By: Yasmin Hassan, Staff Writer
What hides among the looming towers of Vancouver’s Financial District? The Junction Public Market, that’s what! It’s not something that immediately catches your eye but the search for it is all worth it. With free entry and opening Tuesdays–Sundays (and holiday Mondays) from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., what’s not to love? It’s a short walk up from Waterfront station and is nestled right atop Granville Square, which overlooks the water by Canada Place. I suggest taking transit or walking part of the way as pay parking around the area is quite pricey! Let’s delve into what this quaint nook of a market has to offer, shall we?
“In this intimate outdoor space, so many walks of life all came together to enjoy the sun, the market, and the bustling city that surrounds it.”
If you’re sensing a common theme here with my market reviews, yes, I love being by the water! Something about browsing for trinkets while listening to the faint sound of seagulls and seeing the summer sun glimmering on the currents of the strait just does it for me.
When I first approached the market, I was mesmerized by the array of vendors that were set up in a maze-like fashion, all in shipping containers (what an ode to the shipping dock that was just in view!). I first ventured over to Neo Naturelle, as their skincare and natural soaps caught my eye. Then, I perused Soumak Boutique, which sold gorgeous handmade Middle Eastern crafts ranging from bags, to rugs, to ivory mosaic chess sets. Another vendor I found interesting was All The Good Things From BC, which offered an array of T-shirts, art pieces, and more. This shop gives back to the community by donating to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society and BC Parks Foundation. The last one that caught my eye was EGG Atelier, which I happened to see at the Shipyards as well! They offer cute handmade crochet creations that I couldn’t help but ogle over.
I started indulging in the market’s culinary delights by quenching my thirst at the Sipping Container. I had a refreshing can of Wards Cider, which is grown and made here in the Okanagan. I wanted to get something hearty, so my friend and I tried out Yo-Bones BBQ. He got the pork back ribs, but since I can’t eat pork, I opted for the BBQ pulled chicken sandwich. He said that the ribs were phenomenal, and as much as my sandwich was messy to eat, it was the best tasting mess I’ve had in a while! Finally, I decided to seal the deal with a sweet, egg-shaped custard cake from Meiggo Eggo. The time I happened to go — around 1:30 p.m. during their second week of opening — there weren’t many food vendors open, but the website has a list of them all!
As I sat down to enjoy my dessert, I noticed the crowds of people all sitting in the shade around a tree, shying away from the hot rays of sun. There were transit operators and office workers taking a lunch break, people passing their time, or friends sitting in a circle and enjoying their food from the market. In this intimate outdoor space, so many walks of life all came together to enjoy the sun, the market, and the bustling city that surrounds it. If you happen to be downtown, take an hour or two to stop by and indulge yourself in the market’s local culture and food. You’ll thank me later!
