The best 5 Asian brunch places you have to check out in Vancouver
If you’re craving a brunch experience that blends bold Asian flavors with Vancouver’s vibrant food scene, I’ve got you covered. From steaming dim sum to savory congee and inventive fusion dishes, these five local gems are serving up some of the best Asian-inspired brunches in the city. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or modern twists, here’s our roundup of must-visit spots to satisfy your weekend cravings!
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s vibrant dining scene, Heritage Asian Eatery stands out as one of the city’s must-visit Asian brunch spots, offering a fresh and innovative twist on Asian comfort food. Located at 1108 West Pender Street in the Financial District and a newer outpost at 4242 Main Street, this family-owned gem has earned a loyal following since opening in 2016. Known for blending traditional Far East flavors with modern techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Heritage delivers a brunch experience that’s both approachable and exciting, making it a standout choice for food lovers seeking something beyond the ordinary.
What sets Heritage Asian Eatery apart as a brunch destination is its creative fusion menu, which transforms classic Chinese dishes into delightful morning fare. Imagine savoring a traditional Asian-type morning with Truffle Siu Mai (prawn, pork & mushroom topped with truffle), then make your stomach stuffed with their signature Roast Duck Platter, where juicy duck meat bursts with flavor. I also heard many people recommend trying the Black Sesame Balls for dessert – a crispy, chewy texture, and surprise at the end by the hot running sesame paste inside. I would describe this as a playful yet sophisticated brunch. The bright, airy spaces—whether downtown or in Mount Pleasant—add to the welcoming vibe, making it an ideal spot to linger over a meal with friends or family.
Beyond the food, Heritage Asian Eatery elevates the brunch experience with its thoughtfully crafted beverage options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From locally roasted coffee to unique breakfast cocktails, the drink menu complements the bold flavors of the dishes. The Main Street location, dubbed Heritage Restaurant and Bar, takes it a step further with an unique U-shape bar and an expanded cocktail program led by beverage director Derek Granton, perfect for those who enjoy a boozy brunch. With its commitment to quality, creativity, and a fun atmosphere, Heritage Asian Eatery secures its place among Vancouver’s top five brunch spots, offering a memorable dining adventure that celebrates the city’s multicultural culinary spirit.
Saba Foods Yemeni Restaurant
After enjoying Far East Asian brunch, why not explore the rich flavors of West Asian brunch right here in Vancouver? Saba Foods Yemeni Restaurant ranks among the top 5 unmissable Asian brunch destinations in the city, offering a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional brunch experience. Located at 2881 Granville Street, his hidden gem brings the rich, aromatic essence of Yemen and Middle Eastern cuisine to the table, crafted with grass-fed, hormone-free, 100% halal ingredients that elevate every bite. Known for its warm hospitality and affordable yet plentiful portions, Saba Foods transforms brunch into a cultural journey, making it a standout choice for food enthusiasts seeking something beyond the usual eggs Benedict or pancakes.
Diners rave about dishes like their hearty Yemeni-style breakfasts, Charred Beef, for example, where tender beef pieces quickly stir-fried with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, then served sizzling hot on a hot stone plate companioned with traditional Yemeni flatbread and fresh salad, this dish will surprise you from your regular brunch experience. Another dish I recommend to try at Saba Foods is their Shakshuka, a rich and hearty dish of perfectly poached eggs simmered in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce, infused with garlic and aromatic Yemeni spices. Served with warm, soft and crunchy flatbread to scoop up every last bite – One bite, and you’ll be hooked.
While Vancouver boasts a thriving brunch scene, Saba Foods earns its spot among the elite with its distinctive offerings and community feel. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a chance to savor tradition in a city known for culinary diversity. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or simply craving a fresh take on brunch, Saba Foods delivers a delicious escape that’s well worth a visit. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning your next trip back before you’ve even finished your plate!
Bao Down OV
In Olympic Village, Bao Down transforms the mid-morning meal into a playful, shareable experience, featuring dishes that fuse Thai, Filipino, and Hawaiian inspirations with a West Coast flair. Located in the lively Olympic Village at 115 West 2nd Avenue, this gastropub takes brunch to new heights by blending Asian street food influences with creative twists that keep locals and visitors coming back. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back with friends, soak in the funky vibes, and dig into food that’s as exciting as it is delicious.
The menu at Bao Down is a brunch lover’s dream, standout items are their signature bao buns stuffed with inventive fillings. Try the “Hot Stuff,” a spicy fried chicken and waffle combo drizzled with macadamia syrup, or the “Knight St. Delight,” a French toast-doughnut hybrid topped with five-spice sugar. These handheld delights are paired with options like crispy lemongrass chicken bao or ahi tuna poke bowls, showcasing the restaurant’s knack for balancing bold Asian flavors with brunch comfort. Add in a vibrant cocktail lineup, like “High Tide” (Gin, Tennessee Honey Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Lime Pineapple), and you’ve got a brunch that’s as much a feast for the senses as it is a meal. The neon-lit street art mural and thumping tunes only amp up the experience, making it a spot that feels distinctly Vancouver.
