Introduction to Eggs Benedict

Eggs Benedict is a beloved breakfast dish that has earned its place as a brunch staple. This classic consists of perfectly poached eggs, savory Canadian bacon or ham, and a rich hollandaise sauce, all served atop toasted English muffins. Often reserved for special occasions, Eggs Benedict is a popular choice for brunch gatherings, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

A Brunch Classic with a Northern Cafe Twist

At Northern Cafe, few dishes have earned as much love—or created as many weekend rituals—as our Eggs Benny.

Served hot with perfectly poached eggs, a rich, creamy béarnaise sauce and golden hashbrowns, this brunch favourite has become one of the most talked-about plates in Vancouver. But how did it become a signature? And why does it keep guests lining up weekend after weekend?

A Brief History of Eggs Benedict

The original Eggs Benedict dates back to New York in the late 1800s. Traditionally made with toasted English muffins, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce, it quickly became a staple in hotels and upscale cafes across North America. Traditionally, a double boiler is used for making hollandaise sauce to achieve a smooth consistency and reduce the risk of curdling. Some people have concerns about using raw eggs in the sauce, but they are cooked slowly to ensure safety while still achieving a rich and thick texture.

But like all great dishes, it evolved—adapting to local tastes, ingredients, and stories. And that’s where our version enters the picture. A food stylist plays a crucial role in perfecting the presentation of Eggs Benedict, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes.

The Northern Cafe Version: Comfort, Tradition, and a Little Surprise

When our family took over Northern Cafe, brunch wasn’t about trends. It was about serving food that felt familiar, filling, and joyful.

We began offering our take on Eggs Benny—paired with crispy diner-style hashbrowns and finished with a smooth, buttery béarnaise sauce that complements the eggs with a touch of brightness and depth. A perfectly poached egg is essential for the dish, providing a rich and creamy texture. 

It quickly became a guest favourite. Over time, we added options like smoked salmon and vegetarian Bennys—each one shaped by guest requests and our team’s creativity.

What Sets Ours Apart

1. Creamy Béarnaise Sauce: Unlike the typical hollandaise, our béarnaise adds a richer flavour profile with its subtle herbs and velvety finish. It’s become the key signature of our Benny—more savoury, more balanced, and more memorable. 

2. Crispy Hashbrowns Instead of Just Muffins: While the base still includes a toasted English muffin, it’s the generous side of crispy golden hashbrowns that makes the dish unmistakably Northern Cafe.

3. Signature Pairings: Whether you’re going for classic bacon, or trying it with salmon, our Eggs Benny offers a blend of tradition and personal twist—just like the cafe itself. Garnish with fresh chives to enhance the flavor and add a touch of visual appeal.

A Dish That Helped Us Win “Best Brunch in Vancouver”

In 2025, Vancouver Magazine named Northern Cafe the Best Brunch in Vancouver—a huge honour for a quiet little diner tucked away in South Vancouver. Our Eggs Benny played an important role in that recognition. It’s not just the taste—it’s the feeling of comfort, care, and community that comes with every plate. 

Visiting? Here’s What to Know

• Location: Above a lumber yard in South Vancouver—yes, really.
• Timing: Weekends get busy! Come early for the best brunch flow.
• Pair It With: A hot mug of coffee, fresh-squeezed juice, or a side of gyoza (trust us) and fluffy pancakes.
• Variations Available: Classic Ham Benny or Bacon Benny, Smoked Salmon Benny, Vegetarian Benny

Final Thoughts

For us, Eggs Benny isn’t just a dish—it’s a small part of a bigger story. A story of a family-run diner, loyal guests, and food that brings people together, plate by plate.

If you haven’t tried our version yet, we’d love to welcome you to the table.

Because when brunch is done right, it’s not just delicious—it’s unforgettable.