Developing an Economic Vision for Strathcona
A little more context
Strathcona is known as a unique urban industrial district, thanks to a diverse mix of commercial uses and zoning options, its proximity to the downtown core, and the existing array of businesses and mixed-use assets in the area. Different competing socio-economic factors and business trends present future challenges and opportunities for Strathcona. These range from tremendous development pressure, the loss of industrial lands, affordability of both residential and commercial spaces, sense of safety, and the condition of the public realm, to name a few. A strong economic vision and implementation plan will help ensure the Strathcona BIA plays an effective role in industrial and commercial lands protection and attracting investment in both established and emerging industry clusters to the district.
Project Timeline
We plan to achieve this work in three phases, involving engagement with our membership along each step of the way.
Phase 1 – Setting a Baseline
Summer 2022
In this research and analysis phase, we’ll gain an in-depth view of the current state of Strathcona as an urban industrial district. We’ll identify political, socio-economic, and technological drivers, and determine trends impacting future opportunities and threats relevant to the economic development of our district. In this phase we will engage with both subject matter experts and Strathcona BIA members through focus groups and one-on-one interviews, as well as conduct a zoning assessment and asset mapping of the district to identify community strengths and resources.
Phase 2 – Developing the Vision
Fall 2022 – Spring 2023
In this phase we’ll determine the key directions for a local economic development vision for Strathcona as an urban industrial district. The vision will take into consideration everything we learned in phase one, along with municipal and regional priorities around industrial land uses, emerging key industry clusters, critical success factors, and identified challenges and barriers. This phase will also focus on in-depth engagement and feedback from Strathcona BIA members through a range of online and in-person activities. Ultimately we also want to articulate Strathcona BIA’s role and responsibility in the implementation of a long term economic development vision for the area, and the benefits for both existing and future businesses of the district.
Phase 3 – Implementation Planning
Spring 2023 – Summer 2023
The implementation plan of the economic development vision will define key objectives and the strategies and programs required to achieve those objectives. The implementation plan will define a timeline and budget for the work, areas that may require new investment, important strategic partnerships, and key performance measurement indicators.
Do you have further questions or want to get involved?
Please reach out to our Executive Director Vincent Kwan at vincent@strathconabia.com with any questions you may have or if you wish to contribute your input on the project. We look forward to working with SBIA members from all sectors to shape the future of Strathcona.
Upcoming Events in Strathcona this Summer
Summer is here! We are thrilled to see a full lineup of events in Strathcona happening this July and August. We can’t wait to get out into the sun and enjoy our neighborhood.
A few of Strathcona’s annual favourites are making their in-person return after a hiatus and some events are brand new to the neighbourhood. Rest assured, all of the events coming up are a great opportunity to experience local music, vendors and workshops right here in Strathcona. You’ll find something for everyone.
Keep reading for more info on what’s coming up next.
Upcoming Events in Strathcona
Create! Arts Festival
July 23 & 24
10am – 5:30pm
Strathcona Park
From the producers of the Eastside Culture Crawl Festival comes a new and innovative art-making event, the CREATE! Arts Festival. CREATE! Arts Festival is a new community initiative of the Eastside Arts Society bringing together local artists and the community to explore, learn and create art together through a series of affordable and accessible art workshops and a public-participation art installation. Attendees of all ages will learn how to create art such as block printing, felt making, glass blowing, ceramics and painting from Eastside artists in a safe and comfortable outdoor space this summer. Register in advance for workshops here!
Powell Street Festival
July 30 & 31
11am – 7pm
Oppenheimer Park
Powell Street Festival is one of the largest and longest-running community arts festivals in Canada, located in Vancouver’s historic Japanese Canadian neighbourhood, Paueru Gai – today known as the Downtown Eastside.
This year’s Festival returns to Oppenheimer Park and the surrounding Paueru-Gai neighborhood, located on the unceded territory of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh people.
There will be a full array of programming over the weekend to celebrate Japanese Canadian arts and culture including: live music, dance, theatre performances on multiple stages, delicious Japanese food booths, martial arts demonstrations, children’s programming, ikebana, community booths, a sumo tournament and an annual lottery.
Powell Street Festival’s return to the park celebrates the resilience of the community and the strong relationships with the current residents of the neighborhood.
Learn more about the festival here.
Vancouver Mural Festival
August 4-14
Citywide
Vancouver Mural Festival returns August 4 to 14 with eleven days of block parties, mural tours, talks and more. This festival is an annual outdoor celebration of public art designed to connect, reflect and celebrate our diverse communities through art and live events.
Be sure to come discover murals old and new in Strathcona. Find all the details of the newest murals landing in our neighbourhood as part of the 2022 festival by downloading the VMF App and learn about mural locations and featured artists.
Or why not take a guided tour! Coming with an all new tour for this year, the Strathcona Mural Tour presented by Herschel Supply and led by DeTours will focus on the old industrial area in the north east of the community, taking in over 20 stunning pieces of artwork across a variety of styles. Find tour times and book your ticket in advance here.
MakerLabs Summer Social
August 13
3pm – 8pm
780 E Cordova St
On Saturday, August 13 from 3pm to 8pm all are welcome to come by MakerLabs for a free open house event to celebrate summer! This event is an opportunity to see what MakerLabs has to offer, tour the space, meet makers, and participate in making activities and game stations while enjoying music, food, and drinks.
Schedule of events include Member Show and Tell, tool demos, tours of the facility at 4pm and 6pm, live painting of six mural panels, outdoor games, music, and DIY making activities!
The event is run in collaboration with HUB Cycling’s Bike to Shop event. The first 50 visitors that cycle to the event will have the opportunity to paint and take home a free laser cut coaster.
Register for the MakerLabs Summer Social in advance here.
Bike to Shop
Aug 18 – 21
Citywide
From August 13 – 21, 2022, local businesses in neighbourhoods across Metro Vancouver are offering amazing freebies and sweet deals for people biking to their businesses.
Registration is 100% free. Let’s show our businesses and decision-makers how important cycling is for local businesses and for the community. Register now at bikehub.ca/biketoshop.
And stay tuned for more information on participating businesses in the Strathcona neighbourhood closer to the event date! Businesses interested in taking part can sign-up here.
Summerlights Festival
August 20
2pm – 9pm
876 Cordova diversion
Performances from The Zolas, Desirée Dawson, Sleepy Gonzales, The Jins, Jenny Banai, IAMTHELIVING Johnny Payne and dwi.
With a roster featuring some of Vancouver’s most prominent musical acts alongside rising homegrown talent, Light Organ Records is celebrating its 10th anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, the label is excited to announce the inaugural installment of Vancouver’s newest city festival. With two stages, licensed bar, food trucks, art installations, a vendor market and digital graffiti wall there is plenty to experience. ‘Summerlight’ features the best Indie music, alt fashion & progressive art, the only thing missing is you!
Purchase tickets here.
Monstercat Compound Block Party
August 20
2pm – 9pm
380 Railway St
Back for its 5th year, Compound is a one-day, all-ages street festival that is completely free to attend! Brought to you by Monstercat, an independent Electronic music label with its headquarters in Railtown, proud to celebrate the spirit of art & community with this homegrown Vancouver celebration!
You can expect 2 stages of live music (including the Westwood Recordings stage), art installations, interactive games & activities, merchandise, food, drinks, and much more! To enhance your experience, check out the Premium Pass option which delivers prestige vantage points & facilities at the event.
Free RSVP here!
9 of the Best Patios in Strathcona to Soak in the Summer Sun
Summer has finally arrived – here’s where to grab the perfect patio spot in Strathcona.
After a wet and gloomy winter in Vancouver, we deserve to soak in every sunny moment this summer. Take in the vibes at one of Strathcona’s amazing patios.
From cafes to breweries to tapas there is no shortage of unique and delightful patio spaces. We’ve got all the info you need on the best spots in Strathcona including our personal food and drink recommendations below.
