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Bonchaz Bakery Café
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Restaurants Sandwiches Food Bakeries Restaurants French Local Flavour Coffee & Tea, Sandwiches, Bakeries, French, Local Flavour [Edit]
426 W Hastings StreetVancouver, BC V6B 1L1
Neighbourhood: Downtown
(604) 626-7215
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 8 am - 6:30 pm
Sat 10:30 am - 5 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
58 reviews for Bonchaz Bakery Café
Review Highlights
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"i want to try their french press coffee next." In 9 reviews -
"The buns are lightly sweet and fluffy soft." In 15 reviews -
"...the advertising, Bonchaz uses Ethical Bean coffee which I..." In 2 reviews
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58 reviews in English
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Review from Marc D.
Vancouver, BC
4/3/2012 1 photo
* A version of a Malaysian Mexican bun *
What the heck is a "Bonchaz?" Melissa C. regularly was reminding me to try it out for myself to see. Ok, Melissa, I've tried it!
It basically is really similar to a Malaysian Mexican bun in slightly different form. There is less of a coffee taste to the topping, and less of a chunk of butter in the middle. It was almost a cross between a Mexican bun and a brioche in terms of consistency and flavour.
After ordering they pop the freshly baked bun back into the oven to make sure it is nice and warm for you. The crust was slightly crisped, the butter dripped nicely to make your fingers greasy (yes, that is a good thing), and the inside was slightly fluffy while still being a bit dense. It was a nice bun. Photo: http://www.yelp.ca/biz...
Thanks, Melissa, for making sure I find good buns!Listed in: Dentists' Dreams in Vancouver, Vancouver…
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Review from B L.
Richmond, BC
5/16/2012 2 Check-ins Here
The bonchaz coming in three main flavors (regular, chocolate truffle, apple) are all worth a try. It slightly resembles that of a chinese pineapple bakery bun (for those who know what I'm talking about).
They also have a stamp card so be sure to ask for one.
This place would be receiving a 4 star if not for: them running out of bonchaz (that's as bad as a bubble tea place running outta bubbles); they forgot to put the fillin in 4 of the 8 bonchaz I ordered for a party. Slight disappointment.
Despite the facts, I still come here sometimes, so it says something about the bonchaz. Haha. -
Review from Alice A.
3/17/2012
It's one of those cafes that grows on you. From the outside it doesn't look like much, you enter the cafe and its haphazard interior fails to impress. But once you sit to enjoy your coffee and bun, the place starts to make sense. It's a bakery cafe - maybe they didn't sink money into decor but everything works and it's clean. My mug of coffee was plenty and good, the chocolate truffle bun crunchy, sugar-sticky, yummy.
Four stars for potential and local character. -
Review from Melissa C.
Richmond, BC
I've come here twice and both times I had the craving for the Smoked Alaskan Salmon Sandwich (~$8). The bun is soft and not soggy, the smoked salmon was delcious (I wish there were more), and the tomatoes and lettuce were fresh and crisp. Along with the hearty chicken soup with rice (~$2), it completed my lunch very well. Without the Living Social and Groupon deal I had, it's a little pricey for what is given, but still good.
I'm not a coffee drinker but with all this chatter about the French Press, I had to try it with my friend. There must have been some drugs in there because it got me addicted. The next day, I kept thinking about that smooth coffee taste... drool*
Lastly, a perfect pair with the french press would be there Original Sweet Bun (no I'm not talking about that model's behind). This dense, soft and sweet piece of bun is what will keep me coming back to Bonchaz. Merci! -
Review from Katie C.
Vancouver, BC
5/8/2012
as a lover of carbs, these bonchaz(zes) are quite amazing. crispy crust (not quite like the French baguette ones) with an incredibily soft and warm interior. tastes amazing.
the original($1.50) is slightly sweet, and is quite possibly the best flavour. tried the chocolate truffle ($1.75) as well, but i found that the chocolate flavour was too subtle for me (possible because it was dark chocolate). nevertheless, enjoyable.
this place isn't in the best part of town, but the inside is quite cozy. lots of tables and a lounge-like space. also has books that you can borrow to read and board games as well. -
Review from Leon F.
