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Cafe gets world's best nod

A Vancouver cafe has been declared one of best in the world by Britain's venerable Telegraph newspaper.

The Ovaltine Cafe on East Hastings is remarkable for its vintage furnishings and nostalgic vibe, the Telegraph said in naming the diner among the top 50 cafes in the world.

Opened in 1942, the Ovaltine has a retro pink sign, vintage wooden booths and red vinyl stools.

Owner Grace Chen says the secret to its longevity is warm customer service.

“From the Edwardian building to the projecting pink neon signage to the unreconstructed decor – not to mention that anti-cool name – you’ve got to love this 1942 diner-cum-coffee shop," the Telegraph raved.

“Climb on to one of the red vinyl stools drilled into the floor by the long formica bar or bag a high-walled wooden booth to enjoy a plate of omelette, pork chops or fried chicken with your filter coffee or Ovaltine shake – prepared on a vintage machine.”

The spot has been frequently used as a film location, and "when it’s dark outside, this place takes on a distinctly noirish Edward Hopper quality," the review noted.

– with files from CTV Vancouver



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