Osborne Village sees major uptick in new businesses, foot traffic

Osborne Village, once a bustling nightlife hub, has faced significant challenges over the past decade — from pandemic shutdowns to rising crime and numerous business closures. But stakeholders say the neighbourhood is bouncing back, with more than 20 new businesses opening in the past 18 months, and several more on the way.

“At this point, I think it’s really just about getting those investments in, and we’re seeing more and more of that,” said Zohreh Gervais, executive director of Osborne Village BIZ. “We’re really seeing a significant amount of investment in new businesses and new property development in the area, which is super exciting.”

Gervais, who oversees the local business collective, said crime has been a major concern in the area — though things are improving.

“This is not something that’s unique to Osborne, but because it’s such a densely populated area, we do tend to see it more frequently,” said Gervais. “So it’s really great that we’ve been able to make progress and see reduced rates of violent crime, especially with the theft initiative from last summer and now the new beat cops who’ve been reinstated.”

Several new businesses have opened or are on the way, including a golf simulator, a cat café called Cleo Catra, and a number of restaurants such as Baby Baby and Shirley’s — all of which have been bustling with customers.

“It was kind of dying a little bit. There were a lot of empty storefronts, and it was a little sketchy to walk around,” said one local resident. “That’s part of why we moved away — it was a little uncomfortable for my wife. So absolutely, I think it’s great to see things turning around.”

The neighbourhood is also set to host a new Village Music Fest on the weekend of June 27.