Northern Cafe in Vancouver
1640 East Kent Ave S, Vancouver, BC V5P 2S7, Canada
About
Step back in time at Northern Cafe, a Vancouver diner serving up Western and Asian comfort food since the 1950s. This family-run gem offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch in a classic atmosphere. Expect friendly service and hearty portions at this beloved neighbourhood eatery. Voted as "Yelp's #1 Best Place to Eat in Canada 2023" and "Yelp's Top 25 Place to Eat in Vancouver 2022". Join us!!
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From the moment you step into this charming family-run diner, you are greeted with warmth and hospitality that instantly makes you feel at home. The steak was cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful; the burger was mouthwatering, and the wonton soup had just the right balance of flavors. What truly sets this diner apart is the impeccable service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure your dining experience is top-notch. They are attentive, friendly, and always ready to recommend their specialties. The ambiance is cozy and inviting. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this diner provides a welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming back for more. Overall, this diner is a hidden gem that deserves all the praise. The combination of delicious food, exceptional service, and charming ambiance makes it a standout dining destination. I can't wait to return and indulge in more of their mouthwatering dishes. Five stars without a doubt!
Northern Cafe Definitely a GEM & Best Kept Secret ! What a fun, relaxing place to enjoy some good ole fashion home cooked food. Take a step back into time, where you can find it right here still in Vancouver. Let’s not forget, those non-stop smiles from the active owners to the staff. Note: It’s a very popular place, so hang in there. For there’s a good chance you will be placed on a wait list. But it’s so worth it (trust me) … Great food, great people, great place (all hidden in a lumber yard of all places). Seriously, like how surreal is that ? p.s. Make sure you take home some of those frozen pot stickers (hand made “by the mom”). Thanks all Darryl Port Moody, BC
We had a fantastic time at Northern Cafe! The experience was truly one-of-a-kind, starting with its unique location inside a working lumber yard and the charming 90s diner vibe, complete with slanted floors. The food exceeded our expectations—fluffy pancakes, perfectly cooked eggs, and coffee that captured the classic diner feel. The customer service was outstanding. The staff were incredibly friendly, kept our coffee cups full, and even came out to wish a customer a happy birthday as they were leaving. It’s clear this is the kind of place where they remember your name and your go-to order. Whether you’re nearby or have to make a special trip, Northern Cafe is well worth the visit!
Went on a Saturday around 2pm, they took down my name and phone then gave a headsup that would be about be about 45min to an hour wait ( i was expecting that since this is a very popular place) i went for a walk with family along the river side, came back in half hour then got a message in phone that our table is ready - Richard who is from the owner family remembered me, the warmth and friendliness of staff is above exceptional which you may not even find in a fine dining restaurant. I use to manage restaurants in five diamond hotels, the service at this restaurant is from heart and you experience it. Richard make sure that he looks after all his guests, other staff all approached with a great smile. The food is well priced, the steak was juicy and tastes very good l. My family truly enjoyed the experience. Thank you Richard and family
Finally ate here for brunch after hearing and reading about this place for years. Located in an industrial area of E. Kent, the cafe is located above a hardware store in a building supply, hardware and lumber yard, is family-run and charming. Food prices are reasonable and portions generous. They have a portrait of the original owner of the yard hanging in the dining room. Line-ups are common so be prepared. Well worth a visit. Ray and his brother were awesome. Street parking only.
Love how small and weird this place is. Good luck in getting a table. Yeah, it's that good if people are willing to wait an hour and a half. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. The reason for the 1 star service is because they are so busy that they just don't care anymore. I had to do a takeout as the lineup was too long. I offered my name for when my order is ready, but they said it wasn't necessary. The place was so small that, naturally, I was asked to wait outside. After an unreasonably long time, I found out it had been put aside and already cold. If you are not dining in, be vigilant of your takeout. No doubt the food is fantastic otherwise they wouldn't be as busy. It's still worth checking out if you are willing to wait. Oh yes, the burger was good, I can only imagine it being even more sensational if I'd had it earlier. 5 stars.
