BOTTOM LINE: Better food than the YYZ one, though quite small. As always, make sure you meet their entry requirements before you make the trek over; otherwise, there are other solid lounge options at YVR (e.g., Skyteam).
Located by Gate C46, this is the first of two Air Canada Cafes at YVR (the one by Gate C50 just opened in January 2026 and is apparently much larger). As you would expect, white oak aesthetic, clean lines, and great-looking imitation plants adorn the space (lol).
The space, though, is quite small and narrow, which is fine at 1/4 capacity, but I reckon it'd be quite claustrophobic at even 3/4 capacity. I suppose this'd be offset by the grab-and-go nature of the ACC. There's plenty of plugs and USB-C ports (no USB-As), and there's a variety of seating and table spaces, with a partial view of the tarmac.
Unlike the YYZ one, this one is entirely self-serve. The only staff you could interact with was the one manning the gate. They had beers on tap from Persephone brewery. Where it shines, though is the food offerings! There are much more hot food offerings (Korean fried chicken sammies, samosas, etc.), baked goods (LOTS of donuts!) and the usual cold offerings (wraps, salads, etc.).
If it's not busy, this ACC is a good pit stop before your flight. read more