Luppolo Brewing Company
1123 Venables St
Hours: Tues – Thurs 2-9pm | Fri – Sat 2-10pm | Sun 12-9pm
Things to note:
- Heated and covered
- Table service with pizza
Must Try:
Tart Wild Ale with Citrus
The Heatley
696 East Hastings St.
Hours: Sun – Tues: 4pm – 12am
Wed – Sat: 4pm – 1am
Things to note:
- Partially covered
- Dog friendly
Must Try:
Nachos and a margarita
Rise Up Marketplace
704 Vernon Dr. St
Hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm
Sat – Sun: 10am – 4pm
Things to note:
- Dog friendly
- Counter service only
Must Try:
Jerk Chicken Sandwich and a Ting
Container Brewing
1216 Franklin St
Hours: Mon, Tue, Wed 2-8pm | Thus – Fri 2-9pm | Sat – Sun 12-9pm
Things to note:
- Partially covered
- Pet-friendly
- Burdy’s Food Truck on-site daily
Must Try:
Burdy’s Chicken Parm Sandwich and a Frozen Fresh Hop IPA
Superflux Beer Company
505 Clark Dr
Hours: Wed – Sat 12-10pm | Sun-Tues 12-9pm
Things to note:
- Heated and covered
- Pet-friendly
Must Try:
Coconuts beer and a Mac Dog.
Strathcona Beer Company
895 East Hastings St
Hours: Mon – Sun 12-10pm
Things to note:
- Open in all weather
- Partially covered
Must Try:
Hawaiian Pizza and a Strath Lager
VV Tapas Lounge
957 East Hastings St
Hours: Wed – Fri: 11:30am – 2:30pm / 5 – 10pm
Sat: 5 – 10pm
Things to note:
- Partially covered
- Happy Hour 4-6pm and 9pm to close
Must Try:
Wild Mushroom Risotto and an Unsworth Rosè
Coastal Eden Cafe
643 East Hastings St
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8am – 4:30pm
Sat: 8am – 2pm
Things to note:
- Limited seating
- Dog Friendly
- Counter service only
Must Try:
Creamy Chocolate Smoothie and a Grilled Cheese
Axum Ethiopian Restaurant
1279 East Hastings St
Hours: Mon – Fri: 12pm – 10pm
Things to note:
- Open in all weather
Must Try:
Vegetarian platter
Call For Nominations 2023
Call for Director Nominations
The Strathcona BIA Board of Directors actively works to build a thriving, mixed-use, and resilient local economy here in Strathcona. We are currently seeking business members with particular experience and skills in governance and marketing. Members with a diversity of experience and interests in areas like placemaking, local economic development, community safety, HR, and a passion for Strathcona, are also encouraged to apply.
How we work
The Board can have between 8 and 12 directors. Following the 2022 AGM, the Board is currently made up of 11 board seats, and this number of directors will be confirmed at the 2023 AGM by a members’ resolution. All directors must meet the needs and expectations of the role and responsibilities as outlined in the Election Guidelines. There are seven director seats up for election in 2023 (five directors have terms ending in 2023 and there are two vacancies on the board).
The length of a term for an SBIA Board Director is two years. Our meetings take place monthly for one and half hours over lunch and are currently hosted in person. Board Members can be property owners, business tenants, or an authorized representative of an SBIA member property or business. Property owners must make up the majority of the Board per SBIA bylaws.
How to apply
Interested members can download the SBIA Candidate Package here or call the SBIA office to request a paper package for mail out. All candidate packages must be completed and received either by email or dropped off in person at the SBIA office, no later than noon on July 17, 2023. All candidates are subject to the Election Guidelines (as laid out in your candidate package). Candidates are also required to comply with the procedures governing the nominations as set by the Elections Commitee. The Elections Committee is requiring that all candidates meet with a member of the Elections Committee and the SBIA Executive Director over Zoom or in-person in order for their nomination to be valid.
SBIA office: 1220 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC, V6A 1S6
Hours: 9:30AM – 4:30PM Monday to Friday
Email: info@strathconabia.com
Phone: 604-285-2727
Meet The Brewers: Settlement Brewing
The brewers at the Settlement Building are a close-knit team of creative individuals who are passionate about brewing.
