In a vibrant initiative aimed at celebrating the growing Latin community in Vancouver, a small intersection between Gastown and the Downtown Eastside is being promoted as Canada’s inaugural “Mexican Barrio.” This endeavour, spearheaded by the Gastown and Hastings Crossing Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), showcases a diverse array of Mexican-owned establishments, from restaurants to cultural spaces, in anticipation of the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
The Birth of Mexican Barrio
After a soft launch several months back, the concept of Mexican Barrio has gained traction, with a map on the Gastown BIA website highlighting 19 businesses within its borders. The area 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. Hastings Crossing BIA executive director Landon Hoyt emphasised that this initiative is not about rebranding but rather celebrating the community’s evolution. “We’re not trying to rebrand anything, but neighbourhoods change, and we’ve seen a rise in Mexican-owned businesses,” he remarked.
The idea for Mexican Barrio was originally proposed by Rafael Trujillo, the owner of NAHUAL Cannabis on West Hastings near Abbott Streets. Trujillo recalled the difficulties faced when he first arrived in the area, describing it as a “really hard” environment. “Since we arrived here, it was a really difficult area, really hard, the skid row basically,” he stated. However, after three years of hard work and preparation, he observed a shift as more Mexican shops began to open, leading to the formation of this vibrant cultural enclave.
A Diverse Business Landscape
Currently, Hoyt noted that the number of Mexican businesses in the area has grown to two dozen, a testament to the community’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. The Mexican Barrio is now prominently featured on new wayfinding signage around the Last Mile FIFA area, located near BC Place Stadium. “Since our community started to come and we’ve been working with Landon and Hastings Crossing BIA, there’s been a big change,” Trujillo explained.
This shift has not gone unnoticed by local residents, who have expressed mixed feelings about the burgeoning Barrio. Oscar Montal, who relocated to Vancouver from Mexico three years ago, shared his positive perspective: “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, Vince, a long-time resident of the Downtown Eastside, voiced concerns about the area’s challenges. “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,” he cautioned.
Local Businesses Gaining Traction
At the heart of the Mexican Barrio’s appeal is Dona Vicky Mexican Food, which took over the space previously occupied by Calabash Bistro in the 400-block of Carrall Street. Having started as a weekend pop-up, the restaurant now operates daily, anticipating the influx of FIFA fans. “I think that’s perfect for the World Cup,” said Pamela Dominguez, the owner’s daughter. She expressed enthusiasm for introducing more authentic Mexican cuisine to new visitors. “New people that are coming, more authentic Mexican food, yeah, I am excited.”
Dona Vicky is emblematic of the hope and excitement that businesses in the Mexican Barrio hold for the future. The initiative aims to create a “little piece of Mexico in the heart of Vancouver,” encouraging exploration and appreciation of the cultural richness that these establishments offer.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the Mexican Barrio is significant not just for the businesses involved, but for the broader community as well. As Vancouver gears up for the FIFA World Cup, this cultural initiative has the potential to foster greater understanding and appreciation of the city’s diverse Latin heritage. In a time when urban spaces are constantly evolving, the recognition and celebration of such cultural enclaves can contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant cityscape. As visitors and locals alike discover the flavours and traditions of the Mexican community, it may inspire further initiatives to uplift and celebrate various cultures within Vancouver, ultimately enriching the city as a whole.