The Story Behind Our Wall of Memories 

Why Guests Around the World Leave Their Stories at Northern Cafe

At first glance, it might just look like a wall covered in scribbles—rows of notes pinned, taped, and written on napkins, postcards, and boarding passes. But to us, it’s the soul of Northern Cafe.

This is our Wall of Memories — a living, growing mosaic of moments shared by guests who came for brunch and left a little piece of their story behind. The history of the Wall of Memories dates back to 1949, and over the decades it has become a cherished tradition that reflects the heritage and community spirit of our cafe.

Guests from around the world have contributed to this wall, and Northern Cafe is recognized across Canada for its unique Wall of Memories.

It All Started with One Note

Back when we first started, a guest from Japan left behind a handwritten thank-you on the back of a receipt. They had visited during a rainy morning, ordered our pork wontons and Eggs Benny, and said the ingredients in the dish reminded them of home. They didn’t just leave full — they left moved.

So they wrote about it, pouring their love into every word.

We pinned that note on the wall, not knowing it would inspire thousands more.

Global Currency and magnets on fridge

A Global Tradition Built Over Breakfast

Since then, travelers from Australia to Argentina, Hong Kong to Halifax have added their notes. Each one tells a different story — a memory of family, a first date, a hangover breakfast that turned into a life-changing conversation.

Here is a list of the types of notes we’ve received:

• Crayon drawings from kids visiting their grandparents
• Letters in Korean, Spanish, German, and Mandarin
• Wedding proposals and messages of thanks after a loved one passed

These different stories reflect the diverse tastes and backgrounds of our guests, showing how comfort food and shared experiences can mean something unique to everyone.

It’s more than décor. It’s a collection of human stories — all shared around a plate of comfort food.

Notes from visitors all over the world

More Than a Wall — It’s Our Guestbook

Every family-run diner has its quirks. Ours just happens to be a wall that stretches the length of the room, creating a kind atmosphere where guests feel genuinely welcomed, covered in real guest memories.

When you enter the diner, just turn right to see the Wall of Memories.

Some guests come back year after year to find their old note. Others walk in, read for 10 minutes, then write their own — even before ordering food.

The most common phrase we see? “Thank you for making us feel at home.”

Why We Keep It Going

In a fast-moving world of phone screens and review apps, the Wall of Memories brings things back to the human level. It’s our unique version of a guestbook, inviting everyone to share their stories.

There’s no algorithm. No ratings. Just pens, paper, and people.

This tradition is a simple way to connect, making it easy for anyone to leave a note and become part of something special. And as Northern Cafe continues to grow, win awards, and welcome new guests, the rest of the notes continue to grow as more guests participate—we keep this tradition front and center—because our best marketing is the memories you leave behind.

 

 

The Heart of Our Cafe: Staff and Service

At Northern Cafe, our staff is truly the heart of our house. Every day, our team welcomes guests with genuine smiles and a spirit of hospitality that makes our diner feel like home. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll find that our crew is dedicated to making every meal memorable—serving up homestyle meals and comfort food with a side of warmth.

Located in the heart of Vancouver, our cafe has become a staple for locals and travelers alike. Our staff takes pride in being part of this vibrant city, and it shows in the way they care for every guest who walks through our doors. From recommending the best breakfast in town to sharing their favorite hearty dinner specials, our team is always eager to help you find your new go-to dish.

Whether you’re craving a classic diner breakfast, a healthy brunch, or a comforting dinner, our staff is here to make sure you feel like family. At Northern Cafe, we believe that great food and great service go hand in hand—and that’s what keeps our guests coming back, year after year.

A Place to Belong: Community Involvement

Northern Cafe is more than just a spot to eat—it’s a place where the heart of Vancouver comes together. We’re proud to be a local cafe that brings people together, creating memories that last long after the meal is over. Our doors are always open to friends, families, and neighbors looking for a cozy place to gather and share stories.

Being part of this city means giving back, and we’re committed to supporting our community through local events and initiatives. From sponsoring youth sports teams to hosting charity brunches, we’re always looking for ways to make a positive impact in Vancouver. Our cafe is a welcoming spot where everyone can feel at home, and our community involvement is at the core of what we do.

At Northern Cafe, we believe that everyone deserves a place to belong. Whether you’re joining us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find a warm atmosphere and a sense of connection that makes our cafe a true home in the city.

The Magic in the Air: Ambiance and Atmosphere

Step inside Northern Cafe and you’ll instantly feel the magic in the air. Our diner is designed to be a comforting retreat from the bustle of the city—a place where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sizzle of eggs on the grill, and every detail invites you to relax and enjoy.

The ambiance at our cafe is all about making you feel at home. With cozy seating, welcoming decor, and a vibe that reflects the heart of Vancouver, it’s the perfect spot for any occasion. Whether you’re gathering with family for a hearty brunch, catching up with friends over dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet moment alone, our space is crafted to create lasting memories.

At Northern Cafe, we’re passionate about serving more than just great food—we want every guest to experience the comforting, homey atmosphere that makes our diner a beloved staple in the city. From the first bite to the last sip, we hope you’ll find a little bit of magic every time you visit.

How to Leave Your Own Note

If you visit Northern Cafe, a diner located in a unique part of Vancouver, we invite you to leave something behind. It doesn’t need to be long or poetic. Just write from the heart and season your note with personal stories or memories.

We keep pens and paper at the counter. Or bring your own! We’ve had guests write on ticket stubs, receipts, and even foreign currency.

Add your story to ours—guests are welcome to leave notes any day, including Saturday.

Final Thoughts

The Wall of Memories isn’t curated. It isn’t perfect. But it’s powerful.

By sharing these stories, the Wall of Memories helps close the gap between strangers and creates a close-knit sense of community within our cafe.

And for us, it’s a daily reminder that what we serve isn’t just food — it’s connection.

Thank you to everyone who’s ever written, doodled, or scribbled their hearts out at Northern Cafe. You’ve made our walls more than four corners — you’ve made them a canvas of community.

To see more stories or share your own, visit the Northern Cafe website.