Vancouver, BC
1/7/2012
The Bonchaz were reasonably good, but I'm still not sure what they are. When I went they made them fresh. Also, we had a roast beef sandwich which was pretty good but surprisingly cold.
I had a problem at checkout - I ordered 6 plain bonchaz and they overcharged me with the 6 for $9 price. It's actually cheaper to buy six plain individual ones even if they charge tax (but they shouldn't charge tax for 6). It was annoying to be overcharged on the tax, but I used a groupon so I didn't bother arguing about the tax law. -
Review from Trevor K.
Edmonton, AB
4/18/2012
While walking through Vancouver on Easter Monday I soon realized that virtually everything was closed. All I wanted was a sandwich and to be on my way, so when I stumbled upon a Bakery/Cafe I ran right in.
The atmosphere inside is plain and minimal. Also there didn't seem to be a lot of room for large groups to meet, it seemed more for smaller groups/individuals. With the holiday it was very quiet inside.
Their special of the day was the pulled pork so I thought I'd give it a try; afterall the special should be something they are proud of since it's the most advertised item. The selection didn't seem all that great, but that's sometimes a good sign that they keep a smaller menu since it means everything is fresh.
The service was quick and I had my sandwich brought to me within a couple of minutes.
The bun tasted fresh and was delicious. The pulled pork was a little on the bland/chewy side, which was very disappointing.
Overall I'd consider going back if I was in the same situation where others nearby restaurants were closed but I don't think I would go out of my way to go here, it's nothing that special. -
Review from Trudi C.
10/19/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I was taken outside my bubble this morning to here! I was sold on the small coffee and original bon chaz - a small sweet pastry with butter on the inside, all for $1.95! WOW! The coffee was fine enough, and the bon chaz out of this world for my mouth at this time on a Wednesday morning!
Definitely a once a week place, I can easily see myself abusing this offer :P -
Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 10/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Service: 5
Buns: 3.5
Cookies: 1
Decaf Coffee: 2
Lentil Soup: 4
I returned here at the owner's request, and never was I treated so well. I ordered a variety of items and did not have long to stay. I should mention that he didn't know that I was a returning Yelper, so service remained unbiased.
The soup was really good, and the buns were actually pretty great when fresh; not too sweet, but good enough to not be able to stop at just one.
The peanut butter cookies looked great. I never realized how great my own homemade pb cookies are. This one was rock hard, but raw. My guess is that they had taken the cookies out of the oven while raw in hopes that they would remain soft. Boy, did this trick backfire. At least leave it long enough so that it isn't obviously dough, Bonchaz!
The environment was bizarrely nondescript, but I took my order to go, anyway.
I would def. return for the fresh buns, but maybe skip the coffee; again, I make a mean bodum coffee. Theirs was "meh", but at least by the taste of it, I could be certain that it was indeed decaf.
Anyway, if you're curious what this place is all about, do give their buns a try--you won't be disappointed.Listed in: Anything but Starbucks...., Best Breakfasts/AM Snacks
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/16/2011
I sampled every bun and while somewhat enjoyable, they were also a bit dry and stale tasting on a… Read more »
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Review from Alice C.
Burnaby, BC
10/5/2011
Great little cafe if you attend SFU! Very close and has good deals for students! 12% off with student card.
My favorite bonchaz is the chocolate truffle. SO GOOD!
The sandwiches could use more meat, so you might want to double the amount of meat for extra cost. -
Review from Stephene C.
Vancouver, BC
7/1/2011
Great little cafe with awesome, inexpensive, fresh food!
Initially we were headed to the Japadog restaurant because I wanted to try their fries. While we were walking we came by this place and my friend exclaimed: "Bon Chaz!, I think I have a coupon for this place!" After much rummaging through her purse, she did not have the coupon, but we decided to change our plans and eat here anyway, since we were already here. Boy am I glad we decided on this place! One, the food is probably a lot healthier than Japadog and two, we didn't have to walk anymore.
