Mr. Red Cafe Vancouver
Fresh Northern Vietnamese food
Written on the window of this unassuming restaurant in East Vancouver are the words “Quintessence of Vietnamese Cuisine,” an indication of the deliciousness to come. Don’t let the unusual name of this restaurant deter you from visiting. This family-run restaurant specializes in Northern Vietnamese cooking, specifically from Hanoi. This is not the typical Vietnamese fare you find at other Vietnamese restaurants in Vancouver (which are influenced by Southern Vietnam) and is a bit lighter.
On offer are a range of noodle soups, sticky rice filled with various meats, spring rolls, and traditional Vietnamese drinks and desserts. Everything on the menu is prepared with care in keeping with the traditions of their home.
Be sure to grab a banh mi which comes stuffed with your choice of filling ranging from pate and pickled vegetables to a beef stew sandwich. Another must have dish is the Bún Bò Huế which is flavourful with a slight hint of spice. They’re famous for their bun ca where the pork and rice vermicelli come separate from the dipping sauce accompaniment.
Regardless of when you go, be prepared for a line. The cafe is small with only a handful of tables. And why the unusual name? Mr. Red was chef and owner Hong Nguyen’s nickname in Vietnam.
About this spot
Find your way with 192 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Vancouver
Long's Noodle House
Amazing soup dumplings
"Long's Noodle House" Vancouver is a hole-in-the-wall restaurant serving up fantastic Shanghaiese food. I'm a fan of their soup dumplings and wine chicken.
by
Adelina
Wong
Anny’s Dairy Bar
Quebecois comfort food
"Anny’s Dairy Bar" in Vancouver serves more than dairy products, despite its name. The real draw, at least for me, is its maple twist cones...
by
Adelina
Wong
Rooster's Ice Cream Bar
Artisanal ice cream
"Rooster's Ice Cream Bar" is Vancouver's new gourmet ice cream bar! It makes artisanal ice cream with natural ingredients - I love trying their experiments
by
Adelina
Wong
Superbaba
Mouth-watering falafel food truck
Food truck "Superbaba" in Vancouver, simply has the best falafel I've ever tasted. I'll often 'forget' my lunch just to go there and indulge...
by
Samantha
Cheng
Reflections Garden Terrace
Rooftop patio downtown
The "Reflections Garden Terrace" in Vancouver is on Hotel Georgia. This cozy garden bar is a favourite among locals year round. Remember: ask for a blanket
by
Samantha
Cheng
MeeT on Main
Vegan comfort food
"MeeT on Main" in Vancouver makes amazing vegan comfort food, no mater whether you're plant-based or not! Pro-tip: just go earlier rather than later...
by
Samantha
Cheng
Sun Sushi
Cheap but delicious sushi
"Sun Sushi" in Vancouver is perfect if you're looking for a fast & delicious meal, plus incredibly quick service and cheap prices! Try the agedashi tofu...
by
Samantha
Cheng
The Orpheum
Historical theatre from 1927
"The Orpheum" in Vancouver is home to the city's symphony orchestra. It's truly a sight to see and a must-visit for an evening show in the city...
by
Samantha
Cheng
Loafe Cafe
Artsy university cafe
"Loafe Cafe" in University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a favorite among students. It's one of my favorite places to catch up with friends...
by
Samantha
Cheng
La Casa Gelato
Locally owned ice cream shop
"La Casa Gelato" is Vancouver's queen of ice cream, with almost as many flavors of ice cream as there are days in the year.
by
Samantha
Cheng
Lift Bar & Grill
Happy hour on the water
"Lift Bar & Grill" in Vancouver is on the water at Coal Harbour. I recommend visiting during happy hour; my go-to order is the vegetable sushi roll...
by
Samantha
Cheng
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden
Oasis in the city
"Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden" is in Vancouver's Chinatown. This garden is home to a tranquil outdoor space and some art exhibits. It's a true oasis!
by
Samantha
Cheng
Heading to Vancouver?
192 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 192 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Restaurants
Our team loves Vancouver
Get to know our other Spotters from Vancouver
As featured on:
