40 BCers shout out their favourite small businesses in the province

We asked dozens of BCers a simple question: what’s your favourite small business in the province? There was only one caveat: the respondees, who we hand-picked and believe to be deeply invested in the province’s small business community in one way or another, couldn’t be financially affiliated with the business they chose. (And we threw in some editors’ picks for fun.) In all, we’ve got 40 small businesses that you should really check out sometime—if you haven’t already.

1. Brian Scudamore

Founder/owner, 1-800-GOT-JUNK?

Small Biz: Rain or Shine
Location: Vancouver

“Love their brand. Simple, fresh ingredients and consistently awesome ice cream. Also, I love the fact that one of the founders was a teacher at my kids’ elementary school years ago. She left to pursue the dream of entrepreneurship! Who doesn’t love ice cream?! Rain or shine, makes me smile. :)”

2. Tania Yan

Founder, Olive & Piper

Small Biz: Lezé the Label
Location: Vancouver

“Lezé the Label is one of my favourite small businesses! If you’re not familiar, they’re a women-owned company that creates super comfy (and effortless) workwear from recycled materials. I’ve been wearing their pieces for five years now: they’re easy and versatile, feel great and instantly make me look put-together. Beyond their products, I love how genuine their team is, how much they care about and listen to their customers, and how they support and elevate women through their community fund initiative. Plus, they’re so entertaining on social!”

3. Amélie Nguyen

Co-founder, Anh & Chi and Good Thief

Small Biz: Nooroongji Books
Location: Vancouver

“There are many neighbourhood gems in Vancouver and one of my favourites is Nooroongji Books, nestled in the Net Loft at Granville Island. As a child to Vietnamese refugees in the 1980s, I spent my childhood learning to read on my own. I found myself reading and watching a lot of fairy tales with light-haired, gorgeous blue- and green-eyed heroines, and always a male hero. Later in life, a lot later, I realized there is no one hero and it certainly doesn’t have to be a man. The hero could be your mom, your grandma, your teacher or neighbour—mine were all those things. Today, there is a growing selection of Asian stories and characters, with heroes of all shades and gender; it makes me so happy. Nooroongji Books is a multilingual bookstore run by Jennifer Kim that celebrates cultures and languages from all over the world. Jennifer is fun, spunky and a huge ambassador for representation. We are the big girls who wish we saw our little selves in books and films. And today, it’s starting to happen with little shops like hers.”

4. Michelle Sklar

Head of venture growth strategy and entrepreneur-in-residence, entrepreneurship@UBC

Small Biz: Eugene Choo
Location: Vancouver

“Eugene Choo on Main Street is one of my favourites! They bring in elevated brands from both local and international designers. When I’m shopping for a special occasion, this is my first and often only stop!”

5. Vanni Sartini

Head coach, Vancouver Whitecaps

Small Biz: Casereccio Foods
Location: Vancouver

“My favourite small business in town is probably Casereccio Foods, an Italian restaurant/café/pasta bar at the corner of Broadway and Vine. I really like the story of Alessandro [Cascia] and Simone [Tarallo], two young Italian immigrants who, during the difficult period of COVID-19, started this adventure with Maria [Clarkson], the more experienced of the trio in the restaurant business. Starting from scratch—like everything is done at Casereccio, from croissants to gelato—they learned how to make fresh pasta and started their business almost in silence. Without any enormous branding campaign but focusing on the quality of the product, through word of mouth and some deserved media recognition, the spot has become one of the must-visit places in the city if you want to taste real Italian food. Success hasn’t changed the humble and welcoming attitude of Simone and Alessandro. When you go to Casereccio, it feels like your friend’s café in a small Italian town where the good vibes and the good food make your day a better one.”

6. Fiona Forbes

Producer and contributor for The Morning Show on Global TV

Small Biz: Turnabout Luxury Resale
Location: Vancouver

“Anyone who’s met my mom knows that she has mad style. When I was a teenager, she introduced me to Turnabout Luxury Resale and I’ve been shopping and consigning my own clothes there ever since. They have a careful curation of luxury and contemporary brands and I’ve found some beautiful, memorable pieces there over the years. While I love shopping and keeping up with trends, I hate waste and try to be as responsible as I can be with my consumption. Consigning my own clothes and shopping preloved helps me get rid of some of my shopaholic guilt.”