They were having a soup and sandwich special, so I ordered the chicken and rice soup which was super delicious and hearty. It was reminiscent of Asian congee, which made it even better in my books, but a lot more herbier. The high light was the sandwich, which was the avocado and Bree. The bread was really good and they topped it with cucumbers, tomatoes and a sweet vinaigrette that paired nicely with the Bree cheese.
So happy we made that detour, definitely going to come back here again to try the rest of the menu.
St3Fin -
Review from Tai V.
1/6/2012 2 Check-ins Here
It's at my bus stop in the morning, they could be a bit speedier with the americano making as I've missed my bus a few times from going there...those are the breaks.
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Review from Kari C.
2/7/2011
Two-and-a-half stars.
I heard a lot about Bonchaz via Yelp, and was introduced to their buns at the Nat Bailey Stadium farmer's market. They were giving out free samples and little coupon cards for a free bun. Sweet! I am a carb-aholic who loves baking, but loves it even more when treats are fantastic, inepxensive and I don't have to make them. The samples were warm, fluffy, and delicious: A pilgrimage was to be made.
On Saturday I went, after running a few errands in the neighborhood. Y'all Yelpers are right, the space is huge and could definitely use more tables to fit in happy customers, especially because I've never seen anyone chug coffee directly from a French Press and run out of a shop. It's something you have to linger over for a while. The decor is minimal, but I liked their bulletin board list of things to be happy about in life. Cute!
I presented the coupon and asked for a chocolate truffle bonchaz, which they warmed up and gave to me. The girls were very nice. I meandered around a bit, checking the place out and slowly eating, and was puzzled by the bun. Yes, it was warm, and pillowy, and soft, but what made it a chocolate truffle bonchaz? I couldn't wrap my head around it. The icing on the top tasted like coffee...nope...there were chocolate sprinkles on it...I don't like sprinkles, but they were a nice touch...I thought that if that was what made it a truffle baked good, it was a lame-ass move because truffle implies lump-of-chocolatey-awesomeness-melted-inside-a-war m-pastry.
On a pillar, there was a little chalk board drawing of The Anatomy of a Bonchaz: Coffee icing, bun, and hand-stuffed-filling. What? Oh. I slowly wandered back to the counter with what was left of the bonchaz.
"Hello again! Umm...was there supposed to be something in the middle of this?
"There wasn't?"
"No...I was wondering why it was called chocolate truffle..."
"Oh! We're sorry!"
The girl was, again, very nice, and insisted that I take another, while the other girl had this "oh, whoops, whatever" type of attitude and didn't seem to care as much. "Yeah, sometimes I forget to put the filling in them," she said.
If I had been a paying customer and walked out with that bun, after eating it, I would have thought, "That sucked. What a letdown!" and wouldn't come back. That would have been the end of my Bonchaz story.
There is a reason why professional bakers and pastry chefs are often OCD psychos, and it's because they take into account all of the factors that could affect the outcome of their product, and it even includes the weather that day. It is not hard to make sure to put stuff in the middle of some buns, then move on to another batch. Her unconcerned response did not inspire confidence and now I'm paranoid. My background is in award-winning customer service and now baking as well (re: I give a shit), and I would actually be angry if I had to work with someone like her.
Good for you, Bonchaz, for having a super awesome girl who works at the counter, having board games for your customers to play with (another reason they need more tables, games take a while!), and having bun catering available for offices etc. Unfortunately I'll never be able to order a box of bonchazes from you, because there's a chance of me not getting what I paid for.
Really, it's for your own benefit, because if you get between me and my chocolate again, I will go all Godzilla on you. -
Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
2/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Bonchaz fed me the kind of sloppy, overly creamy, schlocky sandwich that vegetarians dread - and the worst part was that it was served up on some wonderful bread. (hee hee - I'm a poet!)
