Poutine Vancouver: Tastes Like Montreal at Northern Cafe And Grill

Welcome to Northern Cafe And Grill

Step inside Northern Cafe and Grill, and you’ll instantly feel the warmth of a true Vancouver institution. Since 1949, this family-run gem has been serving up some of the best breakfast and brunch dishes in the city, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The menu is filled with classic comfort food—think fluffy pancakes, savory bacon, and perfectly cooked sausage—each dish crafted with care and a touch of love that’s been passed down through generations.

What sets Northern Cafe apart is its unique blend of Canadian classics and Asian-inspired flavors, creating a dining experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly different. Whether you’re gathering with family for a weekend brunch or discovering a new favorite breakfast dish, every plate is designed to fill you up and leave you smiling. It’s the kind of place where memories are made, and where every guest is treated like part of the family. Come for the food, stay for the love, and discover why Northern Cafe and Grill is a true Vancouver classic.

The Story Behind Poutine: A Canadian Classic

Poutine is more than just a dish—it’s a Canadian icon with a story as rich as its gravy. Born in Quebec in the 1950s, poutine started as a humble combination of crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and savory brown gravy. Over the years, this classic comfort food has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of Canadians from coast to coast, evolving into a flavorful favorite that’s now served everywhere from casual diners to fancy restaurants.

In Vancouver, poutine has found a special place on the menu, with spots like La Belle Patate leading the way in serving up authentic, Quebec-style versions topped with everything from bacon to creative, unique toppings. Whether you love your poutine classic or loaded with extras, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this beloved Canadian dish. Each serving is a celebration of comfort, flavor, and the simple joy of sharing good food with friends and family.

Poutine That Tastes Like Montreal—But Feels Like Home

Why Our Comfort-First Approach Has Guests Coming Back for More

At Northern Cafe, we’ve built a reputation for pancakes, dumplings, and brunch that warms the soul. Guests can choose from plenty of toppings or variations to personalize their poutine, making each dish uniquely their own. But there’s one dish we quietly serve that deserves its own spotlight: poutine—our take on the Canadian classic that brings a little Montréal love to the West Coast.

What Makes Our Poutine Stand Out?

It’s all about balance. Crisp, golden fries provide a satisfying crunch, while authentic cheese curds add a classic touch. The cheese curds are soft inside, creating a perfect contrast of textures. A slow-simmered, rich brown gravy, seasoned with just the right amount of salt, ties everything together. Any meat toppings, such as pulled pork or roast beef, are always tender for maximum enjoyment. Guests can feel safe knowing the flavors are consistently delicious.

This isn’t a “fancy twist” on poutine. This is the real deal—done Northern Cafe-style, with heart and no shortcuts. This is why folks from Quebec and Montreal that lives in Vancouver come to have our poutine – the taste is home away from home. 

It Starts with the Fries

We use thick-cut fries for the perfect crisp exterior and soft, fluffy interior texture. No limp fries allowed.

Real Cheese Curds—No Substitutes

If it doesn’t squeak, it doesn’t count. Our fresh, authentic cheese curds melt gently from the heat of the gravy, giving you that gooey, creamy stretch with every forkful.

For extra flavor, guests can add toppings like bacon, sausages, or onions to customize their poutine.

Rich Gravy That Takes Its Time

Our gravy is deeply savoury, perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of salt, and poured generously.

How We Stack Up: La Belle Patate and the Poutine Scene

When it comes to poutine in Vancouver, La Belle Patate is a name that stands out. This casual eatery is famous for its authentic Quebec-style poutine, offering a menu packed with over 40 different types of this classic dish. From the moment you take your first bite, you’ll taste the quality—each bowl is topped with fresh cheese curds, rich gravy, and a variety of flavorful toppings like bacon, smoked meat, or even truffle for those feeling fancy.

La Belle Patate’s commitment to using only the best ingredients and traditional methods creates a unique poutine experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Whether you’re a poutine purist or love to try new combinations, their menu has something for everyone. In a city filled with great food, La Belle Patate proves that when it comes to poutine, quality and creativity go hand in hand. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to discover the best of Vancouver’s poutine scene.

The Northern Cafe Experience: Atmosphere and Ambience

Dining at Northern Cafe is about more than just the food—it’s about the experience. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’re welcomed into a space that feels like home. The retro decor, cozy booths, and vintage touches create a nostalgic vibe that’s both classic and unique, setting the stage for a memorable meal.

The staff at Northern Cafe go out of their way to make every guest feel loved and cared for, adding a personal touch to every serving. Whether you’re enjoying a savory breakfast dish, a hearty brunch, or simply sipping coffee while you watch the city wake up, you’ll find that the atmosphere is always warm and inviting. It’s the perfect place to gather with family, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment on your own. At Northern Cafe, every meal is about creating connections, sharing good food, and discovering the simple joys that make life in Vancouver so special.

A Local Classic with a National Soul

While we’re known for Vancouver’s Best Brunch (Vancouver Magazine 2025) and #1 Top Eat in Canada (Yelp 2023), our poutine flies a little under the radar.

Northern Cafe is open late, making it the perfect spot for those craving poutine after hours. For breakfast lovers, try our ‘Sunny Side Up’ poutine or eggs for a unique morning treat – called The Breakfast Poutine!  You don’t need any fancy extras to enjoy our poutine—just classic, satisfying flavors. Plus, our poutine offers great value for the price, so you can indulge without breaking the bank.

But for those who’ve discovered it, it’s a must-order. Whether paired with a burger, added to your brunch, or shared at the table, our poutine delivers comfort with every bite

Pro Tip: Add some crispy bacon into your poutine as a topping.

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.
• Must-Try Items:
• Eggs Benny with béarnaise
• Pork gyoza
• Blueberry pancakes
• Mamas Wonton soup

Check out our menu as well! Get here early — brunch lines are part of the story.

Final Bite

Whether you’re from Quebec, BC, or beyond, our poutine aims to do what all great comfort food should—bring a little joy, a little warmth, and a whole lot of flavour. Choosing your favorite toppings or sharing a plate with friends makes the experience even more fun. Come hungry, leave happy. For more details, check our menu or website.