I finally went to check out this place on a weekday for breakfast, and it did not disappoint. Our party arrived at 9 a.m., and there were probably 2-3 tables ahead of us. By around 10, the place was almost full. The waiter was very welcoming—he asked how we found the place, offered drinks, and gave us recommendations from the menu. It’s a small spot with an open kitchen, and the atmosphere was lively. Everything we ordered was great: a generous portion of smoked salmon for the benedict, thick and fluffy pancakes, and although the omelette wasn’t particularly outstanding, the hash browns were thin and crispy. My friend also enjoyed the potato salad. It seems like a family-run business, and the waiters were all very attentive to each table. It’s nice to see a small family business flourishing. As they continue to grow in popularity, I definitely hope they can maintain the quality of both their service and food, and avoid burnout from the challenges of running a family business!
Northern Coffee delivers a real dinner experience. 🥞 Also I just love the location of this dinner! The atmosphere will make you feel very cozy, like home and the people there are really nice and caring. I really liked the food. The veggie omelet has so much veggies in it! It’s no joke! 😄 I will for sure come back! 🩷
Any idea when you ll reopen?
Greasy spoon goodness
Top5 in Vancouver Wheelchair accessibility: Not at all Food : 5/5 |
The best restaurant in all of Canada. No doubt about that at all.
Really fun experience going here and GREAT FOOD They even have their own trained Red Seal Chef! This place has a lot of history as it was built in 1949! It is across in a lumber yard, and up several old rickety wooden stairs , along a black and white-tiled floor hallway! Then VOILA-a warm atmosphere welcomes you Friendly staff and happy customers eating in a warm authentic Lost in The 50s fantastic Diner! It was bought over in 2008 by a family who is now working there-cooking, etc !! Oldies music is playing, red vinyl seated booths, black and white floors, antique radios, old lighting, and decor-the whole atmosphere The menu choices are plenty and the prices were reasonable, and it is clean here . The breakfasts we ordered were just delicious ! Here, they also serve some good looking lunches (we saw some good looking dishes while there!) and then, it closes at 3PM. We had pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon terrific hashbrowns-excellent! Also smokey sausage, Denver cheesy omellette, Eggs Benedict! Choices of toast, OH GEEZ! FANTASTIC! Even the coffee was EXCELLENT as well-believe me NO disappointments here Our server, Kota, was a really nice helpful, and amusing guy. There was also a young woman server-couldnt have been more pleasant! ALL in all-VERY good atmosphere, really well prepared AND flavourful meals! (We also took some Wor wonton soup home- as it looked so good while I saw another customer eating it-and it was DELICIOUS! But then- we saw great lunch items on our way out too! ) It was a FUN and quirky original old diner to visit, and we WILL DEFINITELY be back for more as their lunch choices looked SO good too . One of a ki nd!!
I love this place. The best thing is the staff. They are friendly, very friendly.
10/10 easy.
Northern Cafe is a family owned restaurant and absolutely a hidden gem. One thing that amazed me is the WONTON SOUP made by the mom as well as MUSHROOM BURGER made by the dad. This is a go to restaurant if you are tired of cooking homemade food. I like the ambience bcoz they didn t change a thing since they acquired the place and keep everything in original. RICHARD is so friendly and awesome. Service is top notch. I never feel this kind of ambience in other family restaurants. They treat us like real family. I Highly recommend this restaurant but please make sure come early as possible because line up is insane especially on weekends. Parking: Ample street parking space Kid-friendliness: Food is for everybody. Pancake is soooo good!
This is a place filled with love: delicious dinners food, old school funk and soul tunes and staffed by this family that greets you like old friends....on top of all this located in this unique lumbar yard that is at the quaint River district. Everyone leaves here full and in a joyful mood. What more can you ask for? Kid-friendliness: A family-run greasy spoon spot that is filled with happy kids.