Alright, alright - we get it, guys - you make wonderful buns and bread. But layering pale, wan tomatoes, flavourless slabs of brie, a quarter cup of mayo and some avocado paste on said delicious bread makes it creepy.
My tomato basil soup was lukewarm, filled with peppers and onions (I didn't want minestrone!) and tasted of the acrid flavour that dried Italian spice gets when left too long.
Worst of all was my walnut brownie, essentially a piece of melty fudge with no icing. It was more like a saran wrapped pouch of batter and chocolate chips.
Stick to plain bread and you're golden, but for lunch? Not so much. -
Review from KC C.
Vancouver, BC
4/4/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Bonchaz is a great, chill out place if you'd like an alternative to the typical coffee chains downtown. I finally tried this place for the first time this week, and I was pleased with my experience.
I ordered the Avocado & Brie sandwich, Tomato & Basil soup, and the original Bonchaz. The bread for the sandwich was fresh and baked to perfection. The sandwich was also very tasty. That said, given its name, the sandwich could have used more avocado, I think.
The soup was also great but wasn't as hot as I prefer my soups to be. The bonchaz was absolutely perfect. No complaints there.
Just some additional tips:
- There's free WiFi at this cafe, so it's perfect for studying or for lunch business meetings.
- Students get 12% discount - just show 'em your ID.
I liked this place a lot that I went back to it a few days after. Definitely worth the try. -
Review from Dan J.
Vancouver, BC
You know that episode of The Facts of Life where it was revealed that Joe made great pizza and she soon began selling them to her friends? And then she couldn't keep up with demand and started taking short cuts with her Grandmother's recipe? And then, when the quality of her product declined Mrs. Garret asked her if her Grandmother would be proud of the pizza she was serving?
No? Forget it.
I hope this place is able to keep up with demand. Scarfing down a Bon Chaz and a French Pressed coffee has been almost a daily ritual for me since last summer. But I've noticed that the quality has slipped a bit. I am hoping this is just a blip.
I am also hoping that they learn a bit about coffee. They seem to care, but I do have to ask for a fresh cup or I will end up with the stuff from the urn. And they serve Ethical Bean which is a large batch roasted, often burnt bean. I would love to see them offer a local small batch roaster's beans instead. If they do I promise to give them an extra star. Still it is a huge step above Starbucks.
They offer a variety of other baked goods and their breads and pastries are quite good. Vancouver needs more places like this. I love the original concept. Fresh baked goods and fresh coffee. Time will tell if they're able to maintain the quality.
Oh well. You take the good, you take the bad...Listed in: Coffee. The Good, The Brewed &…
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Review from Brittany W.
North Vancouver, BC
5/20/2011 2 photos
A lunch cafe near Harbour Centre with tasty sandwiches, coffee and their signature Bonchaz (all under $6) - perfect for meet ups and students in the area to chill at during the day. It's comfy with its own 'lil hipster vibe going on.
The Original Bonchaz is okay, but it's a cool concept. Sweet breakfast specials for $6 on weekends - tasty too! -
Review from Angela L.
11/25/2010
I have mixed feelings about Bonchaz. While there are many things I like about it, it's so inconsistent.
Bonchaz serves up some of my favourite things: soups, sandwiches, coffee, tea, and baked goods. I've tried a little bit of everything, and nothing has really impressed me. The soups and sandwiches are very basic and not mind-blowing in the least, but they're tasty and filling, and fairly priced. There are now two vegetarian sandwich options, one of which is also vegan. The soups, like the sandwiches, are pretty uninspired. The coffee has been really hit and miss, but I like that they serve you in individual french presses. There is a good selection of Mighty Leaf teas, for those so inclined. The Bonchaz buns are quite tasty, especially if they are hot and fresh (my personal favourite is the chocolate truffle). I've had both excellent and really lackluster service here, depending on who is working.
