Unless you have been living under a rock with absolutely no access to the internet or people of any kind you will have heard of Squid Game. Because of this ultra popular Netflix show, there has been a reemergence of the Dalgona trend. If you haven’t already, you will need to check out my list for the 5 best cafes for Dalgona Coffee in the Lower Mainland!
What is Dalgona?
Dalgona is a classic candy from Korea. It has two ingredients only, and it is such a fun and delicious treat. Dalgona is made with sugar and a pinch of baking soda. It is similar to honeycomb toffee but much flatter. It is common to find these on the roadsides in Korea. Usually if you can poke out the shape in one piece from the candy you will receive a second one for free!
Where To Get Dalgona Coffee in the Lower Mainland
1. Basak Cafe
Basak Cafe is a small and unassuming cafe on North Road that is run by a husband and wife team. They are so passionate about bringing their waffles to Vancouver and they are continuously adding new menu items! Latest on their menu is house made corn dogs. I’ve previously reviewed their waffles here.
Their Dalgona Latte is extremely smooth without being too sweet. I always sneak a few pieces of the dalgona candy to eat before they melt into my drink.
Must try items: Half and Half Waffle (Strawberry Cream/Green Tea Cream with Red Bean), Chocolate Oreo Waffle and Blueberry Yogurt Drink
Address: 4563 North Rd #6, Burnaby, BC V3N 4J5
2. Gowon Cafe
Gowon Cafe is a hidden gem in Gastown. The cafe is perfect for a cozy catch up with friends or for studying on your own. Gowon Cafe thoughtfully sources their coffees as well as featuring treats from local businesses. I love the exposed brick walls and the vintage vibe throughout the cafe. There is a lot of care and attention that goes into crafting each drink and they have some unique drink items including a must try Peanut Butter Latte.
The coolest thing is that you can try the Squid Game Dalgona Challenge in store!
Must try items: Iced Dalgona Latte, Peanut Butter Latte and Spanish Latte
Address: 221 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2K8
3. Boba Run
Boba Run in Gastown is one of the best bubble tea shops in Vancouver. All their drinks are free of powders and artificial flavourings. The majority of their drinks contain fresh organic milk or dairy alternatives (like oat milk!). Please note that they are take away only at this time! They have a very handy online ordering system to preorder before you arrive. For the quality their price is extremely reasonable. Check out my full review of their drinks here.
Must try items: Honeycomb Dalgona Latte, Hojicha and Roasted Soy Latte
Address: 102 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1G8
4. Cafe Hashtag
Cafe Hashtag is the must check out cafe for all things Dalgona. They offer both a hot and cold variation for their Dalgona Latte. For those who like an extra sugary kick they have a Dalgona Brown Sugar Bubble Tea.
The cafe has a cute and funky looking interior with a literal giant hashtag against the wall. In addition, they’re well known for their CroWaffle – croissant waffle on a stick. It is a delicious buttery treat with a sprinkling of powdered sugar and syrup on top. If you’re feeling fancy they also have a Dalgona CroWaffle!
Must try items: Hot or Iced Dalgona Crunch Latte, Dalgona CroWaffle and Dalgona Brown Sugar Bubble Tea
Address: 329 North Rd, Coquitlam, BC V3K 3V8
5. Hiel Cafe
Just like Gowon Cafe, Hiel Cafe is also offering patrons the chance to try the Squid Game Dalgona Challenge. If you’re not feeling up to it (or are lacking the skill like myself) you can always go for the Iced Dalgona Coffee. To go with it, you need to try one of their fluffy souffle pancakes.
Must try items: Iced Dalgona Coffee, Einspänner, and Crème Brûlée Souffle Pancake
Address: 7885 6th St, Burnaby, BC V3N 2S2
