Ideal Cafe in Campbell River

2263 N Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC V9W 4P7, Canada

★★★★★
(961 reviews)
Categories: Cafe Breakfast restaurant Coffee shop

About

MENU AVAILABLE ON FACEBOOK IN PHOTO ALBUMS. WE ARE A FIRST COME FIRST SERVE RESTAURANT. (Early bird gets the Benny❤️) WE STRIVE FOR BEST FOOD AND BEST SERVICE, SWING BY TODAY AND CHECK OUT OUR AMAZING 1940’s DINER🍔🍳🥓🥗🥑

Website
facebook.com
Address
2263 N Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC V9W 4P7, Canada
Plus Code
2PQH+24 Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada
Time Zone
America/Vancouver

Business Hours

Sunday
7 AM–2:30 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
Closed
Saturday
7 AM–3:30 PM

Services

Service options
On-site services Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fireplace Great tea selection
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Spirits Vegan options Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dessert Seating
Amenities
Bar on site Toilets
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Photos

Reviews

4.6
★★★★★
961 reviews

Most Mentioned

diner (72) milkshakes (46) vegan (30) eggs benny (28) greasy spoon (16) island (13) skillet (12) hollandaise (11) barge (8) 50s (5)
5 stars
735
4 stars
163
3 stars
29
2 stars
10
1 stars
24
★★★★★
November 12, 2024

Good food. Cozy, old school mom n pop type place. Recommend and would go again. Food was hot and served pretty quickly. Apparently during summer months it's very very busy. Right on the main road. Easy to find Parking could be a challenge if they're super busy.

★★★★★
October 22, 2024

There is a 50s/60s Cafe in the northern part of Campbell River that has become a destination place for us. The staff are always cheerful, the food is to look forward to and the customers always seem comfortable. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
September 21, 2024

We went for breakfast today and the food was simply delicious!! I got the Meat lovers special and my partner got the ideal skillet and we shared 1 gigantic pancake. Everything about our experience was super enjoyable. We've been living in Canada for over a year and this was hands down the yummiest brekkie we've had yet. Such a funky vibe inside, staff are fun and friendly and the Hollandaise was in our top two ever. Thankyou soo much for a fantastic experience!!

★★★★★
September 10, 2024

I loved this place! We sat at the counter, because it was very busy at breakfast time (very good service nonetheless). It has a cool, local vibe. The food was delicious. Ya gotta love a diner that gives you your choice of hash brown style. I had the smoked salmon benedict and really enjoyed it. There are vegan and gluten free options.

★★★★★
January 16, 2024

The best vegan breakfast I've enjoyed in a long time. Not just another diner. This establishment clearly takes pride in the quality of their food and the service provided. I highly recommend the vegan skillet, with the sausage. Indulge in the truckstop atmosphere as you chow down with great service and reasonable pricing.

★★★★★
July 24, 2023

Uh....wow!!! The Ideal Cafe is a delightful little cafe with an unassuming location that you might miss if it weren't for the busy parking lot and people hanging out outside. I got the "Boat" skillet and it was absolutely delicious. Perfect size, and wouldn't have changed a thing. It was hard deciding on what to get, but I feel you can't go wrong with what you order here. We arrived just before 10am on a Saturday morning and were the first group on the waitlist. If you want to ensure a quick spot, I'd suggest arriving earlier. We were seated pretty quickly, got some good coffee, made our food choices, and looked around at the various memorabilia and decorations that were a flashback to an era you don't see often anymore. Overall, I am so glad this cafe was recommended to us, and I would highly suggest you go there for yourself...you won't regret it.

★★★★★
May 29, 2022

First time going to the Ideal Cafe .... building looks dated, but who cares, the food and the staff were amazing. Eggs Benedict.... wow .... awesome, wife had special pineapple and ham, I had the beast Benedict .... both were fantastic. The bacon with the "beast" was cooked perfectly- crispy and chewy. Prices were a bit higher that other places, but the portion sizes were bigger ... and well worth the extra cost. I can hardly wait to go back on my next Campbell River trip.

