Commercial Drive is not only a unique neighbourhood and destination shopping district within Vancouver, but it's bucking the trend in North America towards homogenous shopping and dining experiences. Same place; different city might be familiar, but it's not very memorable.The 21 blocks of Commercial Drive from Venables at north end, to 13th Avenue at the south, over a mile long, are home to the most eclectic mix of businesses in the city. Of the more than 400 businesses on the Drive, the majority are single location, owner-operated, making our product mix, dining experiences, produce, entertainment and services completely unique.This neighbourhood repeatedly receives the Georgia Straight Reader's Choice award as the best neighbourhood in the City. We've also been ranked one of the 10 hippest neighbourhoods in North America by Utne Reader.Frequently described as Vancouver's Greenwich Village, or as creative and bohemian as Paris' Rive Gauche, Commercial Drive has experienced a resurgence of interest in restoring its heritage commercial and residential buildings.The circa 1900 Edwardian and Victorian homes were originally built to house Canadian Pacific Railway workers.more...See more text
As we get older and the years go by, it’s always nice to recall fond memories from our childhood and come across items that bring us back to those carefree, playful days. That’s exactly what happens when you step into the Commercial DriveLicorice Parlour: you feel just like a kid in a candy store! The shop opened in 2012 and specializes in imported licorice and hard-to-find retro candy that will transport you back in time. It’s no wonder adults make up about 95 percent of its clientele, according to manager Amanda Swan.
“A lot of people who grew up in Europe come in here and are really happy to be able to find licorice from back home,” Amanda explains. “And we carry a lot of nostalgic candies like Popeye cigarettes and Taffy. We want to garner some nostalgia from people by carrying items that remind them of their childhood.”
Liquorice, hula-hoops and gluten-free waffles might seem like an odd combination, but somehow it all comes together at this beloved confectionary shop on Commercial Drive. Owner Mary Jean Dunsdon (who goes by the nickname Watermelon) keeps her candy shop stocked with nostalgic treats: glass jars filled with colourful strings of imported liquorice, locally made hula hoops and house-baked quinoa waffles. Spend $25 at this sweet spot during the Shop the Neighbourhood event and you’ll receive a complimentary hot waffle with butter and maple syrup. Enjoy your waffle immediately or pick up a voucher to redeem it later.