Story perspectives

Vancouver Names First Mexican Barrio, Highlights 19 Shops

6/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Vancouver announced the Gastown-Downtown Eastside intersection as the city’s first Mexican Barrio after a proposal by Rafael Trujillo, NAHUAL Cannabis owner.
The Gastown and Hastings Crossing improvement areas highlighted 19 Mexican-owned eateries, barbershops and venues.
Dona Vicky opened in March on Carrall Street, replacing Calabash Bistro.
Business improvement area (BIA) director Landon Hoyt said the move celebrates the community, though resident Vince warned nearby drug activity could hurt its appeal.

History

Historical Context

In 1930 Los Angeles transformed the decaying Plaza into Olvera Street, a market that now draws nearly two million visitors annually and opened on Easter Sunday, later praised as one of the nation’s “Great Streets.” That preservation model now guides Vancouver’s Gastown-Downtown Eastside Mexican Barrio, where entrepreneur Rafael Trujillo and BIA director Landon Hoyt are launching 19 Mexican-owned venues to echo the historic-district success.

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Story summary

Vancouver announced the Gastown-Downtown Eastside intersection as the city’s first Mexican Barrio after a proposal by Rafael Trujillo, NAHUAL Cannabis owner.
The Gastown and Hastings Crossing improvement areas highlighted 19 Mexican-owned eateries, barbershops and venues.
Dona Vicky opened in March on Carrall Street, replacing Calabash Bistro.
Business improvement area (BIA) director Landon Hoyt said the move celebrates the community, though resident Vince warned nearby drug activity could hurt its appeal.

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