Wedge-shaped cafe serving baos, bubble-tea, smoothies and pastries. Seating is limited by the wedge-shapes floor-plan of this cafe. You step in the entrance, and it fans out towards the counter. You order on the right, and get served on the left. Seating is mainly along the walls, but as you can imagine, it is a bit awkward the way tables are arranged. Seating is not comfortable, probably to discourage people from loitering around too long. We ordered a croissant, smoothie, ice-cream and a bao. We must've hit a busy rush because it took 15+ minutes for us to get our entire order. The veggie smoothie came out first; it was a tad tart, but that is how I like it. I don't like extra sweetener, and it didn't seem like they added any. The bao came next, and it was okay. Perhaps not dim-sum restaurant quality, but decent for a cafe. I enjoyed that it was filled with a meat patty and egg. Kind of wished that it was served with Worcestershire sauce. A bit pricey. Surprisingly, the croissant took the longest to come out, but it appeared there was a backlog at the toaster station. Many other customers were waiting for toasted goods. The croissant was light and flaky. While I can't be certain it was made in-house, if it was store-bought, I would definitely be surprised. I can't comment on the ice-cream as it was not mine, but I noted that the portion seemed very small for the price we paid. Shrinkflation is real, people. I won't probably go here often, and there are definitely better places for smoothies, ice cream and baos. But, if you need all three at the same time, this is a convenient one-stop-shop. read more

See all

I have visited this cafe frequently when I'm in the commercial area - they are a definitely a community favorite for the locals in the area. Cafe usually has some soft music going - with stringed lights - really giving off a warm cozy vibe - I'd say a great study spot on a rainy day. This cafe takes pride in creating moments of connection with their guests - you will definitely feel welcomed - the team is eager to help and are knowledgeable with offerings and can make great suggestions. My personal favorites during my visits would be Thai milk tea, Vietnamese Ice coffee, Roasted milk tea and the steamed Baos! They also offer DIY Bubble tea kits - which I've gifted to friends , and received praise for. They are currently also at the Richmond Night Market this year - offering a London fog series - I'd recommend the "Vancouver Maple Fog" - read more

Chance Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

i'M NOT mARYLEE S FROM SAN FRANCISCO -- YELP MIS-READ MY NAME -- I'M A LONG-TIME vANCOUVER RESIDENT- BUT THIS REVIEW IS CORRECT!If you want high quality location, ambiance, service, drinks and food (barbeque Bao if fantastic) then go to the Chance Cafe! easy to reach by transit or car (often has parking around), or just walk over a few blocks from a stroll at Trout Lake. It's always a wrap-up from my birdwatch at Trout. Warm weather or freezing cold -- Chance is the comfy, beautifully designed, small but plenty of room for you and your friends -- furry or otherwise. Not "upscale ripoff prices" -- very good value for money and friendliest staff ever!! a Real "community" sense -- go there! read more

Chance Cafe - devoted fans of Chance-- Post-birding at Trout Lake! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Cute asian cafe on a corner with steamed baos (asian buns), coffee based drinks and bubble teas. I've been here several times and enjoy their real fruit bubble teas. This time I got the roasted milk tea with pearls and it was good. They never seem to ask if I want ice and I forget to tell them no ice so it's a bit annoying when it comes with ice. Their steamed baos are good but these are usually $3-4 at any Chinese bakery and for $7, I expect it to be much larger or have more filing so i feel it is overpriced. The only difference was that the bread texture is more spongey. read more

Chance Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Lovely cafe. Sweet baristas, decorated beautifully, and great coffee. Will come back again! read more

Chance Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

See all

By chance, I found myself at Chance Café son a lazy summer afternoon. How can you pass up a chance like this? We tried the Peach oolong ice tea, sunset paradise smoothie and spicy chicken bao. Drinks were nicely done. The steamed bun was a good size and had good filling. Not sure I like this mix of meat and filling flavour but it hit the spot. There is a small patio area outside and a few tables inside. Lots of selection for quick eats, coffee, specialty drinks and ice cream. Overall nice local cafe in the neighborhood. read more

