It’s all about Italian street food made Nonna’s way with delicious pastas, panini, salads and more with chef Darrel Arnault running the kitchen; and owner, Joe Fazio running operations.

They have a few seats at this counter-serve eatery, though it’s mostly set-up for takeaway.or delivery. Almost everything is made from scratch including the pastas, sauces and baking.

I’ve visited for dinner and enjoyed the outstanding Herb Ricotta Gnocchi, with house-made pistachio pesto, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, fennel, cream. I also loved their Focaccia selection which is a perfect accompaniment to go with the pastas.

The Rigatoni with housemade Italian sausage and fennel ragu was a very tasty dish; as was the Chitarra with side stripe prawns, olives, crispy pancetta in a spicy tomato sauce.

The Meatballs (all veal) came with a delicious tomato sauce; I also loved the Nonna’s baked lasagna classic Bolognese which was delicious, they also offer a vegetarian version.

The Pappardelle with peas and asparagus in truffle cream was a rich dish; but it went perfectly with the Panzanella Salad with mixed greens, fior di latte formaggio, toasted bread, tomatoes, red onion, red wine vinaigrette.

I tried one of their sandwiches the Nonna’s Speciale a delicious panini with their housemade fig spread, sopressata, spicy capicollo, genoa salami, fior di latte, peperonata, eggplant, tomato, arugula, dijon mayo.

For dessert they have yummy The Cannoli King’s cannoli which they fill when ordered; and they have their delicious Cornetti, freshly baked Italian croissant filled with lemon ricotta which was my favourite, also had one with the nutella filling.

Nonna’s Cucina is located at 2166 E. Hastings Street in the East Village neighbourhood of Vancouver. You can follow them on Instagram @nonnascucinayvr

By: Richard Wolak