Vancouver's award-winning hidden restaurant has operated above a hardware store for nearly 80 years

When it comes to literally hidden gems in Vancouver’s food scene, Northern Cafe & Grill just may be at the top of the list.

Not that local diners haven’t been enjoying its breakfast and brunch classics alongside a plethora of Asian-inspired dishes for almost 80 years.

It’s just not that often one finds an award-winning, internationally renowned restaurant above a hardware store inside a lumber yard way deep in South Vancouver.

“Northern Cafe is tucked away in an industrial area, making it an adventure to find. But once you do, it’s worth every step,” said Richard Mah, marketing director, to Dished. “It’s truly a hidden gem with lots of history, great vibes, and great people.

“We’re not just serving meals. We’re creating a space that feels like home. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy good food and a feeling of belonging.”

Mah’s parents, Jimmy and Connie Mah, purchased the 76-year-old restaurant at 1640 East Kent Avenue S in 2008. According to the restaurateur, the inspiration to buy Northern Cafe came from the family’s deep love for food and community.

“With decades of experience running several successful restaurant businesses, Jim and Connie saw the cafe as an opportunity to preserve a cherished local tradition while adding our family’s unique touch,” said Mah, who brought 20 years of experience working in Asia back home to the family business. “Northern Cafe has deep roots in Vancouver, dating back to the 1940s.

“Raymond is our culinary director, and he has experience in leading roles at establishments like Sutton Place, Hard Rock Casino, Elements Casino and Parc Retirement Living. After stepping away from the corporate restaurant world, he joined the family business to refine the menu and operations while staying true to our roots and family recipes.”

The diner has a steady roster of regulars and new visitors filling its booths each day from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm.

Northern Cafe has a warm and cozy vibe, with retro checkerboard floors and red bench seats that are a perfect match for the comfort food on the menu. Classic songs like “Build Me Up Buttercup” by The Foundations and “Then He Kissed Me” by The Crystals play on the radio as the tables fill up for the lunch rush.

Some of the most popular dishes being served up by the bustling kitchen and serving crew include homemade AAA Sirloin burgers piled high with fresh toppings, fluffy pancakes, and hearty breakfasts like the classic bacon and eggs or salmon and eggs benny.

Mah is also proud of the family’s wontons, handcrafted with care and bursting with flavours.

“What makes Northern Cafe unique is the variety we offer,” he added. “Where else can you enjoy a delicious breakfast, a mouthwatering burger, and authentic Asian dishes all at the same time? It’s all about giving guests more options to satisfy whatever their taste buds desire.

“The heart of Northern Cafe has stayed the same throughout the years, but we’ve also embraced change by updating our menu and listening to what our guests love most. It’s a balance between honouring the past and moving forward, and I think that’s what keeps people coming back.”

Guests can also bring the deliciousness home by purchasing homemade frozen potstickers and hot sauce from the cafe during their visit.

Northern Cafe’s commitment to preserving its history while putting its family touch on the experience has paid off with several accolades, including being named a top place to eat in Canada in 2023 by Yelp.

It made the list again in 2024 and has welcomed visitors from as far away as Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom, and across North America. Many of them have left messages that are posted lovingly on the restaurant’s wall.

During today’s lunch rush, Raymond and Richard exchange fist bumps and hugs with long-time guests and warm hellos to those new to Northern Cafe.

“What I enjoy most is seeing the smiles on our guests’ faces,” said Mah. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know we’re a part of their day. To our extended family and community, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your loyalty and support mean everything to us.

“We hope to continue serving you for many years to come, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone into our little corner of the world.”

Northern Cafe and Grill

Address: 1640 East Kent Avenue, Vancouver

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