Finally made it here after having this place bookmarked for some time on my list to eat at and a previously failed attempt on beating the rush. Northern Cafe is the definition of a hole-in-the-wall diner vibe. No frills food, affordable and generous portions, and staff were attentive while we dined there. You can definitely tell they have their regulars and that adds to the charm of the place. You can tell the owners care a lot about the business based on the familiarity of the interactions with their regulars and for that alone I would recommend.
Such a fun and tasty experience on a Saturday morning! Shredded hash browns come in a thin layer, remaining crisp and non greasy. No sogginess whatsoever. Home made potato salad made with small diced potatoes, still crisp veggies and pickles all in a creamy, eggy and tangy mixture. Perfectly done sausages, juicy on the inside, outside skin cooked just right, again not greasy. Fluffy and tender scramble. Wonderful atmosphere. Attentive and genuinely friendly owner and staff. Highly recommend! Will be coming back for the burgers next time.
Can I give it 10 stars??? I know I should start with food, but the best part of this place was the service. They are so kind and generous. The food is excellent!! The meat lovers omelette had more meat than egg, and it was fantastic! The Han Benny was excellent! Get the home made hot sauce!!! We will definitely be back!
Best quality & good service
Nice place nice service
The food was delicious,the service was great and everything was very cool you could try it its great
love the wonton soup!! It s the best wonton soup I ve ever had in Van. Also love the vibe!
Salute!
What a great place in the middle of a lumber yard! Food is excellent and atmosphere is so much fun! Nothing fancy!
Hands down best breakfast in Vancouver! Such a great experience!!
Food is divine and worth the wait
Very nice vibe underground hidden gem type beat . food was excelent and very satisfied. customer service was on point and very nice. Would definitely recommend this place.
Steak n eggs
Steak n eggs
So fun Parking: Great Food : 5/5 |
This is a hidden gem of a brunch spot! The owner is super nice and very friendly towards kids. There are plenty of options for vegetarians as well. Its usually busier on weekends, so you might need to wait a bit, but weekdays should be better. Highly recommended!
a happy place to eat
Everything is really delicious here, the service and hospitality is perfect. Thank you!
Every things more than good , we taste 4 different foods, all of them great specially Wonton Wheelchair accessibility: Doesn t have wheelchair accessibility
Best place to get brunch. Staff is always so friendly and amazing. Also they have an amazing hot sauce that will blow your mind
Cute and cozy spot run by a friendly loving family. Vegetarian options: Not sure Food : 5/5 |
steak and eggs
What a gem of a find! Honestly, the loveliest staff, delicious home cooked meals, and a tiny adventure to get to your table (via the lumber yard). 10/10 recommend!!!
The Northern Cafe serves up healthy portions of love and smiles. We left as better people for the experience and with a yearning to return! Thanks Service
The food, atmosphere, and service are all excellent, and the staff always pays close attention to their customers. I always receive so much positive energy from conversations with the owner. It s such a warm and welcoming restaurant. I love the wonton soup, burgers, and pancakes. I ll definitely be back!
A delicious experience...(bathroom needs love)...but, other than that just a great restaurant, food, staff, atmosphere
Excellent food and quick service.We arrived around 11am and was told to wait for 30 mins.as it was quite busy.Exactly at 30mins.we got our table.The hospitality was nice and the food was very good.No complaints. Also,there is a walk way nearby(2 mins.far from the cafe) where you can walk along the side of fraser river and it feels very nice after a heavy meal.Do go over there as well once you are here.
Read so much about this. So finally went today. Short line up when we arrived. Ordered steak and eggs and a cheese bacon burger with hand cut fries for myself. Of course we had to try the wonton. It had the homey diner feel but what made the experience fantastic was the staff. They were very gracious and constantly checked on everyone.
My girlfriend and I went here Saturday afternoon and expected to wait a bit to get a table. The wait ended up being a little over the hour and half which we were told when our names went on the list. The food was pretty decent but it wasnt anything extra ordinary when compared to other diners. I had the Deluxe burger with a poutine, my girlfriend had the veggie omelet and we shared a pancake as well as a couple of spring rolls. The location is truly unique and cool. Being in a lumber yard gives very different vibes and the the interior decor was super fun as well. The staff and service also stood out, everyone we interacted with was super friendly and made us feel at home and like cherished guests. I will definitely be back if I am in the area early morning and can get a table without much of a wait!
We came across this hidden gem on TikTok and thought wed give it a try. Great food, fast service and friendly staff. Well be back to try the other food on the menu for sure.
Great place, great food, awesome staff! Is a place you feel at home
Finally ticked this off of my list! Ill call this a little slice of classic, family run diner/restaurant with the added charm of its location: in the old industrial area of South Van. Arrived at 11am on a Wed to find a sizeable line up, but was seated right away because the proprietors are good people who care. Truly thankful for that. Richard came over and introduced himself - super friendly, ensures everyone is enjoying themselves. He chatted with us about his family. Coffee was always kept topped up while waiting for the food, which was quick, nonsense meals, good portions, good value. (Had benny, hash, beef dip and french toast. Forgot pics but it was all good, esp the french toast). At times, I questioned if wed fall through the floor, but honestly, thats part of the weird charm. Come and see for yourself!
Wow I was getting my truck serviced at the Toyota dealership today at Fraser and Marine and looked up to see if there were any breakfast places around. This one came up and I was a bit hesitant to spend 22 minutes walking in the rain to get there but Im sure glad I did. Nestled away in a lumber yard in the industrial district is this awesome little gem of a diner. Richard and his staff welcomed me in and made me feel at home. The food was great, the atmosphere was amazing and the service was second to none. Now I cant wait for my next vehicle service so I have an excuse to get back here again! I cant believe Ive lived in Richmond and Vancouver my whole life and never across this place!!
Awesome, we came from Calgary Alberta during this summer and it was a great experience. I had the Bacon Cheddar Burger and it was good, we will come back again making this our 3rd visit.
I heard about this Cafe and read the news articles and reviews which peaked my curiosity. Went for breakfast and it was a GREAT experience! Not your typical greasy spoon breakfast place! We had a breakfast plate of eggs and sausage, the pancakes were fluffy, smoked salmon benny and the real gem were the home made wontons! SO GOOD! We chatted with Richard whom is really down to earth. So amazing that this is a family run restaurant. Great food service and atmosphere, most definitely will be back again!!!
I ve lived in the neighbourhood for 39 years and decided to pop in today with my husband for an adventure. We were excited to pop into a little mom and pop hole in the wall. Customer service was amazing and gives the cafe a family feel. Food was great, not a single complaint. Everything was made well and coffee was delicious. We will definitely be back, thank you!
The nicest family runs this restaurant! So friendly and engaging! The food is homemade and delicious. They play great R & B music. I go once a week with my friend. Food
I had been wanting to go since a rave review came out last year. It is an incredibly unique experience. The location is awesome. This place could double as a CIA safe house. Its so out of the way. Anyway, the service was the best Ive had in a long, long time. They actually talk and listen. The real treat is the food. I worked for eight years at the Montreal Ritz Carleton, and I can honestly say the food at Northern Cafe is actually better. It is not just tasty and well-prepared, but it is unique in the ingredients. Now I cant wait to go back for more.
We ordered beef onion ring burger, meat lover omelette and a plain pancake. Everything was perfect, especially the pancake was so fluffy
My first time and I love it
Cheap eat at the area.
It was a long wait for the table. Service & food made up for it
Had set alarm to wake up early to head to Northern Cafe & Grill to beat the line in. Its my first time and I had to try this hidden spot everyone is talking about and highly rated. We got the last available booth and didnt need to join a line, score! The staff are wonderful and friendly. Its breakfast so we both ordered bennys: Veggie Eggs Benny and Ham Eggs Benny. We will be back to try lunch! Dietary restrictions: I am diabetic was able to eat protein and veggies and avoided the hash brown.
