New West Spotlight Podcast

Carla McNeil

Join Carla McNeil on the New West Spotlight Podcast, your weekly guide to the vibrant food, beverage, and events scene in New Westminster, BC. Each episode highlights a local restaurant, coffee shop, brewery, or community event that makes New West a destination worth exploring—from hidden gem eateries and craft beverage makers to the festivals and happenings that bring our community together. Through careful research and local knowledge, Carla shares the highlights, insider tips, and unique details that make each featured spot special. Whether you're a foodie seeking your next favorite spot, a local looking for weekend plans, or a business owner wanting to reach engaged, community-minded customers, the New West Spotlight Podcast is your quick, essential guide to New West's thriving food and beverage scene. Discover, connect, and thrive with us—because together, we are stronger.

  1. Jul 14

    Why Handmade Still Matters: Celebrating the Makers of New Westminster

    Behind every handcrafted table, custom cabinet, and beautifully finished piece of woodwork is a story of patience, creativity, and skill. In this episode of the New West Spotlight Podcast, host Carla McNeil celebrates the talented makers and craftspeople who help shape New Westminster through furniture making, custom woodwork, architectural millwork, and creative craftsmanship. Rather than focusing on products, this episode explores why handmade work continues to matter in an age of mass production—and why supporting local makers helps preserve skills, sustainability, and community. Whether you're furnishing a home, planning a renovation, or simply appreciate beautiful design, this episode is a reminder that the things built with care often become the things we treasure most. 🪵 Featured Local Makers Fine Art Furnishing Inc. New Westminster, BC Traditional furniture making and fine woodworking. Loxley Studio 520 Sharpe St, New Westminster, BC Handcrafted furniture and thoughtfully designed home goods. Vancity Live Edge 28–30 Capilano Way, New Westminster, BC Custom live-edge furniture crafted from locally sourced wood. Cascadia Manufacturing Ltd. 47 Braid St, New Westminster, BC Commercial booths, benches, upholstery, and custom seating solutions. Nikolai Manufacturing Inc. 407 Wood St, New Westminster, BC Architectural millwork and custom woodworking for residential and commercial spaces. Alexa Millwork Unit 16 – 30 Capilano Way, New Westminster, BC Custom cabinetry and millwork for homes and businesses. 🌟 In This Episode Discover why handmade craftsmanship still matters, how local makers contribute to the character of New Westminster, and why investing in quality, locally made pieces supports both sustainability and community. From heirloom furniture to architectural woodwork, this episode celebrates the artisans whose work quietly becomes part of our everyday lives.

  2. Jul 6

    Game On, New West! Arcades, Escape Rooms & Fun Nights Out in the Royal City

    Looking for a fun night out that's not just dinner and a movie? In this week's episode of the New West Spotlight Podcast, host Carla McNeil explores some of New Westminster's best places to play, laugh, and connect. From classic arcade games and exciting escape rooms to billiards, board games, and hidden pinball bars, discover local destinations perfect for families, couples, friend groups, and anyone looking to unplug and enjoy a little friendly competition. Whether you're reliving childhood memories or discovering a new hobby, this episode proves that some of the best experiences in New Westminster happen when we make time to play. 📍 Featured Locations 🎮 Capital City Classic Arcade 📍 457A East Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC 🌐 https://www.capcityarcade.com Retro arcade cabinets and pinball machines offering a nostalgic gaming experience for all ages. 🕹️ Industry Arcade 📍 30 Capilano Way, New Westminster, BC 🌐 https://industryarcade.ca A spacious arcade featuring classic and modern games, perfect for groups, birthdays, and casual fun. 🔐 EXIT New Westminster 📍 Unit 251 – 800 Carnarvon Street, New Westminster, BC 🌐 https://e-exit.ca Immersive escape rooms that challenge teams to solve puzzles before time runs out. 🎱 House of Pool 📍 Unit 200 – 430 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC 🌐 https://houseofpool.ca A relaxed billiards hall where friends can enjoy classic cue sports in a welcoming atmosphere. 🎲 Rain City Games 📍 Unit 106 – 810 Quayside Drive, New West River Market, New Westminster, BC 🌐 https://www.raincity.games A community-focused board game and hobby store featuring game nights, tournaments, and learn-to-play events. 👻 Phantom Alley 📍 527 Front Street Mews, New Westminster, BC 🌐 https://www.phantomalley.ca A hidden speakeasy-style venue combining vintage pinball, retro arcade games, craft drinks, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. 🎮 In this episode: Discover why making time to play is one of the best ways to connect with family, friends, and your community while supporting some of New Westminster's most unique local businesses.