And it shows in their work. The Settlement Building is home to Belgard Kitchen, Vancouver Urban Winery, and craft brewery Settlement Brewing, offering a whole lot of delicious beverages that are made in-house.
What some may not know is that they not only brew their own carefully crafted beverages but they also offer to brew for other businesses that don’t have the facilities themselves.
This small but mighty team has some very unique and admirable qualities – read about their story below.
Tell us a bit about your team and what makes you unique.
A solid team starts from the ground up. Our brew crew all started here as part-time cellar hands, and Adam (Production Manager) and Ksenia (Brand Manager) have worked for the building for several years. When Travis took the wheel of the brewery there was no way we could picture it without Natalia in the brewhouse, and we collectively agreed that Kat was the best fit for our team. We have been very lucky about onboarding the right people, as we work very closely together. We’re all growing and learning together at the same time, building each other up to make the best beer possible! It makes the work environment so enjoyable when you love the people you work with – this team is definitely something special!
What is something about your business that you’re proud of?
Our brewery is one-third of our brand collective at the Settlement Building, sharing the space with our sibling restaurant, Belgard Kitchen, and winery, Vancouver Urban Winery. Our business is so unique in that way, and together we can create such a special experience for our guests.
We were also recently awarded Silver at the Canadian Beer Awards for Natalia’s Belgian Witbier (Elder Moon), a huge proud moment!
What makes the Strathcona neighbourhood special to you?
Strathcona is full of artists, designers, and makers; there is so much creativity tucked in every little corner. It makes for such an inspiring, supportive and creative environment to work in. And, we have to give props to our fellow breweries – every one of them is making great beer!
How does your work impact or engage with the community?
We always strive to create a space where our community feels welcome and at ease, whether they live or work in the area, or are first-time visitors. There’s nothing better than seeing folks enjoy our beers!
We work closely with Mealshare, providing meals for youth in need through their “buy one, give one” program (come eat a Belgard Burger!!). We have also supported the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre by raising funds and collecting donations through our “Boot Force” Double IPA release for International Women’s Day. Plus, we have to mention the opportunities the BIA provides for us to support our community through activations like Dine Railtown / Dine Strathcona.
Finally, we recognize that we are settlers on this land, so proudly include a territory acknowledgement on all of our beer cans, and on our menus.
What are the top-recommended Settlement Brewing beers?
We can’t pick! They are all great!
‘Portside’ Pilsner is definitely a go-to for our team. Our ‘Good News’ Hazy Pale Ale is a best seller at Belgard, and our ‘Tranquilo’ Lime Lager absolutely flies at our sister restaurant, Havana Vancouver.
And, we can’t forget about our award-winning ‘Elder Moon’!
Interested in meeting more Strathcona makers? Learn more about Birdies, Scavenger Coffee, Orii Jewelry, Yardi Grabz, Living Lotus Chocolate and Awesome Sauce Designs.
Here are 3 June Events Happening in Strathcona
It’s that time of year! Block parties, outdoor gatherings and special events are in full swing for June 2022. We’re so excited to welcome the warm weather in Vancouver just in time for outdoor events and celebrations. Strathcona is the place to be for some exciting community events in June.
Continue reading for all the details on the June events happening in Strathcona.
Upcoming Events in Strathcona
Whether you’re looking for a local pop-up with food, drinks and vendors or a block-party collaboration of neighbourhood businesses, keep reading because we have something here for everyone.
Celebrate Strathcona
Saturday, June 11th
12pm – 4pm
Strathcona Park
Celebrate Strathcona is a community event to be held in Strathcona Park on Saturday afternoon, June 11, 2022. The idea is to provide all Strathcona residents with an opportunity to connect, discover and celebrate our diverse community. After two years of CoVid, we could all use a chance to have some fun together.
Celebrate Strathcona will have three parts: Eat, Discover, and Celebrate.
Eat (12-1 PM)
A mass picnic (imagine a down-home diner en blanc without the dressing). Residents (or small groups) will bring their own picnic baskets and blankets (and maybe something culturally unique to share with neighbours on a potluck table). We will close down Hawks, set up tables and invite several food trucks.
