In a vibrant effort to mark its growing Latin community, Vancouver is promoting a newly designated area as Canada’s inaugural “Mexican Barrio,” just in time for the FIFA World Cup. This initiative, spearheaded by the Gastown and Hastings Crossing Business Improvement Associations (BIAs), highlights Mexican-owned enterprises, including restaurants, barbershops, and cultural spaces, amid a backdrop of increasing Mexican immigration to the city.
Celebrating Cultural Growth
A detailed map available on the Gastown BIA website outlines 19 businesses that make up the Mexican Barrio, which is defined by Cambie Street to the west, Powell and Water Streets to the north, Pender Street to the south, and Gore Avenue to the east. According to Landon Hoyt, executive director of Hastings Crossing BIA, the initiative is not about rebranding the area but rather celebrating the flourishing presence of Mexican-owned businesses. “Neighbourhoods change, and we’ve seen this rise in Mexican-owned businesses too, and so there’s an opportunity to celebrate that,” he stated.
Rafael Trujillo, owner of NAHUAL Cannabis located on West Hastings near Abbott Streets, originally proposed the concept. Reflecting on his arrival in the area, he described it as “really difficult” and likened it to a “skid row.” After spending three years developing his retail space before its opening in June 2025, Trujillo witnessed a gradual influx of Mexican shops into the community. Today, Hoyt notes that there are around two dozen Mexican businesses operating in the vicinity, with the Mexican Barrio prominently featured on new wayfinding signs around the Last Mile FIFA area near BC Place Stadium.
Community Reactions
The response from residents has been mixed. Some see the initiative as a positive development, while others express concerns about the challenges the area still faces. Oscar Montal, who relocated from Mexico three years ago, remarked, “I think it’s a good place… maybe for the people doing the drugs it’s not good sometimes, but it’s fine, I like it.”
Conversely, a long-time resident of the Downtown Eastside, Vince (who chose not to provide his surname), voiced scepticism. “As soon as they (tourists) turn into this area, they’re stunned, they don’t know where to go or what to do… I don’t think Mexican Barrio is going to bring them over,” he commented, suggesting that the surrounding issues of drug use could detract from the Barrio’s appeal.
Business Perspectives
Dona Vicky Mexican Food, which recently took over the space previously occupied by Calabash Bistro on Carrall Street, has expressed optimism about its new location. The restaurant, which began as a weekend pop-up, has been operational seven days a week since March, ahead of the World Cup. Pamela Dominguez, daughter of the owner, expressed enthusiasm about the timing, stating, “I think that’s perfect for the World Cup. New people that (are) coming, more authentic Mexican food, yeah, I am excited.”
Positioned as “a little piece of Mexico in the heart of Vancouver,” Dona Vicky and its contemporaries are eager for visitors to explore the Mexican Barrio and experience its culinary offerings.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the Mexican Barrio represents not just a celebration of cultural diversity in Vancouver but also highlights the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit within immigrant communities. As the city prepares to welcome global visitors for the FIFA World Cup, this initiative could serve as a pivotal moment for local businesses to thrive while simultaneously addressing the socio-economic challenges that persist in the area. By fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange, Vancouver is carving out a unique identity that resonates with both residents and tourists alike.