7. Selena Woo

Vice-president, advisory services – associates & operations, Nicola Wealth

Small Biz: Wilet
Location: Vancouver

“Why do I love Wilet? We all need to prioritize rest, sleep and attention to self-care in today’s increasingly fast-paced world. Wilet, co-founded by Vivian McCormick, champions these essentials through their sleep, bathe and dine collections that are mindfully manufactured and crafted ethically around the globe, fostering relaxation and rejuvenation. They have built a brand that authentically celebrates community, with initiatives that include showcasing other entrepreneurs’ products in their storefront and providing opportunities for others to use their storefront to host intimate events that ignite connections  and promote giving back.”

8. Carol Liao

Associate professor, Peter A. Allard School of Law at UBC; UBC Sauder distinguished fellow

Small Biz: Kidsbooks
Location: Vancouver

“My favourite B.C. small business is Vancouver Kidsbooks, our neighbourhood independent bookstore. I love that feeling when I walk in with my three kids and we all disperse into the colourful stacks. Kidsbooks often hosts wonderful author events and is always changing the decor to celebrate holidays and feature different themes. It even has free gift-wrapping for those last-minute presents. Support your local bookstore!”

9. Shauna Harper

CEO, WeBC

Small Biz: Blume
Location: Vancouver

“A B.C. small business that I love is Blume, for its lattes and SuperBelly drinks. I started with their matcha lattes and lavender lattes because they were a healthy way for me to curb my coffee addiction. Now, more recently, I have been hooked on their SuperBelly mixes that are great for an energy boost but also for gut health, digestion and sleep. You can’t miss them at the store with all the beautiful colours of their branding and packaging.”

10. Ingrid Jarrett

President and CEO, BC Hotel Association

Small Biz: The Okanagan Table
Location: Kelowna

“I love the Okanagan Table. It’s your stop for culinary adventures and education as well as a place to support your local farmers and suppliers. Audrey [Surrao] and Rod [Butters] have been mavericks in the move to support local, culinary excellence and are so supportive of young chefs. With their marketplace, private cooking classes, weddings and events, the Okanagan Table is a wonderful pillar to the fabric of culinary tourism in the Thompson Okanagan region.”

11. Becky Brauer

Co-founder and co-CEO, Fresh Prep

Small Biz: Olove Greek Kitchen
Location: Burnaby

“I recently discovered Olove Greek Kitchen in my neighbourhood and it has swiftly become one of my favourite spots. The pandemic has taken a toll on many cherished local restaurants, making supporting these independent businesses more crucial than ever. Olove Greek Kitchen stands out with its welcoming atmosphere and a passion for fresh, high-quality food in every dish. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend stopping by.”

12. Keerit Jutla

President and CEO, Association for  Mineral Exploration

Small Biz: Benni & Co.
Location: Vancouver

“My dog, Rooney, wears their gear. We bought some at a store and one day, strolling around, the designer stopped us in the street and noticed it was her work!”

13. Gary Pooni

Founder, Pooni Group

Small Biz: Aidan’s Coffee & Food
Location: Vancouver

“I love Aidan’s, a small coffee shop located in our office building. The staff there are some of the hardest-working and most courteous in the city. The people at a small business are usually its strongest asset. It’s a wonderful way to start your workday, and I enjoy doing business with Aidan’s daily.”

14. TC Carling

General manager/COO, North Shore Winter Club

Small Biz: Delany’s Coffee House
Location: North Vancouver/Vancouver

“There are four locations and whenever we visit one it gives me and my family a sense of community. They do an excellent job of embedding themselves within the local communities and each of their locations is welcoming for all. In a highly competitive space, I believe Delany’s stands out as an extension of your home where you can meet friends or clients.”

15. Courtney Watkins

Co-founder, Mine & Yours

Small Biz: Circle Wellness
Location: Vancouver

“I love this business because I know that it started off as a passion project with one makeshift location in East Vancouver. Since then, it has expanded tremendously into a large operation on Granville Island with almost a one-year waitlist. It’s inspiring to see small businesses grow into medium- and large-scale companies. As a business owner who is looking to expand, I draw my energy from seeing other local businesses thrive! Circle Wellness is such a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. It’s a haven in the middle of the city.”

16. Royce Chwin

President and CEO, Destination Vancouver

Small Biz: Mink Chocolates
Location: Vancouver

“I’ve been visiting Mink for 18 years, since the day it opened. It has been my afternoon reprieve. The coffee is excellent; the chocolate is outstanding and makes for great gifts. And the staff is always welcoming and efficient.”