Like others have mentioned, the ambiance isn't the greatest, and they could definitely do better things with the space. I do like the board games they offer though. There's been construction type stuff going on for weeks, and for some reason, every time I've been there's been an interview going on which can be a bit uncomfortable to listen to while you're trying to read or something. Bonchaz also loses serious points for having what is possibly the LEAST accessible restroom I've ever seen in my life. Down a long hallway, past a heavy door, and up a steep flight of stairs in a secluded and sort of creepy upstairs area, I can't even imagine how those with disabilities would be able to get up there without a Herculean effort.Listed in: Noontime Nomming, Vancouver Vegetarian
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Review from tee a.
1/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've had a bonchaz, seen a bonchaz.. still don't know exactly what it is.. all I know is that they are tasty! They should rename it to" a little sweet bun!" A great little cafe to enjoy freshly baked pastries and to sip coffee. Staff is friendly and helpful.
Tip; if you go around closing, they have sales :) -
Review from Isabelle G.
Vancouver, BC
2/16/2011
Every Craft fair that I have gone to in the past year and a half were giving samples, therefore, I was familiar with their product, however, this was my first time actually walking in. It sucks that this place closes at 6:30 pm on the weekends which seems redundant 'cause most traffic is during lunch and dinner time at most coffee shops.
Atmosphere: It wasn't classy, however, it wasn't a dive either, it was nice and clean and inviting. Good place to chill.
Service: The best service I had at a coffee shop. The people who worked there actually had a good attitude and acted as though they wanted to be there. The lady working over the counter was super friendly. I was concerned when my Truffle BonChaz leaked after it was microwaved. The lady at the til offered a replacement on the spot. I trusted her judgment that it was okay, which it was, however, the fact that she offered, says volumes of how they aim to please their customers.
Price: My best friend and I were going to Gang Of Four and I decided to cash in my Living Social voucher and grab some late dinner to go rather than hitting our regular McShits spot by " Venue" theatre. I bought a voucher for $12 worth of stuff for $6 which really stretched my dollar literally since a regular Bonchaz at under $2 and the sandwiches are under $5. I did go over a bit 'cause I wanted another one. Everything is reasonably priced that you do not need a coupon, however, it does help and is appreciated.
Food: Vegetarian sandwich was awesome. It was cool that it was cut into thirds horizontally rather than half. This prevented the filling from coming out and the sandwich from getting too soggy. I hope that other cafes reading this take note. The Bonchaz were not too sweet which is just how I like my pastries. -
Review from Nicolb T.
2/14/2011
Bon Chaz has great service. Michael is friendly and is very determined to keep his customers happy.
That being said, I am not a fan of their Bonchaz buns. I have visited their location several times, and have purchased over two dozens bonchaz buns for friends and co-workers.
The first time I tried a Bonchaz, it was green tea flavoured, and quite delicious. Crunchy on top, nice and flavourful inside. It was little overproofed but not overpoweringly so. With that, I kept them in mind.
The first dozen (for work) I purchased, half of them were burnt, and a bunch were bland. While I had one bun for myself, the remaining 11 were left my ravenous appetite and discerning tastebuds of my office. By the end of the workday, 2 were still left on the table. When I dissected it, it was burnt on the top, and squishy (undercooked) in the middle.
The second dozen, I brought to a birthday party. When I opened the box, I discovered that they were ALL underbaked, and incredibly overproofed. It had an extremely strong alcoholic smell and taste, and I was unable to finish a single one. Our friends tried to bake the buns again, but it didn't help. We all ended up having upset stomachs by the end of the night. Unfortunate, really.
Perhaps they have improved their technique and recipes by now, but I will not spend money to find out. Although they offered me a fresh dozen via Twitter, I don't think I would risk it. -
Review from Ramon V.
I'm upping my rating this week.
Recent improvements at Bon Chaz have made me change my mind about the espresso review I gave below. The quality is now starting to show and I'm enjoying the americano and truffle Bon Chaz combo in the morning. A dangerous addiction.
