Celebrate Asian Heritage Month
May is Asian Heritage Month—a time to recognize and appreciate the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Asian communities. From East Asia to South East Asia to South and Western Asia, there’s a diversity of culture, cuisine, and community that shapes Old Strathcona’s unique character. With crave-worthy eats, specialty sweet treats, and one-of-a-kind experiences, there’s so much to discover across the district. This month and beyond, we invite you to explore the neighbourhood, support local entrepreneurs, and experience the diversity that makes Old Strathcona such a dynamic place to shop, dine, and connect.
Explore All the District Has to Offer
Looking for a bite to eat? You can experience the rich flavours and cuisines from a diversity of Asian cultures. Indulge in sushi bars and ramen shops, casual Korean fare, and fragrant favourites like pho, Thai curries, and Filipino treats. Get spicy with butter chicken, chana masala, naan and samosas that highlight the culinary traditions of Indian and Pakistani cultures. Add even more variety, with shawarma, falafel, hummus, kebabs, and mezze plates showcasing the vibrant food cultures of the Middle East. Together, these offerings make Old Strathcona a dynamic place to experience a wide spectrum of flavours in one walkable neighbourhood.
Asian-owned businesses are an essential part of what makes the district so vibrant and welcoming. The neighbourhood reflects a wide spectrum of cultures, including Indian restaurants offering rich South Asian traditions, Lebanese eateries serving fresh and flavourful West Asian cuisine, and Japanese businesses ranging from sushi spots to specialty retail. You’ll also find Chinese dim sum and hotpot, Korean fried chicken, Persian-owned eateries and shops showcasing fragrant spices and grilled favourites, and Taiwanese businesses contributing everything from comforting street food to unique treats. Together, these diverse, community-rooted businesses create a dynamic streetscape that invites visitors to explore, connect, and support the many cultures that help shape Old Strathcona’s identity.
As we recognize Asian Heritage Month, there’s no better time to get out and embrace a new experience. Every visit helps support the Asian-owned businesses that contribute so much to the district’s character and vitality. We encourage you to come down in May—and beyond—to explore, support local entrepreneurs, and celebrate the diverse communities that make Old Strathcona such a dynamic and welcoming place.
