Since opening during what can best be called the height of hunger where Vancouver’s authentic pizzeria scene is concerned, Nicili Antica Pizzeria (62 E Cordova St.) has more than successfully made its culinary mark amongst its competition in town.
Owned and operated by Bill McCaig, we saw first-hand the degree of passion with which he operates his establishment (the city’s first authentic Neapolitan pizzeria). This guy is serious about keeping it real where quality Italian pizza is concerned and approaches his work with a ‘spare no expense’ attitude in terms of sourcing ingredients. To both complement this and bring McCaig’s vision to life is a fairly stripped down menu featuring well thought out offerings courtesy of Chef David Tozer.
Don’t get us wrong, when we say stripped down we’re simply emphasizing the overall authenticity to each dish we chowed down on. It starts with their assortment of appetizers: insalata mista, Octavian, or (our choice) the insalata panzanella e tonno (line-caught tuna conserva, fennel, roasted red peppers, capers, black olives and olive oil-drenched bread served perfectly toasted and tossed. Next up, we went for their antipasto misto per due featuring an assortment of cured meats (including caribou), cheeses and their peppernata spread (made in-house).
Next, it was onto some serious pizza pie. From the menu, we opted to go plain and simple with a Margherita (pomodoro tomato sauce, fior di latte, basil and a touch of grana padano cheese). One word: perfection.
Daring to do something a bit different for our next order, we went for the chef’s daily creation featuring a walnut pesto, fingerling potatoes, basil and prosciutto. It was, simply put, divine.
The room itself is sleek, sexy and comfortable. Exposed brick walls lend warmth to the space, which features beautiful high ceilings, a minimalist white and red design theme and open concept prep area. With seating for about 30 or so, Nicili fills up quickly and is bustling during lunch and dinner service (starting at 11:30am until late). If you go, grab a seat at their pristine-looking bar for a quick pint, glass of wine or cocktail (we recommend trying the Maple Whiskey Sour) while you wait.
Oh, and do us a favour… save room for dessert. We hear their Tiramisu is amazing!
Find Nicili Antica Pizzeria at 62 East Cordova Street and check table availability (no reservations accepted) by calling 604.669.6985.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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