Why Northern Cafe Is Vancouver’s Favorite Kid-Friendly Diner
Kid Friendly Brunch Vancouver: Northern Cafe
Why Northern Cafe Is Vancouver’s Favorite Kid-Friendly Diner
A Family Diner Where Pancakes Come with Smiles and Gyozas Are Toddler-Approved
In a city filled with sleek cafes and minimalist menus, Northern Cafe stands out as an amazing family favorite in town—a place with a cozy, house-like atmosphere where high chairs are ready, pancakes are fluffy, and attentive servers remember your child’s name.
It’s no surprise parents keep coming back. When your weekend brunch includes juicy gyozas, thick-cut French toast, and enough napkins for the whole table, you know you’re in the right place. The menu features dishes made with fresh ingredients, ensuring every meal is wholesome and delicious.
We’re excited to welcome new families to Northern Cafe. Come discover why it’s a favorite spot for so many!
What Makes Northern Cafe Kid-Friendly?
1. Room for the Whole Family
We know highchairs, booster seats, and stroller-friendly space aren’t perks—they’re necessities. At Northern Cafe, we welcome big families and small toddlers alike, with a layout that’s cozy yet accommodating. The vibrant decor creates a family-friendly atmosphere, while the cool vibe makes it fun for both kids and parents. The mood is always welcoming and relaxed for all ages, making it an awesome spot for families looking for a comfortable brunch.
2. Menus Kids Actually Love
Forget the overly fussy or fancy options. Our youngest guests go wild for our dedicated kids meals, with a kids menu full of variety and comfort favorites like:
- Fluffy pancakes
- Golden hashbrowns
- Homemade Mama’s Wontons
- Crispy fries as a side kids love
- Mild pork gyoza that even picky eaters love
- Fried chicken and French toast (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds)
- Bacon and eggs as classic breakfast and brunch favorites
- Homemade Juicy Burgers
We also offer a range of kid-friendly drinks, and no meal is complete without a sweet fluffy pancake to finish.
3. Staff Who Genuinely Care
Our team doesn’t just tolerate families—they celebrate them. Whether it’s offering extra napkins, bringing a small dish to share, or remembering your child’s favorite drink, we try to treat every guest—especially little ones—like they’re at home.
Dietary Needs? No Problem!
Dining out with family in Vancouver is a breeze, even when you have special dietary needs. The city’s family friendly restaurants understand that every family is unique, and they go the extra mile to make sure everyone can enjoy delicious meals together. Whether you’re looking for pancakes, vegan comfort food, or nut-free dishes, you’ll find plenty of options that don’t compromise on taste or quality.
Take Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co., for example—a restaurant that’s 100% nut-free and offers gluten-friendly pizzas and pastas, so everyone at the table can dig in with confidence. Or try Chickpea, a vibrant spot serving up Mediterranean-inspired vegan dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients. These restaurants, along with many others in Vancouver, are dedicated to creating a welcoming dining experience for all families, no matter their dietary preferences.
From classic comfort food to exciting international flavors, Vancouver’s restaurants serve up a variety of delicious dishes that cater to every taste and need. So, whether you’re planning a big family brunch or a casual dinner, you can relax knowing that everyone will leave happy—and full.
Guest Notes from Around the World
Families from Japan, Brazil, the U.S., and beyond who have visited us have left handwritten notes and foreign currency pinned to our fridge as thanks. Some tell us it was their child’s first real pancake, others say it reminded them of family meals back home, making their dining experience feel like a special family trip down memory lane.
These notes are now part of our wall of memories—proof that a good meal and a kind smile speak every language. One recent review from a guest mentioned how our welcoming atmosphere and delicious food made their visit unforgettable.
Recognized as Vancouver’s Best Brunch
We’re incredibly proud to have been named:
Families love that they get great value for their money at Northern Cafe, making every visit worthwhile.
But the real reward? The families who return week after week, bringing kids, cousins, and even grandparents for one more comforting bite.
Easy to Find, Easy to Love: Location and Accessibility
One of the best things about Vancouver’s family friendly dining scene is how easy it is to find a great spot, no matter where you are in the city. From the bustling streets of Yaletown to the historic charm of Gastown and the lively energy of Granville Island, family friendly restaurants are tucked into every neighborhood, ready to welcome you and your crew.
Many of these restaurants are just steps away from popular attractions, making them perfect for a quick bite after a day of exploring with the kids. For example, The Sandbar is located right by the Aquabus, so you can enjoy a delicious dinner with a view after a fun day on the water. And with online reservations and plenty of parking options, planning your next family dining experience is a breeze.
Some spots, like Bells and Whistles, even offer outdoor terraces and play areas, creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where both kids and adults can unwind. No matter where you go, you’ll find that Vancouver’s restaurants are designed with families in mind—making every meal out a memorable part of your city adventure.
Giving Back: Northern Cafe’s Community Involvement
Northern Cafe & Grill isn’t just a place to enjoy delicious comfort food—it’s a true hidden gem that’s deeply woven into the fabric of Vancouver’s community. Since opening its doors in 1949, this cozy diner has been a gathering place for families, friends, and neighbors, serving up great food and warm service in a welcoming atmosphere.
But what really sets Northern Cafe apart is its commitment to giving back. The team regularly supports local events and sponsors kids sports teams, helping to strengthen the community they love. Whether you’re a regular or just visiting, every meal you enjoy here helps support these efforts, making your dining experience even more meaningful.
Families return again and again not just for the delicious meals and friendly service, but because Northern Cafe feels like home—a place where everyone is welcome, and every guest is treated like family. So next time you’re looking for a family friendly restaurant in Vancouver, remember that at Northern Cafe, you’re not just enjoying a great meal—you’re also helping to make the city a warmer, more connected place for everyone.
Visiting Northern Cafe? Here’s What to Know
If you are visiting Vancouver and looking for affordable comfort food, Northern Cafe is a must visit spot.
- Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Northern Cafe is open during these hours, providing a welcoming atmosphere for brunch enthusiasts. Guests can choose to dine in and enjoy the cozy environment.
- Location: 1640 E. Kent Avenue South Vancouver, BC, Canada (Get Directions)
- Must-Try Items:
- Eggs Benny with béarnaise
- Pork gyoza
- Blueberry pancakes
- Wonton noodle soup
Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends. Pancakes and gyoza go fast! Nearby hotel options are available for out-of-town visitors, making it easy to enjoy breakfast before exploring the city.
Final Thought
Northern Cafe was built on generations of family recipes—and that includes feeding the next generation too. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly brunch in Vancouver that feels like home, our doors are open.
