Where to Find the Best Croissants in Vancouver

Flaky, buttery, sweet or savoury, here are our top spots in the city to snag this classic pastry

Quebec may be the traditional home of French cuisine in Canada, but believe it or not, you can find a deliciously decadent butter croissant in Vancouver. Why not taste test them all to find your favourite?

Here are our top seven places to grab a croissant in Greater Vancouver…

1. Beaucoup Bakery & Cafe

Hidden away on the unassuming corner of Fir Street and West 6th Avenue lie some of the best French pastries in Vancouver. Besides the buttery, flaky goodness of Beaucoup’s plain croissants (although really, those alone are worth a visit), the bakery also excels in other French classics like pain aux raisin and brioches, as well as creative pastries with fillings such as pistachio and rice pudding or maple pumpkin pecan. Bon appetit!

2. JJ Bean Coffee Roasters

It’s a controversial opinion, but we think this Vancouver-based coffee shop chain consistently offers up some of the best chocolate almond croissants in the city. Rich and comforting, with a dense and flavourful filling, this decadent treat is definitely a sometimes food. Baked fresh daily, you can start your morning with a chocolate almond fix at 19 of JJ Bean Coffee Roasters’ locations across the Lower Mainland. This powerhouse has also expanded into Toronto—world domination is surely next.

3. Thomas Haas

You might know Thomas Haas for their tempting chocolates and imaginative seasonal displays, but really, the croissants are where it’s at. From double-baked almond croissants to a dreamy pain au chocolat, Thomas Haas focuses on the French classics—and does them really, really well. Enjoy a baked treat (with a side of chocolate) at the North Shore or Kitsilano location.

4. Chez Christophe

It’s slightly further away from downtown, but it’s definitely worth the trip to Burnaby Heights to visit the epicentre of Swiss chocolates, desserts, and of course, pastries. Chez Christophe nails the classics, but this bakery café really shines when it comes to showcasing seasonal flavours. Where else can you sample a the perfect fall pumpkin croissant with pumpkin pie filling and gingerbread crumble… that isn’t gross? Somehow, Chez Christophe makes it work. Visit them at at 4717 Hastings Street.

5. Small Victory

Sleek and modern, the interior design of this Yaletown staple is worth a visit alone. Thankfully, the bread, coffee and delicate croissants are an even better reason to linger. And Small Victory is clearly experiencing more than just minor success, expanding to a bustling second location on South Granville. In addition to the simplicity of a delicious butter croissant done well, both locations also serve a decent brunch and lunch menu daily.

6. Bel Café

Recently opening a second location at West 3rd Avenue and Burrard, Bel Café seems to do no wrong. The more casual sister café to the upscale Hawksworth Restaurant has consistently served up an array of delightful fare and seasonal treats on West Georgia Street for years. In addition to amazing pastries, the café excels in muffins, scones and danishes, as well as sandwiches and light lunches. During the holiday season, pair your flaky bacon croissant (pictured) with an eggnog latte for a seriously sustaining snack—you won’t regret it.

7. Lift Breakfast Bakery

Opened in 2017, Lift Breakfast Bakery in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale district has proved to be a hit, with regular queues for brunch on weekends. In a rush? Skip the line and head straight inside to order a coffee and pastry to go. There’s a revolving door of goodies on offer, but the twice-baked almond croissant is mouth-wateringly tasty. To cater for the demand, Lift is also opening a second North Van bakery location, where pastries and fresh bread will be the focus—so you don’t have to worry about pesky brunch lineups at all.