★★★★★
May 1, 2022

Delicious! I had the vegan skillet with vegan apple sausage, it was massive. He had the Beauty Benny, classic. Servers were friendly and fast. The place was packed (Sunday). They also have more vegan options such as vegan pancakes! Would recommend if you like a classic diner and generous portions.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 7, 2024

Great food and service...waits can be long when busy but worth it.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 21, 2024

Great food. Servers were friendly and down to earth. Very comfortable place and welcoming.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 21, 2024

Good food and (classic) ambience

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 21, 2024

Delicious food and great atmosphere. We are out of town and a local friend took us here. Ideal Cafe feels like real Canadian food and we loved it.

★★★★★
November 21, 2024

Excellent

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 21, 2024

Super!

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

If you love a classic diner, this place is Ideal.

★★★★★
October 21, 2024

Awesomeness!! Great food, large portions and friendly staff!

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

Love the place. The food is amazing and the staff are very pleasant. Its a pretty busy place on the best of days but its worth it if you have to wait. Lately it feels like one of the last vestiges of historical Campbell River.

★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

Perfect Breakfast.

★★★★★
October 21, 2024

Awesome food been eating at the Ideal Cafe for over 40 years and still some of the best food in CR

★★★★★
October 21, 2024

This place is amazing! Classic diner, great food, great staff.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

Super iconic diner. Like in the movies! Friendly waitresses who have all been working here for years and put their heart and soul into it. Breakfast is served handmade. Even sourdough bread is offered. Guests were already lining up for breakfast.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

Great lil non greasy spoon! Old time feel, niche cafe. Staff are lovely. Best BLT and soup place going. Thick Milkshake with the tin. One of my fave Campbell River stops. Parking: Parking in front so you can see your bikes, and more along the side.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

best vibe of any diner ; very special spot

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 21, 2024

Great. Old time greasy-spoon with good food......but, sadly, over-priced.

★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

Awesome food great service

★★★★★
September 21, 2024

Excellent food and service at a reasonable price

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

great place for breakfast

★★★★
September 21, 2024

fabulous place lots of food on the plate sat at counter every time and the free abuse was great Cheryl and Kiela ( i think) were great cant wait to return read all the notes on boards LOL

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

Vegetarian options: Serve vegetarian and vegan food! Food

★★★★★
September 21, 2024

Very busy place. Love the breakfasts they serve all day, will try lunches next, waitresses are awesome and attentive, recommended for sure. Light breakfasts and lunches available.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

Stopped by on a road trip at the recommendation of locals. While the wait was long on a Sunday at brunch (about an hour) it still gets t stars as it was well worth the wait. Great service and all the food was delicious. Vegetarian options: I had a great vegetarian omlette. Dietary restrictions: They have many gluten-free options, but they note possible cross-contamination, so those with serious allergies should beware.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

Cozy for breakfast and lunch. Very extensive map. Locals also like to come here.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

We stop here any time we are on the way to the North Island for fishing. The food is really good and it seems to be where locals come to eat. The restaurant has been in business for ever and the quality of the meals has never wavered since weve been going. Lots of parking in the gravel lot behind so if youre towing it makes it easier.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 21, 2024

Great breakfast reasonable prices.

★★★★★
August 21, 2024

Fantastic servers, always welcoming you as you enter, the food is always delicious, and if you like old diner atmosphere, this is the place to go!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

I got the gluten free grilled cheese and added some veggies, it was delicious. My boyfriend got eggs Benedict and said they were amazing as well. Great place to get food before or after getting on the ferry!

Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Does not adhere to all provincial safety regulations. They obviously know better than professional health experts with decades of experience, and still want accreditation for rules they dont follow. Full stop. Due to concern over this organizations stance on safety, Im going to continue warning my friends and family against eating here. 2024: still embargoed for willful non-compliance with provincial health and safety orders.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Old dinner feel. Service was great, and the food was delicious especially the hollandaise sauce.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

If you are looking for good home-cooked style breakfast or lunch food look no further. On top of the amazing food, the customer service from Stephanie (Manager) and her staff hands down are rockstars with awesome attitudes and sense of humor.