Discover (1-3 PM)
Workshops, tours and activities are sponsored, organized and run by local groups. So far, we have evolving plans for the following:
- A Scavenger Hunt by the Strathcona Community Policing Centre
- A Skateboard Workshop by the Park Board skateboard team
- A Soccer Workshop by the Vancouver Whitecaps coaches
- Garden tours and workshops in gardening, orchard trees, beekeeping, and the wetland project by the Strathcona and Cottonwood Community Garden, EYA and Erthhand Gleaners.
- Hands-on art activity by the Eastside Arts Society
- A Community Air Quality Awareness booth by the Port and the SRA Air Quality Monitoring Project
- A wils eagle info booth.
- Info table by the Working Group for Indigenous Food Sovereignty
- Pedestrian safety obstacle course sponsored by ICBC
- Collaboration station by RecTrek.
Celebrate (3-4 PM)
Live music from Rhumba 7 and dancing.
Crafts & Draughts Patio Party
Saturday, June 18th
1pm – 6pm
Container Brewing, 1216 Franklin Street
Celebrate summer with a Small Business Patio Party at Container Brewing.
This is not just a pop-up, this free event will have a curated list of vendors, including both local businesses and artists coming together over tasty craft beer and food, plus a live DJ outdoors…what could be better?
Okay, it got better…the patio has views of the North Shore mountains.
Shop small, drink craft – there will be no shortage of good times!
Follow @craftsanddraughtspatioparty on Instagram to get updates on the event.
Visit the ticket link here to claim your free ticket!
Strathcona Block Party
Saturday, June 18th
12 – 5pm
800 Block of East Hastings
Enjoy music, food trucks, art activations, local businesses, and treats at this family-friendly event to celebrate the community of Strathcona.
A community celebration for all ages!
First 200 attendees will receive a free event tote (1 per family/group) to use to shop the block.
You’re encouraged to RSVP in advance for the event here.
Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Strathcona Brewery Week
Strathcona Brewery Week is a week-long showcase to celebrate the thriving brewery scene in Strathcona.
June 6 to 12, everyone is invited to come experience Strathcona breweries, win prizes, and discover what Strathcona has to offer.
From June 6 – 12 the Strathcona BIA presents Strathcona Brewery Week, a week-long celebration of our thriving brewery scene here in Strathcona. Beer lovers and adventure-goers alike are encouraged to stop by one of our top-notch breweries, grab a drink, do some brewery trivia, and discover some of the best fun that the Strathcona neighbourhood has to offer.
With some of Vancouver’s best local breweries participating, including Superflux, Strathcona Beer, Luppolo and more, you’re sure to find an incredible IPA or luscious lager to satisfy your taste buds. Each one of Strathcona’s breweries has a unique and inviting environment and plenty of food and drinks to keep your spirits high.
Here are a few ways we’re celebrating this wonderful sector in Strathcona.
Brewery Trivia & Giveaways
Win a couple of beers on us by taking part in our Strathcona Brewery Week Trivia! Test your local brewery knowledge and fill out our Strathcona Brewery Trivia to be entered to win one of 20 $20 gift cards to participating breweries. You’ll also find access to the quiz through a QR code when you visit participating breweries. Increase the stakes and challenge your friends – lowest score should get the next round, don’t you think?
Grand Prize Giveaway with Do604
We’ve partnered up with Do604 for a grand prize giveaway valued at $250. Win five $50 gift cards to participating Strathcona breweries and have yourself the most incredible brewery hop of the summer! All you have to do is head to the contest page to enter.
Get the inside scoop on the latest beers and events
Joe Leary and Rick Mohabir from the “Just Here for the Beer” radio show and podcast caught up with brewers in Strathcona for a dedicated show in celebration of Strathcona Brewery week. The podcast will be shared here during Strathcona Brewery Week. Have a listen and get the latest scoop on the exciting beers and awesome events our local breweries have coming up that you don’t want to miss.
