Little Italy in Vancouver has a rich history that intertwines with the city’s development and the Italian community’s growth. The first significant wave of Italian immigrants arrived between 1896 and 1914, settling in what is now the Strathcona district. However, by the 1940s and 1950s, many Italian immigrants had moved to the northern Commercial Drive area, which revitalized the neighborhood and led to the establishment of Little Italy there.
Today, Little Italy is recognized as an area in the eastern part of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, within the Grandview–Woodland neighborhood. It is often synonymous with the Commercial Drive area, which is a vibrant commercial center and a cultural hub for the Italian community. On April 6, 2016, Vancouver City Councillors voted unanimously to declare an eight-block stretch of Commercial Drive as Little Italy, celebrating the area’s Italian heritage and influence.
The neighborhood continues to be a lively and multi-cultural area, with Italian businesses and cultural organizations contributing to its unique character. While the Italian influence has seen periods of decline, it remains an integral part of Vancouver’s diverse cultural landscape.
Little Italy offers a genuin culinary experience
This is more than your ordinary pizza parlor. Get a taste of the real Italy in the midst of a buzzing and thriving district in Vancouver.
Walking down the Neighborhood
Our tour begins at Fratelli’s Italian Bakery, a cornerstone of the community known for its delicious pastries and bread. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet treat before we continue our exploration. Strolling down Commercial Drive, affectionately known as ‘The Drive’, you’ll feel the heartbeat of Little Italy. This bustling street is lined with Italian cafes, restaurants, and shops, each offering a taste of Italy’s rich flavors and warm hospitality.
As we walk, you’ll have the opportunity to sample authentic Italian dishes. From Neapolitan pizza certified by Naples itself to gourmet paninis and Italian sausages, your taste buds are in for a treat. The Drive is home to family-run establishments that have been part of the community since the 1950s, ensuring that each bite is steeped in history and tradition.
Cafes and bars worth a visit
Caffè La Tana
- A cozy spot for coffee and pastries, also selling Italian groceries.
- Address: 635 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 428-5462
Cafe Calabria
- Known as the oldest Italian coffee house in Vancouver, Cafe Calabria offers a taste of Italy with fantastic coffee and huge, fresh sandwiches.
- Address: 1745 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4
- Phone: (604) 253-7017
The Drive Coffee Bar
- Offers a selection of coffee, wine, and beer with a community feel.
- Address: 1670 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 564-0404
Joe’s Cafe Bar
- A neighborhood staple for coffee and casual bites, with a lively atmosphere.
- Address: 1150 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 255-1046
Gelateria Dolce Amore
- Offers a variety of Italian gelato flavors.
- Address: 1588 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y4
- Phone: (604) 258-0006
From wood fire pizza to red vine
A huge perk is that you can get very specifik with you requests when it comes to the Italian kitchen. No matter if you prefer Napolatani or something fresh from Sicily.
Restaurants you do not want to miss
Lombardo’s Pizzeria & Ristorante
- A family-run spot known for its pizza and classic Italian dishes.
- Address: 1641 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 251-2240
Federico’s Supper Club
- Offers a blend of Italian cuisine and live entertainment.
- Address: 1728 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 251-3473
Marcello Pizzeria & Ristorante
- Renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and vibrant atmosphere.
- Address: 1404 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 215-7760
Via Tevere Pizzeria
- A family-owned establishment serving authentic Neapolitan pizzas.
- Address: 1190 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, BC
- Phone: (604) 336-1803
Arriva Ristorante
- A warmly decorated eatery offering Italian fare including whole wheat, gluten-free, and vegetarian pastas.
- Address: 1537 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y1
- Phone: (604) 251-1177
The Little Italy Walking Food Tour
The Little Italy Walking Food Tour is a 2.5-hour guided experience that takes you through the heart of Vancouver’s Italian community on Commercial Drive. You’ll meet outside Fratelli’s Italian Bakery at 1795 Commercial Dr, where your guide will share fascinating stories about the area’s history and culture. As you visit various cafes and restaurants, you’ll enjoy seven different food tastings, including authentic Italian pizza and sausages. The tour is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with vegetarian options available. It’s recommended to book in advance and you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Remember, gratuities are not included in the price but are much appreciated. With a maximum of 16 travelers, this intimate tour is a great way to dive into the local cuisine and learn about the community’s vibrant past.
Find your way
Tucked away in central Vancouver you will find an exciting new district in The City of Glass.