★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Dietary restrictions: Gluten-Free options Food

★★★★
August 21, 2024

Great old time cafe. Great for breakfast / lunch. Staff with old work ethic.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Fantastic food and very friendly staff! Will be back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

What a great place to have something to eat! Super enthusiastic and friendly staff and the milkshakes are just awesome. We just did have to come back for those a second time! If you dont look for it youll easily drive past it, but keep your eyes peeled as it is a little gem that you must visit!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

This place is definitely worth checking out if youre in the Campbell River area. The wait might be long on some days but its so worth it. Breakfast was delicious, portions were large, and the servers were so friendly and welcoming. Great vibe as well!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Great food the fry was a bit over cooked but the main part was amazing place is clean and nicely renovated and the staff was great

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Great food and great service in a very cozy diner. Ideal indeed!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Everything delicious, good atmosphere and very friendly staff!

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 21, 2024

Old school atmosphere and setting! Love this place. The servings are huge and you need to be starving to finish your food. Prices are amazing for what you recieve.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 21, 2024

Great little breakfast diner! The bennies were amazing and the veggie omelet was great.

★★★★★
July 21, 2024

Had a fantastic breakfast at Ideal Café, in Campbell River. Fast service, good food, friendly service. Sometimes so busy that you end up on a waiting list, but with their pager system that is no problem.

★★★★★
July 21, 2024

Loved the ambiance, coffee refills & on the go.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 21, 2024

Thank you so much for your sincere hospitility and delicious breakfast, espacally the grandfathers pancake. We loved to live to see the local people Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 21, 2024

From the moment we walked in to us leaving: delightful! Service: so friendly and engaging, food: A M A Z I N G ! Highly reccomend Food : 5/5

★★★★
Local Guide
July 21, 2024

I went here to try the Vegan tofo Scramble skillet with vegan sausage. I didn t like the vegan sausage and others found it to be too much food. It s a lovely option and very inclusive for everyone to eat here. I will go back again. It s very busy and the staff are working hard to keep food moving quickly.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 21, 2024

Very retro 50 s era diner. The staff were wonderful and the chef had great taste in music when I was there (in case you are wondering, no, did not match the 50 s vibe but well worth it as I was there for food). Now here is my complaint with google reviews. When I say the food was 5 stars that means something very different from most other people. 5 stars from me means that a vegan, a person with sensory issues and a restricted pallet and a few more typical people all had a really good meal. Not just tasty well prepared food, but without the stress that often comes when our particular diverse group of food choices head out for food. My 5 should be worth 10! ;) It was really good.

★★
July 21, 2024

We had the eggs which were overcooked but the bread was good. The fish and chips were only so so. Service was friendly and the vibe is nice. Too bad food is not as good as before

★★★★★
July 21, 2024

Great customer service and delicious food! Family friendly and feels like your family! Highly recommend this place to anyone!

★★★★
Local Guide
June 21, 2024

Nice atmosphere, good food!

★★★★
June 21, 2024

I have been here several times for breakfast and lunch and have never been disappointed. Great menu, large meals and very good staff. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
June 21, 2024

A hidden gem. The staff were very friendly and the food was great! Kendall and Hannah made the experience amazing. Thanks guys :) our group enjoyed it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 21, 2024

Great food friendly staff highly recommend for anyone that what great food

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 21, 2024

Best dinner in Campbell River 10/10!

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 21, 2024

Amazing food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 21, 2024

Perfect place for a home cooked dinner. Fast attentive service and good tasty portions.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 21, 2024

A great, authentic local diner experience. Great, hearty food for good value, lovely service and a memorable atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 21, 2024

Wow. One hell of a diner, forget Campbell river, this might be the best run diner in BC. Great food, spot on service and fair prices. If you like classic diner s do not miss this gem.

