Vancouver is getting a new Italian restaurant, and it’s not only brought to us by an all-star team, but it’s also opening in a culinary hot spot.
Giusti is a new Italian concept led by chef Mark Perrier, coming to Mount Pleasant in the previous home of Bar Susu (and before that, The Whip). While Vancouver has no shortage of Italian restaurants, this latest venture promises to be “anything but ordinary.”
Named after Carla Giusti’s Italian family, Giusti is the vision of herself alongside hospitality veteran Cam Watt (The Keefer Bar, Acre, June), and Miguel Quezada (formerly of Savio Volpe, Oddfish, and Elio Volpe).
“I wanted to create a restaurant that would honour my father, Romano Giusti. I grew up in a home where no excuse was necessary to fill the kitchen table with food, family, and friends,” said Carla.
Here you’ll find a menu that honours Italy’s regional traditions, as well as one that reflects Perrier’s dedication to simplicity and flavour. For example, every pasta will be made fresh in-house each day, including a few rarely seen shapes.
Miguel Quezada/Giusti
Additionally, you’ll find vegetable-forward “verdure di stagione” antipasta to complement the pastas.
“In Italian cooking, it’s all about flavour and letting the ingredients speak for themselves,” said Perrier. “You don’t need a lot of stuff on the plate, just the best ingredients, minimally altered.”
Miguel Quezada/Giusti
Perrier is also joined by Tew Udomchaisakul (previously Locanda dell’Orso, Savio Volpe), a talented pastaiolo, and sous chef Marquella Uhrigh (previously Locanda dell’Orso, Fred’s Restaurant, and Savio Volpe).
As for front of house, Quezada is the general manager, while award-winning Lisa Cook (previously Bufala, Savio Volpe) serves as wine director. The beverage program will feature aperitivi-style cocktails, classic drinks, and an Italian-focused wine list that also dabbles in Burgundy, Champagne and B.C.
The 2,400-square-foot space is currently being refreshed and designed by the team, together with Hodgson Design Associates.
“Finding the space was like discovering a dusty but all-original 1965 Mustang. Original wheels, paint, upholstery. Somehow it survived the years without being messed with. We’re simply buffing and tweaking where needed. The space will be bright during the day, cozy during the evenings and most importantly true to its heritage and the historical building within which it stands,” explained Watt.
“Most of all, we want to build a place where people can take off their armour. Not a showpiece for special occasions, but a spot that becomes part of your weekly rhythm,” added Quezada.
Located at 209 E. 6th Ave., Giusti is joining the likes of many Michelin-recommended, Bib Gourmand, and Michelin-starred restaurants. In fact, the area boasts numerous Michelin-approved restaurants, earning it the nickname, “The Michelin Mile.”
Giusti will officially open the week of Oct. 20, 2025, with a soft opening planned for a few days beforehand. At launch, it will be open seven days a week from 5 to 10 p.m.
Address: 209 E 6th Ave., Vancouver
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Dining and Cooking