See all

Interesting little cafe in a very special and unique community, very fitting! I drive on Victoria very often so this cafe wasn't a "hole in the wall" - off the radar sort of establishment. It's located on the southern corner of the Victoria Diversion, flanked by Commercial St. Wedged shaped corner building. The decor inside was very homey and we'll thought out. It reminded me of a humble east-van non-pretentious cafe that welcomes everyone! There were green plants and big windows that allowed for a lot of natural light. The store really pushed the green/environmentally friendly concept - bring your own bubbletea cups/paper straws... There were three people ahead of me in line. I ordered a deluxe pork bao bun, and at the recommendation of staff a regular size Taro bubbletea/boba. I waited maybe 3~ minutes - fairly quick! The bun was warm, bubbletea was cool - no ice which is nice. The bun was delicious as the bao was fluffy and light but upon biting in there wasn't much filling. And the bubbletea not overly sweet and had lots of natural flavour - did not taste artificial. I liked how the drink did not include ice to water down the fragrant flavour. Price is a bit on the higher side, but I can understand why. Overall, I would return again. Please see my pics! read more

See all

We chanced upon this place and decided to give it a try. We were just looking for a place for a drink and this fit. I love the cozy set up. It is not a big place with some smaller tables and a long table in it. I like how there are card games which you could borrow and have a game or two with your pens. There are also crayons which I think are meant for kids. It is very community minded with plenty of other organizations or small businesses cards and flyers out near the front for people to take. It serves more than coffee and tea. It also has bubble tea, smoothies and food. The food selection is not wide but I think it is sufficient. It is proper food like sandwiches, wrap and curry on rice. I tried the lychee green tea which is part of the bubble tea range and it was really nice. I substituted the pearls with coco de nata (or other toppings you desire). I will want to try other stuff here if I am back in the area. Street parking is available. read more

See all

Cozy little cafe that my friend and I came across by chance. (sorry I couldn't help it) Parking is available on the side streets. The cafe is pretty small. Maybe 20 seats at most. Interior has a really nice vintage small town feel. Staff were friendly. Pricing was pretty reasonable. The coffee I had was good. This place has food items such as wraps and rice, but I didn't try. They also have pastries, smoothies, and ice cream. Wouldn't mind coming back next time I'm in the area. read more

See all

Definitely a hidden gem! The operation is quite small, but they really deliver on uncomplicated bubble tea and snacks. The shop area is currently looking a little bare since the tables and chairs are set aside due to COVID, but the cottage-like interior still feels cozy and welcoming. The staff was also friendly. I had a grilled cheese, chocolate raspberry sandwich cookie, and lychee green tea with pearls. The grilled cheese was very simple, but tasty. It wasn't too greasy and it seemed like they use good quality cheese. I liked the size of the sandwich cookie - it wasn't a monster like you get at some places, but the cookies and layer of raspberry cream were nice and thick, so it was enough to be a satisfying snack. I thought the texture was just a little dry and crumbly, but I wonder if that has to do with it being gluten-free. The chocolate and raspberry flavours were both strong, though, and the raspberry filling didn't have any artificial sweetness to it. The bubble tea was really good! The lychee flavour was very natural and blended well with the green tea - not too sweet! Their pearls had a really pleasant taste and texture. This is definitely a personal thing, but the style of the drink reminded me of the bubble tea I drank when I was younger and made me a bit nostalgic. I think they could expand the food offerings to have more veggie options. I've heard a lot about the Thai tofu curry but that wasn't on the menu when I visited, and they were sold out of veggie bao, so the only vegetarian option was the grilled cheese. Even just something simple like a salad wrap could be nice. read more