-------- previous review ---
Ok, I'm a sucker for baked goods. These little warm treats are delicious. The chocolate truffle is my favourite. And thanks to a morning promotion they're running, it comes free with a coffee purchase.
Bonchaz serves personal french press coffee which adds to the charm. it took a while after opening to start fully serving espresso drinks. Unfortunately the espresso is simply not up to par. My double americano came in a 16oz cup at a steep 2.95 before tax, and was bitter and without any crema to speak of. Perhaps the double should be limited to a 12oz cup. I'd like to keep coming back to check on improvement, because this could be a nice one-two punch. Until then, you're only halfway there.Listed in: Vancouver Americanos
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Review from Cristalle T.
2/7/2011
I traveled to Vancouver last year May and I had a sample of Bonchaz at the "Eat Vancouver" convention. OMG! It's too delicious. When the beautiful concoction of that bonchaz comes out FRESH with my french brewed black coffee, each bite I take is a piece of heaven.
I tried each flavor and I loved each one the same! I wish there was one here in Los Angeles! I think I may have found a similar place though - Roti Bon in Sherman Oaks!!!! -
Review from Linzi M.
3/31/2011
Some days all you want to do is eat. Today was one of those days. So after my pre-breakfast of Tim Tams, I headed to Bonchaz. One sausage roll and two chocolate truffle buns were on the menu. If I was sticking around to sit-in, it would have been a chicken pot pie.
The chocolate truffle buns were much bigger than I expected. And didn't rock my world when I ate one cold, but I microwaved the other and hmm, mmm. So tasty, pastry good. The posh sausage roll was a treat too. But too small to be that delicious, I really needed two.
It's not too fancy inside, sure. But it's fine for to-go. -
Review from Silvia C.
Vancouver, BC
6/28/2010 ROTD 10/20/2010
I'm a recovering carbo-loader. Bakeries were my second home. After reading reviews and applying krytonite self-imposed willpower, I incidentally found myself in the area and decided to research into Bonchaz. It was just a duck in and out opportunity, so I made off with a banana walnut and apple cinnamon for sharing.
Because the apple cinnamon bun suffered a tong-dropping incident and was misshapen as a result, it was offered to me for free. The buns are lightly sweet and fluffy soft. The crunchy topping breaks into a sugar crumble as you bite into the bun. And then......I need another visit to continue my research. -
Review from Catherine W.
New Westminster, BC
6/5/2010 ROTD 8/8/2010
Yummy in my tummy. Coming here the yelping office hours was an absolute brilliant idea. I was early, which is not a new thing for me, so I got a chance to check out the place before my fellow Yelpers joined me.
Upon walking in I was greeted by the lady behind the counter. She figured out right away that I was a newbie to the Bonchaz club so she offered me a piece of the banana walnut bonchaz. Now I know that this can not be the healthiest thing to eat but boy was it fricken fantastic. From the chalk picture on the wall, a bonchaz is a sweet bun, hand stuffed, with a coffee and icing crust. Yummy Yummy. After the first try I just HAD to get a full one. If I had less self control I would have bought a dozen to take home. Alas I was good and just had the one.
Now for the coffee. From the advertising, Bonchaz uses Ethical Bean coffee which I use at home, so I knew it would be delicious. What I loved was that it was done in a bodum (French press). I had forgotten that I seriously enjoy my coffee that way. More yum in my tum.
The decor is nice and simple. It has an open and airy feeling which seems to get lost in a lot of other cafes, like Starbucks. Needless to say I will be passing the details of this place to anyone that will listen.
HEY ANYONE, ARE YOU OUT THERE? YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT BONCHAZ. -
Review from Joyce D.
Burnaby, BC
6/8/2010
I was lucky enough to try their speciality banana walnut pastry at Eat Vancouver so I already knew what was waiting behind the glass door.
Very relaxing feel, smells heavenly and who can turn their nose up at Mexican style brioche.....only in Vancouver!
