Caffè La Tana

Even though it’s only been open a few months, Caffè La Tana is one of those neighborhood joints that has already become a gathering spot for everyone—parents with kids, couples on dates, singles with a good book, restaurant-industry types enjoying a slow-moving morning, old friends looking to catch up. Light roasts and pour-overs may be all the rage at other shops, but tradition rules the roost here. La Caffè La Tana’s custom blend—roasted by local stalwart JJ Bean—is chocolatey, rich, and hearty.

Pepino’s sister restaurant, Caffè La Tana, nabs the top spot for the first time. Our judges applauded its evolution from a neighbourhood alimentari into a true culinary slice of the old country, under the guidance of culinary director Phil Scarfone and chef de cuisine Vish Mayekar. Ethereal handmade pastas pair with exquisitely prepared proteins: like baby back ribs rubbed with porcini spice and presented with a Campari glaze, charred oranges and fried rosemary leaves.

website | Grandview-Woodland ( get directions) | cuisine: Italian | price: $$. Caffé La Tana was designed after an old-world Italian alimentari, the kind of place where you stop by for an espresso in the morning and a glass of wine and pasta at night. It’s been voted one of Vancouver Magazine’s Best Italian Restaurants for their scratch-made pastas and seasonally rotating dishes, yet I never hear anyone talk about this spot.

Caffé La Tana offers an intimate dining experience with a variety of small plates and pasta meant for sharing, as well as an Italian wine list and cocktail menu. Out of all their menu items, we think you should order the “Orecchiette Pomodoro”, this pasta dish is a delicious combination of homemade pasta, fresh herbs, and savory sauce. Plus, it’s a customer favorite and highly recommended by the chef.

This Italian cafe on Commercial Drive is hands-down one of the most romantic spots for Italian food, coffee and pastries. Their delicate ricotta-filled sfogliatella pastries are to die for and they also serve up a fresh lunch menu filled with pasta made in house and on-site. Surprise your Valentine with a visit to this place to get a taste of old-world Italian charm on Valentine's Day.

Italian cafe and shop by day and wine bar by night, La Tana is the cutest date spot. Authentically and unapologetically Italian, whether you’re looking for a great cappuccino, pasta to Lady and the Tramp over, a unique glass of wine or to pick up some Italian imports to cook up for company coming, this is the spot. Where | 635 Commercial Drive Website | Instagram

Caffé La Tana might not immediately spring to mind as a cocktail spot, but it’s easily one of our favourites. Happy Hour (3–5 pm) is a golden window when this pretty Commercial Drive pasta and wine bar often has space for walk-ins. If you didn’t snag a reservation, this is your chance to grab a seat and enjoy an afternoon cocktail—solo or with a friend.

A menu full of small plates and pasta to share, as well as an all-Italian wine list of much-loved and lesser-known varieties and a small collection of cocktails, grappa and amari to start, finish and make the most of the evening. Consider giving Caffé La Tana’s whipped ricotta crostino or vodka pasta a try as well. Vegetarian options are available.

Wine bar, Italian bistro, and cafe, La Tana is a comfortable nook for Italian-style espresso drinks and snacks. There are a few bistro tables along the window in the front, as well as some cozy seating in the back, but the whole space will make you feel like you’ve travelled to Italy. Address: 635 Commercial Drive, VancouverPhone: 604-428-5462

Enjoy delicious fresh made pasta and small plates for sharing at this sexy little spot on Commercial Drive. Caffe La Tana, the sophisticated sister of Pepino’s, is the place to bring a date if you want to have a Lady and the Tramp style romantic noodle sharing moment. Their features change daily which also offers an element of surprise.

Caffè La Tana, for example, serves a custom coffee blend that pairs well with their potent espressos and foamy cappuccinos. Meanwhile, Nemesis Coffee is complemented by Dope Bakehouse, which offers a range of artisan pastries. But the pairing of great coffee with delicious food isn’t just limited to pastries.

Sister spot to fine-dining Italian restaurants Savio Volpe and Pepino’s Spaghetti House, Caffe La Tana is a decidedly more intimate option. Find baked goods, breakfast items, and more here—and finish it up with a velvety espresso. Address: 635 Commercial Drive, Vancouver

Located next door to Pepino’s, the wine bar at La Tana is an intimate affair with a menu of small plates and pasta to share. Try their ricotta gnudi, pasta del giorno, spicy radiatori alla vodka and whipped ricotta crostino. Address: 635 Commercial Drive

This is my go-to spot for a catch-up lunch or an intimate dinner. The charming space is small and bustling, but the service is always seamless. The menu changes regularly, offering delicious salads and perfect pastas.

Café La Tana has coffee drinks that take you to Italy with each dreamy sip. They also offer wonderful food options including the breakfast sandwich, which you can add prosciutto to!

There are fewer things better than sitting down with great people and eating great food, and the spag and meatball at Caffe La Tana easily fulfills the "great food" part.

The Drive’s Caffè La Tana is selling stock exclusively to-go, at cost or below, with pickup and takeout available from 10 a.m.