Across the street from the towering golden arches of the Mcdonald's on Pender Street sits the small colourful community cafe "The Slow Bean." Offering healthy, delicious, and contrary to their name, speedily prepared meals for the same price as a Big Mac and Fries. Run by DTES arts advocate Mairin Cooley, the vegetarian cafe hopes to be a beacon of originality and affordability in the increasingly chain restaurant dominated downtown. The Slow Bean also offers space rental so members of the community can host their own events, art shows, and meetings. Focusing on building a community space for healthy eats will help improve nutrition options for DTES residents and perhaps convince a few of those people lined up for fries that a healthy alternative might be a better option for themselves and the neighbourhood! The idea of a small building, formally a car rental lot, stands painted in wild colours in a sea of concrete next to the largest fast food giant on earth is a poignant testament to the need for community spaces and healthy options in our communities.