★★★★★
April 21, 2024

Best breakfast, great people, I always stop on my way through Campbell River

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 21, 2024

VEGAN food made with care in an old school diner. Seriously amazing vegan options for breakfast lunch or dinner. Don t judge this place from the outside because it s super clean and nostalgic inside. Great service, great atmosphere and great food. Vegans have an awesome option when in Campbell River. Highly recommend. Arrive early as it fills up quickly and you will be waiting. Dietary restrictions: Vegan

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 21, 2024

Best breakfast sandwich I think I ever had

★★★★★
April 21, 2024

Great atmosphere and the food is good

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 21, 2024

Old school cafe, super friendly staff, and a delicious vegan skillet.. Excellent

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 21, 2024

Best breaky place in town. Parking: Big enuf for a truck n trailer. Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 21, 2024

Best breakfast Ive had on the island. I enjoyed coffe, and a Avocado and tomato Benny Eggs done perfectly, rich yolks, bright fresh perfect hollandaise. The grilled tomato, was delicious, and the avocado was perfectly ripe. My choice of cubed hashbrowns perfect. Excellent service and a real old school diner vibe. Thank you for a fabulous breakfast.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 21, 2024

Delicious food. Good portion sizes. Great service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 21, 2024

Great food and great service n great people

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 21, 2024

Amazing service, ordered 13 bacon cheeseburgers with fries for the crew, all prepared in under 30 minutes! The food is exceptional. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 21, 2024

Ive been visiting this place for many years... Pretty much every time I pass through Campbell River, and it never disappoints! In fact, word has gotten out and now the staff issue pagers for anyone willing to wait to get into the cafe.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 21, 2024

We LOVE the Ideal Cafe!! Always the best service, great food and no wifi...lol The staff is friendly and always smiling no matter how busy they are. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 21, 2024

Wow, if you are in Campbell River this is a place to eat. This place provides the character, food and service which surpassed my expectations. If you like hollandaise it truly is the spot.

★★★★★
February 21, 2024

Don t let the outside curb appeal fool you. Doesn t look like much BUT well worth the visit The very best poached eggs I have ever had ! Hands down. Tons of food , staff ( 1 girl ) Hanna Banana ( lol ) was extremely friendly , professional and attentive 5/5 would recommend

★★★★★
January 21, 2024

Have been coming here for a long time. Definitely the best breakfast in town. The service is great and the food is amazing! The Large and in charge Barge I highly recommend.

★★
Local Guide
January 21, 2024

Haven t been here in years and stopped in while in town over the holidays. I ordered the smaller size chicken fingers and fries. They should have been embarrassed to serve what they did. By far the worst strips I have ever eaten . Nasty dried out from a low cost grocery store. My friend ordered fish and chips and the fish had already been cooked once before. It was so dry and dark coloured. I wouldn t have eaten it. We had to ask for more coffee and it took forever to get it. The first cup was only warm. Other friends with us had a burger and clubhouse which they were pleased with. With the kind of prices they charge and the quality of food its a definite never again . I would think twice before anyone ate here.

★★★★
December 21, 2023

Good food but plate needs a face lift

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Its an absolutely perfect diner. Decor is dated. It is drafty in winter, but the breakfast is wonderful.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Classic family diner. This place is well known, loved and respected. Fantastic vintage tables. Huge menu with some surprising vegetarian options and always home made/home cooking. Its not a quiet place so you may have to yell but the good is great and you wont regret it.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Breakfast was delicious and filling. I would come back again!

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Friendly staff, good food and a great atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Eggs Benedict, a good hash, and a big breakfast was enjoyed by our group. Our waitress was wonderful helping us pick out our breakfasts and very charming. Clear they have a steady stream of customers in an actual diner. Will return when we are in Campbell River again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Best place to eat, great staff, home made pies!