  3. Jun 30

    Around the World in New West

    Did you know you can experience Dutch, Ukrainian, Greek, Mexican, Italian, and Filipino flavors without ever leaving New Westminster? In this episode of the New West Spotlight Podcast, host Carla McNeil takes listeners on a culinary journey through the Royal City, highlighting the diverse cultures and traditions that shape New Westminster's food scene. From hearty Dutch breakfasts at Angelina's Dutch Corner and traditional Ukrainian baking at Kozak Ukrainian Eatery to Greek specialties at Taverna Greka, Mexican favorites at Taqueria Playa Tropical, Italian dining at Piva Modern Italian, and Filipino-inspired desserts at Cake It Easy, this episode celebrates the people, stories, and heritage behind the food. More than a restaurant guide, this is a celebration of culture, community, and the way food helps bring people together. 🌎 Featured Locations 🇳🇱 Angelina's Dutch Corner Address: 810 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC V3M 6B9 A longtime New Westminster favorite serving Dutch-inspired breakfasts, pancakes, and comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting. 🇺🇦 Kozak Ukrainian Eatery Address: 444 6th St, New Westminster, BC V3L 3B3 Known for traditional Ukrainian baking, fresh breads, perogies, pastries, and authentic comfort foods rooted in family traditions. 🇬🇷 Taverna Greka Restaurant Address: 326 Columbia St, New Westminster, BC V3L 1A6, Canada A New Westminster institution serving classic Greek cuisine with Fraser River views and a welcoming atmosphere. 🇲🇽 Taqueria Playa Tropical Address: 334 6th St, New Westminster, BC V3L 3A8 Authentic Mexican street food featuring tacos, burritos, tortas, and traditional family recipes. 🇮🇹 Piva Modern Italian Address: 787 Columbia St, New Westminster, BC V3M 1B6 Contemporary Italian dining featuring handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and seasonal ingredients. 🇵🇭 Cake It Easy Address: Unit 360, 800 Carnarvon St, New Westminster, BC V3M 0G3 A Filipino-owned bakery and café known for ube cakes, ube lattes, specialty desserts, and creative drinks. 🇹🇭 Patsara Thai Restaurant Address: 528 Carnarvon St, New Westminster, BC V3L 1C4 A longtime local favorite serving authentic Thai dishes, curries, noodle specialties, and traditional flavors from Thailand. 🇹🇭 Noodles To Go Address: 360 Gifford St, New Westminster, BC V3M 6S1 A Queensborough favourite serving a variety of noodle dishes, soups, rice bowls, and Asian comfort food. Its menu reflects the diversity of flavours that have become part of everyday life in New Westminster. 🍹 Quayside Tiki Bar Address: 810 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC V3M 6B9 A waterfront tropical-inspired destination serving island-style cocktails, shareable plates, and Fraser River views that feel like a mini vacation. 🍽️ In This Episode Travel around the world without leaving New Westminster. From Dutch breakfasts and Ukrainian baking to Greek lunches, Mexican tacos, Thai favorites, Italian dinners, Filipino desserts, and tropical waterfront cocktails, discover how the city's diverse food scene reflects the cultures, traditions, and communities that make the Royal City such a vibrant and welcoming place to call home.

  4. Jun 15

    Life in Motion: How New Westminster Moves

    Every day, thousands of people travel through New Westminster by SkyTrain, bus, bike, car, and on foot. But transportation in New West is about more than simply getting from one place to another—it's about connection. In this episode of the New West Spotlight Podcast, host Carla McNeil explores how the city's transportation network shapes everyday life. From the five Expo Line SkyTrain stations and local bus routes to the Central Valley Greenway, walkable neighbourhoods, and major bridge connections, discover why New Westminster remains one of Metro Vancouver's most connected communities. Along the way, Carla reflects on the daily routines that bring residents together—morning commutes, evening walks, waterfront strolls, and the countless small journeys that make up life in the city. Whether you're a longtime resident, a daily commuter, or someone considering a move to New Westminster, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how movement, accessibility, and community are woven into the fabric of the Royal City. 📍 Featured Locations & Topics 🚆 SkyTrain Stations 22nd Street Station New Westminster Station Columbia Station Sapperton Station Braid Station 🚌 Public Transit TransLink Bus Network Frequent Transit Connections throughout New Westminster 🚲 Active Transportation Central Valley Greenway City cycling and walking routes Active Transportation initiatives 🌉 Regional Connections stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge Corridor Queensborough Bridge 🌿 Walkable Destinations Columbia Street Westminster Pier Park Quayside Boardwalk New Westminster Public Library Downtown New Westminster In this episode: Learn how transportation, walkability, and connectivity help shape the daily rhythm of life in New Westminster and why so many residents value the convenience of living in one of Metro Vancouver's most accessible communities.