Location of the restaurant is in a factory area. It is a hidden gem. Food is delicious, service is great.
Our server was a real one. Wonton soup was slappin
Seems a bit of a rarity these days; affordable, interesting ambiance, great food and great service - reminds me of a typical local breakfast place in the UK with a bit of an Asian twist. Had the corned beef hash, which was delicious. Wasnt overly busy at 9AM on a Monday and was seated and served almost immediately.
Absolutely loved it. 10/10
Fantastic old diner, complete with 50s music. Excellent breakfast, great service including conversation with owner Jimmy. But the best part is the atmosphere. I just love it!!!
It is a cute little hole in the wall cafe. Quite enjoyed my experience and will go back.
The place is crowded, service is the worst, no customer service skills. Bad experience there.
The weight was a bit of a surprise that it took so long to get in, which is a testament to how good the food is.
Interesting experience. Be prepared for a wait outside. Servers were awesome. Fun experience.
Cheep alterations the best service
Northern cafe is like going to a friends house where you feel genuinely welcomed and your hosts make the stay effortlessly comfortable. The food especially is like a warm hug on a rainCOUVER day . Today our boy enjoyed his steak and eggs and with an unexpected side of entertainment! The staff noticed our boy brought his speed cube, then one of the talented staff members served up a helping of his speed cubing talent and completed the cube in 48 seconds flat! WOO HOO! Our kiddo wants to come back again and show his speed cubing skills after another fantastic meal! Thank you to the awesome staff of Northern Cafe!
Our favourite diner breakfast spot. The food and hospitality make the long wait for a table worth every minute.
Great place and great people! If I didn t know better I d say it feels like visiting my friends home, every single staff member stopped to check in on me and my wife, and the food was very comforting.
Service was amazing! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. My husband even bonded with some BOH staff on their heritages and chatted for a while when we were waiting for our food. The food came out quickly and everything was delicious. We even split pancakes for dessert after. I ve seen bad reviews saying the pancakes seem like they are from a box and not good, but I really enjoyed them and I m not usually a pancake person. I rarely even finish my meals when I go out to eat, but I did today! We never even had to ask for refills on coffee and water, which is something I really appreciate. It was definitely worth the wait today for the experience we had
Delicious pancakes and hash browns (not oily at all!). The side mayonese salad is also great. Staff is very welcoming and friendly.
Cool place, great atmosphere. Service was above average so was the food (had eggs Benny). Not a huge fan of the hash, but that is more personal than on the restaurant.
What a unique spot to get breakfast food! It was a bit of a wait but it was worth it. I ve heard good things about Northern Cafe and we decided to check it out last year. It did not disappoint. Parking: The lot has a lot of parking
My favourite was the wonton soup!
Best diner in Vancouver!
Great and attentive staff. Amazing food. Fantastic prices.
One of the last authentic greasy spoons and always satisfying!
The Veggie Eggs Benedict is very delicious. Its a stylish cafe that gives you cream when you order coffee. The wonton soup is hot and delicious and has a nice atmosphere. The pancakes are also delicious with butter.
I liked that so much! Atmosphere was great! Staff were family members as well!
This place exists outside of time. If you want a classic diner with good food and quick service and a quirky personality, you found it.
Wonderful experience. Food was fantastic, owner and staff friendly and engaging. Great niche dining experience.
Excellent!
Classic truck-stop diner feel with incredible comfort food. The hashbrowns are perfectly seasoned and crispy, the wontons are incredible and full of flavour! Feels like home Parking: Parking in the laneway, in both sides of the road
Always a pleasure. Great food, family run, and an eclectic setting.
Awesome secret little gem!! The food was amazing and service was great. Brought my family that was visiting from Saskatchewan and they absolutely loved it.
Very kind staff and the food is delicious. We got here at 7:55 and they opened at 8 and we were seated within a few minutes. We had breakfast today and will come back for lunch.
Great experience, food was good and enjoyed the service.
Great diner in the most unlikely place!
HAVE TO GO!!