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Awesome Place!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Today I realized what my usual is, the chicken burger. Slaps every.damn.time Thank you for cheffing something that I do not xo Leah is the best!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Good food and service

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Everything about this place is absolutely amazing!!! From the servers to the cooks and everyone in between they are all fantastic people

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

A classic! I used to go to Ideal Cafe with my Dad when I was a young lady and was able to come back 17 years later with son and it hasnt changed a bit. Service was exceptional, food was perfect greasy spoon...i went with the world famous loggers special and it filled me to the brim! Plenty of parking out back, might be a little wait during the weekend, but its worth it! Has a 50s ice cream parlor vibe inside, so if you like nostalgia, this might be an Ideal stop....see what I did there?

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

French fries to die for! Monte Cristo outstanding and made with real turkey, not some deli excuse for turkey! Nice job! The only downside is that this meal is so good I dont try anything else on your menu :) Happy luncher!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Very good but also very expensive for what we had and the type of food served.

Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Disappointing food and service both times :( 2023 update: gave them another chance and was AGAIN disappointed by both the food and the service. Three fails! Most of my reviews are overwhelmingly positive and I really want to support local businesses, but this one is truly terrible.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Love new menu caters to all age groups, and all patrons have choices. Service with a smile even when busy server does not seem rushed.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

So so good! I m a breakfast person. I would eat it three times a day. Their breakfast menu is amazing and The Barge was delicious. And they are all so nice!!! Everyone! It s so nice to see.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Im always raving to people about the huuuuge, to-die-for-tasty breakfast wrap. Not my usual pick when theres bennys but i wanted something new & it was soooooo good

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Lovely down-to-earth place. Breakfast was great and I loved the old school vibes.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Beautiful place and delicious food. I had The Boat breakfast, liked it so much.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Always love visiting ideal when were traveling through Campbell River. Awesome food and friendly&helpful staff.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Genuine old school diner! Eggs Benny are fabulous!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

First-time there. Great find Service and food excellent Will definitely tell friends to go there. Will definitely return.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Great 50s ambiance, a typical diner menu but with super tasty vegan options (which I needed). Great service. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Fantastic eggs benny! And service! Love the classic diner style.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Best breakfast in town by far!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Burgers and clubhouse and cherry pies are awesome. I stop here every time i go through Campbell River.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Decent food at a reasonable price

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Funky café- and lots of yummy menu selections. The vegan hash bowl and oatmeal with blueberries were delicious. Our server was friendly and efficient. Food : 5/5

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Dont miss the pistachio milkshakes.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Id definitely go back again - good food and service. Its clearly a very popular place to dine. You put your name in a queuing system book thats outside and wait to be called in when a table is available.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Had the beast Benny, it was great

★★★★
December 21, 2023

Great old-school diner style restaurant with great food and super friendly, experienced staff, which makes it a very popular and very busy place. Lots of great vegan options now too. A little expensive, but so is The White Spot, and this place is 100x better.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Probably the best cafe in Campbell River. I was only visiting for a day and this was recommended by a friend. The service was friendly and welcoming and our drinks came fast and the eggs were poached perfectly. Just upset they dont serve pancakes after a certain time.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Hands down the breakfast in CR. Portions are huge and the service is great. This place is the retro diner vibe at its finest.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

cute, unassuming old school diner that has been here since the 40 s. some of the best hollandaise i ve ever had. fresh eggs and veg, nice folks too

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Awesome food and great service! Super busy so you know its a great place to eat.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Very friendly staff. I felt very welcome.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

An original diner with amazing breakfasts.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Great traditional breakfast, really liked the cubed potatoes and pancakes. Some stranger even bought my breakfast.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Fantastic classic cafe atmosphere, with amazing food and quick service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Amazing service and even better food, how can you go wrong! I had the barge and a strawberry milkshake on an empty stomach and it really hit the spot! Food

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Great food and service

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Best place to go get a great meal and the best service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

A genuine icon, a legend not to be missed!!! I love their salmon Benny. It s all so good. Hard working staff. I love sitting at the round bar. Feels like what 1950 must have been like. 12/10.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Amazing food, with old diner atmosphere!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Vegetarian options: The vegetarian options were amazing Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

We stopped in for the first time this week and we enjoyed our visit to the café. The retro vibe was fun, staff were super friendly and welcoming, and the food was delicious. Vegetarian options: They had vegan options. Parking: There s a parking lot on the side of the building that you can use

