By Vanessa Brazeau
The industrial area between Cambie and Main, just North of Broadway, is often overshadowed by the creative window displays of the unique and countless boutiques that sprawl these popular, high volume streets. But there are many hidden gems that exist on roads less travelled – the growing industrial neighbourhood from 2nd-8th, crossed by streets named after provinces, houses small cafés and restaurants built in the production lines of bakeries and food distributors. They are an economical way to reduce waste of excess product, and more importantly, feed starving bellies of warehouse labourers.

Those of us who are lucky enough to stumble off the main drags will meet ingredients often straight from the source, built in (ware)house, and simply passed through a door to the meal you’re about to order. Service is also exceptional- the catering company headquarters around the area offer the best examples of what they have to offer in their bistros for potential clients and those who are just curious.

Living between Cambie and Main and travelling between the two so often curiosity was bound to get the better of me at some point. There are some great spots worth mentioning, so if your in the area, follow the white rabbit into unknown territory and obey the eat me signs. These streets have grown on me as my new favourite part of Vancouver.

Argo Café (1836 Ontario Street @ 3rd): Open 7am-4pm Monday-Friday, it is obvious that this diner caters toward labourers in the area. It is confirmed by the dozen warehouse workers outside on break at any given time. Don’t confuse it with Agro Café in Gastown, this small town-style diner offers reasonable prices for traditional breakfasts, sandwiches and burgers for $5, and even a top sirloin steak with mash and veggies for $10. Because every work day deserves a break for steak.
www.argocafe.ca

Nuba (146 3rd Ave): With three locations on the go, this latest addition of Nuba has more of a take out feel with the décor screaming 70’s roadside café. On top of the same fresh ingredients, Lebanese fare and super good prices expected from Hastings St Nuba, they offer Middle Eastern baked goods, breads, pastries and organic retail products. This really is a hidden gem, if you’re not careful you may walk right by so keep your eyes peeled!
www.nuba.ca/third

Café Hermosa (4 7th Ave @ Ontario): Stop by for a coffee and a chocolate zucchini loaf for $2.75 on your way to study or relax in Jonathan Rogers Park.

The Edge Café (2450 Yukon @ 8th): A catering company with an in house café style restaurant, the edge features 49th Parallel coffee, Friday Backyard BBQ’s, full service weekend brunches and of course only their fresh ingredients made in house. Try the Asian Salmon Sandwich – $12 for amazingly cooked salmon in a spicy Asian BBQ sauce with roasted red peppers and sesame seeds. YUM.
http://edgecatering.ca/

Swiss Bakery (143 3rd Ave @ Quebec): The first time I came here I was super hungry and desperate. I didn’t think I was actually going to enjoy what I would be soon putting into my mouth. Thankfully I was mistaken. Swiss Bakery has some seriously amazing sandwiches made with the freshest bread and friendliest staff. On top of traditional baked goods, they live up to their name with fresh sausage rolls, and perhaps the best German style pretzel I have ever tasted. The Laugenwecken is a mini version if the Pretzel perfect for a snack, but if you’re real hungry, try the Pretzel BLT!
www.swissbakery.ca

Organic Lives (2nd Ave @ Quebec): Completely Raw and Vegan, everything is 100% organic and unaltered by any cooking process. Indulge in an Almond Vanilla Chai Smoothie or a Veggie beverage to give you energy for your trek up Main Street, or if you’ve already been and need a serious refuel, sit down for a taste of the Lasagnab. Nutmeg-Macadamia-Pinoli cheese, sun-dried tomato sauce, hemp basil pesto with zucchini flats and a caesar salad – yes please.
www.organiclives.org