snack shop, Snack Pack, is setting up in Kitsilano at the former site of local chain Thirstyyy, located at 2204 W4th Ave. Thirstyyy, once widespread across Vancouver, has closed its doors, including this prime spot at the corner of West 4th and Yew Street. Signs already up hint at Snack Pack’s imminent opening. A business license application for Snack Pack is currently under review by the city. A new snack shop.

Previously, Thirstyyy operated several other locations, including 1789 Robson St. in the West End, 2253 W 41st Ave. in Kerrisdale, 3378 Dunbar St. in Dunbar, and 4517 W 10th Ave. in West Point Grey—all of which have now ceased operations. Interestingly, other convenience stores have quickly filled some of these vacancies. For instance, Milamoon took over the Kerrisdale location, while Snack Street launched last spring in the Dunbar spot. Meanwhile, the West End site has transformed into a barber shop.

Despite a series of recent closures, Thirstyyy continues to operate a vibrant outpost at UBC’s AMS Student Nest. As Thirstyyy gradually reduces its footprint, the stage is set for Snack Pack’s emergence. This fresh addition will introduce exciting flavors and unique experiences to Kitsilano’s diverse community. Anticipation mounts as Snack Pack prepares for its grand opening, promising to quickly capture the hearts of local snack aficionados. Be sure to watch for this shop’s debut, as Snack Pack aims to become a new favorite in the neighborhood. Ready to energize the local snack scene, Snack Pack offers a lively atmosphere with distinctive and appealing choices. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for what is sure to be an invigorating addition to local dining options.

Photo by Olga Kozachenko on Unsplash