Our Guide to a Great Time
Whether you’re looking to step back in time via famed—and famously narrow—alleyways, savour local flavours, or discover independent shops, galleries, and markets, we have you covered.
Cathay Living
Pass under the curved red dragon above the entrance to discover a shop filled with unique stationery, art, toys, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Your Chinatown experience won’t be complete without picking up a souvenir from Cathay Living.
Ugly Duckling
Inspired by the rich heritage of Chinatown and the wilderness of the West Coast, Ugly Duckling offers intimate fine dining with a focus on locally foraged and sourced ingredients. Best of all? The restaurant is located just next door to the hotel.
Vikki Drummond Art
Walk down Fan Tan Alley and you’ll encounter this talented artist’s studio and gallery (open for visits during regular business hours). Whether she’s painting women, fantastical creatures, or abstractions, Drummond’s works are alive with movement and awash with colour.
Loy Sing BBQ
This is the oldest continuously operated Chinese business in North America for a reason. Try the Cantonese-style BBQ duck, and remember to bring some cash; true to their roots, they don’t take cards.
More of Our Favourite Spots
Fan Tan Alley
The narrowest street in Canada, Fan Tan Alley is a vibrant collection of independent shops and studios.
The Turntable
Music lovers, take note: this Fan Tan Alley shop has been a go-to place to find rare records for over thirty years.
Fisgard Market
A Chinatown staple, this Chinese grocer stocks a wonderful variety of fresh produce, condiments, and snacks.
Silk Road Tea
This award-winning company is led by Daniela Cubelic, who trained under Chinese and Taiwanese tea masters.
Don Mee
For over 80 years, Don Mee Seafood Restaurant has been delighting guests with its daily dim sum lunch and lively atmosphere.
K & A Chinese Herbs Ltd.
For decades, this shop has stocked a wide range of herbs and plants for use in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Little Yunnan
Head here for a delicious bowl of crossing-the-bridge noodles, a delicacy from China’s Yunnan province.
Dragon Alley
Connecting Fisgard and Herald streets, Dragon Alley offers a mix of garden patios and small businesses to explore.
Ghost Ramen
An inviting space with great ambiance, Ghost Ramen is the place to go to enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen and a delicious cocktail.
McPherson Playhouse
When it opened in 1914, this theatre put on vaudeville shows. The heritage building has been through several renovations, but its commitment to great theatre is as strong as ever.