In an exciting development for Vancouver’s cultural landscape, a new initiative has designated a portion of the city as Canada’s first Mexican Barrio, coinciding with the upcoming FIFA World Cup. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Gastown and Hastings Crossing Business Improvement Associations (BIAs), aims to showcase the growing influence and presence of Mexican-owned businesses in the region. With a burgeoning Latin community, the area has seen an influx of restaurants, barbershops, and cultural hubs that reflect the vibrant heritage of Mexico.
A Welcoming Community
Located at the intersection of Gastown and the Downtown Eastside, the Mexican Barrio is bordered by Cambie Street to the west, Powell and Water Streets to the north, Pender Street to the south, and Gore Avenue to the east. The Gastown BIA has produced a map that highlights 19 businesses within this newly defined area, showcasing the rich tapestry of Mexican culture that is now part of Vancouver’s identity.
Landon Hoyt, executive director of Hastings Crossing BIA, emphasised that the initiative is not about rebranding but rather about acknowledging the evolving character of the neighbourhood. “Neighbourhoods also change, and we’ve seen this rise in Mexican-owned businesses too. There’s an opportunity to celebrate that,” Hoyt remarked, indicating a recognition of the community’s organic growth facilitated by local non-profits and social enterprises.
The Vision Behind the Barrio
The concept of the Mexican Barrio was originally proposed by Rafael Trujillo, owner of NAHUAL Cannabis on West Hastings near Abbott Streets. Trujillo shared his experience of moving into an area that was once considered challenging, stating, “Since we arrived here, it was a really difficult area—really hard, the skid row basically.” After three years of preparing his retail space, Trujillo noted the gradual increase in Mexican enterprises, culminating in the establishment of the Mexican Barrio.
Hoyt confirmed that there are now approximately two dozen Mexican businesses in the vicinity, with new wayfinding signage installed around the Last Mile FIFA area near BC Place Stadium to guide visitors. “Since our community started to come and we’ve been working with Landon and Hastings Crossing BIA, there’s been a big change because in the beginning, it was a big challenge,” Trujillo added, reflecting on the transformative journey.
Mixed Reactions from Residents
As the Mexican Barrio begins to take shape, local residents have offered varied perspectives on the initiative. Oscar Montal, who relocated to Vancouver from Mexico three years ago, expressed optimism: “I think it’s a good place. Maybe for the people doing drugs it’s not good sometimes, but it’s fine, I like it.”
Conversely, some residents remain sceptical about the Barrio’s potential to attract tourists. Vince, a 30-year resident of the Downtown Eastside, voiced concerns about the area’s challenges, stating, “I don’t think Mexican Barrio is going to bring them over… while across the street people are doing drugs—it’s just not going to work; you have to clean the whole area up.”
Culinary Excitement with Dona Vicky
Dona Vicky Mexican Food, which recently took over the space previously occupied by Calabash Bistro, is one of the new establishments eager for the World Cup influx. Initially starting as a weekend pop-up, the restaurant has now expanded its hours to serve customers daily since March. Pamela Dominguez, the daughter of Dona Vicky’s owner, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, saying, “I think that’s perfect for the World Cup. New people that are coming, more authentic Mexican food, yeah, I am excited.”
Promoted as a “little piece of Mexico in the heart of Vancouver,” Dona Vicky and other local businesses are hopeful that visitors will explore the newly minted Mexican Barrio and appreciate the cultural offerings it presents.
Why it Matters
The establishment of Canada’s first Mexican Barrio not only enhances Vancouver’s cultural diversity but also fosters economic growth within the community, particularly as the city prepares to welcome an influx of tourists for the FIFA World Cup. By recognising and celebrating the contributions of Mexican-owned businesses, Vancouver is not only preserving cultural heritage but also promoting inclusivity and community engagement. This initiative may well set a precedent for other cities across Canada to recognise and celebrate the diverse cultural fabrics that contribute to their identity.