A little gem hidden away. Breakfast was amazing, looked so tasty. Thanks for a unique experience!!!
We ve been wanting to come here for a while and today we tried it! Absolutely love it! The atmosphere! The service! And the food! Best combination of everything!!! Try the maple syrup which is from another world!! We ll definitely come again soon
Classic breakfast! Exactly what you need once in awhile.
Best restaurant!!
Always fantastic. Great food, great service and great atmosphere Thank you Food
This place is a family go to! Everyone is so friendly food is great prices are reasonable. We always feel at home coming here
Love the place! Not just about the amazing food, but also the atmosphere, history and the friendly family running the cafe. Highly recommended.
Hidden treasure !!! Breakfast so good especially the smoked salmon Benny !!!
If you re looking for a hole in the wall type of spot, dinery vibes, this is for you. Just went for our first experience and solid breakfast, tasty wonton soup, quick service and the hash was super tasty (crispy bits ). Only downside is the wait (we waited an hour-exactly as they estimated) but heard them asking some people if they had a reservation, so I m not sure if that s done via phone but if that is an option I d recommend that route!
I would come to this restaurant on special days! Your food is to die for and it made my heart melt I loved eat it so much Kid-friendliness: Humble waitress !
Best place to eat in Vancouver. Homey delicious breakfast/lunch and kind and personable service! A guaranteed good time every visit.
Worth the wait. Food was perfect and the atmosphere was cute and feels right at home.
Great experience Dietary restrictions: More fruit Food : 5/5 |
It was good food and fun atmosphere! Excellent service, our coffee never ran out once!
Amazing food! Worth the wait in line. Super charming and delicious.
Dietary restrictions: Has everything Food
This fam operated diner is like teleporting to a gentler world where community and friendliness come first, but not at the expense of quality. Delicious burger, endless coffee, super attentive service. Don t miss this when they reopen in the new year Jan 8!
Great family owned restaurant! Very authentic and old school
Great throwback to the good ol diner days. A hidden gem. The staff are great care of us. Get there early to avoid the line up! Id love to see more Asian options tho!
Wheelchair accessibility: Not accessible Food
Best old school breakfast! Theres not one thing on the menu that isnt solid. Gyoza and wontons really good as well. Would have photos but ate it too fast! Staff and owners are great and super friendly and totally genuine.
Lovely place. Great vibes. Amazing service. Delicious food.
Great place! Very unique
Get the burger perfect ratio toppings to beef, the patty was juicy, fresh, cooked perfectly!! The staff were beyond friendly, they welcome you home when dining and that s how it feels!! You can tell this is a labour of love in their family!! You have yourselves some regulars thanks again from Jenn and Rayan aka Chicago.
Our group of 7 loved their dining experience! Great food and service. Highly recommend the wonton soup and spring rolls
Check out this Jem!! Well deserved.
Heard good things about this place and it didn t disappoint. Cozy, friendly, quaint diner. Staff were amazing! An experience that I highly recommend.
Chill old school diner vibes, clearly family owned. Highly recommend anything with the hashbrowns!
Great food! Great people! Such a cool little place! Glad I finally came and enjoyed it <3
Always enjoy brekky at Northern.
Fun atmosphere at our new breakfast find!!
Been here twice, wonton is really silky and smooth. Pancakes are fluffy and tasty. Good service and cool retro feel. Makes you feel like family.
Friendly staff and great food
Best Cheesesteak ever! The service is so good and the atmosphere is amazing.
Love the place
Homey atmosphere 10/10 would come again
Brought my parents here before my flight back home to Austin. Both my parents and I loved it!
We absolutely love it here. Don t go anywhere else.
Great vibe.
A great family-run restaurant.
Food
Had lunch here today and the food here was amazing!! Staff were hospitable and had provided quick service. Will definitely recommend friends and family to try dining at Northern Cafe.
The service was exceptional. The food was amazing! The atmosphere was welcoming and cozy with a diner style look. I will definitely come again. They will be closed Saturday, November 23 ~ January 2025. Thank you Richard for providing wonderful service.
