Hello dear
Welcome To Gabriel's Cafe
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Nanaimo, Gabriel's Cafe stands out as a premier destination for brunch enthusiasts. This charming eatery is celebrated for its commitment to supporting local farmers and merchants. The menu boasts tantalizing offerings, including the Korean pulled pork sandwich and a flavorful kimchi salad bowl, showcasing a blend of global influences and fresh, local ingredients. Customer favorites like the jingle pot and their trendy When Pigs Fly dish demonstrate innovative culinary creativity. With a welcoming ambiance, attentive service, and generous portions—along with free coffee refills—Gabriel's Cafe invites guests to indulge in a memorable dining experience that feels like home.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Kimchi salad bowl
Roasted sweet potato, lentil and quinoa burger
Korean pulled-pork sandwich
Wild salmon burger
About
Gabriel's Cafe
Welcome to Gabriel's Cafe, a hidden gem located at 39 Commercial St in the heart of Nanaimo, BC. This vibrant café has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, drawing in food enthusiasts with its commitment to fresh, local ingredients and an impressive menu that caters to a variety of tastes.
One of the notable aspects of Gabriel's Cafe is its signature handhelds. The Roasted Sweet Potato, Lentil and Quinoa Burger topped with a vibrant Cilantro Mint Pesto is a standout choice for the health-conscious diner, while the Wild Salmon Burger slathered with Sriracha mayo provides a flavorful twist on a classic. Additionally, the Korean Pulled Pork Sandwich packs a punch with its hoisin BBQ sauce and kimchi, served on a perfectly toasted ciabatta bun—this is not just a meal, but an experience!
For those craving something lighter, the Kimchi Salad Bowl is a fusion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Packed with fresh greens, avocado, roasted beets, and an array of colorful vegetables, it is drizzled with sesame ginger dressing that elevates this dish to another level of freshness.
Patrons of Gabriel's Cafe rave about the ambiance and service. With a comfortable setting perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy meal with family, the café's atmosphere complements the quality of food being served. Guests often cite the friendly staff who are always eager to accommodate special requests, exemplifying the café's welcoming spirit.
As echoed in reviews, Gabriel's Cafe is a place to savor not only delicious meals but also a sense of community. Customers appreciate the emphasis on supporting local farmers while indulging in hearty meals. Gabriel’s Cafe not only provides free coffee refills served in substantial cups, but it also creates an inviting environment where conversation flows easily—even during busy brunch hours.
So if you find yourself wandering in Nanaimo, make Gabriel's Cafe your go-to stop for a delightful culinary experience. With an eclectic menu backed by a passion for local ingredients and community, this café promises not just a meal, but a warm invitation to return again and again. Don't miss out—this is a spot that deserves a place on your must-visit list!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ My regular stop for a delicious brunch. Their jingle pot and bennys are my favourite. They have great range of options. ”
“ So stuffed! First time here as a visitor to the city. Love the concept of them supporting local farmers and I supporting local merchants. Good food and quick service. Free coffee refills are served in big cups. I had the pancakes and enjoyed the hint of coconut in them. My teen had a deconstructed When Pigs Fly. He said it tasted good but he should not have deconstructed it (which was very accommodating of them). Noise level still good for conversation. Very comfortable for couples, friends, and families. Free Wi-Fi too with password. ”
“ I am so glad we just waited for couple minutes for a seat. It is so popular for people visit here to enjoy breakfast or brunch. Here will not make you disappointed! My best friend in Nanaimo got me here, and I did not order and check. However, I really surprised that on the menu it shows a dish called WHEN PIGS FLY. Very interesting name for food, so I asked for it. Like I said, it won’t disappoint you. The pork has been fully cooked soft and mix with some sauces, which tastes like honey with little sweetness and sticky. It is actually maple syrup on side to serve with it. The bowl with tuna and some fresh vegetables is really good and healthy. Canadian style, don’t miss it if you like healthy diet. All food is local, support our local business. We got an amazing meal together, and I have enjoy this sweetie sour drink with piece of bacon Definitely will visit again when I come to Nanaimo. I put it in my 5-star list! CANNOT MISS ”
“ The Best healthy meal I had in Nanaimo with a heavenly flavor in the warm rice and nice tables too. It was pretty busy but organized ”
“ Stumbled upon this great little spot in Nanaimo while visiting the Island. Quick and short drive from Departure Bay. Very friendly and accommodating staff. Great ambiance. The food and coffee were great and arrived quickly. Definitely a spot worth a visit. ”
“ Lots of vegan options clearly marked. Every single dish we tried was delicious. Definitely will be coming back often. ”
“ A Perfect Breakfast at Gabriel’s Gourmet Cafe My brother and I had the pleasure of enjoying breakfast at Gabriel’s Gourmet Cafe in Nanaimo, and it was truly a fantastic experience. The moment we walked in, the cozy, welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home. The staff were friendly and attentive, making sure we were comfortable and well taken care of from the start. We both ordered from their breakfast menu, and the food exceeded our expectations. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. You can really taste the difference in quality—locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful combinations that make every bite memorable. Whether you’re into hearty breakfasts or something lighter and healthier, there’s something for everyone. What really stood out, though, was the vibe. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow easily, and time seems to slow down a bit—in the best way. Sharing that morning with my brother over great food and good coffee made it even more special. Highly recommend Gabriel’s if you’re in Nanaimo and want a breakfast spot that feels genuine, delicious, and just a little bit special ”
“ Gabriel’s Gourmet Cafe is a delightful spot that truly impresses! Their Thai green curry is absolutely amazing—rich, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. Every bite was a treat for the taste buds. The ambiance of the cafe is warm and inviting, but what really sets this place apart are the staff. The waitresses are incredibly friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is a must-visit spot. Keep an eye out for Abby ,she’s a gem! Can definitely recommend! ”