Known colloquially as "Kits", the neighbourhood is named after Squamish chief August Jack Khatsahlano. Kitsilano is located in Vancouver's West Side along the south shore of English Bay, between the neighbourhoods of West Point Grey and Fairview. The area is mostly residential with two main commercial areas, West 4th Avenue and West Broadway, known for their retail stores, restaurants and organic food markets. Kits beach is a hot spot in the summer. Popular for beach volleyball, building sandcastles, taking a stroll or just soaking up some sun, there is something for everyone. The new playground located at Kits point near The Boathouse and washrooms is very popular. My kids love it!
Lindsie's Tips:
Breakfast & Vegetarian - The Naam, 2724 West 4th (a Kitsilano institution. I once saw David Duchovny enjoying breakfast here)
Restaurant on the beach - The Boathouse, 1305 Arbutus Street (the only restaurant on the beach in Kits, awesome view!)
Restaurant - La Quercia, 3689 West 4th (intimate Italian restaurant with amazing food and wine)
Restaurant - Aphrodite's Cafe & Pie shop, 3598 West 4th (amazing breakfasts and the best pie!)
Restaurant - East is East, 3243 West Broadway (Delicious Eastern food and great ambience. They also have a take out window)
Restaurant - Olympia Pizza, 3205 West Broadway (Great Greek food, reasonable prices)
Wine store - Kitsilano Wine Cellar, 2235 West 4th (huge selection of wine with knowledgable staff)
Bookstore - Kidsbooks, 2557 West Broadway (awesome selection of books, puppets and toys. Play area and a spot to sit and read)
Kid's hair salon - Melonhead Children's Hair Care, 2962 West Broadway (kids get to sit in their choice of a car, airplane or train while they watch cartoons and get a hair cut)
Schools:
Want to find out more about the schools in Kitsilano? More here