A cozy Vancouver cafe serves up some of the best boba and bao in the city

A beloved café in East Vancouver has reopened its doors after an extensive renovation, and neighbourhood families and foodies across the city have cause for celebration.

Chance Café is a restaurant and gathering place located at 3424 Commercial St., steps from the Croatian Cultural Centre.

On a recent morning, Chance Café was filled with patrons ordering bubble tea, organic fairtrade coffee, smoothies, pastries, and ice cream.

When we had the chance to chat with owner and creator Corina Li in between orders, she explained that Chance Café is an extension of her creativity, culture, and love for the community.

“I’m an East Van local through and through,” Li told Daily Hive. “I grew up in this neighbourhood, and since I was young, I dreamed of having a space of my own where I could share the things I’m passionate about.

“For some people, we’re a small part of their routine; for others, the café is where they come to unwind or catch up with family and friends. Chance Café isn’t just my business — it’s my story, my passion project, and a place of connection.”

Chance Café has something for everyone, no matter what your appetite calls for.

The bubble tea we tried was flavourful and not too sweet, and the pearls were very tasty as well.

Boba is a popular menu item at Chance Café, with several other diners ordering theirs to enjoy in or to go.

Guests were also patiently waiting for the café’s signature Bao buns, packed with curry beef, spicy chicken, and BBQ pork.

We opted for the BBQ pork bao and were rewarded with a soft and mouthwatering steamed bun.

Other guests could be overheard telling the staff that they missed the bao buns and were glad to be able to enjoy them again.

 

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“I love seeing people gather here, watching kids grow up, neighbours chat, students study, and families spend time together,” shared Li. “I love the creativity of crafting drinks and food that bring people joy. Hearing someone say, ‘This is my favourite place,’ never gets old.”

Other menu items to try during a visit to Chance Café include the International Fog Series, like the Vancouver Maple Fog, grilled cheese like the Cranky Turkey, and ice cream and cotton candy that all ages can enjoy.

The Vancouver café underwent renovations between September and November to create a brighter, more modern space that still feels cozy and familiar.

The reopening was delayed due to a number of issues, which Li admitted were “heartbreaking, stressful, and financially draining,” but reopening with integrity and not rushing was the only option for her.

“We’ve added new equipment, a more open layout, a take-out window, fresh countertops, improved lighting, and a smoother bar flow,” explained Li. “Guests can expect faster service, more menu options, new signature items, and an overall cleaner, more inviting experience.”

Chance Café is also hiring new baristas and bobaristas to join the team.

A steady stream of neighbourhood families, couples out for a walk, or commuters waiting for the bus stopped in at Chance Café to say hello to Li.

Children excitedly played the new claw machine, and others took a chance to get some work done at one of the café’s tables.

“Whether you’re after something comforting, something fun, or something a bit different, Chance Café is full of little surprises,” said Li proudly.

“The past few months have been incredibly challenging, but they’ve also shown me how strong and supportive this neighbourhood is. We’re reopening renewed, re-energized, and more inspired than ever. I can’t wait to welcome everyone back and continue building something special together.”

For more on Vancouver’s delicious food scene, check out our Dished section.

Chance Café

Address: 3424 Commercial St., Vancouver