The holiday season is the perfect time to support the local businesses that make Hastings Crossing such a vibrant, creative, and resilient community. Whether you’re shopping for the foodie, fashion lover, or experience seeker in your life, we’ve put together six meaningful, locally sourced gift ideas to help you find something special — while supporting the neighbourhood.

Coffee for the Caffeine Lover

Hastings Crossing is home to some of the best coffee spots in the city, each with its own vibe, flavour profile, and story. Gift cards, beans, or merch from local cafés make easy, thoughtful presents for coworkers, teachers, or that friend who’s always caffeinated.
Try:
Nemesis, Prado, Saunter, East Van Roasters, Estratto, Café Duello, Bean on Hastings, Tim Hortons, Social Crust, Buns & Beans, New Amsterdam, Waves

 
The Cutest Fit — Local Fashion Finds

From curated vintage to stylish new pieces, our local boutiques make it easy to find a unique holiday outfit (or the perfect gift for someone else!).
Shop:
157 Moments, Community Thrift & Vintage, Model Express, Mr. Big & Tall

Saan Saan Café’s GF Holiday Cookie Box

A showstopper for holiday gatherings.

Saan Saan Cafe has launched stunning gluten-free Christmas cookie boxes, featuring 21 handcrafted treats and 5 limited-edition flavours including:
• Vanilla Matcha Checkerboard
• Pecan Snowball
• Black Sesame Caramel
• Dark Chocolate Ginger Molasses
• Milk Chocolate Orange
• Cranberry Corn Bar
• Strawberry HK Milk Tea Thumbprint

A delicious, nostalgic gift inspired by family, heritage, and connection. Order on their website here!

A Mexican Cuisine Experience

Give the gift of flavour! Hastings Crossing has one of the richest collections of Mexican-owned restaurants in Vancouver. Treat someone to a night out — or build a gift basket with gift cards from your favourites.
Options include:
Cielito Lindo, Sabina Mexican Food, Mexican Stop, La Playita, Holy Torta, Doña Vicky, Tequila Lounge, Santo Taco, Cuchillo

And be sure to check out everything the Mexican Barrio has to offer!

East Van Roasters Chocolate That Gives Back

Handmade chocolate and coffee from East Van Roasters directly support women in the Downtown Eastside through employment training and social enterprise programming.
This is a gift that tastes good and does good. Order online here or pickup in-store at 319 Carrall Street.

A Swordplay or Archery Adventure at Academie Duello

For the friend who loves unique experiences — gift a class, workshop, or adventure session at Academie Duello.
Think: sword fighting, archery, knight training, and more.
A perfect pick for teens, adults, and anyone who loves trying something new.

Get your gift certificate online here!

Give Thoughtfully. Give Locally.

When you shop in Hastings Crossing, you’re supporting local jobs, social enterprises, family-run restaurants, and creative small businesses that make our community what it is.

Thank you for choosing local this season — it truly makes a difference.