631 Commercial Drive, Vancouver

Tel: (604) 254-5633

Web: https://pepinos.ca/

Twitter: @pepinothemouse

Instagram: @ pepinosspaghettihouse

Advice: No reservations.

With its nod to the old Nicks which was the locale for over 60 years prior; Pepino’s takes the reign mastering the Italian American foodie experience. A complimentary basket of tasty custom recipe Fife Bakery baked sourdough is served with salted whipped butter. Save some bread to dip in the glorious tomato sauce that comes with the lasagna.

It’s all about the classics here on the drive, from the tasty Eggplant Parm to the incredible Heirloom Caprese Salad. The Avocado Salad is a new staple and must have when dining for lunch or an early dinner, loaded with kale and red beets, topped with a half avocado, it is addictive.

I loved the Chicken Picatta which was crispy on the outside with the delicious sauce of capers and lemon served on a bed of roasted chili rosemary potatoes. The Spaghetti & Meatballs was another tasty classic with huge meatballs, making for a good sharing dish or for a solo dinner. Then there was the outstanding House Lasagna which knocks it right of the park.

For dessert, it was a classic Tiramisu “Bambolona” which is rich and decadent filled with mascarpone; Lastly, the Spumoni Banana Split is huge and perfect for sharing with the table with scoops of vanilla, pistachio, cherry & chocolate gelato topped with seasonal fruit jam, toasted pistachios, candied morello cherries, chocolate sauce, honey roasted peanuts, whipped cream & a pizzella. An Amaro Nanimo was the perfect finish to the fine meal at this wonderful gem on the North end of the drive.

Review by: Richard Wolak

Vancouver, BC V5L 3W3, Canada