Most of Vancouver’s new cafes have that clean, cool, minimalist aesthetic that makes them perfect for Instagram.
But this new-ish hidden gem along Kingsway flips the script, and honestly, it might just be the coziest cafe in the city right now.
Tucked between an older storefront and an upcoming new development, Casbah de Vancouver doesn’t exactly scream trendy from the outside.
In fact, if it weren’t for the sandwich board sitting out front and a neon “OPEN” sign in the window, you might walk right past it.
But step inside, and you’re instantly transported somewhere else entirely.
The walls are decked with ornate frames, tapestries, and intricate North African patterns.
Hanging birdcages, mosaic tiles, and gold-detailed furniture create a warm, vintage living room feel that’s impossible to fake.
It’s the kind of space that feels loved, like every item has a story.
And that vibe?
That’s 100% thanks to Nadia, the heart of Casbah and the cafe’s owner.
On our visit, we were greeted by Nadia herself, who instantly struck up a conversation with us as if we were long-lost relatives.
A former film producer, she opened Casbah with the intention of sharing her love for hospitality, storytelling, and Algerian culture.
She’s been called a “French-Algerian mom” by many of her customers, and we get it.
Within minutes, she was sharing stories about her kids in Quebec, her years in Richmond, and her passion for baking.
“Next time you visit,” she smiled, “you might notice a few new things on the walls. I love to change it up.”
This isn’t a place where you grab a latte and head back to your laptop.
This is a chat-for-45-minutes-about-life kind of spot.
And in a city where cafe culture can often feel transactional, this is a rare and welcome change.
The menu is simple but thoughtful.
On our visit, there was espresso, North African coffee (which we ordered and loved), and a handful of pastries, small-batch and ever-changing.
We went with the White Tcharek, a delicate a traditional Algerian crescent-shaped pastry that felt like it was baked with care, not churned out by a machine.
Nadia says everything is a work in progress, as she and her supplier test what regulars love most.
If you’re after a productive work session, this might not be your ideal spot.
But if you’re craving connection, warmth, and a bit of magic with your coffee, Casbah is it.
It’s not trendy. It’s not trying to be viral.
It’s just honest, comforting, and totally captivating.
Tell Nadia we said hi!
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Address: 1385 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5V 4Y6