Everything was amazing and that wongtong soup was so delicious The customer service was 12 out of 10
The one and only Parking: Parking is along the train track Food : 5/5 |
This place is Fantastic. Excellent food, good selection on the menu, great service and the restaurant is a vintage diner in a unique location above the Lumber Yard. Meat Omelette was large with lots of meat (bacon, bacon) , hash browns & toast. Delicious. Corned beef hash with 2 eggs, hash browns and toast. Excellent. This location is fun. The food is great. The people are friendly and organized. The prices are good.
Food and customer service is excellent here!
Long long wait for mediocre food. Not really worth the hype. I won t do it again. I think, if there was no wait, I might, but definitely not worth the wait. Nice people and great service. Food : 4/5
When we arrived to have breakfast at Northern Cafe we had to wait for about an hour and a half before being seated because it was so busy. It was definitely worth the wait though! I had western breakfast food (the hashbrowns were really good btw) and want to go back and try more of the Asian dishes and dumplings. Loved the atmosphere and the staff were super kind. Definitely recommend trying this place out, just try to arrive early or be prepared to wait before being seated!
Pleasant cute little hole in the wall Cafe. Food was great, value and atmosphere was not like anything Ive been to before.
The staff is warm and polite, and the food is delicious. Will come back next time
Great food. Great service..keep it up guys!
First-time visiting Best breakfast loved it!! We will visit again Food : 5/5
Lovely staff, delicious food, fun atmosphere.
This family owned restaurant is a hidden gem! Delicious food, reasonable prices and super friendly staff. Will definitely be back.
First time at Northern Cafe and I gotta say the food and service was amazing! Can t believe it is my first time here after living in Vancouver for 10 years. Will definitely be coming back again
Came across this place while getting my car fixed, all the staff are so friendly and had a lovely atmosphere inside.
The food was delicious and well priced! The service was pretty fast as well! The staff was also very kind. They came to check on us a lot of times!
Good food, good vibe, and most importantly, great time
Such a gem of a place. Food comes out delicious and fast, also made to order! Richard the owner is a fantastic guy and clearly shows a lot of love to his team. Shows all around. Love this place! Parking: Park outside on the street
Small town rustic feel - judge a book by its cover, you might miss an interesting read. Great food and service!
The best
Delicious food. Highly recommend the wonton soup.
Great food, awesome service and good music playing. This classic diner is cozy and welcoming. I had the Crispy Chicken Burger and it was delicious. Don t let the entrance fool you, this place is a must try!
Great place, worth the visit. Awesome food
I loved the cozy and atmospheric vibe of this place its full of unique character! The service was excellent, and Richard shared some fascinating history about the restaurant, which added to the charm. The food was delicious; I tried the cheese omelette and pancakes, and both were fantastic. Ill definitely be coming back soon!
A visit to Northern Cafe is now a tradition as part of travelling from Ontario to visit my son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. Its a wonderful, easy-going, neighbourhood restaurant experience that feels like you are home -- feeding you with very yummy food and the sense you are just where you belong.
First time dining at Northern Cafe, an off the beaten path, family-run diner nestled in an industrial area on the premises of Northern Building Supply Ltd. Heard good reviews about this place, and it didnt disappoint. There seems to be ample parking close by, and we went for a late breakfast/brunch, so beat the lunch crowd. The cafe does get busy, and by lunch hour, people are waiting for a table. Had their Smokey N Eggs, and my friend had the French Toast Combo. Server was friendly, and food came out fairly quickly. Variety of items on my plate - the smokey sausage was tasty, the poached eggs were in a separate small bowl, and I liked the small cup of potato salad and the sautéed onions. Not a bad meal for $16! The owner or head chef even came to tables to check on patrons. Staff seem to genuinely want to give you a good experience. Atmosphere is still like a 1950s diner with checkered floors, vinyl red booths, an ancient looking refrigerator, and sloped ceilings. Rather dated, but it fits the theme. One has to climb a rather steep staircase to get to the 2nd level where the cafe is located. Place has been around since 1949, thats 75 years! Also, walls are covered with hand written messages/comments from patrons around the world. Would return and maybe try some of their Asian items.
