VC09 - Strathcona

La Casa Gelato is a neighbourhood institution with over 218 flavours of gelato and sorbetto (some more tempting than others), and waffle cones made on the premises. On summer days, the picnic tables on the adjacent patio are packed with seniors, newly arrived hipsters, and sugar-buzzed kids. 1033 Venables St., 604-251-3211.

Pick up incredibly well-priced prepackaged sushi, sashimi, and nigiri from Fujiya. All the standards are here, plus a few new favourites, like the Fujiya roll: a concoction of tuna, salmon, avocado, and cucumber, lashed with mayo ($5.95). 912 Clark Dr., 604-251-3711.

Au Petit Chavignol is the latest entry in Vancouver’s burgeoning cheese-and-charcuterie scene, this one from Allison and Alice Spurrell of Les Amis du Fromage fame. Exceptional goat, sheep, and cow cheeses are organized into tasting flights, accompanied by shaved-to-order salumi from nearby Moccia’s (see Hastings-Sunrise), and a well-considered wine card. Bravo! 845 E. Hastings St., 604-255-4218.

Ouno Design’s Sarah Gee and Lindsay Brown refashion vintage textiles and eco-friendly fabrics into striking cushions, handbags, and throws. New line of sustainable leather bags coming soon. By appointment, 636 Keefer St., 604-216-1103.

The Wilder Snail is a throwback to a time when people converged at the corner store. This modern version has organic produce and groceries from mostly local suppliers, plus a coffee counter and sandwich case. 799 Keefer St., 604-216-0640

Union Food Market mixes basic staples with traditional Portuguese fare and freshly made baked goods; the cinnamon buns are killer. 810 Union St., 604-255-5025.

Heritage Vancouver put the distinctive red-and-cream Heatley Block on its 2009 endangered sites list, noting its significance as the city’s last remaining wood-framed, combined retail and apartment block on East Hastings. The two houses that share the block were constructed in 1889 and 1898, and are among the oldest in the area. 684 E. Hastings St. and 405–419 Heatley St.

STATISTICS

Average age - 47
Residents per block - 64
Percentage of renters - 84
Median household income - 31,640
Typical household - Singles

REAL ESTATE MARKET PLACE

611 Prior St.
$639,000
{Maintenance Fee} $599.25
{Specs} 1,969 sq. ft., 5 bed/3 bath and legal suite; needs updating