17. Sarah Goodman

President and CEO, B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy

Small Biz: Gatley Lifestyle Store
Location: Vancouver

“As someone who struggles with gift ideas, my go-to is Gatley Lifestyle Store on Commercial Drive. Whether I’m heading to a dinner party or looking for a holiday gift, I love their focus on sustainability and the variety of local products and independent brands. By shopping there, I’ve also discovered other local gems, like East Van Bees for great honey and Ladner-based Little b Confectionery for delicious hand-crafted salted caramels.”

18. Carol Lee

Chair, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation

Small Biz: Kissa Tanto, Bao Bei, Meo
Location: Vancouver

“Kissa Tanto, Bao Bei and Meo are beloved spots in Chinatown, thanks to the creativity and passion of Tannis Ling, Joël Watanabe and Alain Chow. Bao Bei blends traditional Chinese flavours with modern twists, creating a cozy, welcoming vibe. Michelin-starred restaurant Kissa Tanto offers an elegant mix of Japanese and Italian cuisine, while cocktail bar Meo brings a fresh, innovative touch to the neighbourhood. These restaurants enhance the rich culinary tapestry of Chinatown and significantly contribute to the community’s lively atmosphere.”

19. Paul Grunberg

Co-owner, Banda Volpi

Small Biz: United Strangers Coffee Shop
Location: North Vancouver

“Over the past five years, Christine and Joe [Reid] and the entire United Strangers crew have established themselves as the linchpin of our local community, creating a vibrant hub that brings people together. United Strangers Coffee Shop does an outstanding job of not only providing a welcoming space for everyone but also supporting small local businesses. Through their efforts, they have fostered connections, inspired collaborations and significantly contributed to the local economy. The impact they have had on North Vancouver cannot be overstated. They have become a place where people from all walks of life gather, share ideas and build relationships. It is rare to find such a dedicated team that works tirelessly to support and uplift those around them. They have created a community space that is invaluable, and their efforts deserve recognition and appreciation.”

20. Vedanshi Vala

Co-founder, BOLT Safety Society

Small Biz: Alpha D Hair Salon
Location: Vancouver/Richmond

“They say never reveal your beauty secrets, but I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to give a shout-out to one of my favourite hair salons: Alpha D Hair Salon. Owned and operated by Japanese hair-care professionals, the salon brings seasoned mastery in hair care to each customer. I find that the level of care and attention to service that they extend to every patron speaks volumes to Asian cultures of hospitality. The quality of the products they use and the technical finesse with which they cut and style hair leaves their clients feeling revitalized. I cannot count the amount of times I’ve visited the salon carrying the stress we all hold on our shoulders through the hectic lives we lead, and then feeling incredibly relaxed and refreshed the moment the stylist starts to wash my hair. As much as I’d like to keep it to myself, I do hope you visit.”

21. Adam Henderson

Co-founder, Superflux

Small Biz: Pete’s Meat
Location: Vancouver

“Pete’s Meat has super knowledgeable staff and high-quality products. It’s my go-to spot when I want a steak at home, or to BBQ something for friends and family. I’m not sure if there really is a ‘Pete,’ but either way, I can’t recommend them/him enough!”

22. Tara Bosch

Founder, SmartSweets

Small Biz: Blooming in Health
Location: Kelowna

“A small business that I love is called Bloom! I love it because their doughnuts are the most delicious doughnuts your tastebuds will meet—and they are low-sugar, high in protein and use all-natural ingredients. I’ve been a long-time consumer and only recently learned that it is founded by an amazing solo female founder—Alyssa Fletcher. I frequently clear out the shelves at Nature’s Fare, and I’m seeing them in more and more stores!”

23. Tina Strehlke

CEO, Minerva BC

Small Biz: The Kube
Location: Gibsons

“The Kube is an art gallery powered by two women: Jill Pilon and Jody Youngren. It’s located in Gibsons on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. I love this space because in addition to being a retail boutique that showcases West Coast and Canadian artists, they host events and create space to connect people, art and ideas.”

24. James Iranzad

President, Gooseneck Hospitality

Small Biz: Mish Mish
Location: Vancouver

“The small business I’d like to highlight and celebrate is a new Middle Eastern bakery that’s just opened on Fraser Street named Mish Mish. Owned by Leah Christ and Dallah El Chami, also partners at the brilliant Superbaba on Main Street, their warm hospitality is only matched by their genuine passion for the food and beverage they serve with care and love. I absolutely love when hospitality entrepreneurs channel their heritage into a contemporary application, navigating their way through honouring tested traditions and taking risks to bravely fulfill their own vision and creativity. Leah and Dallah have done that at Mish Mish, another thoughtful addition to its thriving neighbourhood and a perfect example of how astute developers can court strong retail operators and present enhanced mixed-use projects.”

