The Best “Off the Beaten Path” Brunch
If you’ve ever woken up hungry on the weekend…
It’s Sunday morning and you’re in the mood to treat yourself—gastronomically speaking. Except you’re at a loss for *the* perfect brunch destination. Well, fret not, because we’ve put together a list of our top spots for you—one tucked in the heart of Strathcona, one near the beach in Deep Cove…and the others? Equally as idyllic in their own ways—plus, they’ve got the necessary coffee, too.
Le Marché St. George
Riley Park – 4393 St. George St, Vancouver
Le Marché St. George is a whimsical space—part café and part general store in Mount Pleasant. Filled with treasures from local makers (bath salts + candles + the owner’s noteworthy pottery), it offers up an otherworldly (think romantic Montréal) reprieve from everyday life. As for brunch, they’ve got roasted red pepper and dill quiche, flatbreads with caramelized onions and black olives with Gruyère, and an assortment of sweet and savoury crêpes. And even a few almond croissants.
Greenhorn Espresso Bar
West End – 994 Nicola St, Vancouver
Grab your BF/GF/BFF/husband/wife/grandma/dog (patio seating only) and make it a date. This quaint spot a few blocks off Denman in the West End is the perfect low-key Sunday morn stop. Greenhorn offers plenty of options to get your fill, but the Belgian waffles, warm Brie croissant, and mushroom eggs benny with smoked paprika hollandaise are among the bar’s best.
Belgard Kitchen
Railtown -55 Dunlevy Ave, Vancouver
Open the doors of the Settlement Building, an industrial warehouse near the train tracks in Railtown, and you’ll be in for a welcoming surprise. A collective of known Vancouver brands calls the building home, including Postmark Brewing, Vancouver Urban Winery, as well as Belgard Kitchen—a cozy light-filled corner serving up a hearty weekend brunch. They’ve got “Postmark Stout Sausage Skillet,” “Salmon Gravlax Hash,” and a “Health Nut Breakfast Bowl” (featuring quinoa, avocado, poached eggs, and goat cheese) on the menu. Who’s hungry?
Finch’s Market
Strathcona – 501 East Georgia St, Vancouver
Nestled among the character homes in Strathcona sits the charming Finch’s Market, a vintage-inspired “tea room” serving up seriously stuffed baguettes. Consider the pear/prosciutto/brie combo or the Applewood smoked cheddar meets tomato + cucumber. And don’t forget to add a chocolate chip cookie for the road.
Bluhouse Market & Café
Deep Cove – 4342 Gallant Ave, North Vancouver
Rightfully named Bluhouse is a delicious destination—the sea–coloured spot must be so, considering its location next to the infamous (read: very tempting) Honey Doughnuts. Where Bluhouse delivers is straight to the savoury stomach—try the “The Cove,” a GF crêpe stuffed with wild smoked sockeye salmon, local cheese, and mixed greens, or the lentil naan with mango chutney. Post-brunch, take time to explore the scenic surroundings: stroll the local shops and beach, then make the (leisurely) hike to Quarry Rock.