Guess they were in a generous mood at the tradeshow giving me 4 free bonchaz vouchers, so I cashed them in baby! The hollow leg that is my boyfriend devours sweets so got him 2 banana walnut and 2 apple cinnamon. Wonder how long they will last.
Unfortunately the counter girl burnt her arm taking them out of the oven and I felt bad for her until she showed me the 4 other scars on her arm. Yikes!
Not something I would indulge in too often but a treat none the less!
We all know good tasting equals high calorie count!
Life is so unfair! -
Review from Vanessa G.
1/23/2011
I can't really tell what this place is. It's kind of confusing. I ordered a french press to go which means i just got a regular coffee. I got a bonchaz regular bun which was pretty tasty and cheap.
Other people were eating their breakfasts, and they also had bread for sale which looked great. I guess i should probably stop and sit here next time and really check out the space. -
Review from Sean M.
Burnaby, BC
8/22/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Need a nice cheap quick breakfast before work?
Well then, this is the place. Over the past couple weeks I've come here to try out all varieties of Bonchaz's and every one of them is tasty.
Since I've only come in during the morning before work the lack of seating is never a problem.
Staff are friendly and always quick to serve. -
Review from Allen W.
Delicious, warm brioche in several flavours. Unfortunately for my figure, it's located just a couple blocks from school.
The interior of the cafe is a bit stark and could maybe use a few more tables - it was full when I visited. Staff was warm and welcoming -- super friendly and helpful.
I had popped in for a quick lunch and ordered the original bun while also trying the bacon/mushroom soup. I considered ordering a sandwich but was put off by the menu board which listed it as a 'meat' sandwich. Meat? That's kinda a wide open area with many possibilities. The menu board just didn't make the sandwiches seem enticing, so I opted not to risk it.
The bun had its crunchy top and tender, soft brioche interior. I could easily eat a dozen of these!
The soup was creamy without being too rich -- the soup comes in a tall mug and the serving is large for the price. It warmed me up and also filled me up!
Will be back to try more buns and may possibly explore their mystery sandwiches ;-) -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
Note to self: must order multiples of these and then scarf them all when no one is looking. Nom, nom, nom. The crunchy, crumbly, yet pillowy topping, the airy "bun" make the stuff food dreams are made of.
Coffee in your own personal french press (if you're staying) and free wi-fi seals the deal. Get those buns baking Bonchaz, you've just met your match. -
Review from Grayce E.
4/2/2010
Since I like all forms of baked goods, | was excited to take a nice walk from Yaletown only to find it's closed on Sundays. Today, I braved wind and rain to be rewarded with a warm tasty little treat.
They have original (salt and butter, $1.25), banana walnut (1.75), and chocolate but they have new flavours on the way including green tea. I liked the Original. They give out samples too.
What is a Bonchaz? others have given good description: it's a bun with a crispy top with lite buttery, doughy inside. They bake them continuously in small ovens to keep fresh and warm, but I'm not sure how if they'd be as good if you dont eat it there right away.
I can't say I'd drive half way across the city for them like I would a Cinnamon bun (Grounds for Coffee) but if I was in the area, I'd drop in again for something different. -
Review from Steph H.
Vancouver, BC
11/2/2010
Wow, I'm surprised to see this place rated as highly as it is. I personally didn't have a great experience here!
I would rate the service at 4.5 stars though - the fellow behind the counter was very friendly and seemed genuinely happy. So my first impression was a good one.
Unfortunately it went right downhill from there.
I ordered a latte, which was on special for $2.95, and their macaroni and cheese, which was around $5. The latte was veeeery bitter, and yet very watery - it looked creamy but tasted awful. The macaroni and cheese tasted overpoweringly of the cut up hot dogs and mystery ground meat it was full of, as well as black pepper and processed cheese.
Also I agree with other comment about the odd layout of the place - it's huge and yet there's only a couple of small tables and chairs, and lots of open space. They could use some comfy chairs and couches or at least more chairs in general. The atmosphere was quite stale and void of much personality.