25. Erin Seeley

CEO, YWCA Metro Vancouver

Small Biz: Tayybeh
Location: Vancouver

“Tayybeh is a women-led catering company with delicious Syrian food and an incredible story. The founder, Nihal Elwan, had the vision and determination to start this social enterprise in 2017 as a pop-up and has recently opened a restaurant in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighbourhood. The business has grown by employing and empowering newcomer women and by expanding the menu with amazing vegan and meat options. The chicken shawarma wrap is my go-to, along with the vegan date and sesame cookies. And the pita chips are addictive! (Pro tip: as a busy mom, I am happy to be able to order the pita chips through other great local companies like Spud and Fresh Prep).”

26. Doug Stephen

Co-owner, DownLow Chicken Shack, Vennie’s Sub Shop, The Drive Canteen

Small Biz: Moja Coffee
Location: Vancouver

“My current favourite small biz is the one I visit next; this city has so many great small businesses that really are the backbone of the creativity of the city… but if you’re going to paint me into a corner, I would say that I love visiting the crew at Moja Coffee. They’ve been so accommodating over the years and the coffee is outrageously good! They always create a great environment for us to bring our son into.”

27. Sharon Bond

Owner, Kekuli Cafe; board of directors, Indigenous Tourism BC

Small Biz: House of Himwitsa
Location: Tofino

“During my visit to Tofino, I visited the House of Himwitsa to check out the authentic Indigenous artwork and the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery, which was truly an authentic experience. The curation of local art connects me to the stories of the Nation, and they have the best selection of local gifts in the store, with everything from jewelry and mugs to blankets. It’s a must-stop location if you ever find yourself in Tofino.”

28. Nadine Boyd

Founder, Ever Amid

Small Biz: Althaea Herbals
Location: Nelson

“Althaea Herbals offers a unique blend of somatic therapy and custom herbal tinctures to support healing. They’ve been an instrumental part in helping me shed layers and discover how I want to be in this world. Many of their plants are grown and gathered in the Kootenays by Marie [Zak] and Travis [Cartwright], partners in business and life.”

29. William Johnson

B.C. lead, Startup TNT

Small Biz: Dovetail
Location: Vancouver

“All small business owners are heroes, which makes restaurant owners, in my opinion, superheroes. But that’s only part of why I love Yaletown’s Dovetail Restaurant and the people behind it. When you combine its tasty food, exquisitely made cocktails, lush design and suave staff, you get a very special place with an incredible vibe. It’s equally fit for both a casual night out or a celebratory meal.”

30. Yves Potvin

Co-owner, PICA, and founder, Gardein and Konscious Foods

Small Biz: Southland Floral
Location: Vancouver

“One of my favourite local businesses is Southland Floral in Kerrisdale. This family-run business has been a cornerstone of the local community for over 20 years. I’ve been a loyal customer for a long time, and the team there always offers great suggestions for in-season flowers. They craft stunning arrangements for when I want to spoil my wife or need something special for my company events. Their extensive collection of orchids is also impressive.”

31. Kate Bouchard

Founder, Loba

Small Biz: Lavoh
Location: Vancouver

“Lavoh is an eco-friendly solution to makeup removal. It’s a sustainable, soft and product-free facecloth that can replace up to 145 packages of disposable wipes! I was gifted a Lavoh at the launch of Revival—a vintage clothing store in Mount Pleasant—and was immediately impressed by both the product and Lavoh’s branding. I then had the opportunity to meet founder Eliza Trendiak, who created the company because she was tired of the waste created and the time it was taking to remove her makeup. Lavoh now hangs in my bathroom and is especially helpful when washing my face after an event or photoshoot.”

32. Olivia Lovenmark-Hay

Founder and CEO, Coupe Beverages, producer of Duchess Cocktails

Small Biz: Mine & Yours
Location: Vancouver

“One of my favourite small businesses in B.C. is Mine & Yours, founded and owned by Courtney Watkins. We know building a small business is challenging, but the journey is especially so when you fund your own growth. Layer on top of that the fickle nature of the fashion industry. But that’s exactly where Mine & Yours has found their sweet spot. With Duchess also being self-funded, I very much appreciate the consideration and strategy required for each stage of growth. Courtney’s mission in building Mine & Yours is inspirational, but her execution is where the magic is. She has incredible sources for gorgeous designer pieces, understands the luxury resale market deeply and merchandises her stores so beautifully. As someone who primarily shops consignment, I am in awe of her ability to consistently curate the best pieces. We’re so lucky to have her stores in Vancouver.”