Chance Cafe - Lychee Green Tea w/ Boba - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I always stop by Chance Cafe to get a slice (or two) or their delicious Coffee cake. It's always so fresh! Every time you come to Chance Cafe you're served by friendliest staff and the service is always on point. I love their food and smoothies. It's such a cozy place to have a snack! read more

Chance Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

See all

Such a cute little hidden gem. Came here by recommendation and was completely worth the visit. I only got coffe, which was really good and fairly priced. They also have really good choices of food and other drinks (bubble tea, frappes, teas etc). Didn't eat this time but will be back. It seems like they have really yummy soups as well. It's on the smaller size but there was space when I came and it was really cozy. Highly recommend! Favorite coffee place so far. read more

See all

I stumbled upon this corner cafe, waiting for an event at the Croatian Cultural Center- going on across the street. Hungry, thirsty and urgently needing a bathroom, I was happy to spot this cute place and happily walked in. It's very cottage-y style, homey inside, lots of wood~ and different from your usual coffee shops. Lots of offerings ~ coffees, baked goods and a variety of meal offerings. I had a look at their blackboard though I am wheat-intolerant ~ was elated to see a few gluten-free baked items. Very cheerful and friendly staff showed me their gluten free cookies, and took my order very quickly. It was busy inside being Saturday lunch time, so I decided to take my dark roast plain coffee and cookie outside. There are long benches to sit on outside - on the side of the building, over looking the street. Best. Freaking. Coffee. Ever. Dark, black roast, perfectly roasted ~ not too bitter, not too strong, no weird nutty Starbucks taste. Perfectly strong, but smooth tasting. The gluten-free cookie I devoured in 2 bites, was divine ~ not dry, not overly sweet, soft, chewy texture. Unique, cottage decor, super friendly service, absolutely divine coffee ~ check this place out. Street parking nearby, accepts debit/credit cards. My favourite coffee place in East Van now :) read more

Chance Cafe - Wood interior Chance - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

See all

They took my order then told me it was cash only because they ran out of paper for their debit machine. When I said I didn't have cash they asked me to etransfer. Took a long time making my sandwich then when it was ready said the transfer had not gone through. I asked if I could come back with cash they asked me to leave my $900 phone as collateral for a $12 sandwich! By the time I got home the transfer had gone through. Called to give them the email to transfer it back and the employee kept getting it wrong. Cost me 40 mins of my day to almost get to eat a sandwich. Nice to be profiled as someone who scams turkey sandwiches. Love being button holed like that. I'm another review the owner responded saying that the staff never asked for a cell phone for collateral. They absolutely did. If they had not, I would likely not be mad enough to write this review or the last one. Come correct or don't come at all. And I don't want your complimentary sandwich, I'd like that 40 mins of my life back, and to be shown some dignity and treated like all of the other customer. Not like I'm a drug addict because I have bad skin and colored hair. This business can get bent. read more

Vegan bao was average. The bao was pretty fluffy but there could've been more filling. The filling also wasn't my favourite as it tasted overwhelmingly of black pepper. The taro drink was not good at all. I couldn't take more than a sip as it tasted very artificial and not like taro at all. My parents' vietnamese coffee bbt was just okay, as was my brother's regular bbt. Not really worth a visit imo. read more

Ordered delivery from here and it really disappointed me. They gave the wrong straw for the boba tea, so I had to scoop the boba out with a spoon?! The disposable spoon they provided is really bad quality and I can't really eat the curry with it. The curry looks like it's made with preserved meat and if instant curry is a thing then that's where it's made from. Will not order again read more

Found this tiny cafe on the corner of Victoria and Commercial. Run by a really sweet lady and her assistant. Luckily I got there early before the lunch crowd. I love that you can customize your wrap, but unfortunately that means a bit of a wait for your order. I saw at least half a dozen people leave when they saw the line up. Too bad, because my cold brew coffee and wrap were tasty. We had a brief chat about her coffee supplier and she even offered a sample of the daily brew. Such a nice gesture. I love the chalet feel from the wooden interior. Obviously she's still working out some kinks in terms of supply and demand. I think it would be helpful to post her wrap menu on the large empty blackboard above the counter instead of on a tiny whiteboard tucked away around the corner. This would give customers who're waiting to order something to do. I wish her the best in the future. read more

