Shopping Local in Upper Kitsilano

Looking for local spots to shop for dinner in Upper Kitsilano?

This stretch of West Broadway between Macdonald and Alma is filled with markets and bakeries that make cooking at home something to look forward to. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for a cozy night in or building a full spread to share, here’s my go-to “dinner loop” through one of Vancouver’s most charming neighbourhood pockets.

When we moved to Vancouver and I decided to start selling homes here, we didn’t choose Kitsilano because it made business sense. We chose it because it felt like home.

There’s a little pocket along West Broadway between Macdonald and Alma that’s pure magic — and for me, it’s the beating heart of Upper Kitsilano. My partner grew up just a few blocks away, and every time we pass Parthenon Market, he tells the same story about pressing his face against the glass counter as a kid, staring at rows of feta and olives. It never gets old.

Upper Kits (as locals used to call it, to distinguish it from Lower Kits by the beach) still has that neighbourly, old-school village feel. You can park once, wander a few hundred metres, and come home with everything you need for an incredible dinner.

Parthenon Market (3089 W Broadway) – Classic Greek Deli & Grocery

The second you open the door, you get that wave of oregano, olive oil, and cheese — it smells like comfort. Grab a block of their creamy Greek feta, a container of marinated olives, and some house-made pita or spanakopita from the deli. This place has been feeding Kits for decades, and you can feel the history in every bite.

Tip: They also carry beautiful olive oils and vinegars if you want to dress things up a bit.

Serrano Bakery (3141 W Broadway) – Fresh Bread & Greek Pastries

A relative newcomer, but already a neighbourhood favourite. The moment you walk in, it smells like honey and butter — dangerous in the best way. Pick up a few flaky spinach-and-cheese spanakopita for dinner, a fresh loaf of bread, and definitely a slice (or box) of their honey-pistachio baklava for dessert. You’ll thank yourself later.

City Avenue Market (3151 W Broadway) – Fresh Produce & Local Groceries

If you’ve been around Kits a while, you’ll remember this as Young Brothers Produce — same location, same great produce, just a new name on the sign. Their fruits and veggies are still some of the best in Vancouver. Load up on zucchini, cherry tomatoes, greens, and a bunch of fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Maybe grab a few local peaches or berries if they’re in season — something sweet and simple to finish your meal.

Broadway International Wine Shop (2752 W Broadway) – BC Wines & Pairings

Once you’ve got your dinner sorted, stroll a block east for the final touch. Broadway International Wine Shop is small but mighty, with a thoughtful selection of BC wines and local craft beverages. If you’re keeping things Mediterranean, grab a crisp white — or if roasted veggies are on your menu, go for a light red. The staff are friendly and always ready with pairing advice.

While You’re in the Neighbourhood…

Don’t miss the Hollywood Theatre (3123 W Broadway). The art-deco façade has been beautifully restored, and its neon sign lights up the street at night. Even if you don’t go in, stand out front for a minute — it’s a landmark that reminds you why Kitsilano feels timeless, even as it keeps changing.

Upper Kits Dinner Loop: Quick Shopping List

• Parthenon Market (3089 W Broadway): Greek feta, marinated olives, house-made pita or spanakopita

• Serrano Bakery (3141 W Broadway): Spanakopita, honey-pistachio baklava, fresh-baked bread

• City Avenue Market (3151 W Broadway): Seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs, local fruit

• Broadway International Wine Shop (2752 W Broadway): Crisp BC white or light red wine

Are You Hungry Yet?: The Naam on 4th

And if all this shopping works up your appetite, think about stopping at The Naam on 4th for a little something to tide you over until your dinner is ready! Just a short (downhill) walk from the Hollywood Theatre, The Naam is the city’s longest-running vegetarian restaurant, having opened back in 1968, born out of the hippie & counter-culture movement of the 1960s. It also has some amazing fries served with miso gravy - something I never new existed but I am so glad it does! Well worth the walk.

Why I Love This Little Corner of Kits

Upper Kits might not have the ocean views of Lower Kits, but it has its own kind of charm — local, lived-in, quietly vibrant. You can feel the layers of history here: the long-time grocers, the new bakers, the same families who’ve been shopping these blocks for decades.

For me, this is what home feels like — familiar faces, good food, and a few small rituals that make you slow down and savour the day.

If you end up recreating this dinner loop, let me know — I’ll raise a glass from Upper Kits.