Okay, I may be a little biased, but Italians no doubt make the best food of all the cultures. Growing up with a Nonna has made me quite the pasta snob. If the sauce ain’t made from freshly squashed tomatoes from your own garden, is it really even sauce?
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The restaurants on this list have gained my honorary “Nonna Stamp of Approval” when it comes to Italian cuisine – that’s amore!
Best Italian Restaurants in Vancouver
Via Tevere Pizzeria may sound like your typical pizza joint, but this is the new level of pizza perfection. If Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-ins and Dives did a special on this place, he’d probably call it the latter. Don’t let the visual aspect turn you away though because this is Vancouver’s hidden gem of all Italian restaurants. The wood fire pizza is something out of pizza heaven. For a modern take on an Italian classic, try the Polenta Fritta. Located at 1190 Victoria Drive.
Ask for Luigi – no, seriously. I always liked Luigi better than Mario. When it comes to Italian food, Ask for Luigi knows how to make a spicy meatball! This hot spot makes a mean plate of pasta and pairs every meal perfectly with a delicate selection of vinos, too. If you’re a big fan of the Panna Cotta, I suggest you order that bad boy for dessert. Located at 305 Alexander Street.
Zefferelli’s knows spaghetti. They even call themselves the “dignified spaghetti joint”. Though the name may be hard to pronounce, for some, the food will be easy to eat because it’s that good. Zefferelli’s does lunch and dinner – but take it from me, you’ll have to visit for both occasions. Their Chicken Marsala is the best I’ve ever sank my Italian teeth into. Located at 1136 Robson Street.
Frankie’s Italian Kitchen and Bar is one of Vancouver’s underrated Italian experiences. The food is so fresh, you’ll feel like you’re laying in the Tuscan sun with heaps of tasty meals to choose from all around you. Frankie’s even has a breakfast menu which showcases Chorizo Tuscan Hash – my personal favourite. Try them today at 765 Beatty Street.
Adesso Bistro has a cozy feel, with an authentic Italian taste in each bite. The offer dinner on a Saturday and a delicious brunch on Sunday. Order an Antipasti Platter to try an array of modern Italian appetizers. Or if you’re feeling feisty, try the Risotto Nero con Gamberi e Limone – black risotto with prawns, lemon, zucchini and spicy chili. Located at 1906 Haro Street.
Lupo Restaurant is quality Italian food in an unmatched atmosphere. You’ll feel right at home with traditional meals cooked in a modern style, with the same love Nonna packs into her pastas. I especially love the Veal Chop Milanese – sorry baby cow lovers! This is the perfect place for a fancy date night or dinner with the whole family. Located at 869 Hamilton Street.
Italian Kitchen says it all in the name. The flavours are so true to Italian cuisine, it’s a pleasure just to taste something so authentic. With two locations to choose from, Italian Kitchen boasts a full menu for brunch, lunch and dinner. If you’re around for lunch, be sure to order the Grilled Mortadella Panini – it’s molto bene! Located at 1037 Alberni Street and 757 Main Street.
These are just seven of my Italian favourites in the city. If you have one that I forgot to mention, please feel free to share. Us proud Italians love to try new places. Remember to tuck your napkin into your shirt; you’ll be slurping up lots of saucy spaghetti!