See all

I was taking a course nearby and popped into this small, friendly cafe. The first time, I had a drip coffee and I returned at lunch for a chicken Thai curry on rice. The service was very friendly. The curry was perfectly seasoned and delicious. Credit cards accepted. I also noted space for community organizations to share pamphlets and information. Not fancy - but a cosy, comfortable place for a coffee or light meal. read more

Just purchased their passionfruit syrup and pearls to make bbt at home. I bought it 2 days ago via reusable bubble tea cup on Instagram (we are in the same neighborhood and she offered free delivery :)) and I just made it. it's amazing!!! The pearls are soooo chewy and perfect. I can't wait to experiment and make other flavors! read more

I come here every weekend for the breakfast muffin and bubble tea, especially the Roasted milk tea with mango stars topping. The bubble tea is not too sweet for me, so to compare to the other branding bubble tea, and they get my support. It's a nice place for me to study also. The owner and staffs are amiable and well-support. My friends also addicted to the bubble tea in here. You will love this place, believe me!!!! read more

Chance Cafe - Breakfast Sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Fantastic, friendly owner who is truly a part of the neighbourhood and community. Katrina (owner) warmly welcomes feedback, and has even added some amazing vegan dishes based on some Every drink I've tried has been great. read more

Chance Cafe - Great menu for a rainy Saturday! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

See all

It was a usual rainy day in Vancouver... droplets of rain shattering the transparent view from the 20 Downtown bus window. Having passed by this place a few times during my usual commute, it was definitely on my list of places to try out. Dropped in after much contemplation on where to go (since the place I wanted to try was jam packed :( ) Experience The interior & cleanliness: Cozy~ As you step through the glass doors, you are immediately greeted by the staff behind the counter. The seating on the right side consisted of some bar stools close to the window, 2 long tables (one of which was to help showcase some local artists and community information). While the left consisted of a retail display and 3 small standard cafe table & chair sets. The place is cared for, immensely! The staff frequent the washroom and floor quite often, that you won't be able to catch a spec of dust. Rating: 5/5 Service: Gold Star~ They were friendly, warm, and were actually willing to interact with their guests for the heck of it! [Some places give you a generic: Hello, how are you doing~ and then proceed to What do you want?] Rating: 5/5 Food & Beverage: Okay, but will have to revisit for a more concrete opinion. I ordered a Soy London Fog & Chicken Thai Curry. It wasn't the most memorable, unfortunately. For me to give them a rating for this is not fair at this point, since all around it's a very lovely place and definitely deserves a better opinion. Will definitely look into getting a cappuccino/smoothie/pastry/and another food item [something that would be their most popular item, this time]. --------- Overall rating: 4/5 based on service and ambiance. read more

Cute little cafe at the corner of the street. Had the honeydew and coconut twisted icecream (which was more like a sorbet), but it's very yummy :) they got boardgames and cards. Limited seatings though, and i'm not sure how busy they get during the week. read more

Great place for light lunch or a coffee while working from home. We live in the area and walk down during the day for a break. Good selection of treats and drinks read more

Organic coffee and fresh food. Very nice place to just hang out when you have nothing to do :) staff is very friendly. Been here a few time and they are always trying new things and give samples and getting real feedback of what the customers want! Would recommend the cold brew. Awesome keep it up! read more

I'm tepid on this place, like my latte. I asked for a latte with an extra shot in a regular size cup. I got a bucket full off coffee flavoured warm milk. Morning glory muffin is very oily. Didn't finish either. read more

