Brunch is not just about the food, it's a social event that brings friends and family together to indulge in delicious breakfast and lunch fare while catching up on the week's events.
Fortunately, Vancouver is home to a diverse range of restaurants and cafes that offer a wide variety of brunch options. Whether you're in the mood for classic eggs benedict or innovative breakfast tacos, you'll find it all in this city.
In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most popular brunch spots around Vancouver, each with its own unique style and menu. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover new favorite brunch destinations in Vancouver.
Maxine's Cafe & Bar
Maxine's Cafe & Bar is a beloved brunch spot located on Burrard Street in Vancouver's West End neighborhood. This restaurant offers an inviting and laid-back atmosphere that attracts many locals to become regulars. The interiors are splendidly designed, with plenty of windows allowing natural light to stream in, giving it an airy feel. The bar area, in particular, is well thought out and serves as a great centerpiece to the restaurant.
One of the most popular dishes on the brunch menu at Maxine's is the Dutch Baby, which is a fluffy soufflé pancake served with a thick and velvety sauce mornay. The dish is cooked in a hot skillet that gives the edges a crispy texture while the center remains soft and custard-like.
Another brunch favorite is the Smoked Brisket Hash - slow smoked beef brisket, crispy potato, sauerkraut, poached eggs, whole mustard hollandaise, which is a filling and comforting dish.
Smoked Salmon Rösti - a standout dish with crispy and potato rösti topped with smoked salmon that melts in your mouth. Other recommended dishes on the menu include the Éclair, which is a perfect dessert to top off your meal.
Maxine's Cafe & Bar is known for its warm and genuine hospitality, and the staff members are incredibly welcoming. This brunch spot provides an excellent dining experience with a perfect combination of delicious food, charming interiors, and attentive service.
Twisted Fork
Located in the historic neighborhood of Gastown, Twisted Fork is a popular restaurant and offers a unique and creative brunch experience. The menu features a range of French and Canadian cuisines that will surely satisfy your taste buds. The dining experience at the restaurant is elevated with the impressive variety of local wines and beers that are available.
One of the most recommended dishes on the brunch menu is the scrambled eggs with chili, corn, and some greens. This flavorful dish is a unique take on the classic scrambled eggs and is a must-try. Another favorite among customers is the Brioche French toast with banana, which is the perfect blend of sweet and savory.
To complement your meal, Twisted Fork offers a refreshing and zesty Paloma Mosa, which is made using tequila, grapefruit and a touch of lime. This is a perfect beverage to pair with your brunch and add some extra zing to your meal.
The decor at Twisted Fork Bistro is creative and playful, and the menu offers a vast selection of dishes that are sure to delight both your eyes and palate. The restaurant is located in a safer part of Gastown, making it an ideal spot to enjoy brunch.
Botanist
Botanist is a high-end restaurant located in the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in downtown Vancouver, offering a luxurious and upscale experience. The restaurant is widely known for its delicious brunch options, which incorporate sustainable seafood and organic produce into the menu. The restaurant's dining room is airy, vibrant and designed to welcome guests into a ritzy atmosphere.
For brunch, Botanist offers an impressive variety of dishes that will appeal to any palate. Start off with a light chia seed pudding or indulge in the Hand-Cut Beef Tartare.
The Botanist Benedict is another delicious option that should not be missed. Guests can also enjoy a variety of signature Punch Cocktails, including the Season’s Renewal, which is blended with cranberry juice and whiskey.
The main event of the brunch is the short rib poutine flavored with bearnaise sauce, which is one of the restaurant's most popular dishes. Finally, end your meal with a sweet milk chocolate peanut butter bar.
Botanist is a must-visit destination for those seeking a high-end brunch experience in Vancouver. Guests will be impressed by the restaurant's elegant decor, beautiful dishes, and impeccable service.
Palate Kitchen
Palate Kitchen, is conveniently located at 848 W Hastings Street in Downtown. It is situated a mere 5-minute walk south of the Vancouver Convention Centre, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city. This spacious eatery is known for its exceptional coffee and a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or dinner, Palate Kitchen has got you covered. The cozy ambiance and vintage decor make it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal with family and friends.
Some of the must-try dishes include the Pulled Pork Sandwich and the Mushroom Truffle Toast. The sandwich is loaded with tender-shredded meat and a tangy-chili sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. The Mushroom Truffle Toast is a delightful and flavorful dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
If you have a sweet tooth, then the Famous French Toast is a must-try. This classic dish is elevated to new heights with a unique twist that will surprise you. For those looking for a more hearty meal, the Sausage Skillet is a must-try. In addition to these dishes, Palate Kitchen also offers Eggs Benedict and The Fjord, which are popular menu items.
Yolk's
Yolk's has two locations on East Hastings and West Broadway. Established in 2011, this vibrant eatery serves up classic breakfast dishes with a creative twist, making it a must-visit destination for brunch lovers.
One of the highlights of Yolk's menu is their beautifully poached eggs, which are sure to satisfy egg enthusiasts. Dont forget to snap a photo of your meal before diving in, as the presentation of their dishes is always Instagram-worthy.
Another standout dish is their grilled portobello mushroom served with aioli sauce and greens. Sandwich fans will be delighted with the fried chicken handheld, while those looking for a more indulgent brunch experience should try the homemade hot chocolate.
