Location Spotlight: Aarm Dental Group on Hornby
At Aarm Dental Group we always say we are in your neighbourhood to see you smile, at our Hornby location its no exception. Located at 1270 Hornby St, Vancouver, Aarm Dental Group on Hornby is within the heart of Downtown Vancouver in the Davie Village. Aarm Dental Group on Hornby is owned by Dr. Charmaine Fong, Dr. Hedy Akhlaghi, and Dr. Giovanna D’Alfonso.
Dr. Charmaine Fong earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of British Columbia in 1993. With over three decades of experience, she has built a strong foundation in general dentistry, with particular interest in periodontics and cosmetic dentistry. She has further refined her skills through participation in two Crown and Bridge Study Clubs and as a past member of the Vancouver Perio-Prosth Study Club. Beginning in the fall of 2025, Dr. Fong will be joining the UBC Dental School as a part-time clinical instructor, where she looks forward to mentoring the next generation of dental professionals.
Dr. Hedy Akhlaghi graduated from the University of Manitoba Faculty of Dentistry with a DMD degree in 2010. Before joining the Aarm family in Jan 2018 she worked at Elgin Dental Group in Port Coquitlam for 6 years while also working part-time at UBC with Geriatrics Dental Group. She has also worked in a dental clinic in Mission for 3 years. Her focus is on the alignment of the teeth using Invisalign and then restoring them minimally. She is an active member of the Western Restorative Study Club and the American Academy of Clear Aligners Study Club which are two of the most prestigious dental professional groups in North America.
Dr. D’Alfonso graduated from the UBC School of Dentistry in 1997 and did her undergrad in Pharmacy. She has been involved in numerous study clubs, most enduringly the City Core Endodontic Study Club where she is mastering difficult root canals. Her practice at the Hornby location has evolved over the past nine years and presently she is performing many esthetic procedures along with general Dentistry. Also, the pediatric population of her practice has delightedly increased tenfold.
As being an active member of the community is importance to us, we sat down with Dr. Charmaine Fong to better learn about her favourite Downtown places, and favourites aspects of practicing at Aarm Dental Group on Hornby. Dr. Fong, how would you describe the community of the Davie Village of Vancouver?
“The Hornby location is situated in a lively and diverse area of Vancouver that captures the energy of Davie Village and at the same time is part of Vancouver’s urban centre”
What’s your favourite aspect of practicing within the community of Davie Village?
“Our area is full of character—you meet people from all walks of life, and there’s a real feeling of openness and inclusivity here, especially being so close to Davie Village. It’s a place where people feel comfortable being themselves, and that really creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, both in and out of the clinic. I also enjoy the energy of the neighbourhood—there’s always something happening, whether it’s local events, street art, or just the everyday buzz of city life. It keeps things interesting and makes coming to work feel vibrant and connected. Practicing here allows me to build genuine relationships with patients who live, work, or pass through the area, and that sense of connection is incredibly rewarding.”
Living in Vancouver, I think you come to realize that each neighbourhood has it’s own sense of self. To you, what makes the Hornby and Davie community special?
“What makes the Hornby and Davie neighbourhood so special is its strong sense of inclusivity, diversity, and community connection. Being right on the edge of Davie Village, there’s a unique energy here—people feel comfortable, welcomed, and seen. That openness carries into our practice as well. We see patients from all backgrounds, age groups, and walks of life, and it creates a very real sense of trust and belonging. What’s also unique to this location is how accessible and central it is. We’re close to downtown offices, residential buildings, and transit, so we serve a wide mix of people—busy professionals on their lunch break, seniors from nearby housing, and long-time West End residents who’ve been part of this community for years. There’s a special kind of loyalty and connection that comes from being part of such a rooted, yet constantly evolving, neighbourhood. The culture of this area really encourages us to be more than just a dental clinic—it’s about being a welcoming, reliable part of people’s daily lives.”
Dr. Fong, after work, where can we find you?
“After work, you’ll probably find me out playing pickleball or tennis—both are great ways for me to stay active and have some fun. Lately, I’ve also been getting into cycling. It’s a newer hobby, but I’ve really come to enjoy being outside and clearing my head on a good ride. I also try to fit in some yoga when I can—it helps me reset after a busy day. But honestly, what I enjoy most is spending time with family and friends. Whether we’re hanging out, sharing a meal, or just catching up, those moments keep me grounded. Having that balance outside of work really helps me show up fully in the clinic.”
What a quintessential staple of the Davie village neighbourhood?
“One staple of the Hornby and Davie neighbourhood that always stands out to me is the rainbow crosswalk at Davie and Bute. It’s such an iconic part of the community—bright, welcoming, and a great reminder of the neighbourhood’s inclusive spirit. When it comes to spots I love, Melriches Coffeehouse has a cozy, local vibe and is perfect for grabbing a coffee and catching up with friends or just taking a break. Breka is another go-to—open 24/7, with great pastries and snacks no matter what time of day. And of course, Stepho’s on Davie is a classic. The portions are huge, and it’s one of those places everyone in the area knows and loves. It’s places like these that really give the neighbourhood its character and make it feel like home.
As Vancouverites, we’re extremely lucky in choices of good places to eat. Dr. Fong within your neighbourhood, what’s your favourite restaurant?
“If I’m looking for something a bit more upscale, I love Boulevard—everything from the service to the seafood is excellent, and it’s a great spot for a special night out. For something more casual (and honestly, more of a regular craving), Samurai Sushi is my go-to. It’s quick, low-key, and the portions are super generous. I almost always order the tuna and salmon sashimi—it’s fresh, simple, and always hits the spot.”
Almost as hard as pinning down a favourite restaurant, but what is your favourite coffee shop within Downtown Vancouver/Davie Village?
“I have a few favourite coffee spots around Hornby and Davie. Melriches Coffeehouse is a staple — it’s cozy, has a great local feel, and is perfect for people-watching or catching up with friends. Breka is another favourite, especially since it’s open 24/7, making it ideal for grabbing a quick coffee and pastry anytime. My go-to order is an Americano topped with whipped cream — a simple treat that never disappoints.”
Do you have a favourite bar or place that the team goes to to celebrate or relax?
“For a more casual, lively spot, Score on Davie is a great choice. It’s a classic neighbourhood pub with a welcoming feel, a patio, good food, and a solid drink selection—ideal for meeting up with friends or catching a game. I also love the open air feel of the lounge Reflections, located inside the Hotel Georgia, with its craft cocktails and beautiful ambience”
What’s a must-see spot within the Downtown Vancouver/West End neighbourhoods?
One of my favourite must-see spots in Vancouver has to be Stanley Park. It’s such a beautiful, peaceful escape right in the city—with amazing walking and cycling trails, stunning views of the water and mountains, and plenty of spots to just relax and soak it all in. Whether you’re renting a bike to cruise the Seawall or just enjoying a picnic by the water, it’s a perfect way to connect with nature without leaving the city.
One of my favourite places to unwind has got to be Jericho Beach. I really appreciate its laid-back vibe—the sound of the waves, the wide-open sky, and the mountain views all help me relax and clear my mind. Whether I’m taking a stroll along the shore, reading a good book, or just watching the sunset, it feels like the perfect escape from the city’s hustle. Plus, there are eight public pickleball courts there, and I often play with friends, which makes it even more special.
At Aarm Dental Group, our motto is that we’re in your neighbourhood to see you smile. We’ve always prided ourselves in being active parts of the community not just within it. What are your favourite community-focused places or organizations?
“Two of my favourite community activities nearby are the drop-in pickleball sessions at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre and the yoga classes at the West End Community Centre.”
