Northern Cafe Menu with Prices, Calories and Popular Items
Looking for the latest northern cafe menu before placing your next lunch, dinner, or boba run order? Northern Cafe is a beloved Southern California regional chain celebrated for its authentic Northern Chinese comfort food and an extensive handcrafted beverage menu. Whether you are craving steamed juicy pork soup dumplings (xiao long bao), crispy scallion beef rolls, rich Dan Dan noodles, or a freshly shaken brown sugar boba milk tea, knowing what is on the menu-and what it generally costs-helps you plan the perfect meal.
If you frequently search for an everyday authentic chinese menu or want to compare it against a noodle dynasty menu, this complete guide breaks down everything you need to know. We detail Northern Cafe menu prices, top popular dishes, budget-friendly value picks, boba drink customization options, calorie and allergen awareness, and smart ordering tips.
Disclaimer: Northern Cafe menu items, beverage options, and pricing vary by location (such as Westwood, USC, Rowland Heights, Monterey Park, Irvine, and Beverly Hills) and delivery platform. Prices listed below reflect verified regional averages for direct pickup and in-store orders for 2026.
Menu Snapshot: Quick Answer
Northern Cafe serves Northern Chinese comfort food and specialty boba teas, with entrees generally ranging from $12.00 to $18.00 and drinks from $5.00 to $7.00. Prices vary by location, and official calorie counts are not currently published.
Official Source Verification
Menus, prices, calories, and availability can vary by location, delivery platform, and time. LatestMenus checks official restaurant sources where available and marks uncertain information clearly.
Latest Northern Cafe Menu Prices
The following menu items reflect standard offerings found across most Southern California Northern Cafe locations. Prices are regional estimates for direct pickup; delivery apps will usually display higher prices.
| Menu Item | Category | Price | Calories | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Juicy Pork Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) | Dumplings & Dim Sum | $12.95 – $14.50 | Not published | Signature appetizer | 6–8 steamed soup dumplings served with ginger vinegar |
| Pan-Fried Pork & Leek Dumplings | Dumplings & Dim Sum | $13.50 – $15.00 | Not published | Value dining | 10 pieces with crispy bottom crust |
| Steamed Vegetable Dumplings | Dumplings & Dim Sum | $12.50 – $13.95 | Not published | Vegetarian ordering | 10 pieces filled with mixed greens & glass noodles |
| Pan-Fried Pork Buns (Sheng Jian Bao) | Dumplings & Dim Sum | $13.95 – $15.50 | Not published | Hearty sharing | Fluffy crispy-bottom buns stuffed with juicy pork |
| Beef Roll | Appetizers & Rolls | $13.95 – $15.50 | Not published | Group dining starter | Layered scallion pancake wrapped around beef shank & hoisin |
| Scallion Pancake | Appetizers & Rolls | $7.50 – $9.00 | Not published | Cheap snack | Crisp, layered savory flatbread with green onions |
| Sichuan Cold Noodles | Appetizers & Rolls | $10.50 – $12.00 | Not published | Warm weather | Chilled noodles tossed in chili oil, garlic, and vinegar |
| Cucumber Salad | Appetizers & Rolls | $7.95 – $9.50 | Not published | Light side | Smashed fresh cucumbers in garlic & sesame oil dressing |
| Dan Dan Noodles | Noodle Bowls | $12.50 – $13.95 | Not published | Spicy comfort food | Sesame-peanut sauce, minced pork, chili oil (Spicy) |
| Braised Beef Noodle Soup | Noodle Bowls | $15.50 – $17.50 | Not published | Dinner mains | Tender beef shank, bok choy, thick wheat noodles |
| Beijing Meat Sauce Noodles (Zha Jiang Mian) | Noodle Bowls | $12.95 – $14.50 | Not published | Savory noodle dish | Noodles topped with fermented soybean minced pork paste |
| Yangzhou Fried Rice | Entrees & Wok Mains | $14.50 – $16.50 | Not published | Leftovers & sharing | Wok-tossed rice with shrimp, BBQ pork, egg, and green onions |
| Mapo Tofu | Entrees & Wok Mains | $14.50 – $16.00 | Not published | Spicy entrees | Soft tofu in spicy Sichuan peppercorn sauce |
| Classic Boba Milk Tea | Boba & Beverages | $5.50 – $6.75 | Not published | Sweet craving | Black tea base, milk, and tapioca pearls |
| Passion Fruit Green Tea | Boba & Beverages | $5.75 – $6.95 | Not published | Refreshing drink | Real passion fruit seeds and green tea base |
Popular Menu Items
If you are visiting Northern Cafe for the first time or simply need a recommendation to pair with a northern cuisine menu style meal, these fan-favorite dishes are what built the brand's loyal following.
