Top 10 Spots on Vancouver’s Commercial Drive
Often ranked as one of the coolest streets in the world, Commercial Drive, often called The Drive, is a vibrant neighborhood in East Vancouver. Once the heart of Vancouver’s Little Italy, it’s now a melting pot of cultures and filled with more thrift stores and Italian bakeries than I could count, with coffee shops, desserts, and people watching galore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover a beloved neighborhood, this walking guide will help you soak up the best of what The Drive has to offer. The walk starts just south of East 7th Avenue at North Grandview Highway, and head’s north.
My favorite spots
1. Fratelli Bakery
Pop into this old-school Italian bakery for cannoli, a slice of tiramisu, or a package of Italian wedding cookies for the road.
2. Cafe Soccavo
Next up, this classic pizza-by-the-slice joint is a neighborhood staple. Locals gather here to watch soccer, sip espresso, and enjoy a quick bite. It’s no frills but the pizza is delicious!
3. Studio Full Bloom
Next door, you’ll find a flower and home goods shop that is as beautiful as it is fragrant. Even if you’re not in the market for a bouquet, it’s worth a peek as the display are inspiring (and because there’s no shortage of clothing shops in Commercial, you can grab some apparel too!).
4. Spartacus Books
Check out of Vancouver’s longest-running volunteer-run bookstores. Their selection includes new and used books, zines, and a great collection of local authors, which is my favorite section.
5. The Bunny Café
At the north end of the strip near Venables Street, turn left and you’ll find one of the most whimsical stops on this walk. This cozy cafe doubles as a bunny adoption center. You can sip a coffee while petting real bunnies!
6. Slice of Life Gallery
Just steps away, this is a hybrid coworking space, art gallery, and shop featuring local artists. Check out the rotating exhibits or pop into one of their events if you’re lucky with timing. They also have a popular instant polaroid machine.
7. Uprising Breads Bakery
This community favorite offers a $5 tea-time happy hour and a selection of classic baked goods. The warm and welcoming interior has lots of plants and a warm, local vibe.
8. The Raven’s Veil Gift Shop
A bit hidden but worth a detour, this shop carries mystical, nature-inspired gifts and home goods. Perfect for a one-of-a-kind souvenir (albeit sometimes macabre or a bit woo-woo) with special teas, spell books and tarot sets.
9. Bump N Grind Café
Loop back south along Commercial Drive to this hybrid cafe and thrift shop. Sip coffee while browsing secondhand gems—the perfect mix of caffeine and curiosity. The black ceiling and string lights gives an interesting galactic vibe.
10. The Flamingo Room
Tucked beside Havana Vancouver, this tropical-themed speakeasy is accessed via a side door and staircase. Inside, you’ll find lush decor and a cocktail menu that matches the ambiance. It’s the perfect way to close out your day on The Drive.
Notable Runner’s Up
These restaurants and shops are delicious and fun in their own right, they just aren’t quite hidden gems (in fact, one spot below has a Michelin Bib Gourmand!). Still, a stroll along the Drive isn’t complete without mentioning these excellent institutions.
11. Grounds for Coffee
Start your walk just south of East 7th Avenue at North Grandview Highway. Your first stop is this beloved local chain famous for its cinnamon buns. Fresh, gooey, and generously frosted, they’re big enough to share—though you may not want to.
12. Elephant Garden Creamery
Right next door is this inventive gelato shop, known for small-batch flavors that change often. If you’re visiting on a warm day, it’s a perfect first taste of what the Drive has to offer.
13. The Fish Counter
A few doors down, stop here for some of the city’s best fish and chips in a no frills ambiance.
14. Sweet Cherubim & Eternal Abundance
Heading further north, these two side-by-side vegetarian and vegan eateries offer delicious options. Eternal Abundance doubles as an organic market, while Sweet Cherubim leans into Indian-inspired comfort food.
15. The Lunch Lady
This Vietnamese eatery has received national recognition and was originally inspired by a legendary food stall in Vietnam, once spotlighted by Anthony Bourdain. The founder sadly passed away in May 2025, but her legacy continues through the restaurant’s standout dishes.
15. Sula Indian Restaurant
A few blocks down, Sula offers flavorful Indian cuisine in a warmly decorated space. A great stop if you’re looking for a cozy dinner to end your walk, this place was ranked one of the best Indian chain restaurants in all of Vancouver.
In Conclusion
This walk captures just a slice of what makes Commercial Drive special. From cinnamon buns to art spaces to speakeasy cocktails, The Drive invites you to slow down, explore, and connect. Don’t sleep on this area of Vancouver that is a favorite among locals. I also must mention how many thrift shops there are on Commercial Drive. If you are looking to go thrifting, I visited over 10 different shops with various types of apparel, home goods, and even furniture on offer. You can really spend a day thrifting and exploring this gem of a street.