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Wonderful little breakfast diner with friendly staff and an old time atmosphere. Food was delicious, I had the Ideal Skillet. Hash browns could have been a little crispier for my taste but really nice flavors overall! Would recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Excellent food Well worth coming here. It can get busy at times so dont be surprised if you have to wait depending on what time you decide to make your visit The milkshakes look outstanding with the old school mixers sitting at the counter. ********Take a look at their menu****** If you have dietary restrictions or otherwise a picky eater I wouldnt recommend this place, or if you do come by, understand that they may not be able to accommodate you. Its a small kitchen so there will be cross contamination.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

What a beautiful place this is to eat! It looks like youre going back in time. The food is also great! The poutine is highly recommended!

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

I travel for work, and have eaten at every cafe/diner /restaurant all over BC. This is hands down my favourite place to eat, and it has great coffee

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Excellent food and service. We ordered smoked salmon Benny and beast benny, ideal scramble, strawberry milkshake, hot chocolate, and kids strawberry waffle. We had both shredded and cubed potatoes and both were very tasty. Everything was delicious and better than expected. Fast and friendly service. Old diner style atmosphere. Very happy with this restaurant. 5 stars hands down. :)

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Kind people and fast service. Food was tasty and what you d expect/want from a diner like this. Would recommend if your driving through this town and need something comforting and cozy. Would come back!

★★★★
December 21, 2023

Ideal cafe is always a great place to eat. I try to make it there every time Im in Campbell River.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Cute little place. We are from out of town and were told we had to eat here. Well, we agreed and made it our breakfast spot every day we were there. The breakfast was big and fresh the wait wasnt too long and the place was hopping busy. For good reason!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Best spot in town! The food is always amazing!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

The staff here are AMAZING. Food came out fast and fresh. Such a great menu and the holandaise sauce is AMAZING!!

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

This was a cool breakfast spot. There were 19 of us, and we were accommodated with no waiting. The food was awesome, the service superb! Highly recommend this place! It was an Ideal Cafe!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Great little place, Im sure glad we stopped! Fantastic milkshakes! Great food, friendly staff! Dont be surprised if you have to wait for a seat, though! Food

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Don t be fooled by its exterior! You d drive by this place without even noticing it, but inside it s full of cool diner vibes, very friendly staff and great food!! I d highly recommend it

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

This place was amazing. Reasonably priced, delicious food. Kind staff. Hidden gem. Milkshakes and the fish and chips are a must.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Old style diner! Loved the food, and although busy it was maybe a 5 minute wait Parking: Small area for parking. Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

The place looks like in the movies and the staff is super friendly. We visited them because they had a tasty vegan options. It was so good, we went there a second time the next day. A bit pricy but adequate for the quality and service.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Takeout chowder and garlic toast was really good, the woman on the phone was super friendly. Can t wait to go in and try some other menu items.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Busy place in the am

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Always a great place for breakfast.. but prices are way up. 48 for breaky for two.. an omelette with no toast and an order of french toast - 2 slices., Plus 2 coffees. Wheelchair accessibility: Ground level at all entrances. Tables have moveable chairs easy to pull up to one.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Good food, nostalgic atmosphere.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Always top tier experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

One of the best omelettes Ive ever had! This place is great, and the staff is very friendly. Check this place out for sure. Make sure you try their milkshakes, they are top class!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Good, classic diner food, big portions! Been a part of Campbell Rivers social fabric forever!

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Still the best eatery in Town for a weekend breaky 30 years n counting....

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Always a favorite stop when passing through Campbell River. From the warm greeting on our arrival, to the excellent food, and service throughout, the Ideal Cafe truly lives up to its name. Looking forward to coming back again soon. Food

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

I have been eating at Ideal cafe for years as a treat to myself when I get the chance, I love the homey vibes, the old diner taste and the total atmosphere of the place. I have never had bad food while being there, or bad service! If you ever go they have the best diner food and old classic milk shakes.