I wouldn't rule out giving it another chance though - just to try the breads, which people are raving about! -
Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
3/18/2010 3 photos
Can I say Chinese Pineapple bun mixed with a Donut!!!!
Yes yes, the crumbly topping with a hot gooey centre, fresh out of the oven. I don't think the original has the centred goodness, but if you get banana walnut - you will be satisfied. My first bite into the Bon Chaz oozes out with hot smoke as you see banana filling inside. Don't wait for it to cool down.. I think it will just ruin your experience.
I came back a couple days later and got carrot giner soup for $1.95. Thick and full of flavour, I was happily warmed up as it soothed my sore throat.
As I walked by today, they now offer a soup and sandwich combo for $6.95. If you want to enjoy your meal in time, there are chairs and tables in a long open space... feels like something else can occupy it as it seems a little bare.
Samples are available - just ask!Listed in: I Love Apple Pie :), Bo Lo Bao and Cha Chan Teng
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Review from andrew w.
8/8/2010 1 Check-in Here
Food was delish.
The decor looks like they just moved in 3 days ago and wasn't the most friendly arrangement.
An excellent image to what the experience was like: our table wobbled . -
Review from Sara B.
8/8/2010 1 Check-in Here
With a little decorating and moving of furniture this place could be even more appealing.
Good breakfast
Great cup of coffee
The bread here was amazing!!!Listed in: Coffee Places, Breakfast
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Review from Rudolf P.
Vancouver, BC
7/25/2010
Next time I'll go plain. I'm not sure about the matcha tea filling. And I don't like apple walnut. I suspect the plain will be best, probably called "original". I can make that kind of "French press" coffee at home, and I can make better coffee at home too.
Is this real brioche? I'd like to know from someone French. -
Review from Gina I.
8/18/2010
French pressed coffee (my favourite) and a warm banana walnut bon chaz. In my mouth, if there is a heaven, that's where it is.
So, the decor/tables. Yes, they need more seats. They can totally do it too, lots of unused and open space.
I am waiting to use my coupon for the dozen deal so I can treat some friends with them. However, I want to try one of each. Don't care if it makes me a glutton, but they are so airy and light.. need more!
As I was sitting there, I overheard one of the girls making the bon chaz that "Oh man, we could put like chocolate on the banana walnut one!" and inside I was dying, yes please! -
Review from Vincci L.
3/15/2010 4 photos
Pretty amazing brioches!! A cute little space within the financial district, this is a perfect place to grab a brioche, or sit down and enjoy their sandwich+soup, and they also offer French pressed teas and organic teas.
Bonchaz are a hyrbid of a Mexican bun (conchas) and brioches (French buns.)
Brioches are freshly baked'; the sweet aroma fills the place. There are 3 choices of brioches-plain-$1.25, French truffle, and banana walnut-$1.75 each. I order a French truffle one. (They are soon to have a matcha green tea flavour!!)
The bun is warm, and topped with a soft crispy crust. One bite into this, and OMG, soft slightly sweet texture, and the crust just melts in your mouth. The French truffle filling is just melted, and sooo delicious!!
Simply amazing. Perfect for a snack, or a lazy afternoon muching on Bonchaz all day. -
Review from Joe L.
Vancouver, BC
2/23/2010
I went there to check out choices for lunch yesterday after my partner had told me about this place. It's failry new. As I was checking out the menu, a few customers came in with their free sample cards. Where did mine go? :)
The server behind the counter offered me a small sample when he learnt that it was my first time in the restaurant. The cafe offers brioches freshly baked on site. Of the 3 choices on the menu, I bought butter with sea salt and banana walnut. Both were served right out of the oven. The butter with sea salt was light and airy with a sweet crusty topping. I like the sweetness with a hint of salt. The banana walnut has walnut pieces sprinkled on top with a banana cream filling. $3 for both of them and that was a satisfying lunch.
Next time ... vanilla ice cream!!!
