Michelin Guide Vancouver 2025: Why Northern Cafe Isn’t Included But Still Loved

We’re Not in the Michelin Guide—And That’s Okay

Michelin Stars vs. Heartfelt Service

The Michelin Guide Vancouver 2025 has just been released, and it’s got everyone talking. Big-name chefs. Fine dining. White tablecloths.

But up a creaky set of stairs, tucked away above a working lumberyard in South Vancouver, there’s a different kind of magic happening every day. No stars. No velvet ropes. Just plates of pancakes served hot and fluffy, sizzling gyoza served fresh from the pan, and coffee refills that never stop, all served with genuine care.

That’s Northern Cafe.

The Star We Care About? You.

We’ve never chased Michelin. What we’ve chased is something simpler:

• Serving families who’ve come here for generations
• Watching kids grow up on our pancakes
• Knowing your name and your order by heart
• Winning Best Brunch in Vancouver from Vancouver Magazine
• Being voted #1 Place to Eat in Canada on Yelp in 2023
• Being voted #1 Place to Eat in Vancouver on Yelp in 2022

Our reward is the line that forms before we open. The smiles when the beef dip hits the table. The regular who drops by to leave foreign currency on our wall of memories. Generations of families have ate at Northern Cafe, making it a cherished tradition for many.

The Michelin Guide didn’t list us this year—but Northern Cafe remains a local treasure, drawing lines daily for its legendary brunch, burgers, and pork gyozas.

Michelin Picks Restaurants. We Pick Community.

While Michelin stars reward finesse, we’re more about flavour, familiarity, and family.

• Our burgers are hand-pressed AAA sirloin
• Our wonton dumplings are handmade and sell out
• Our vibe is unpolished, real, and unmistakably Vancouver

Many of our dishes are perfect for sharing family style, making Northern Cafe an ideal spot for communal dining and enjoying meals together.

And in case you didn’t know—we even sell our frozen gyozas so you can enjoy Northern Cafe at home.

Hidden Gem > High-End Hype

While Michelin celebrates culinary excellence (and rightfully so), Vancouver diners also want:

• Affordability
• Warm service
• Tasty flavours that feel like home

That’s why we’re proud to be called a hidden gem. Not flashy. Not fancy. Just honest food, done with heart.

Come See Why the Locals Keep Coming Back

Michelin or not, here’s the truth: we’ve been serving real food to real people since 1949

We’d love to welcome you in, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth.

Reservations are not required at Northern Cafe, but they are recommended during busy times or weekends to avoid waiting.

Breakfast? Brunch? A quick plate of gyoza? We got you.

 

What’s Cooking: Our Menu and Signature Dishes

At Northern Cafe & Grill, we believe that every meal should be memorable, whether you’re starting your day with the best breakfast in Vancouver or gathering friends for a leisurely brunch. Our menu is a celebration of both classic Canadian comfort food and Asian-inspired favorites, all crafted in house with a focus on quality and flavor.

Craving something savory? Our Smoked Salmon Eggs Benny is a must-try, featuring perfectly poached eggs, silky hollandaise, and fresh salmon that’s become a local legend. For those who love a hearty start, our crispy bacon, fluffy pancakes, and house-made breakfast platters are sure to satisfy. We’re also known as a popular brunch spot for our generous portions and delicious dishes that keep regulars coming back.

Looking for vegatarian options? Don’t miss our vegetarian spring rolls—crispy, flavorful, and a hit with plant-based diners and meat lovers alike. Every dish on our menu is made with care, using only the freshest ingredients to ensure a dining experience that’s both delicious and great value. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic breakfast, a creative brunch, or something new from our ever-evolving menu, you’ll find something to love at our cafe.

So next time you’re searching for restaurants in Vancouver that serve up quality, variety, and a warm welcome, remember Northern Cafe & Grill. We’re proud to be part of the city’s vibrant food scene, serving up memorable meals—one plate at a time.

Vancouver’s Dining Scene: Where We Fit In

Vancouver is a city that loves to eat, and its dining scene is as diverse as its people. From sushi bars to vegan restaurants, Italian trattorias to bustling brunch cafes, there’s something for every palate just a few blocks from anywhere in town. At Northern Cafe & Grill, we’re honored to be a hidden gem in this vibrant culinary landscape, offering a unique dining experience that blends the best of breakfast, brunch, and international flavors.

A little far away from Stanley Park, tucked away in the corner of South Vancouver, our cafe is the perfect stop for locals and visitors looking to fuel up before a day of exploring. While we may not have a Michelin star, our Bib Gourmand recognition highlights our commitment to high quality cooking and good value—a combination that’s earned us a loyal following among foodies, families, and brunch lovers alike.

Our friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to serving delicious dishes make us a great place to eat in Vancouver. Whether you’re planning a food tour of the city, searching for vegan options, or just want to discover a new favorite restaurant, we invite you to experience what makes Northern Cafe & Grill special. Expect a meal that’s fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor—without the fine dining price tag.

So, if you’re looking to taste the best of Vancouver’s dining scene, plan a visit to our cafe. We can’t wait to serve you and show you why we’re one of the city’s most beloved brunch spots. Discover the difference that quality, value, and a little local charm can make.

Address & Hours

Why Choose Northern Cafe?

• Award-Winning Brunch: Recognized as Vancouver Magazine’s 2025 Best Brunch Winner and Yelp’s #1 Top Eat in Canada 2023, and Yelp’s #1 Top Eat in Vancouver 2022
• Rich History: Serving the community since 1949, with a legacy of quality and care just like family.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Experience the charm of a classic diner with retro decor and a cozy ambiance.
• Diverse Menu: Enjoy a fusion of Western and Asian comfort foods, all made with love.
• Hidden Location: Come find us, its like an adventure. Tucked away but worth the find! 
• Unforgettable Experience: Enjoy a memorable dining experience from start to finish.
• Learn more about us here.

Visiting Soon? Here’s What to Know

• Where: 1640 East Kent Ave South, Vancouver
• When: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Closed on Sunday. Northern Cafe is open during these hours, providing a welcoming atmosphere for brunch enthusiasts. You can easily reach the cafe using Vancouver’s public transit system with a single trip fare.
• Must-Try Items:
• Eggs Benny with béarnaise
• Pork gyoza
• Blueberry pancakes
• Mamas Wonton soup