| Popular Item | Why People Order It | Price Note | Calorie Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Beef Roll | A flaky scallion pancake rolled tightly with braised beef shank and hoisin sauce. Savory, crispy, and highly shareable. | $13.95 – $15.50 (Varies by location) | Check official nutrition source |
| Juicy Pork Bao (Xiao Long Bao) | The quintessential soup dumpling. Delicately wrapped with rich pork broth inside, best eaten hot with black vinegar. | $12.95 – $14.50 (Varies by location) | Check official nutrition source |
| Dan Dan Noodles | An unforgettable balance of nutty sesame paste, savory pork, garlic, and Sichuan chili oil. | $12.50 – $13.95 (Varies by location) | Check official nutrition source |
| Braised Beef Noodle Soup | A hearty, warming bowl featuring tender beef shank and thick wheat noodles in a slow-simmered dark broth. | $15.50 – $17.50 (Varies by location) | Check official nutrition source |
Editor Picks: Best Things to Order
These are LatestMenus editorial recommendations based on available menu research, value, popularity, customization potential, and practical ordering usefulness. They are not official restaurant rankings.
The Beef Roll
Combining the satisfying crunch of a scallion pancake with tender, savory beef shank and sweet hoisin, this acts as the ultimate centerpiece to share alongside a noodle bowl.
Pan-Fried Pork & Leek Dumplings
You typically receive 10 large, protein-packed dumplings per order, making this one of the most filling options on the menu for under $15.
Yangzhou Fried Rice
Served in generous wok-tossed portions, this classic fried rice with shrimp and BBQ pork easily provides two full meals or serves as a great family side.
Steamed Vegetable Dumplings
Unlike the pan-fried dumplings or crispy beef roll, these steamed dumplings (filled with greens and glass noodles) skip the excess cooking oil for a softer, lighter bite.
Juicy Pork Bao (Xiao Long Bao)
It is almost impossible to visit Northern Cafe without ordering their signature soup dumplings. They are crafted traditionally and offer incredible savory flavor.
Classic Boba Milk Tea
The boba menu allows you to perfectly tailor your drink by altering the sweetness percentage (e.g., 25% or 50%) and adjusting the ice level.
Cheapest Items and Best Value Picks
Dining at Northern Cafe on a budget is highly achievable if you focus on items that boast high volume-to-price ratios or order family-style.
| Value Pick | Why It Can Be Good Value | Watch Out For | Best Ordering Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Piece Dumpling Trays | For around $14, you receive 10 large, handmade dumplings which easily serve as a full meal for one or an appetizer for three. | Delivery markups make these much more expensive online. | Order direct pickup to keep the price down. |
| Scallion Pancake | Often priced under $9, this thick, savory flatbread fills you up quickly alongside a lighter soup. | It is bread-heavy, lacking the protein of the Beef Roll. | Great budget side to split with a friend. |
| Custom Tea Drinks | At around $5.50–$6.50, Northern Cafe boba is often cheaper than standalone boutique boba tea shops in Southern California. | Extra toppings (like milk caps or double boba) cost extra. | Stick to classic milk tea or green tea for the best base price. |
Calories and Nutrition Notes
Northern Cafe does not currently publish a standardized official calorie guide on its digital menus. Because dishes are handmade and wok-fired, calories and macronutrients can vary based on the specific location's cooking methods.
| Menu Area | Nutrition Note | Best For | Source Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steamed vs. Pan-Fried | Steamed dishes (like Xiao Long Bao and Steamed Veggie Dumplings) use significantly less added oil than pan-fried buns (Sheng Jian Bao) or Beef Rolls. | Readers looking for lower-fat entrees | Medium (General nutrition context only) |
| Noodle Soups | Broth-based items offer lean meats like beef shank but are traditionally high in sodium. | Protein seekers | Medium (General nutrition context only) |
| Boba Teas | Standard 100% sweetness drinks are high in added sugar. Boba pearls also add carbohydrate-dense calories. | Managing sugar intake | Medium (Customizable options) |
Allergen and Dietary Notes
Northern Chinese cooking relies heavily on wheat flours, soy sauces, and seed oils. Diners with strict dietary restrictions or severe allergies should always exercise caution and speak with local staff.
| Dietary Need | What to Check | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free / Wheat Allergy | Almost all dumplings, noodles, pancakes, and soy sauces contain wheat. | Gluten-free choices are extremely limited. Steamed rice with plain stir-fried vegetables is the safest alternative, though cross-contact in the kitchen is high. |
| Peanut / Tree Nut | Peanuts are explicitly used in Dan Dan Noodles and Kung Pao Chicken. | Inform staff before ordering, as shared woks present cross-contact risks. |
| Vegetarian & Vegan | Vegetable dumplings, cucumber salad, and plain scallion pancakes are generally safe. | Always ask if broths (or sauces like Mapo Tofu paste) use animal fat or chicken stock bases. |
Special Menu Sections
Drinks and Desserts: Custom Boba Bar
Northern Cafe doubles as a specialty beverage spot. Most locations feature an extensive array of milk teas, fruit teas, slushies, and coffee options.
