Recently we’ve been craving some Italian food, which means that it’s only fair that we share the journey with you. And while it’s hard to pick a favourite (or even several) amongst the sea of amazing Italian spots in the city, we’re certainly up to the task of trying. Let’s dive right in: Here are 16 of the best places to get pasta in Vancouver.
Autostrada Osteria
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Split between the simpler osteria on Main Street and the more complex location downtown, Autostrada hits a high note when it comes to casual dining. Of course, casual doesn’t mean forgettable, on the contrary, this is a spot that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression every time.
Where: 4811 Main Street and 350 West Pender Street
Mangia Cucina & Bar
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If you’re looking for authentic Sicilian food in a cozy setting, then look no further than Mangia Cucina. The restaurant is located in a converted heritage house in Mount Pleasant, just a stone’s throw away from False Creek. Chef Alessandro showcases his love for regional cuisine by serving up a mix of his favourite recipes, as well as a slew of cocktails and Italian wines to pair with the meal. Honestly, this one’s our top pick for any occasion – be it date night or a casual round of drinks and antipasti.
Oh, and this spot is one of the few restos in Vancouver to be awarded the international quality seal ‘Ospitalità Italiana’ by the Italian government. So that’s definitely something to consider!
Where: 2211 Manitoba Street
Oca Pastificio
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This contemporary spot on Commercial comes highly regarded by locals and visitors alike, especially for its 5-course tasting menu. Located in the heart of Little Italy, the resto serves up fresh, handcrafted pasta using seasonal ingredients right before your very eyes.
Note that Oca Pastificio does not accept reservations, so heading there for an earlier dinner is encouraged!
Where: 1260 Commercial Drive
Mercato di Luigi
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The newest name on the list, Mercato di Luigi marks Kitchen Table Restaurant’s latest venture, operating as a one-stop shop for groceries, fresh pasta, and espresso. With pasta lunches that change every day, you can bet there’s always something exciting and new to taste. Oh, and their housemade basil pesto sauce is to die for!
Where: 580 East 12th Avenue
Livia
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For what is primarily a bakery, Livia’s range of housemade pasta is above and beyond anything we would have expected. From daily specials to hearty, heat-at-home lasagna, you really can’t go wrong. And about those daily specials? Yeah, all you have to do is follow them on Instagram and you’ll know what’s available. A word to the wise though, because they taste just as good as they look.
Where: 1399 Commercial Drive
Robba da Matti
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This staple spot in Yaletown recently opened a new outpost in the West End as well, and we couldn’t be happier about it. They’ve got a wide variety of dishes to try (including vegetarian and vegan options), but we say start with their seafood-forward plates if you haven’t tasted them before. Specifically, the Spaghetti alla Scoglio, which is perfect for sharing at home.
Where: 1127 Mainland Street and 1906 Haro Street
Tavola
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Speaking of restaurants in the West End, it’s hard to overlook this delicious Italian spot right on the area. They’ve got tons of options for delicious housemade pasta, and we’re seriously eyeing some gnocchi with a pork ragu for our next hearty, but somehow light meal. Pro-tip: The proximity to Stanley Park also makes this a great option for picnics, pasta dishes notwithstanding.
Where: 1829 Robson Street
Ask For Luigi
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Ask for Luigi has become a must-know name for any self-respecting Vancouverite, and for good reason. While the amazing interior made it a destination spot from the get-go, it’s the incredible dishes that have kept it at the forefront of Italian cuisine in the city. Instead of Tavola’s pork ragu, Ask for Luigi has more or less mastered lamb ragu, which is usually on the menu. Our pick? The bolognese
Where: 305 Alexander Street
Di Beppe Restaurant
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We really like Di Beppe’s simple yet delicious approach to the majority of their pasta dishes. Pick between rigatoni or spaghetti, pick a sauce, and voila! You’re good to go. And while we recommend mixing and matching over the summer, our first pick for you is spaghetti cacio e pepe, which pairs perfectly with just about any weather.
Where: 8 West Cordova Street
Savio Volpe
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We’re happy to say that Savio Volpe is one of the few places that does ‘modern rustic’ perfectly. We recommend grabbing a few friends and dining family-style here since you’re going to want a taste of practically everything on the menu. Speaking of family dining, they’ve got a special for Wednesdays, offering complimentary kids pasta meals in the shape of foxes. Yeah, it’s adorable!
Where: 615 Kingsway
Pepino’s
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The younger sibling of Savio Volpe boasts the quintessential “spaghetti house vibe,” if you will. The dim lighting and old-school decor provide the perfect setting for a flavourful meal and a glass of Italian wine. Honestly, this is another great pick for date night – and there are a ton of cute bars and spots on Commercial if you want to keep the night going after a great meal.
Our go-to at Pepino’s? Definitely the gnocchi with marsala sauce & wild mushrooms.
Where: 631 Commercial Drive
Jo’s Italian Deli
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Switching gears a bit, Jo’s Italian Deli is another fantastic spot operating as both a place to enjoy a meal and grab a few quick groceries. Their homemade pastas, sandwiches, and focaccia are reason enough to visit, and the affordable price point certainly doesn’t hurt!
For amazing dishes (and portion sizes) at a fraction of the cost, you can’t do better than Jo’s.
Where: 2505 Alma Street
La Quercia
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La Quercia is definitely one of our top picks on this list as well. The northern Italian cuisine is always on point and is sure to delight you each and every time you step in there. And, it’s no longer a sleeper hit, having been named one of the best restaurants in Canada last year. Peruse their seasonal menu, and see what strikes your fancy! You’re guaranteed to love it.
Where: 3689 W 4th Avenue
Lupo
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An underrated spot in Yaletown that has perfected ‘modern Italian’ cuisine. That being said, this place specializes in family-style dining, so we definitely think that pasta should just be one (very delicious) part of your meal. Save it for when you really feel like treating yourself, and you’ll be happy that you did.
Where: 869 Hamilton Street
Giardino
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Giardino has a special place in our heart for the atmosphere alone. It is truly the most opulent spot on this list, and lucky for us, has the food quality to match. In fact, owner and head chef Umberto Menghi recently received the Order of the Star of Italy, in recognition of his promotion of Italian and heritage and culture of Italy abroad. Yeah, this spot is backed by an entire nation.
Where: 1328 Hornby Street
La Buca
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While their newest venture, Sorella, might be a bit more buzz-worthy, it is La Buca that gets the nod for their enduring, intimate dining experience. Seriously, this spot is a true hidden gem in the city, and another one that doesn’t need us to hype it up. If you’re looking for a comfy fall pick, then look no further. Perfect for a little backyard patio dinner!
Where: 4025 MacDonald Street
Now that we’ve shared some of our fave spots in the city (and made ourselves adequately hungry), we’ll leave the decision-making to you. Enjoy some amazing pasta and try something new.
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