Quick Look at a Few of the New Businesses in Uptown Saint John | Early 2025 Edition
Something new is always brewing Uptown! Whether you’re looking for a fresh lunch spot, a creative hangout, meaningful gifts, or a space to move and recharge, these businesses are here to deliver. From helping little learners grow to giving readers and writers a cozy place to connect, each adds more personality to our Uptown community. Take a peek and meet just a few of the newest members of our BIA family:
- PlayPit ECE Resource
- Suwanna
- The Write Cup Bookstore Cafe
- MST Pilates Studio
Keep reading to learn more about each of them below!
PlayPit ECE Resource
Just beside the City Market on North Market Street, PlayPit ECE Resource is a hidden gem for anyone shopping with little learners in mind. Opened by Erika, a former ECE teacher with over 15 years of experience, this specialty shop offers a wide selection of educational toys, sensory tools, books, and classroom must-haves. It’s a go-to for teachers, parents, and anyone supporting early learning—featuring everything from bug life cycle figures to puppets and gross motor items. Erika also brings her creative flair to custom-made classroom materials and sublimation gifts like keychains, pillowcases, and magnets designed to spark fun and function.
Find: PlayPit ECE Resource
In Person: 17 North Market Street, Saint John, NB
Online: On Facebook PlayPit ECE Resource
Suwanna
After more than two decades on Lancaster Avenue, Suwanna has found a new home in Uptown! This Saint John favourite reopened on Germain Street earlier this year with a stunning new look and a menu that blends tradition with fresh creativity. The redesigned space features furniture imported from Turkey, including fire tables and a glowing bar, along with striking composite wall panels from Asia and a statement stone back bar from California. Loyal fans will still find the classic Thai dishes they love, and tasty new options like tenderloin steak, Tuscan linguine, and a crowd-favourite chicken naan. Open daily, with takeout available and a new patio coming soon!
Find: Suwanna
In Person: 96 Germain St, Saint John, NB
Online: On Facebook Suwanna
The Write Cup Bookstore Cafe
A fresh chapter has begun in Market Square with The Write Cup Bookstore Café, opened earlier this year by writers and publishers Amanda Evans and Shannon Dykens. As the only coffee shop in the building, this cozy space has quickly become a hotspot for book clubs, board game nights, and creative gatherings. Every wall is lined with Atlantic Canadian authors, and the café hosts everything from writing workshops to book signings. With ready to go food options, snacks, great coffee, and plenty of regulars, this cafe is a welcoming place where community and creativity come together.
Find: The Write Cup Bookstore Cafe
In Person: 1 Market Square, Unit 132, Saint John, NB
Online: On Facebook The Write Cup Bookstore Cafe
M.S.T. Pilates Studio
If you’ve walked down Charlotte Street recently, you may have noticed the window silhouettes at MST Pilates Studio, gracefully showcasing Pilates movements that hint at what’s happening inside. Opened in April 2025 by certified STOTT PILATES instructor Jacey YiHui Ji, MST stands for Mindful, Strength, and Transformation, a name that reflects Jacey’s passion for helping others feel stronger and more connected to their bodies. With equipment like a Cadillac/Trapeze Table, V2 MAX Reformer, and Split-Pedal Stability Chairs, this studio offers a full Pilates experience for every level. Whether you’re brand new or experienced, classes are designed to support posture, core strength, and body awareness, all inside a calming studio.
Find: M.S.T. Pilates Studio
In Person: 30 Charlotte St Unit 1, Saint John, NB
Online: www.mstpilates-studio.com


Happy To See You Here
At the Uptown Saint John Business Improvement Association, we are passionate about our Uptown Saint John BIA area! We represent the interests of over 500 business members. Membership is automatic and is based on the location of businesses within a defined area, as seen in this map.
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Source: Uptown Saint John