The Patio Series feat. New Westminster
The Patio Series feat. New Westminster
TransLink and HUB have teamed up to highlight patios across Metro Vancouver as part of the Patio Series. In this post, we’re checking out what New Westminster has to offer.
In June, New Westminster residents witnessed restaurant and pub patio extensions pop up and the installation of additional parklets (seating where cars used to park) throughout the city intended to support business recovery efforts. “The City of New Westminster is committed to maintaining and improving upon a quality, people-centred public realm, as doing so supports vibrant, active and healthy streets, which in turn has a positive impact on local business and the community as a whole,” said a report to council.
We spoke with Jorden Foss from Steel & Oak, who was able to convert two parking stalls out front of the brewery into a parklet patio space with four dining tables. Not only did the new space help business, but it also made street life better for everyone.
“The patio has likely saved our summer business during COVID as it has allowed people to be outside rather than in our cozy tasting room. It has also made our space more accessible as it has widened our sidewalk and made more space for folks in wheelchairs or people with strollers,” he says.
Jorden adds that the percentage of people who get to Steel & Oak on foot, bike and transit has increased since the pandemic.
“About 60 per cent of our customers arrive on foot and we now get a lot of cyclists on the weekend. They love that they can ‘monitor’ their bikes outside while they sit and have a beer. It’s been a game changer for us.”
Getting there
Bike the BC Parkway and make an adventure of it or sit back on the Expo Line and go check out some of New Westminster’s parklets and patios.
Steel and Oak, 1319 Third Avenue
As the days get shorter Steel and Oak have installed some lighting so you can enjoy the patio while still being able to see what beer you have in your hand or who is sitting across from you.
Another Beer Co Brewing, #11 – 30 Capilano Way
ABC brewing love bikes, you can even watch your bike while enjoying a cold one on the patio. Their patio is also covered.. So patio season can continue into the Fall!
Kozak Ukrainian Eatery, 444 6th Street & 5077 Victoria Drive, East Van
Enjoy some homemade Ukrainian grub and enjoy their space outdoors!
Craft Café, #105 – 810 Quayside Drive
Brunch, coffee and water views on Craft Cafe’s patio
Have you visited all the parklets yet?
- Uptown, in front of 708 6th Avenue
- Downtown, in front of 550 Columbia Street
- West End, in front of 621 12th Street –
- Uptown, intersection of Belmont and 6th Streets, adjacent to 524 Sixth Street
- Sapperton, in front of 459 East Columbia Street
