Another one sadly bites the dust.
Metro Vancouver’s restaurant closures keep stacking up, and yet again, a beloved local spot is forced to shut down.
And ofcourse, it’s due to an outrageous rent hike.
Don Oso’s, a fan-favourite Mexican and Latin food joint, has officially closed its Commercial Drive location as of January 27th after just two years, following a ridiculous 150% lease increase.
This closure marks yet another casualty of Vancouver’s brutal rental market, leaving food lovers with one less go-to for tacos, quesabirria, and nachos.
Don Oso’s first opened on Hastings Street in November 2020, bringing authentic Mexican flavours to the city.
The brand quickly built a loyal following, leading to a second location on Commercial Drive in 2022.
Housed in the former Storm Crow Tavern, the new space wasn’t just about tacos and tequila—it introduced a full drink menu and live music nights, making it a fun spot for locals.
But with their lease suddenly becoming unaffordable, the team made the tough call to close the doors for good.
Don Oso’s announced the closure on Instagram in late January, and the post quickly blew up with frustrated comments.
Many called the sky-high lease increase “absolutely atrocious” and “ridiculous”, with others noting that Vancouver’s food scene is losing too many independent businesses to unrealistic rent hikes.
That we agree fully.
And Don Oso’s isn’t the only one struggling—Filipino café Liberté Café has also been forced to relocate due to rent increases.
While this marks the end of Don Oso’s on Commercial Drive, their Burnaby location remains open.
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Address: 1305 Commercial Drive, Vancouver BC