  5. Jun 3

    Taste of Summer: Farmers Markets, Fresh Bakes & Local Treats in New West

    Summer has arrived in New Westminster, bringing with it farmers markets, fresh pastries, waterfront strolls, community festivals, and some of the city's most beloved seasonal traditions. In this warm and uplifting episode of New West Spotlight Podcast, host Carla McNeil explores the flavours and experiences that make summer in New West so special. From browsing local produce at the New West Farmers Market to enjoying artisan pastries at Banette, authentic Ukrainian baking at Kozak, and small-batch gourmet donuts in Sapperton, listeners are invited on a delicious tour of the city. Along the way, Carla highlights some of New Westminster's signature summer events, including Fridays on Front, the Uptown Live Summer Series, and the Mechanics of Music Fest at Westminster Pier Park. Through food, music, markets, and community gatherings, this episode celebrates the simple moments that bring neighbours together and make summer feel truly local. Whether you're a longtime resident or discovering the city for the first time, this episode is your guide to savoring the very best of summer in New Westminster. 📍 Featured Locations 🥕 New West Farmers Market Tipperary Park 315 Queens Ave, New Westminster, BC Every Thursday, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM A vibrant weekly market featuring local produce, artisan foods, baked goods, flowers, and handcrafted products. 🎉 Fridays on Front Front Street Mews, New Westminster, BC One of New West's most popular summer events, featuring food trucks, local vendors, live entertainment, and a lively community atmosphere. 🎶 Uptown Live Summer Series Uptown Plaza, New Westminster, BC A seasonal celebration of live music, arts, and community in the heart of Uptown. 🎵 Mechanics of Music Fest Westminster Pier Park 1 6th St, New Westminster, BC A family-friendly festival featuring live performances, interactive activities, and an Instrument Petting Zoo for aspiring young musicians. 🥐 Banette 536 Sixth St, New Westminster, BC Artisan bakery and brunch café known for beautifully crafted croissants, pastries, and seasonal menu offerings. Website: Banette 🥟 Kozak Ukrainian Eatery 444 6th St, New Westminster, BC A local favourite serving authentic Ukrainian baked goods, pastries, perogies, and traditional comfort foods in a welcoming café setting. Website: Kozak Ukrainian Eatery 🍩 Yum Gourmet Donuts 468 East Columbia St, New Westminster, BC Known for small-batch gourmet donuts and creative rotating flavours that keep locals coming back. Instagram: Yum Gourmet Donuts Instagram 🌊 The Boathouse Restaurant 900 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC Waterfront patio dining with fresh seafood, refreshing drinks, and panoramic Fraser River views. Website: The Boathouse Restaurant 🍺 Paddlewheeler Pub 810 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC A longtime waterfront favourite serving classic pub fare, cold pints, and relaxed boardwalk views. Website: Paddlewheeler Pub

