Whenever Cloverdale is mentioned, there seems to be three very popular responses. The first is of utter confusion, and usually is along the lines of “where’s that again, in Langley, right?” The next is blurry recognition: “I know Cloverdale, I used to go to the rodeo!” The third comes from the old inhabitants themselves, and is a proclamation of old times: “I used to live there/ I went to Tweedsmuir!”
Cloverdale seems to be a place everyone vaguely knows of, yet few have ventured to, which is a real shame. Just off the major highways, there are tons of traditional things to do in the city, like spend an afternoon at the Surrey Museum, or sight-see the historical landmarks that fill the small town. But now, Cloverdale is becoming much more than that. Filled with old world charm (and trendy new restaurants), Cloverdale is no longer a town to just pass though. The outdated shops and farm-charm have been replaced with vintage shops, beer markets, and thrift stores as far as the eye can see, and it absolutely fantastic. If you find yourself in the area, or looking for something to do on a lazy afternoon, Cloverdale should be your next stop.
Downtown Cloverdale is 176th Street, and is home to a mix of modern coffee shops, vintage stores, lunch spots, and the old Clova Theatre. The appropriately named Cloverdale Coffee Company has a storefront location on the strip, and it’s pretty rad. The sleek and modern white building is a stark contrast to the heritage buildings that Cloverdale is known for. With a delicious menu and a staff that makes latte art as you watch on, it is easily one of the best places to chill out in.
A true hidden gem, The Rustic Rooster is one of the best modern-meets-vintage lunch spots. The lunch spot also doubles as a home décor store, where you can find more than a few one of a kind gifts. The menu has a variety of comfort foods, delicious drinks, and hearty soups. Although the small shop, tucked away in a corner, is new to the neighbourhood, it perfectly fits with and seems to embody the Cloverdale spirit.
Rusty’s Pub is a Cloverdale landmark, but competition is on the way. The Henry Pub, Vault Restaurant, and Original Joe’s are all top contenders, too. Hawthorne Beer Market, located just off Hwy 10, on 176th, is unique, fresh, and amazing. They offer craft beer, a fresh and trendy menu (wings and gluten free pizza, anyone?) and a modern drinking hall for Cloverdale-ians and travelers alike.
Thrift stores and vintage stores line the main street, and one of the top picks is the BCSPCA Thrift Store, on 177th Street. Relatively new to the scene, the store has nostalgic items, modern clothes, and prices that are unbeatable. Racks of clothes welcome you outside of the shop, and are only a small taste of the treasures that you can find inside. The store, converted from an old clinic, has pieces that will fit anyone’s style and keep any shopper coming back.
The days of a “boring Cloverdale” are over, and that is beyond awesome. Part quaint suburb and part chill neighbourhood, Cloverdale seems to have a bit of something for everyone. If you are lucky enough to be passing through, make sure to stop in for all it has to offer!
