How Northern Cafe Became a Vancouver Institution | A Family Legacy Since 2008

Introduction to Northern Cafe

Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, Canada, Northern Cafe has become a beloved breakfast and brunch destination, known for serving great food with a delightful twist of Asian-inspired flavors. This charming cafe is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and anyone seeking a special dining experience. Whether you’re craving a delicious breakfast sandwich or a savory brunch dish, Northern Cafe offers a variety of options to satisfy your taste buds. As the first meal of the day, breakfast sets the tone, and Northern Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy it. With its inviting atmosphere and mouth-watering menu, it’s no wonder that Northern Cafe has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

How Generations Built a Vancouver Institution

From Lumberyard Lunchroom to Local Legend

Hidden away above a working lumberyard in South Vancouver, Northern Cafe doesn’t look like much at first glance. But inside, it tells a story that stretches across decades — of work, family, and food.

This is how a simple lunchroom from 1949 became one of Vancouver’s most beloved brunch institutions, thanks to the care and heart of the Mah family, who took over in 2008. The cafe served hearty, affordable meals to dockworkers, truckers, and tradespeople looking for a break during their shifts. Ham, along with other breakfast meats like bacon and sausages, was a popular choice among these workers.

1949: A Cafe for Workers, Built to Serve

Long before brunch lines and magazine awards, the space that is now Northern Cafe began as a modest lunchroom for lumberyard workers.

Perched on the second floor above the sawdust and machinery of a South Vancouver lumberyard, the lunchroom served hearty, affordable meals to dockworkers, truckers, and tradespeople looking for a break during their shifts.

It wasn’t glamorous — but it was honest, warm, and consistent. And that spirit never left.

When the Mah family arrived, the menu evolved: they introduced a variety of freshly prepared dishes, emphasizing quality and care.

2008: The Mah Family Arrives

In 2008, the Mah family took over the cafe — and brought new life, flavour, and soul to a space that had quietly served the community for nearly 60 years.

Chef Raymond Mah, a professionally trained cook, brought his passion for East-meets-West comfort food to the grill, while his brother Richard Mah began reimagining the guest experience.

The mission wasn’t to change the heart of the cafe — it was to honour its legacy while building something new.

The menu evolved:

• Eggs Benny with creamy béarnaise sauce
• House-fried pork gyoza
• Golden hashbrowns and blueberry pancakes
• Crispy Fried chicken and French Toast 
• Homemade AAA Sirloin Beef Burgers

The food spoke to Vancouver’s multicultural roots, while the atmosphere remained humble, nostalgic, and welcoming. Whether you’re flipping pancakes, folding dumplings, and greeting guests by name, or grabbing a quick breakfast cookie to head out the door, the cafe offers something for everyone.

Menu and Cuisine

At Northern Cafe, the menu is a celebration of diverse flavors and comforting dishes. From classic eggs and pancakes to savory options and delicious dumplings, there’s something for everyone. Each breakfast meal is served with a side of nostalgia, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or a casual morning treat. The cafe prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every dish is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re in the mood for soup wontons or fluffy pancakes, Northern Cafe’s menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. With its accessible and reasonable prices, it’s a fantastic choice for families, individuals, and couples looking to enjoy a great meal.

From Local Secret to City Favourite

In 2025, Northern Cafe was named Best Brunch in Vancouver by Vancouver Magazine

For a tucked-away cafe with roots as a lumberyard lunchroom, it was an unexpected moment of recognition — and a proud one for the family. The cafe’s reputation is bolstered by the diverse dining experiences found in colleges and hotels, where brunch often features buffet-style or menu-ordered meals.

But even now, when the doors open at 8AM, the goal is still the same: Make food that feels like home.  Serve it with heart. And treat every guest like they belong.

Awards and Recognition

Northern Cafe’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, it was honored with the title of “Best Brunch in Vancouver by Vancouver Magazine“, a testament to its popularity and quality. This recognition highlights the cafe’s dedication to serving great food and providing outstanding service. With its unique twist on traditional breakfast and brunch dishes, Northern Cafe has earned a reputation as one of Vancouver’s top brunch spots. According to Google reviews, customers consistently praise the delicious food and excellent service, solidifying Northern Cafe’s status as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by food enthusiasts.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customers can’t stop raving about Northern Cafe, applauding its delicious food, excellent service, and cozy atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the generous portions and reasonable prices, making it a favorite spot for breakfast and brunch. Sundays are particularly popular, with patrons lining up at the door to enjoy their beloved brunch dishes. The strong sense of community at Northern Cafe makes it a great place to meet friends, family, or colleagues for a meal. As one satisfied customer shared, “Northern Cafe is my go-to spot for breakfast and brunch – the food is always delicious, and the service is top-notch.” Whether you’re looking for a chill spot to enjoy a meal or a lively atmosphere to celebrate a special occasion, Northern Cafe is the perfect choice.

What It Means to Be a Vancouver Institution

Being called an “institution” doesn’t come from hype — it comes from showing up every day.

• Through snowstorms, recessions, and renovations
• Through changing neighbourhoods and rising trends
• Through three generations of stories shared over hashbrowns

Northern Cafe became a Vancouver institution by doing the simple things consistently well, and by never losing sight of why it exists: to serve real food to real people. The cafe has become a staple in the neighbourhood, providing a reliable spot for locals to enjoy their meals throughout the week.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The atmosphere at Northern Cafe is warm and welcoming, creating a strong sense of community. The cozy diner setting, complete with mismatched chairs and hand-written specials, invites you to relax and enjoy your meal. The friendly and attentive service ensures that every visit is a pleasant experience. While weekends can get busy, the wait is always worth it. With its core values, unique story and rich history, Northern Cafe offers more than just a meal; it’s a place where you can soak up the community vibe and feel right at home. As you plan your visit, be sure to check out their web page for the latest menu selections and specials – you won’t be disappointed!

Planning a Visit?

• Where: 1640 East Kent Ave S, Vancouver — above a lumberyard
• When: Open weekdays and weekends for breakfast and brunch
• What to Try: This restaurant offers a variety of dishes that are ready to delight your taste buds, including Eggs Benny, pork gyoza, blueberry pancakes, and Fried Chicken + French toast
• How It Feels: Like visiting family you actually enjoy
  

Final Thoughts from the Mah Family

We didn’t build Northern Cafe from scratch — we inherited its walls and its purpose.

What we’ve done is carry the story forward with gratitude, one plate at a time.

Our love for creating memorable experiences shines through, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely Weekend brunch, celebrating the Birthday with friends, or simply savoring a cup of coffee. We strive to ensure you never run the risk of monotony, always offering something new and delightful.

To every guest who’s pulled up a chair: thank you for being part of what makes this place feel like home.