Homemade Burger Vancouver: Northern Cafe‘s Best

The Burger That Brings You Back

Why Our Homemade Burger Is a Local Vancouver Legend

In a city full of fast-food joints and gourmet sliders, there’s something unbeatable about a classic homemade burger—no frills, just flavour.

Canada is known for its vibrant brunch scene and culinary excellence, and our homemade burger is a proud part of that tradition.

At Northern Cafe, we don’t chase trends. We stick to what works: a handcrafted patty, toasted bun, and ingredients you can taste with every bite. No secrets—just a great burger with real soul.

Enjoying a homemade burger at Northern Cafe is more than just a meal—it’s a memorable experience that keeps you coming back.

Built With Care, Not Just Speed

What makes our burger special? It starts with a juicy, well-seasoned patty made fresh daily. Grilled to lock in moisture, topped with crisp lettuce, vine-ripened tomato, pickle, onion, and your choice of cheese, egg, or bacon—these are popular options for customizing your burger, making each bite your own. Guests can further enhance their burger with an addition like a fried egg or extra cheese for even more flavor and texture.

We toast the bun, melt the cheese, and stack it with balance. You won’t find any pretentious toppings here—just the right ones. Pick your favorite combination of toppings for a personalized meal. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of ordering your perfect burger at Northern Cafe.

How We Cook the Perfect Burger

At Northern Cafe, crafting the best burgers in Vancouver is more than just a job—it’s a passion. Every burger starts in-house with freshly ground, high-quality AAA beef sirloin, seasoned and shaped by hand to ensure every bite is packed with flavour. Our chefs use a blend of classic grilling and modern techniques to create that perfect burger patty: crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside.

But it’s not just about the patty. We believe every burger should be a meal to remember, so we offer a menu full of options to add your own twist. Craving something extra crispy? Top your burger with a fried egg or a stack of golden onion rings for that irresistible crunch. Cheese lovers can choose from a range of melty selections, while those looking for a creamy texture can add avocado or sautéed mushrooms for a burst of flavour. While the trendy “smash patty” style has gained popularity in many burger spots around Vancouver, Northern Cafe is not about that. We take pride in crafting classic, juicy patties that deliver a satisfying meal every time. Our focus is on quality and flavor that you can truly enjoy, rather than following fleeting trends. This approach has made us a restaurant that locals and visitors alike recommend when they’re coming to Vancouver looking for a homemade burger with real heart.

Every burger is made to order, using only the freshest ingredients and a commitment to quality that’s earned us a loyal following. Whether you dine in and soak up the cozy cafe atmosphere or grab your meal to go, you’ll enjoy friendly service and a burger that’s always cooked to perfection.

From classic burgers to creative new additions, our menu offers something for everyone. Come check out why Northern Cafe is the Vancouver restaurant locals recommend for amazing burgers, and discover your new favourite way to enjoy a meal in the city. Check out our Menu.

A Diner Staple Since Day One

Long before Northern Cafe became known for brunch, our burger was already a quiet favorite.

Northern Cafe is a true home for comfort food lovers, offering a welcoming and familiar atmosphere.

Local regulars know the drill: burger, side of crispy fries, coffee or coke to go with it.

It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t need a spotlight—it’s earned a loyal following through word of mouth and repeat cravings. Regulars return not just for the burger, but for other classic dishes as well.

Brunch or Lunch, It Just Hits Right

While our burger isn’t served on brioche or topped with truffle aioli, it doesn’t need to be. It’s the ultimate comfort food—served all day, and especially satisfying when you’re hungry for something real. The burger is also a popular dinner choice for those seeking a hearty meal.

Popular combos include:

• Burger + sunny-side egg
• Burger + golden hashbrowns
• Burger + comforting poutine
• Burger + wonton soup (yes, trust us)
• Burger + avocado

The menu also features sweet and savory treats for those looking to indulge.

What Guests Say

We’ve had guests from across the world write on our Wall of Memories about this burger.

Some say it’s like the one their dad used to make. Many guests describe the burger as ‘divine’ in both taste and presentation. Others say it’s their go-to hangover cure. Most say it’s the best burger they’ve had in Vancouver—and we’re humbled by every word. The burger is often considered a ‘winner’ among Vancouver’s burger offerings.

Guests consistently report being satisfied right up to the very ‘end’ of their meal.

A Burger with a Side of History

Our diner dates back to 1949, built above a working lumberyard. For decades, builders and families came here for a hot plate and a quiet corner. Over the years, we’ve welcomed guests from around the globe.

Northern Cafe has a rich history and is still open, proudly serving the community today.

It’s not something you see coming, but our burger has fed tradespeople, tourists, and three generations of brunch lovers.

In 2025, Northern Cafe was named Best Brunch in Vancouver by Vancouver Magazine—but we’ll always make time for the classics, like our humble burger. It’s hard to find a burger with such a long-standing reputation. Find out how Northern Cafe became Vancouver’s Best Brunch Spot.

With so many loyal customers, we’ve created a lot of memories over the years.

Plus, our burger offers great value for your money.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Vancouver and searching for a burger that delivers comfort, quality, and a little nostalgia—this is it.

No gimmicks. No influencers needed. Just a burger made with love, in a place where you’re always welcome.

Come eat a homemade burger or try our homemade gyoza dumplings at Northern Cafe for a truly satisfying meal. Come by, take a bite, and leave your own note on the wall. We’ll keep the grill hot.

Visiting Soon? Here’s What to Know

• Where: 1640 East Kent Ave South, Vancouver
• When: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Northern Cafe is open during these hours, providing a welcoming atmosphere for brunch enthusiasts.

Get here early — brunch lines are part of the story.

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