  6. Jun 2

    Patio Season in New West: Best Spots to Eat, Sip & Stay Awhile

    📌 Clipcast-Optimized Episode Description Episode Title: Patio Season in New West: Best Spots to Eat, Sip & Stay Awhile In this sunny and feel-good episode of New West Podcast, host Carla McNeil celebrates the return of patio season in New Westminster. From waterfront dining and rooftop cocktails to casual neighbourhood patios and riverside strolls, this episode highlights some of the best local spots to enjoy the warmer weather as New West begins shifting into summer mode. Carla also shares practical summer tips for staying cool while exploring the city — including waterfront walks, shaded parks, hydration reminders, and the best places to slow down and enjoy the season comfortably. Blending local restaurants, scenic outdoor spaces, and warm seasonal storytelling, this episode captures the relaxed energy that makes summer in New Westminster feel so special. Perfect for food lovers, patio hoppers, date-night planners, and anyone ready to enjoy longer evenings, cold drinks, and golden-hour views around the city. ☀️ Featured Patio & Summer Spots The Boathouse Restaurant 900 Quayside Drive New Westminster, BC Waterfront dining with Fraser River views, seafood, cocktails, and one of the city’s most scenic patios. Longtail Kitchen 810 Quayside Drive #101, New Westminster, BC Casual riverside patio serving Thai-inspired dishes and refreshing summer drinks. Piva Modern Italian 787 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC Elegant downtown patio perfect for relaxed dinners, cocktails, and warm summer evenings. Kelly O'Bryan's 800 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC Casual social patio ideal for after-work drinks, pub classics, and weekend gatherings. The Notorious Grey Fox Taps & Patio 319 Governors Court #101, New Westminster, BC Match Eatery & Public House 350 Gifford Street, New Westminster, BC The Hide Out Cafe 716 Carnarvon Street, New Westminster, BC Bruncheria 502 E Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC 🌿 Cooling Off in New West Westminster Pier Park 1 6th St, New Westminster, BC River breezes, shaded seating, and scenic boardwalk views perfect for cooling down on warmer days. Queen's Park Third Ave, New Westminster, BC Large mature trees, shaded walking paths, and open green space offering a cool retreat during summer afternoons.

  7. May 21

    Behind the Doors: A Spring Walk Through New West History

    In this warm and nostalgic episode of New West Podcast, host Carla McNeil offers listeners a heartfelt preview of the 44th Annual New Westminster Heritage Homes Tour happening May 31st. Rather than covering every stop on the tour, this episode highlights several remarkable homes that reflect the city’s rich architectural and personal history — including Irving House Museum, the Murchie House, Chittick House, Douglas House, Nelson House, and the iconic Overend House. Listeners will hear stories of Victorian craftsmanship, Depression-era resilience, carefully restored Arts and Crafts homes, and bold mid-century modern design — along with the families and personalities who once lived within these walls. From original stained glass and handcrafted woodwork to hidden stories of entrepreneurship, restoration, and community life, this episode celebrates the homes that continue to shape New Westminster’s identity today. Perfect for architecture lovers, local history enthusiasts, spring walkers, and anyone curious about the stories hidden behind New West’s beautiful heritage streets. 🏡 Featured Heritage Homes Irving House Museum 302 Royal Ave, New Westminster, BC Built in 1865, Irving House is the oldest intact home in the Lower Mainland and one of British Columbia’s most important heritage properties. Murchie House 207 Eighth St, New Westminster, BC A bright 1927 Craftsman bungalow once home to Jemima Maria Murchie of the Murchie family legacy. Chittick House 817 Dublin St, New Westminster, BC An Arts and Crafts home built in 1922 by Ann Elizabeth Chittick and lovingly restored over many years. Douglas House 913 Tenth St, New Westminster, BC A modest Depression-era Craftsman bungalow reflecting resilience, practicality, and handcrafted design. Nelson House 211 Queens Ave, New Westminster, BC A refined 1941 Berwick and Pratt-designed residence blending early modernism with warm livability. Overend House 316 First St, New Westminster, BC A striking 1946 California Moderne home designed by architect Robert Berwick, featured online this year due to ongoing repairs. 📅 44th Annual New Westminster Heritage Homes Tour Sunday, May 31, 2026 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Self-guided tour throughout New Westminster Tour Information: Heritage New West Additional home details sourced from Heritage New West tour materials.

About

Join Carla McNeil on the New West Spotlight Podcast, your weekly guide to the vibrant food, beverage, and events scene in New Westminster, BC. Each episode highlights a local restaurant, coffee shop, brewery, or community event that makes New West a destination worth exploring—from hidden gem eateries and craft beverage makers to the festivals and happenings that bring our community together. Through careful research and local knowledge, Carla shares the highlights, insider tips, and unique details that make each featured spot special. Whether you're a foodie seeking your next favorite spot, a local looking for weekend plans, or a business owner wanting to reach engaged, community-minded customers, the New West Spotlight Podcast is your quick, essential guide to New West's thriving food and beverage scene. Discover, connect, and thrive with us—because together, we are stronger.