There’s a new tasty scent drifting through Hastings Sunrise!
A charming new café called Mercado Panadería has quietly opened its doors where a former record shop once stood, bringing a slice of Mexico to the East Van bakery lineup.
Tucked right next to Hong Hong Bakery, this new spot has a cozy space and fresh bakes made daily.
Inside, the vibe is casual and welcoming terracotta coloured walls, cushy bar stools along a counter facing an open kitchen, and just enough framed prints lining one wall to make it feel lived-in.
But even before you walk in (and when you walk in), there’s a clear view of the pastry case where fluffy conchas, crumbly polvorones, and sugar-dusted donas tempt you from behind glass.
Since we needed our first coffee of the day, the first thing that caught our eye was the drink menu.
Beyond your typical lattes and americanos, Mercado Panadería offers Mexican-inspired caffeinated drinks like café de olla and latte de cajeta.
We asked for the lowdown, and the staff kindly explained each one without a hint of rush.
We went with a latte de horchata, which is a creamy, cinnamon-scented number that we punched up with a shot of espresso.
We also snagged the last concha, which had been taunting us from the window display since we walked in.
Here you’ll also be able to nibble on a churro relleno or a slice of pastel de tres leches.
The menu is simple but full of heart, with house-made tortas (Mexican Subs), tamales, and pan dulce that is a nod to tradition while feeling right at home in this neighbourhood.
If you’re already a regular at nearby spots like Breka, Tall Shadow Bakery, or one of the many Chinese bakeries in the area, Mercado Panadería offers something different.
And speaking of change, Mercado Panadería is just one of a handful of new food spots quietly popping up in Hastings Sunrise.
Earlier in April, The Green, a Korean brunch spot opened up in the area.
For more new and upcoming food spots in Metro Vancouver, take a peek at our tracker here, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
Address: 2447 E. Hastings St, Vancouver BC