Need another reason to get yourself down to Gastown this summer? We’ve got one: treat yourself to a visit and be sure to stop by Vicino, the newly-opened little brother to the popular, award-winning Nicili Pizzeria.
We snuck a peek at the pre-opening this past weekend while they were in the midst of their friends and family dry run and followed up with a call to garner the insider scoop. Here’s what Vancouverites can expect to enjoy upon entry into this sweet looking Italian deli…
As of launch time, Vicino is open six days a week (from 8am for ardent espresso-seekers) and caters to both the casual dine-in crowd and those that prefer to grab and go with their goods. Whether it’s a sampling of pasta, specialty Italian meats, cheeses, light salads or something sweeter, Vicino is your culinary answer.
Working with the same chef who’s honed the refined rustic-style menu that’s garnered neighbouring Nicili consistent praise, Vicino will offer a rotating list of freshly made in-house pastas each day. In taking a more ‘organic’ approach to their menu, Vicino will also stay true to its Italian approach to cuisine; that is, simpler is always better. Diners can expect to find dishes heavy on locally-sourced ingredients using as much in-season produce as possible to satiate discerning palates. A few items on our must-try list: ricotta gnocchi with plum tomato sauce, fior di latte and fresh basil, or perhaps the duck liver parfait served with caramelized onions. Yum.
Looking for lighter fare? No problem. Select from their deli case and create your own charcuterie platter to feast on with friends. Expect to find specially imported goods from little-known producers to enjoy either on-site or pick them up at their retail counter for home (think: San Marzano tomatoes, Caputo flour, olive oils and more).
We inquired about licensing and were told that it is their intent to secure the appropriate permits as soon as possible – but for now, it’s dry.
No issue there – we’re sure Notable readers will find more than enough to satisfy such a need if they opt for a scoop or two of Vicino’s own homemade Gelato (they’ve got that, too). Currently on deck: choose from espresso, hazelnut or vanilla to sweeten the deal.
Go check it out for yourself. Vicino is located at 68 E. Cordova in Gastown (right next to Nicili Pizzeria).