And finally, follow along @madeinstrathcona for feature videos and stories from our breweries all week long.
Plan your Strathcona Brewery Week Itinerary.
See participating breweries below. Cheers!
Container Brewing
Where: 1216 Franklin Street
About: Industrial-chic brewpub with a two-level tasting room and lounge, plus one of the best outdoor brewery patios in the city. Munch on eats from the Burdy food truck, including their legendary Chicken Parm sandwich.
What We’re Sipping: Frostbite. This Frozen Fresh Hop Cold IPA combines the smooth drinkability of a lager with the sharp hoppy impact of an IPA. Ultra clean and crushable.
Coming Up: On June 18th Container Brewing is hosting an outdoor patio party featuring a ton of small businesses, makers, and artisans. This is a free event where you can take part in enjoying local craft beer, food, and vendors all in one spot. Visit the ticket link here to claim your free ticket!
Luppolo Brewing
Where: 1123 Venables Street
About: Your home away from home in the East Van brewery district. Enjoy their craft beers and delicious food – including incredible pizza by Mordimi Bite of Italy – in a warm and welcoming environment. The cozy outdoor patio is not to be missed.
What We’re Sipping: La Piazza. This Italian Pilsner is brewed with 100% pilsner malt and dry-hopped with a moderate dose of Hallertau to create a balance of malt sweetness, a floral and resinous hop profile and balanced sweetness. Enjoy it in the traditional “slow pour” style.
Coming Up: Keep an eye on their Instagram for event announcements. Most Wednesdays you’ll find live music in the tasting room, always free and all ages!
Hastings Mill Brewing
Where: 403 E Hastings Street
About: A classic pub atmosphere, you’ll find a great selection of quality classic pub food that’s affordable, tasty beers brewed onsite (the original pub has been brewing in Strathcona since 2006!), and warm and friendly service.
What We’re Sipping: Pat’s Classic Lager. This is the original brew from 2006, one of the earliest Vancouver craft brews. A crisp, easy-drinking, Vienna style lager that always satisfies.
Coming Up: Keep an eye on their Instagram for event announcements. Over the years they’ve been home to a fabulous jazz live music scene.
Settlement Brewing
Where: 55 Dunlevy Avenue
About: Brewing from the historic Settlement Building, this brewery is a place of collaboration, innovation, and fermenting friendships. Enjoy their beers at neighbouring Belgard Kitchen, or pick-up beers to-go from their retail shop. Beer, wine, ciders – they produce it all here, so there are no shortage of delicious beverages to keep you coming back.
What We’re Sipping: Elder Moon. This Belgium Witbier just won an award at the Canadian Brewing Awards, and is the zesty, floral, refreshing brew that your summer needs.
Coming Up: We like to hit up Settlement Brewing for Happy Hour Tues-Fri 3pm to 6pm, or Monday for ALL DAY happy hour!
Strathcona Beer Company
Where: 895 E Hastings Street
About: World-class brewery right in the heart of Strathcona. The brewery focuses towards traditional European styles, global IPA styles, fruit beers, radlers and seasonal offerings. Their gourmet pizza is a neighbourhood favourite!
What We’re Sipping: Imperial Love Buzz Strawberry Rhubarb Sour. An Imperial Sour Ale made with generous amounts of strawberry, rhubarb puree, with a touch of Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla and lactose. For fruit and tart lovers, this is the ticket.
Coming Up: Can’t get enough of the Love Buzz series? In anticipation of summer three new flavours are launching soon, including Love Buzz Guava Lemon, Imperial Love Buzz Five Alive, and Love Buzz Peach Pineapple.
Superflux Beer Company
Where: 505 Clark Drive
About: The newest brewery to open in the Strathcona area, and already a go-to top choice for many. They’re known for their finely crafted IPAs, dry hopped beers, and eye-catching branding. Their unique food menu of gourmet hot dogs, salads, and fun snacks will keep you intrigued and satisfied. Enjoy beers from their luxurious
What We’re Sipping: Coconuts. An IPA with loads of freshly toasted coconuts added. Heavily dry hopped with Citra and Vic Secret hops. A heavenly combination that you should definitely get your hands on when available!
