If you ask us, we’d say that this summer is going to be filled with bowls of pasta and Aperol Spritz, at least that’s what it looks like according to all the new Italian restaurants that have recently opened or are planning to open soon.
Over the last couple of weeks, Dished has reported on five new Italian restaurants joining the Vancouver dining scene. Whether they’re serving your classic bowls of pasta and gelato or some lesser-known Italian dishes, here’s your list of all the Italian restaurants coming to Vancouver.
Now open
Folietta
Folietta
Folietta is the latest concept from the Wentworth Hospitality Group, which is behind fan-favourite restaurants Homer St. Café and Bar, Tableau Bar Bistro, and Maxine’s Café and Bar.
Inspired by the Italian word foglietta (meaning foliage), the Folietta name pays homage to the area’s leafy character and vibrant community roots. Meant to be a neighbourhood gathering place, this 130-seat space designed by Ste Marie will combine family-style dining with late-night cocktails and weekend brunch.
Folietta’s stand-out menu items include its 32-ounce Bistecca Fiorentina, plenty of handmade pasta, and other standout dishes like a bone-in veal chop Parmigiana.
Address: 1480 Nanaimo St., Vancouver
Opening soon
Il Cappello Enoteca
Juno Kim
The team behind Dolce Amore is gearing up to open a new three-in-one concept with the help of renowned Vancouver chef Pino Posteraro (Cioppino’s) as the culinary director.
Here you’ll find an indoor/outdoor gelato patio and pickup window called The Gelato Mafia “TGM Terrazza,” as well as a 25-seat modern Italian cafeteria called Dolce Amore Bar and Caffetteria, and the crowning jewel of this location: Il Cappello Enoteca.
Il Cappello Enoteca will be the team’s first full-service restaurant, featuring a menu rooted in traditional Italian cooking. However, the founders want people to know this isn’t just another pizza and pasta joint.
Here, there will be an emphasis on Tuscan cuisine, as well as regional dishes from across Italy, including a variety of antipasti, risotto, piatti principali, and, of course, gelato desserts (but don’t worry, pizza and pasta will also be on the menu).
This 2,000 sq. ft. space will feature 100 seats in an intimate dining room, as well as an enclosed year-round patio.
Address: 6011 Hastings St., Burnaby
Fiorino Lonsdale Quay
@fiorino_isf/Instagram
Slated to open mid-June, Fiorino is expanding its much-loved Chinatown concept.
You’ll find rustic Florentine flavours inspired by the backstreets of Tuscany, all on the second floor of the Lonsdale Quay Market.
In terms of specific dishes, Fiorino previously confirmed to Dished that it is planning on keeping the program similar to the Chinatown program, focusing on seasonality and classics it has become known for, like its Coccoli e Prosciutto.
As for the space, Fiorino will have a waterfront patio that overlooks the Vancouver harbour, as well as an intimate private dining room.
Address: 123 Carrie Cates Ct. #218, North Vancouver
Gigi’s by Ask for Luigi
Gigi’s by Ask for Luigi
Located at the soon-to-be-open Tricity Pavilion is the latest concept from the Ask for Luigi team. Led by Top Chef Canada winner and Culinary Director Chanthy Yen, alongside Head Chef Lloyd Taganahan, you’ll find all the same big flavours as its sister restaurant. Guests can anticipate a selection of fresh pasta, pizza, Italian, wine, and cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming space.
“With Gigi’s by Ask for Luigi, we’re bringing the same heart and hospitality that our Vancouver restaurants are known for to the Tri-Cities,” said Jennifer Rossi, co-founder of Kitchen Table Group. “In partnership with Marcon, we’ve created a space that’s warm, welcoming, and made for everyday dining. We can’t wait to open our doors later this spring.”
Gigi’s by Ask for Luigi will also be joined by a new Nemesis location.
Address: 2968 Christmas Wy., Coquitlam
Lucia
Sherman Chong/Lucia
Opening in the former space of Anthem Sound Lounge (which was Smitty’s Oyster House Main Street before that) is Lucia. This restaurant is brought to us from the creators of Harbour Oyster & Bar and Social YVR and is set to open on June 11.
At the helm of this new concept is Chef Zachary Steele, who will bring what is described as a refined yet approachable touch to each dish, combining modern Italian sensibilities with the kind of flavours that would make your Nonna proud.
“We’re thrilled to bring something new and fresh to the Mount Pleasant dining scene,” said Chef Steele. “Lucia is a celebration of food that brings people together, whether it’s for a long lunch, a late-night bite, or simply to sip on one of our signature cocktails.”
Here, customers will find a menu featuring a variety of Italian-inspired dishes made with local ingredients, including pastas, antipasti, pizzas, and more.
Address: 3124 Main St., Vancouver
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