Quaint little family run restaurant hidden along Kent Ave. We got there during the lunch time rush so try to go earlier or expect a bit of a wait. The food, service and price are well worth the wait tho. I left with my tummy full and a smile on my face. If all restaurant experiences were like this I would eat out more often. This was my first time here but I definitely recommend it.
everyone here is so welcoming! the food was amazing. first time here. I feel like this is the place that is consistently good that people keep coming back to. 10/10 give it a try :)
The food taste was good Service was good We will be back for sure Food : 5/5
Wonderful restaurant. Great nostalgic atmosphere. Food was delicious and reasonably priced. Staff are very friendly and personable. 100% recommend this place!
What an amazing little place! Fun experience!
The food at this small cozy joint is Fantastic and makes me always come back when Im in the area.
Been coming here for a long time. Food and service has always been exceptional!
Incredible food. Amazing staff and atmosphere. Not what we expected looking at it from the road, which adds to the appeal! Will definitely return again.
I loved this place! I cant wait to return
Great delicious and fantastic service
Fabulous down to earth cafe!
Cute little restaurant hidden away in a builders yard, visited with family as a half way point. Best hidden gem ever! Food amazing! staff so friendly and amazing! Busy little restaurant and good music!
Such a nice find! all the staff is so wonderful same with the food!
Great family owned restaurant preparing awesome food! Looking forward to returning in the new year!
Food was delicious very friendly atmosphere 10/10 hittin
Loved the vibe of the space, the wontons never miss, and the burgers are delicious!! Staff are super friendly, kind, and welcoming. Definitely make the experience enjoyable. Would recommend for anyone on a rainy day for a cozy vibe.
Expect to wait, this place is small and busy! Street parking only. The food was worth the wait :)
Amazing experience . I liked the vibe , server are very nice. We will definitely come back and will recommend.
The best! They helped me celebrate my birthday early, thanks Richard!
Great food for a good price and a peaceful atmosphere
Special spot. Totally unique and perfect diner experience. Great fluffy pancakes. We will be back.
Lived up to the hype and more. Just a warm and cozy feeling and great food and service. Felt like we were welcomed into their home. Cant wait to come back!
The staff are so kind, the food is incredibly delicious, and the atmosphere is amazing!
All the food was so good!! The wontons were especially delicious! Haha the servers were so friendly too!
Great Experience!
Super cozy and quick! Very unique experience Food : 5/5
Great pancakes and coffee!
We got the chicken sandwich and a burger it was delicious!!! Thank you :))) Dietary restrictions: Great about my peanut allergy Food : 5/5 |
supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Kid-friendliness: This is a family run business. Kids, No Problem Food : 5/5 |
Amazing food!!
Best vibe, best food, best people. (My girlfriend just got tears in her eyes because of how nice it made her feel)
Such an amazing experience Amazing customer servers all way around from the checking process to the food service. The atmosphere of the place makes you feel as a local person, if you are not from Vancouver. The food is next level !!! And the fact that they have all day breakfast is the cherry on the top. This dinner is a MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE on my opinion if you are visiting Vancouver. There is a little of a waiting but it is totally worth it. BEST BREAKFAST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION EVER
This place is a gem I completely love that diner feel it is old school and so perfect
Food was really good, staff were attentive and awesome service! Would come back again
This excellent spot lives up to the hype in the most modest way. My only regret is not trying it sooner. So welcoming, quick and truly tasty. I had the breakfast club and finished so quickly I was surprised it was already done! My wife ordered the wonton soup. After tasting it myself, I agree with her that it s the best we ve tried. I recommend this to everyone All thumbs up, all 5 stars and 10/10. Plus it s super easy to feel you are being fed by family or friends