Coming Up: New beer releases left, right, and centre! Keep an eye on their Instagram to stay up to date with the latest.
ABOUT THE STRATHCONA BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (SBIA)
The Strathcona Business Improvement Association (SBIA) operates on the unceded territories of the xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. It extends from Clark Drive in the east, Gore Avenue in the west, Venables Street in the south and Railway Street in the north. The SBIA employs staff and is governed by an elected Board of Directors made up of business members from across the community. Our vision is for Strathcona members to thrive in a mixed-use, inclusive, resilient and prosperous local economy. 1220 East Hastings Street, Vancouver BC V6A 1S6 | 604-258-2727
Become a fan of /StrathconaBIA on Facebook and follow @StrathconaBIA on Twitter and @madeinstrathcona on Instagram for more Strathcona Brewery Week stories and features.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Strathcona Business Improvement Association
Johanna Lauyanto | 604-258-2727 | johanna@strathconabia.com
Meet The Maker: Birdies
Andres Zapata and James Mieu are the creators behind Birdies, a Peruvian-inspired ghost kitchen serving up succulent chicken and sides from their commissary space in Strathcona.
Birdies is a new project that sprouted from the duo’s catering venture, Oui Chef Catering. Serving up delicious chicken, sides and their specialty beverage chicha, Birdies’ recipes have been meticulously developed drawing from the pair’s experience working in high-end restaurants both here in Vancouver and abroad.
Hoping to expand their menu soon, Birdies’ simple menu is anything but ordinary. Their birds are beer-brined for a day before they’re drenched in a pepper marinade and grilled on flaming hot charcoals. Their fries are spiced to perfection and their chimichurri and sauces will no doubt have you coming back for more.
Learn more about the founders of Birdies below and find their menu online through Doordash.
Tell us a little bit about your brand and what you do.
Birdies Charcoal Grill specializes in serving barbecue-style chicken using true-to-style techniques from various global gastronomic cultures. Our initial menu consists of a Peruvian-style charcoal chicken known as Pollo a la Brasa that gets served with aji criollo (a Peruvian amarillo pepper sauce), chimichurri, and chicha (a Peruvian purple corn drink created by the Andean community). We wanted to use Birdies as a way to highlight our culinary backgrounds while serving the community something unique and delicious. As we continue with Birdies we will add more flavours and styles to our menu paying homage to our heritage and the local Vancouver food culture.
How did your love for cooking begin and when did you decide to turn your passion into a business?
My love for cooking began when I was a child growing up in Lima, Peru. Everyone in my family loves food and knows their way around a kitchen so I guess it was something that was meant to be. I grew up watching and helping my family members in the kitchen during family dinners creating a passion that has been with me my entire life. I remember as a child going to various food markets with my parents and spending hours picking out the right produce, fish, meat, and other ingredients in order to create memorable family meals. As I got older I decided to switch careers and finally pursue my kitchen dreams which took me on a long journey of learning and working long hard hours in restaurants in order to attain the skills needed to succeed in the food industry. However, those kitchen dreams were upended at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020 when I had to cancel all my plans to work in notable restaurants in Latin America. This, however, was an opportunity for change so I partnered up with James and after a series of successful private dinners we did together we decided to open up our first business; Oui Chef. Our experience with Oui Chef has been positive and eye-opening, allowing us to get more hands-on experience as business owners while sharpening our creative skillsets as chefs. After a year and a half in business, we decided that we wanted to break into the ghost kitchen market so we opened up Birdies as a way to make an impact with a well-developed menu that reflects our personal cooking style.
– Andres
My love for food began when I started to help my parents out at their butcher shop at the age of 12. I would spend days after school in my younger years around the shop learning how to prepare for the customers during the week. This eventually carried through until I completed high school. It was then I decided to work as a dishwasher at a local restaurant. This was the catalyst that made me pursue the culinary arts. Since then I have worked in various restaurants back in my hometown of Melbourne, Australia and now abroad in Vancouver, Canada. Once the pandemic hit I felt this was the opportune moment for me to do something totally different and actually use the things that I have learned from working in the kitchen into something of my own. I met Andres in 2018 working in the same restaurant and realized we had the same passion for food and decided to team up to start our own little food venture.