What truly cements Bao Down’s status among Vancouver’s brunch elite is its ability to deliver big, punchy flavors in a casual, unpretentious setting. Since opening its Olympic Village location in 2017 as an expansion from its original Gastown roots, it’s become a go-to for those craving something beyond the standard brunch fare. The 67 – seat space fills up fast – expect a wait of up to 30 minutes on weekends—but the payoff is worth it. Whether you’re sharing a platter of bao with a group or savoring a solo stack of banana pancakes with macadamia praline, Bao Down offers a fresh, Asian-infused take on brunch that’s as memorable as the city itself. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Vancouver’s diverse culinary scene.
Linh Café
Another destination that we can’t miss why talking about the best 5 Asian brunch spots in Vancouver is Linh Café. Opendaily from 9 AM, the restaurant is known for its blending of rustic, charming French cooking and the bold, soulful flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Now located at 1428 Granville Street, this family-run gem has become a brunch haven that’s as sophisticated as it is comforting. Thanks to owner Tai Nguyen’s North Vietnamese roots and his mastery of French techniques, this place is where the aroma of freshly baked croissants mingles with the rich, spiced broth of pho, offering a brunch experience that’s uniquely Vancouver.
Picture the Hanoi Breakfast—a steaming bowl of Beef Pho with braised AAA Alberta brisket and rice noodles, elevated by the option to add bone marrow or a sous-vide egg—or the indulgent Foie Gras Parfait, aa rich, velvety indulgence, perfectly balanced with delicate flavors and a touch of French sophistication. These dishes, served in a cozy yet upscale setting, showcase Nguyen’s philosophy of “simple pleasures done with love and precision.” Pair your meal with a “French Day Dream” (bourbon, curacao liqueur, lemon juice, and pineapple juice) or a glass of Sangria, and you’ve got a brunch that’s as much a treat for the palate as it is a cultural escape. The generous portions and friendly service only add to the allure, ensuring you leave satisfied and eager to return.
What makes Linh Café a must-visit isn’t just the food—it’s the story and passion behind it. Named after Nguyen’s wife, Linh, the restaurant embodies a personal touch that resonates with its diners. Whether you’re savoring the crispy Spicy Baguette Sticks or the tender Duck Cassoulet, you’re tasting a labor of love that bridges East and West. In a city brimming with brunch options, Linh Café shines as a top Asian-inspired pick, offering a fresh, flavorful escape that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
Mott 32
Mott 32 is Vancouver can’t-miss restaurant for Asian brunch, bringing a luxurious yet approachable twist to the city’s brunch scene. Located in the Paradox Hotel at 1161 West Georgia Street in the heart of Downtown, this acclaimed restaurant – part of an award-winning global chain – transforms traditional Chinese cuisine into a brunch experience that’s both sophisticated and indulgent. Open Thursday through Sunday from 11:30 am. to 2:30 pm, Mott 32 serves up a weekend brunch that draws inspiration from Cantonese, Beijing, and Szechuan flavors, all wrapped in a stunning interior that blends New York industrial chic with classic Chinese elegance. It’s the kind of place where you can savor a meal that feels like a special occasion, whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring Vancouver’s culinary landscape.
The brunch menu at Mott 32 is a celebration of handmade dim sum and inventive dishes that elevate the late breakfast to new heights. Signature offerings like the quail egg and Iberico pork Siu Mai with black truffle – a delicate, flavorful bite with a runny yolk surprise, or the hot-and-sour Shanghainese soup dumplings pack a spicy, tangy punch that wakes up your palate. For those craving something heartier, the apple wood-roasted Peking duck, served with thin pancakes and a refined hoisin-sesame sauce, is a tableside spectacle that’s as delicious as it is iconic. Pair these with a jasmine tea-infused cocktail or a selection from their adventurous wine list, and you’ve got a brunch that’s as much about the experience as the food. The moody ambiance, complete with bird-cage chandeliers and a buzzing open kitchen, only adds to the allure.
What makes Mott 32 a top spot to check out isn’t just its culinary prowess but its ability to redefine Asian brunch in a city already rich with options. Since opening its doors in Vancouver, it’s garnered praise for its high-quality ingredients,and its seamless blend of tradition and innovation. The 42-day apple wood-roasted Peking duck, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, is a testament to their commitment to excellence, while the attentive service ensures every guest feels like royalty. Whether you’re sharing a spread of dim sum with friends or treating yourself to a solo feast, Mott 32 delivers a brunch that’s bold, flavorful, and unforgettable—solidifying its spot among Vancouver’s Asian brunch elite.
These spots showcase Vancouver’s diverse Asian culinary influences, blending tradition with creative brunch twists. Whether you’re into dim sum, fusion bowls, or tropical vibes, they’re worth a visit!
