Looking for cozy vibes, cute decor, and somewhere to support local businesses? The Old City Quarter might be just for you! Full of little shops with treasures both new and old, we promise there is something here made just for you. 

Inside the Old City Quarter
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A row of colourful buildings in the old city quarter
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Cozy Cafes

Grab a coffee, snag a breakfast sandwich, or pocket some pastries. Old City Quarter is full of cafes that will become your new go-to spot! Misty Pines has freshly baked bread, gourmet sandwiches, and coffee made exactly how you want! Grab a coffee and some cake at Real Food Cafe. Looking to dip into the tastes of the Nanaimo Bar Trail? Don’t forget to check out Bocca Cafe for their take on the Nanaimo Bar with some salted caramel!

A Nanaimo bar and latte.
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A couple drinking coffee together.
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Mystically Cute

No matter when you visit Nanaimo, stores will welcome you with open arms! Pull up a seat at Windowseat Books with a new read, or grab some yarn and try your hand at knitting at Mad About Ewe (come on, we know you’ve always wanted to make a scarf). Got some extra time? Take a jewellery-making class at Peacock Jewellers. Feeling mystical? Visit Lobelia’s Lair to get a tarot or oracle reading!

 

Now what about glam? Take a visit to Damsels Fashion or shop vintage at Black Pearl Vintage! Getting a bit peckish while you shop? Head over to Old City Cheese and Market for international cheese and specialty foods!

Bookstore layout with books on tables, shelves, and displays.
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A person shifting through a clothes rack.
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Local’s Lunch

Old City Quarter isn’t just for shopping and relaxing at a peaceful cafe (though it does a great job at it!), but also for grabbing a great lunch or dinner!

  • Waffle Magic - Not just for breakfast, they also serve excellent lunch waffles!

  • Banh Mi An - Vibrant and authentic Vietnamese banh mi (subs)!

  • Flamez Chicken - Farm-raised halal fried (and grilled) chicken!

  • La Stella Trattoria - Wood-fired pizza and handmade Italian pasta!

  • Mambo’s Gourmet Pizza - Family-owned and operated pizza made with fresh ingredients!

  • Bistro Taiyo - Authentic Japanese food with handcrafted rolls, ramen, and fresh seafood!

Down the alley shot of the Old City Quarter
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A burrito and salad on a plate.
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Looking Cute, Feeling Fresh

Take some time for yourself and treat yourself to a spa day! Get your nails done, take care of your skin, and fill out your lashes at Silver Lining Spa. At the end of your session, you’ll feel like a brand new person! Need to get your hair done? Visit Kiyo Salon & Day Spa for styling, enhancements, and cuts! Feel fresh after a full-body relaxation massage or treat yourself to that hand manicure!

Enjoy the Night

Fun doesn't end when the sun sets in the Old City Quarter! Grab yourself a pint and pick up that mic at The Oxy Pub as karaoke and trivia nights are all part of the experience! Looking for comfort food? Visit the Milton Street Public House for local crafts and delicious and authentic pub fare!

A person getting a facial massage.
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Two people cheering beers at a pub
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See You There!

Whether you are enjoying a good book, heading to a cute cafe, or buying locally made goodies, there is something for everyone in the Old City Quarter!