Why Our Smoked Salmon Benny Is a Local Legend
Smoked Salmon Benny Vancouver: Why Our Dish Is a Local Legend | Northern Cafe
A Vancouver Brunch Classic, Reimagined
If you’ve ever had brunch in Vancouver, you know one thing: the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benny is sacred. But at Northern Cafe, we don’t just serve it—we honour it.
What makes ours stand out? It starts with real, premium West Coast Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon. We layer it over a soft, toasted English muffin and poach each egg just right—runny in the middle, silky on the outside. Our poached eggs are prepared with precision, ensuring every poached egg is perfectly cooked for the ideal texture and taste.
Then comes the magic: our homemade bearnaise(hollandaise) sauce, made fresh, with just the right amount of tang and herbs. The unique tastes and flavors of the Smoked Salmon Benny come together in every bite, as the rich bearnaise(hollandaise), savory salmon, and perfectly poached eggs create a memorable flavor profile. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of fried capers and served hot on a warm plate, never rushed, always made with care.
A Benny Made with Heart, Not Hype
Northern Cafe isn’t your average brunch spot. We’re a family-run diner tucked above a working lumberyard—a hidden gem with creaky floors, mismatched mugs, and a whole lot of soul.
Our Smoked Salmon Benny isn’t a trend—it’s a tradition. Chef Raymond, who leads the kitchen, designed it with love for the West Coast and respect for his parents’ legacy. The Benny is our signature dish and a go-to choice for many guests, often serving as the highlight of their visit. Guests often say it reminds them of Sunday mornings at home or the kind of meal you remember years later.
Many guests have tasted and eaten the Benny and consider it one of the best meals they’ve had. It is highly recommended by regulars and newcomers alike. The cafe is known for serving great food, and guests consistently feel they get their money’s worth(comfort you can afford). Our menu includes both meat and vegetarian options for breakfast and brunch, reinforcing our reputation for the best breakfast in town.
Whether you’re here for your usual or trying it for the first time, this Benny welcomes you like family.
Why Guests Come Back—And Bring Friends
From first-time tourists to longtime regulars, guests say this dish is one they crave. Some even say it’s the best they’ve had anywhere. We hear stories like:
“I’ve been eating Bennys across Vancouver and the world, but this one felt different. More real.”“It’s the kind of food that makes you feel taken care of.”“The hollandaise is just perfect.”
Due to the popularity of the Benny and their diverse menu, there can sometimes be a wait for a table, but the fun atmosphere and friendly staff make it worthwhile. Guests come to eat great food and enjoy the best breakfast in the city, with a good variety on the menu including French Toast, comforting wontons, fluffy pancakes, vegatarian options, and even homemade burgers. You can choose from an a la carte menu, and drinks like coffees and juices are available to complement your meal. The cafe serves all-day breakfast and lunch only, and many guests fondly recall their last visit.
Northern Cafe is a local favorite in Vancouver, drawing guests from North Vancouver and around the world. It stands out among restaurants in town, appealing to those visiting Vancouver or exploring this foodie paradise off the beaten path. While other well-known spots like Cafe Medina and Twisted Fork have their own specialties, Northern Cafe offers a unique experience that keeps people coming back. The experience matters as much as the meal. Friendly smiles, warm coffee refills, and a corner table with sunlight streaming through—it’s brunch, the way it should be.
Community Involvement
At Northern Cafe and Grill, being part of the East Vancouver community isn’t just a point of pride—it’s at the heart of everything we do. For over 80 years, our family-run cafe has been more than just a place to enjoy a great breakfast or brunch; it’s a gathering spot where locals and visitors alike come together over delicious food and warm conversation.
Our commitment to the community shines through in every aspect of our cafe. We regularly proudly sponsor local sports teams and charity events, giving back to the neighbourhood that has supported us for generations. It’s our way of saying thank you and ensuring that Northern Cafe remains a favourite brunch place for families, friends, and food lovers from all walks of life.
But our involvement doesn’t stop at events and sponsorships. We believe that incredible food starts with quality, locally sourced ingredients. That’s why our menu—from our signature eggs benedict and mind-blowing “Fried Chicken and French Toast” to the famous Mama’s Wontons—features the best produce and products from local farmers and suppliers. Every dish is a celebration of Vancouver’s vibrant food scene, crafted with care and served with a smile.
Step inside and you’ll find cozy booths, a welcoming atmosphere, and good service that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re gathering for a family meal, catching up with friends, or fueling up before exploring Vancouver BC, you’ll find a menu packed with options to suit every taste—including vegatarian and gluten-free dishes. Our hidden gem status means you can expect a dining experience that’s both personal and memorable, with all the dishes made to order and served with genuine hospitality.
Northern Cafe and Grill isn’t just a must-visit for brunch in Vancouver—it’s a cornerstone of the community, where every meal supports local growers, celebrates comfort food, and brings people together. If you’re searching for the best brunch, a great breakfast, or simply a place to enjoy good food and good company, we invite you to join us and experience why we’re one of Vancouver’s most beloved cafes.
Come Taste the Benny That Feeds Vancouver’s Heart
If you haven’t tried our smoked salmon Benny, we invite you to. Whether you’re a regular or a curious foodie searching for Vancouver’s best hidden brunch, there’s a plate waiting for you here.
Come hungry. Leave happy.
And if you love it, try it with our gyozas on the side—yes, it’s a thing.
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.
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
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