History meets urban life in Austin Heights. Think cute cafés and chilled neighbourhood pubs steeped in character. Explore a picture-perfect park with curious rock sculptures. Pick up unique gifts and must-haves at specialty shops.
Austin Heights may be one of Coquitlam’s most historic neighbourhoods, but it’s also home to many hidden gems. Let’s explore.
Something to Get Started
Coffee + Vanilla: Many great shopping adventures start with a coffee. How about a specialty coffee and French macaron? Take your order to go or relax or stay for a while to catch up with a friend or make your way through your latest read. 1054 Austin Ave., 778-355-0020
Soul Cup Café: Refresh with a Bubble Tea or other make your own custom drink, with choices ranging from Milk Tea with taro flavouring and strawberry jelly topping, a Beet Tea Smoothie or a decadent Affogato. 1071 Ridgeway Ave., 604-937-3484
Make it a Meal
From much-loved Korean restaurants to Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Italian, Chinese, pub fare and more, let’s just say you’ll have a lot to choose from. Here are some options.
Austin Fish & Chips: Take it to the park for a picnic. This local favourite has been part of the community since 1978. 1119 Austin Ave., 604-937-7244.
Ethno Restaurant Vayat: Family-friendly meals from the Balkan region including soups, seafood, house specials and meat from the grill. Try their Hot Vayat Platter, Vienna Chicken and Stuffed Sour Cabbage Rolls-Sarma. 1147 Austin Ave., 604-931-8500
The Golden Boot Cafe: Everything on the menu is homemade, from the fresh pasta to the sauces and desserts. Italian cuisine at its finest. 1028 Ridgeway Ave., 604-939-0855
Hangang Korean Restaurant: Authentic Korean, offering tried-and-true favourites Mak-Guksu, the Grilled Bulgogi and Mul-Naengmyeon and the Sogogi Sundubu-Jjigae. 1150 Austin Ave., 604-939-3373
John B. Pub: This local neighbourhood pub has 465 different spirits in stock, 86 different taps, live music four nights a week and a diverse menu. 1000 Austin Ave., 604-931-5115
Kook’s Cooks: Breakfast and brunch are the specialties at this family run restaurant that is boasting a new patio. 2120 Austin Ave., 604-262-2440
Me-n-Ed’s Pizza: Grab one of their mouth-watering specialty pizzas and enjoy it al fresco on their new patio. 1121 Austin Ave., 604-931-2468
Tâ Bom Korean Cuisine: Offering traditional Korean dishes in a casual venue with modern styling. Best known for their sizzling iron plate with corn and cheese, or you can opt for their diverse selection of goodies. 1046 Austin Avenue, 778-355-1717
For even more options, scope out the Austin Heights Business Improvement Association’s listing and Visit Coquitlam’s restaurant map.
Let’s Shop
Austin Heights is all about exploring independent retailers. It’s the perfect place to shop for a unique gift or hunt for that special something.
Artisan Gifts & Flowers: A specialty shop with ever-changing products waiting to be discovered. From floral arrangements and flowering plants to pottery and jewelry, just see what catches your eye. 1038A Austin Avenue, 604-936-7901
Reflections Books: A metaphysical bookstore and wellness centre with products and services ranging from psychic readings, wellness sessions, various books and a selection of crystals, jewelry, tarot & oracle cards and essential oils. 1111D Austin Avenue, 604-939-6000
Sea-Run Fly & Tackle: Your one-stop anglers’ shop, with supplies and gear for any fishing adventure. 110-1140 Austin Avenue, 604-931-5044
For even more shopping suggestions, visit the Austin Heights BIA website.
Go to the Park
One must-see park within Austin Heights is Blue Mountain Park, home to a sculpture rock garden, and a mini waterfall offering a magical spot for kids. Pack a picnic and find a shady spot under a tree for an afternoon of relaxation.
This park offers an urban forest setting with a canopy of tall fir, cedar and oak trees. You’ll find playing fields, tennis courts, a ball diamond and a spray park for the kids. 975 King Albert Avenue
Public Art
Blue Mountain Park Sculpture Garden: Let your imagination run wild as you explore, as described above.
Lest We Forget: Take some time to honour and remember the sacrifices of our Veterans by visiting the “Lest We Forget” public art mural by artist Laura Johnson. The mural is painted on the Royal Canadian Legion #263 Coquitlam building, 1025 Ridgeway Ave.
Salmon Art Sculptures: A series of salmon sculptures were permanently installed throughout the city in 2016 as part of a public art project celebrating Coquitlam’s 125th year. The six-foot-high sculpture form was designed and fabricated by award-winning Squamish Nation artist Jody Broomfield. Look for one at Blue Mountain Park and another outside Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex. Visit the City’s website for further details.
Did we miss one of your favourite spots? Email tourism@coquitlam.ca so we can add it to our list!