33. Jeff Craik

President, Parq Vancouver

Small Biz: Veloholic Cycles
Location: Vancouver

“Veloholic is an amazing bike shop for the (very) dedicated cycling enthusiast. It’s a great example of a business where a passion for a product has created an outstanding customer experience. A very well merchandised showroom displays a carefully curated selection of the finest bikes and components from the best brands around the world. Plus, a professional service team ready to cater to the needs of the most particular customers.”

34. Malindi Taylor

Owner, Fanny Bay Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market and Fanny Bay Oyster Farm

Small Biz: Copperpenny Distillery
Location: North Vancouver

“I am recommending Copperpenny Distillery. They are incredibly passionate distillers with an amazing lineup of gins that have taken home some notable international awards in the last few years. Not many people know about Copperpenny, and its tasting room on the North Shore has such great cocktails. Definitely a hidden gem!”

35. Malania Dela Cruz

Vice-president, Nine Point Agency

Small Biz: Formula Fig
Location: Vancouver

“Formula Fig has created a cult-like following for their experience-led, science-forward facials… My favourite is the All-In Facial when I need a quick skincare pick me up. I love that they’ve expanded to Toronto and L.A. as well—both cities that I travel to frequently.”

Editors’ Picks

Anicka Quin

Editorial director, Canada Wide Media

Small Biz: Provide
Location: Vancouver

“Provide is one of those stores where, as soon as I walk into its sweet corner spot in the Armoury District, I start fantasizing: if I just had that handmade Cym Warkov vase, those lovely linen sheets from Last Light, that adorable iron bird from Saikai, my home—and my life—would obviously be perfect. I love discovering both the local talent and international design stars that owner David Keeler curates here, and the ideal-life fantasies that come with those discoveries are just a bonus.”

Nathan Caddell

Editor-in-chief, BCBusiness

Small Biz: Merci Boulangerie
Location: Vancouver

“My neighbourhood, roughly described as ‘where Commercial Drive turns into Commercial Street’ in Vancouver, is spoiled with excellent food options. But when, for my money, the best baker in the city finds a permanent bricks-and-mortar location a few blocks away, one feels especially blessed. Natalie Cumberbirch’s Merci Boulangerie is always packed and for good reason. From the morning buns to the delectable double-baked almond croissants to the best-in-class roulé jambon fromage and the impeccably baked loaves of bread, Merci always has me saying thanks.”

Rushmila Rahman

Associate editor, BCBusiness

Small Biz: Hooked on Fish
Location: Vancouver

“Hooked on Fish is that neighbourhood business that never gets old. Its prawn cakes are chunky and flavourful, its tuna poke light and delightful and its salmon patties the perfect lazy dinner. It’s the only fresh seafood shop in West Point Grey, and Hooked owner Cato Feige can always be seen with his hands full. And when he’s not in, sweet Mariana Trujillo is there to help customers with a smile. One fish is all it takes to fall in love with this place—but the trout keeps me coming back for more.”

Dani Wright

Managing editor, BCBusiness

Small Biz: Odd Society Distillery
Location: Vancouver

“When I first heard about Odd Society it was thanks to whispers of its incredible punch bowl option—you describe to your server a colour, a feeling, a vibe or a type of liquor (or all of the above) and soon a vintage-chic punch bowl, ladle and glasses are placed on your table. It’s different every time, but the East Van distillery never misses. Its rotating cocktail menu is top notch too, featuring the artisan, small-batch spirits they make in house. Those same spirits also make for fabulous gifts—just ask my partner’s parents, who have happily received the limited release maple rye whenever we can get our hands on it.”

Stacey McLachlan

Editor-in-chief, Vancouver magazine

Small Biz: Collage Collage
Location: Vancouver

“This colourful spot is the absolute best for snagging creative gifts for the budding artists in your life (kits for making magical unicorn mobiles, wooden robots and felt finger puppets are all slam dunks), and features a lovingly curated selection of fun stickers, craft supplies and beautifully illustrated picture books, too. My only complaint about this delightful Main Street space is that I’m too old for its art camps and classes.”