VC08 - Downtown Vancouver

Once known for piercing parlours and sex shops, the 800 block of Granville Street (orange area on map below) is quickly becoming the go-to destination for stylish young things. Puma, Adidas Originals, and American Apparel are here, and Urban Outfitters arrived last year (we're loving their lively patterned sundresses, artist-series tees, and slouchy duffle bags this season)

Fritz European Fry House (#1) A food review probably isn't top-of-mind during a 3 a.m. poutine run, but we're endorsing this blink-and-you'll-miss-it joint anyway. The traditional frites served in the Québécois fashion, or dipped in chipotle mayo, are worth the late-night lineups. 718 Davie St., 604-684-0811

Leone Café (#2) Do as the Italian fashionistas do: start your retail escapade with a frothy cappuccino and light-as-air pastry. Brava! 757 W. Hastings St., 604-683-1133.

Metro (#3) Don't come seeking a light lunch — the mostly organic meats, game, and seafood are priced by the ounce, and the martinis are as cool as the showstopping Corian bar they're mixed on. 200 Burrard St., in the Waterfront Centre, 604-662-3463.

The Bill Reid Gallery (#4) The gallery hosts its inaugural exhibition from May to October, a showing of some of the eponymous Haida artist's masterworks. Outside, the courtyard, with its angular benches and manicured lawns, offers a civilized retreat from the bustle of nearby Georgia Street. 639 Hornby St., 604-682-3455.

The epicentre of luxury retail is the intersection of Burrard and Alberni (Yellow area on map below) — steps from the cruise ship terminals and hotel lobbies. Agent Provocateur (1020 Alberni St., 604-258-7943), the U.K.'s cheeky lingerie purveyor, is the latest entrant, sharing the surrounds with Hermès (107–755 Burrard St., 604-681- 9965), Tiffany & Co. (723 Burrard St., 604-630-1300), Louis Vuitton (730 Burrard St., 604-488-0602), St. John (900 W. Georgia St., 604-669-2360), and Gucci (105–900 W. Georgia St., 604-488-0320)

Holt Renfrew (#5) The luxe department store underwent major cosmetic surgery last year, doubling its size and overhauling its retail concept. Find all the usual suspects — Stella, Miuccia, Giorgio, Donatella, et al.— as well as emerging talent in the World Design Lab. 737 Dunsmuir St., in the Pacific Centre, 604-681-3121.

Cookworks (#6) Expect a top-shelf selection of small kitchen appliances, table linens, and gadgets — and if you don't cook, earn a discount from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, where you can learn how. The selection of local cookbooks is also excellent. 377 Howe St., 604-662-4918.

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE

1801–837 W. Hastings St.
$1,525,000
{Maintenance Fee} $510.41
{Specs} 1,644 sq. ft., two-bedroom, two-bath unit in the elite Terminal City Club Tower