Despite its humble beginnings in a tiny trailer, Yolk's has expanded to a full-scale restaurant and has never stopped delighting its customers with great service and fabulous food. The restaurant's menu is short but tempting, and we recommend trying the Maple-Smoked Ham with fresh spinach and Yolk's-made Dijon, or the Buttermilk Fried Chicken served on a half Belgian waffle.
Be prepared to wait in line when you visit Yolk's, as it is a popular spot with locals and visitors alike. But the wait is definitely worth it for the exceptional brunch experience that awaits.
Medina Cafe
Medina Cafe is an iconic cafe located on Richards Street, offering a stylish and trendy atmosphere, making it a ideal spot for brunch during the weekend. Sincethey opened in 2014, the restaurant has become a staple in Vancouver and was recently recognized by Michelin as one of the best brunch spots in Canada, making it a must-visit spot in the city.
The menu at Medina Cafe boasts a selection of carefully crafted and tasty options, including the Wolves Breakfast with two eggs, steak, bacon and rosted potatos, and the Harissa Burger, with two sunny eggs and spiced beef inside of pita.
The Liège Style Waffle is a very popular dish and unlike the Brussels-style waffle, which is light and crispy, the Liège-style waffle is denser, sweeter, and has a chewy texture due to its yeast-raised dough and the use of pearl sugar. Cafe Medina is so well-known for their delicious waffles that it been included in many bucket lists.
To complement the dishes, customers can enjoy a cocktail, such as the Moroccan Maria, or Zagora Daiquiri. Medina Cafe gets busy quite quickly, so early birds get the worm, or be ready to wait in line for a bit.
This restaurant also offer Mediterranean style dishes including the classic paella with chorizo, eggs, and sautéed vegetables, and the Cassoulet with 2 sunny-side eggs and strips of bacon. The cafe also offers coffee flavors that will awaken your senses, and their yogurt with granola, fresh fruit, and honey is a must-try.
OEB Breakfast Co.
Founded in Calgary in 2009, OEB Breakfast Co. has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors. Their Vancouver location, situated on Marinaside Crescent in Yaletown, is the perfect spot for a relaxing brunch with a stunning view of the water.
OEB's menu is full of creative and tasty options that will satisfy all palates. The Hog & Scallops Signature Breakfast Poutine is a must-try dish, as well as the Lobster and Shrimp Crepe and the Huevos In'na Burrito. The restaurant also takes pride in its chef-driven concept, which makes the offerings more personal and authentic.
The dining area at OEB is beautifully decorated, with a vibrant and cozy setup that adds to the overall dining experience. Whether you choose to dine inside or on the patio, you'll be surrounded by a welcoming ambiance that will make you want to stay for hours.
If you're in the mood for something sweet, the Cream Pie French Toast with Banana is a popular and delicious option. And after your meal, take a leisurely walk down the street to Passione Gelato for some frozen dessert goodness.
Belgard Kitchen
Belgard Kitchen is a must-visit brunch spot in Vancouver that first opened its doors in 2014. They offer lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus that are perfect for sharing with your friends and family. The restaurant is located in The Settlement Building, alongside Vancouver Urban Winery and Postmark Brewing, making it a great destination for a day out.
The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with wood walls, industrial charm, and low lights that create a relaxed and laid-back vibe. Belgard Kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients to create fresh and delicious dishes that everyone will enjoy.
When it comes to brunch, Belgard Kitchen offers a variety of options that will satisfy all taste buds. As an appetizer, you can consider the smashed avocado super toast topped with pickled onions and toasted seeds, which is ideal for sharing. For a heartier option, the Wagyu Meatball Skillet with arrabbiata sauce is a must-try, and the Belgard Brunch Burger is perfect for those who prefer handhelds.
Belgard Kitchen is a perfect spot to hang out with friends and family, no matter the occasion or age. Its cool and relaxed atmosphere, combined with inventive and delicious food, makes it a go-to destination for weekend brunches in Vancouver.
Nero Waffles
Nero Waffles, located at the intersection of Seymour St and Robson St, is a brunch spot that offers authentic Belgian waffles in a really cool and pleasant setting. Founded by Belgian chef, Wim Tas, Nero Waffles is one of the few places that serve real Belgian waffles in Vancouver. The open kitchen churns out delectable delicacies, both savory and sweet, that will surely delight your taste buds.
The waffles are the highlight of the menu, as they should be, with both sweet and savory options available. You can choose from classic sweet waffles like the Bruges Waffle, which is topped with whipped cream and fresh berries, or try their signature creation, the Nero Waffle, with caramelized banana, pecan praline and whipped cream. For those who prefer savory waffles, the Smoked Salmon Waffle with mascarpone and chives is a must-try.
Aside from their delicious waffles, Nero also serves Belgian tapas and a great selection of Belgian beer. You can enjoy their offerings in a comfortable atmosphere with homey decor. Nero Waffles operates on a first come, first served basis, so be prepared to wait in line during peak hours.
Overall, Nero Waffles is a great spot for brunch or a quick snack, with friendly staff, democratic prices, and an authentic Belgian experience that you won't find anywhere else in Vancouver.
To Sum It All Up
If you enjoyed reading about Vancouver's brunch scene, you might also be interested in exploring the city's Happy Hour offerings.
Vancouver is home to a diverse range of bars and restaurants that offer discounted drinks and appetizers during Happy Hour.
In conclusion, Vancouver is a city that is brimming with amazing brunch spots that offer a variety of unique and delicious dishes. Whether you're looking for classic breakfast fare or more inventive and creative offerings, there is no shortage of options to choose from.