| Item or Section | What It Includes | Price/Calorie Note | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milk Teas | House Black, Taro, Jasmine Green, Thai, and Brown Sugar | Est. $5.50–$7.25 | Calories not published | Classic boba lovers |
| Fruit Teas | Passion Fruit, Mango, Grapefruit, Lemon Black, Peach Oolong | Est. $5.75–$6.95 | Calories not published | A refreshing, lighter-tasting drink |
| Drink Customization | Sweetness (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%), Ice levels, and toppings (Boba, Grass Jelly, Egg Pudding) | Toppings generally add $0.50–$1.00 | Personalizing your sugar levels |
Family Orders and Sharing Strategy
Northern Chinese cuisine is designed for communal eating. Large dumpling trays and generous wok dishes make family-style dining incredibly cost-effective.
| Item or Section | What It Includes | Price/Calorie Note | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The 2-Person Spread | 1 tray of Xiao Long Bao, 1 Beef Roll, 1 shared Noodle (e.g. Dan Dan) | Total approx. $38 – $45 | A perfectly balanced couple's meal |
Best For: Who This Menu Guide Helps
This guide is designed specifically for:
- Diners checking prices before they visit a Northern Cafe location in Southern California.
- Groups planning shared meals who want to know how many pieces come in dumpling orders.
- Boba fans wanting to see tea customization choices and typical price estimates.
- People ordering delivery who want to avoid surprise app markups by understanding baseline in-store prices.
- Diners with allergen concerns who need to know if official nutritional/allergen guides exist (they currently do not).
Ordering Tips From LatestMenus
Make the most out of your visit to Northern Cafe with these practical ordering strategies.
- Check the official app or local restaurant for exact prices. Menu prices can vary significantly between a campus-adjacent location (like Westwood) and a suburban spot (like Rowland Heights).
- Watch for delivery markups. Third-party delivery prices on apps like DoorDash and UberEats are routinely 15-30% higher than ordering directly via the store's pickup portal.
- Keep crispy items crispy on takeout. If taking a Beef Roll or Pan-Fried Dumplings to go, ask for sauces on the side so the dough doesn't get soggy in transit.
- Customize your drink sweetness. If you want robust tea flavor without excessive sugar, request 25% or 50% sweetness for your boba milk teas.
- Use official nutrition and allergen pages before ordering. Because Northern Cafe lacks an official digital allergen chart, always speak to store management directly regarding severe allergies.
- Share the dumpling trays. With 6 to 10 pieces per tray on average, dumplings are meant to be split, giving you room to order a complementary noodle dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Northern Cafe have a menu with prices?
Yes, Northern Cafe locations have menus with prices, but because they are franchised/regionally operated, prices vary by location. The official Northern Cafe website links to local store portals where you can view exact current pricing.
Do Northern Cafe menu prices vary by location?
Yes. Prices for dumplings, noodles, and drinks will vary slightly depending on regional real estate costs and individual store operations across Los Angeles and Orange County.
Where can I find Northern Cafe calories?
Northern Cafe does not currently publish an official calorie guide or nutritional table on its main digital channels. Calories vary based on portion sizing and specific wok/cooking techniques.
Does Northern Cafe have an allergen menu?
No. An official online allergen matrix is not published. Be aware that wheat, soy, and sesame are highly prevalent across the entire menu, and cross-contact in the kitchen is likely.
What are popular items at Northern Cafe?
The most popular dishes are the Beef Roll, Juicy Pork Bao (Xiao Long Bao), Dan Dan Noodles, Braised Beef Noodle Soup, and Classic Boba Milk Tea.
What are the best things to order at Northern Cafe?
For first-timers, the Beef Roll and Xiao Long Bao are must-try items. If you enjoy spicy food, the Dan Dan Noodles provide incredible flavor.
What are the cheapest/value items at Northern Cafe?
Appetizers like the Scallion Pancake (approx. $7.50–$9.00) and Cucumber Salad are the cheapest bites. The best value comes from 10-piece Pan-Fried Dumpling trays and large wok fried rice dishes which can be shared.
Can I order Northern Cafe online or in the app?
Yes, you can order directly through location-specific official portals (like Toast or ChowNow) for pickup, or through major third-party apps for delivery.
Are delivery prices different?
Yes. If you use a third-party delivery service (DoorDash, Grubhub, UberEats, Fantuan), menu prices will typically reflect a markup to cover platform fees compared to direct in-store ordering.
Can I change the sugar level in Northern Cafe boba drinks?
Yes, most locations allow you to customize beverage sweetness at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% levels.
Conclusion
The Northern Cafe menu brings a fantastic mix of Northern Chinese dumpling house classics and modern boba bar refreshments to Southern California. For the best value, order direct to avoid third-party markups, customize your boba sweetness to match your preferences, and embrace family-style dining to try both the noodles and the signature Beef Roll.
Menus, prices, calories, and availability can change by location, time, delivery platform, and restaurant updates. Always confirm the latest information with the official restaurant website, app, or your local restaurant before ordering. Information verified for 2026 where available.
