Explore Central Lonsdale and our “Persian Trail”
Located within a 10-block strip along Lonsdale Ave, this area has blossomed into a vibrant Persian Community! Offering an array of tantalizing eateries, shopping delights, and specialties reminiscent of the Persian Gulf, it promises to leave you enchanted with its flavors and sounds.
Established at the foothills of the picturesque North Shore Mountains in the late 1980s, this flourishing community has woven its wonderful traditions and culinary experiences into the fabric of the area. As you stroll through these blocks, you’ll hear the melodic tones of Farsi and encounter signs in the same language. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee from charming cafés and the allure of Persian shops will beckon you on your journey from Keith Road to approximately 21st and Lonsdale.
Be sure to take a moment to unwind at the Civic Plaza on 14th street, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere of this thriving and expanding community. Indulge in some Ayoub’s Dried Fruits and Nuts while enjoying the vibrant ambiance—a taste of “home” for many Persians who frequent the area.
As you ascend the trail, you’ll be greeted by delectable kabobs, fragrant curries, and irresistible breads and sweets. The Persian Trail options in Central Lonsdale are sure to not only tantalize your taste buds but also transport you to the culinary delights of the Middle East!
Persian Restaurants:
Kolbeh Restaurant rate with a 5-star rating on Trip Advisor
Mehman Restaurant sharing favorites from the Persian Gulf
Yaas Grill a long time favorite on Lonsdale with mouth watering kabobs
Cazba located a short walk in on the East side of Lonsdale on 16th Street with affordable, large portion meals
Zeitoon will offer you Persian delights including fesenjoon (chicken & walnut sauce)
RUMI House will offer menu selections dating back 15 centuries.
Grab & Go Begirobab will allow you to pick up some amazing kabobs, reasonably priced and enjoy along the many parklets on Lonsdale Avenue.
Specialties:
Amir Bakery will draw you in with fresh bread smells wafting into the street. Taftoon, lavash, barbari, 100% whole wheat bread and 100% oat bread await you. Family operated for over 30 years on Lonsdale Ave and loved by so many!
Laleh Bakery is a Persian bakery with offers traditional cookies, cakes, pastries, nuts and seeds in bulk, including Persian foods. Venturing off the west side of Lonsdale and 14th Street is most definitely necessary!
Rex Bakery located on 16th Street the west side of Lonsdale Ave. You’ll find many Persian special housewares, as well as delicious specialty deserts and ice creams. How about a meal at Cazba and cross the street for some sweets to make your experience memorable!
Ayoubs Dried Fruits & Nuts, made by hand, in small batches and always fresh. Their first store began on Lonsdale and is now sought after at 5 locations across the lower mainland.
Persia Food Products has an amazing selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. Here you will not only find the fresh foods, but the specialties you’ll want to take home with you so you an try your own hand at cooking some favorites you’ve tried along the way!
@levelfood
Absolutely! Here’s more to explore:
For grooming needs, head to Kings Hair Salon, where Dariush reigns as the “King” of cuts on 19th and Lonsdale. With over 30 years of professional styling experience for both men and ladies, it’s the go-to spot for award-winning cuts. Treat yourself to a self-care day with a visit to one of the many hair salons and nail bars in the area.
If Persian carpets pique your interest, a stroll down West 15th Street will lead you to Shansi Carpet. Hossein Shenasi, with roots tracing back to Tabriz in Iran, honed his craft from a young age and brings decades of expertise to his collection of hand-knotted carpets. Don’t miss out on grabbing a copy of Paivand, a Gateway to the Iranian Community—just remember, it’s in Farsi!
Experience the vibrant festivals that grace the community throughout the year. Norouz, celebrated on March 20th, marks the Persian New Year with lively dancing, cultural festivities, and music. Dive into the traditions displayed at the eateries and shops along the way. Yalda, the winter solstice festival, is another must-see event, often hosted at the Centennial Theatre.
Extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in the region’s offerings by booking a stay at one of the beautiful hotels situated at the bottom of Lonsdale Avenue. With so much to explore, lace up your sneakers and treat yourself to some tasty surprises in the central Lonsdale area. Before you go, make a stop at MONOVA (Museum of North Vancouver) to delve into the history of the Persian community’s beginnings on Lonsdale Ave.
Wrap up your day with a satisfied belly and take a leisurely walk down the hill or hop on one of the convenient transit buses to make your way home.
Consider these accommodations for your stay:
For further information, explore this wonderful brochure by local author, Nazmi Kamal: