Vancouver has no shortage of aesthetic cafés, but the newest addition might just be the city’s most striking yet.
The new café and cocktail bar opened on August 29 inside the iconic Waterfall Building in Kitsilano, one of the final works of late Canadian architect Arthur Erickson.
Known for his dramatic concrete and glass structures across the country, Erickson designed the building in 1996 alongside Nick Milkovich.
Originally conceived as an art gallery, the triangular structure is defined by soaring geometry, abundant natural light, and a serene courtyard waterfall that gives the building its name.
Now, it’s been reimagined as Ellipsis, a dual bar concept promoting pause, connection, and community.
By day it serves coffee, pastries, and brunch — with exclusive pastries by Doe Coffee — and by night it transforms into a sleek cocktail bar with share plates.
Every drink even comes with a clever, conversation-provoking question, staying true to the café’s mission of slowing down and sparking presence.
Owner Ming Yang, who also runs Vancouver’s Honolulu Coffee locations, says the vision behind Ellipsis came from a simple idea.
“In a world that moves faster and faster, I wanted to create a space that invites us to slow down, to pause, to meet in the moment,” Ming explains.
“It’s a café, it’s a bar, but more than that, it’s a space for presence, connection and meaning.”
The 2,882-square-foot, 47-seat space is redesigned to pay tribute to Erickson’s modernist style, blending brushed stainless steel, geometric millwork, and reflective surfaces with warm touches like burnt orange upholstery, natural fabrics, and ambient lighting.
If you’re looking to take cute photos in a vibey spot, well – this is the spot.
Ellipsis now joins a growing list of fresh Vancouver food spots that have caught attention this year, including Rollz Vancouver, Daan Go Vancouver, and Just Another Cafe in Mount Pleasant.
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: 205-1540 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, V6J 1H2