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

Best place to get breakfast in Campbell River. Classic cafe look, food is unbelievable, great place for a family breakfast get together. Feel like having a morning alcoholic drink? They also have an alcoholic beverage menu too. Also great lunch food. For breakfast: Ideal omelette and The Barge (or boat) are 10/10s For lunch: chicken burger or Beef dip are also 10/10s And customer service is awesome. Even while being busy, the food still doesn t take too long to be served. So I d have to shed some light on their chefs for high quality and high speed meals

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

This place is just amazing! Thanks for everything, you certainly love what you are doing, which can be seen in every detail. Cheers! Excellent food Excellent service Excellent athmosphere Excellent price Excellent Milk Shakes on top of it :P I love it and as soon as I left, I miss it already. Looking forward to our next stay XX

★★★★★
December 21, 2023

It has been years used to be the regular spot. Happy to be back, food excellent, the old nostalgic feelings walking in...

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Lets put it this way....I cannot wait to go back! Vegetarian options: Lots of great vegan options!! Dietary restrictions: I think they sell gluten free stuff.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2023

Not sure that ideal is the best name. The place certainly has that diner vibe going for it, and the food was really good, but also expect the servers to talk so loud and enthusiastically that you wish you brought ear plugs. It s a little hard to find the restaurant too, so make sure you follow driving directions carefully if it s your first time.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Home cooked fresh food and friendly, great service. Its as epic and wonderful as it ever was. Truly an Ideal roadside cafè

★★★★
December 21, 2022

Old restaurant but good food and service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

One of thr best meals on our trip. Large quantities. Delicious.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Good breakfast. Good service. Recommended.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Legit breakfast place

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Yummy breakfast, large portion, but very old building and interior. Needs a renovation urgently. Staff was friendly and competent.

★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Food was good. Kind of expensive. The employees were really loud where we were sitting.

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

Best damn breakfast in town. Unique old school diner with a very comfortable vibe, and exceptional staff. Recommend getting the boat.

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

me and my partner came here today for breakfast and it was amazing! the service was warm and food was awesome!! thanks for everything :)

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

Super good food and our server was wonderful Smiling faces all over the place! Great experience Great atmosphere!

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

Great diner on the edge of Campbell River that serves up a great brunch. The menu is very varied, so there is a great selection depending on what you feel like eating. The milkshakes are amazing and a highlight! The staff are super friendly and so welcoming.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Incredible in Campbell River, this little place that offers a relaxed atmosphere, impeccable service and brunch plates that dont pretend... If you pass in the area....to discover

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Always hopping! Fabulous food great service

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

What a great cafe. Great food. Good prices and staff was excellent. Daves clam chowder was the best I ever had. Cant wait to go back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Great food!

★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Had a bacon cheeseburger, clam chowder and peanut butter milkshake. Burger didnt have much flavor. Bacon was good. Chowder was a 7 out of 10. The milkshake was pretty good. Prices were a little high. Service was great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Best eggs Benedict in town. Service is excellent as well. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Best breakfasts in Campbell River.

★★★
December 21, 2022

Good food for sure, with swift cooking, but the general atmosphere felt somewhat off/condescending (a lack of mask/vaccine mandates, throwing shade at people who use phones). If that doesn t bother you, I imagine you ll love the place, but I doubt I ll come back.

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

Super good, my buddy took me for breakfast and it was amazing! The benny was delicious and super filling.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Great home cooked meal , busy spot

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

Parking: Wonderful food! Large portions. Food

★★★★
December 21, 2022

good food and good service, old school diner. would 100% recommend.

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

On my bucket list to go and eat here with my cutie Angel and just order food more and more till I roll over and roll out. Love the patriotism and open minds, a real gem. So shweet I literally am throbbing right now you are my favorite spot in Cambell River.

★★★★★
December 21, 2022

Had a nice breakfast the other day loved the ambiance of the place and the food is excellent

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 21, 2022

One of the best customer service experiences in a long time! Waitress was totally on point and extremely personable! #tipthebill