Wonderful cafe, wonderful owner, a beautiful soul named Corina (if memory serves!). Smart, funny, sweet, kind, I had some time to chat with her for a little while and exchange stories. Of course there was excellent food and really great coffee involved! We loved everything about the place. When in the area, we stop in! Lovely lovely place and people!! I really wish her every success with this new business. She's got the right attitude towards customer service and of course will work out any little kinks being new - but she's very well on her way and should be proud of her cafe. Brava sister! read more

Stopped by and ordered some smoothies with my wife on a sunny day. Great prices and great flavour! I got the Blue Horizon Smoothie and it was really well balanced. My wife polished off the Upriser Smoothie before I had a chance to taste it so I think it's good. Coming back for our next craving for sure! read more

This is the cutest cafe I have ever been to. The bubble tea here is delicious. Make sure to try their blue horizon smoothie, it's fresh and tasty. The ice cream here is to die for, they change the flavours, but if you can get coconut! The staff here is super sweet and friendly. The cafe it self is very clean and is a cozy spot to hangout with your friends. I highly recommend checking this place out. read more

See all

What an awesome addition to the Commercial Drive area. I got a smoothie with strawberries to go. The assumed owner was very sweet and friendly. She was super pleased to assist me. Prices are very reasonable. There are some eats on the menu, therefore, I will come back. read more

We were excited to try this new local café. It was quite cute and cosy inside. Too bad it took two minutes for the two staff behind the counter to acknowledge us waiting to place our order. Once acknowledged, we were told it would just be a second. We waited another two minutes and since no one looked at us or took our order, we left. Will give this café another chance [appropriate given the café's name]. They might've been having an off day or still getting used to things since they're quite new. But first impressions are pretty valuable and so far, mine is 2 stars' worth. read more

Great little cafe with very friendly staff, tasty food, teas, coffed and pastries. Went for dinner with the family and had the Thai coconut curry with chicken (also offered with tofu) hubby and kiddos had sandwiches that were quite yummy as well. Go check them out, right on the corner of Commercial Street (not Drive) and Victoria. read more

Small and cute. Music isn't too loud. They make bubble tea with alt-milks and will serve it in a glass if you are having it in the cafe. Finally bubble tea without having to use disposable plastics! Was pretty quiet when I was here (5pm on Thursday) but it is quite a small place. Three 2-seaters, one big five-seater, and 3 barstools. read more

Stumbled upon this little cafe and was very impressed with their offerings. The owners were personable and the drinks we ordered perfectly balanced. My LO polished off his smoothie and wanted more! Will definitely be back again soon. read more

When I visited Vancouver my airbnb was close to the Chance Café and chose to go there in my search for coffee since it was in walking distance and I'm so glad I did! The employees were very polite and kind, and the breakfast sandwich was definitely the best I have ever had. You could tell that they actually took the ingredients, uncooked, out of the fridge and cooked it to order. Soooo good and the inside was also adorable! Please give these people your business! read more

Seriously. I have no regrets in even stopping by. Staff is super friendly, beautiful and cozy decor and absolutely great food and beverages. Everything is crafted perfectly to provide a great neighbourhood café. I could go endless on how great this place, but I suggest you drop by and give them a chance! :) read more

Cute little neighborhood cafe. We went there for the first time today and had a roasted milk tea and smoothie. Ever since our first taste of the roasted milk tea at Chatime, my husband and I have been hooked and always order that drink wherever we go. Chance did not disappoint. The roasted milk tea was very satisfying and not overly sweet, which i was worried about as I was remiss in requesting less sugar. Additional bonus, they have popping pearls - little tapioca pearls that burst with flavor in your mouth. I had those game-changing toppings for the first time in Hawaii, so i'm glad to see them making their way to Vancouver. read more

I have tried their passion fruit tea and it is very yummy!! It's a little bit pricey tho...

Cold brew coffee was great and refreshing! Awesome addition to the neighborhood!!

Cute and cosy little cafe with great smoothies at affordable prices! Owner is really friendly and helpful, she gave me a little sample of their Thai curry which was quite tasty. I will be back for more! read more