– James
Where in Strathcona are you based and what makes this neighbourhood special to you?
We are located in the B3 Collective Commissary Kitchen on the corner of East Hastings Street and Vernon Street. Strathcona has been an ideal environment for us. There are a lot of creative and cool small businesses around the neighbourhood which gives us vision and confidence for future growth. We love the hard-working energy of our colleagues in our commissary kitchen as well and are lucky to be a part of a supportive small business community.
How does your work impact the community?
Since we are still pretty new our impact hasn’t been too deep. Asides from offering tasty treats we hope that over time we will grow to become a known part of the community. We are always interested in engaging in local events and promoting our working neighbourhood.
Where can we find you?
You can find us at the B3 Collective, on Instagram @birdiesyvr, and on DoorDash.
Interested in meeting more Strathcona makers? Learn more about Orii Jewelry, Yardi Grabz, Living Lotus Chocolate and Awesome Sauce Designs.
A Directory of Automotive Businesses Operating in Strathcona
A directory of automotive businesses currently operating in Strathcona.
Strathcona is one of the best areas in Vancouver for auto services. There are many businesses in Strathcona dedicated to the automotive industry that provide services ranging from vehicle repair to motorcycle retail to taxi services.
We’re shedding light on our auto community with a directory of Strathcona businesses dedicated to cars, trucks, and automobiles. Strathcona is the place to come for any of your auto needs. If you’re looking for vehicle repair and regular maintenance, check out one of the auto repair shops below. You’ll also find several auto body shops that specialize in bodywork repair after a car accident. If motorcycles or electric scooters are your thing, you can find businesses here that sell, repair, and offer maintenance for scooters and motorcylces.
If you are an automotive business in Strathcona and would like to be added to the list please contact info@strathconabia.com
Art's Auto
Auto repair shop specializing in good & honest auto repair. Government certified Red Seal technicians.
675 Clark Dr
Avenue Auto Glass
ICBC-approved Glass Express facility that produces your glass claim in shop.
636 Clark Dr
Ben Auto Body
Auto repair shop on Clark Drive.
526 Clark Dr
Commit Auto Body
ICBC Express Valet shop. Offers free estimates and courtesy cars.
1043 Union St
Damon Motors
High-performance electric motorcylces that recharge you. Motorcycles that adapt to you, to the traffic, and every heart-pounding road you ride.
704 Alexander St
Daytona Motorsports
#1 Powersports Dealership in British Columbia. Authorized Suzuki, Yamaha & Zero Motorcycle Dealership.
837 E Cordova St
Gin’s Auto Service Ltd
Gin Auto Service Ltd serves automotive vehicles, and they can help when you need it.
696 Clark Dr
H K Auto Repair Inc
Icy Cool Automotive Services
Icy Cool is a full-service automotive repair center with over 20 years hands-on experience in Lower Mainland.
530 Clark Dr
Imperial Autobody
Committed to auto repair and to serving you with quality and value.
1281 Frances St
LK's Kar King Auto Sales & Repairs
Auto repair shop servicing mechanical, electrical, glass and body repairs to your vehicles.
758 Alexander St
Lordco Auto Parts
Convenient shopping options and in-store experts for specialized requests. Get the help you need at your local Lordco Auto Parts.
882 E Cordova
Mr. Lube
Soares Auto Repair
Auto repair shop. Soares Auto is your local specialist in Vancouver for any brake repair, tire change, oil change, and they perform car repairs and regular maintenance.
1283 E Hastings St
Vancouver Auto Center
Independent local automotive repair shop on the corner of Hawks Avenue and Powell.
794 Powell St
Vancouver Taxi
Taxi service in Vancouver. Vancouver’s first accessible taxi company features modern up to date comfortable vehicles that accommodate most mobility devices.
790 Clark Dr
Vespa Metro Vancouver
