Admittedly, the West Side can sometimes seem a little bit sleepy on a Friday night compared to the buzz of Yaletown or the bustle of the West End. However, there are still many great dining choices to be had, especially if you have the forethought to book ahead. A 32-seater neighbourhood favourite-where you’re sure to sit almost cheek-to-cheek with someone you know-is La Buca (4025 Macdonald). Owned by Chris Stewart and Chef Andrey Durbah of Pied-Ã -Terre and Parkside fame, La Buca serves quintessential Italian trattoria in an elegant, simply designed room. Durbach flexes his cooking muscles with the most robust of flavours in his classic spaghetti puttanesca and veal scaloppine with mushrooms and Marsala wine. The crispy roast chicken, fragrant with lemon, rosemary, garlic, and black pepper, is equally a must-try. Durbach’s menu is authentic fare, ingredient driven, and unquestionably comforting.
For more Italian culinary warmth, La Quercia (3689 W. 4th) is a great choice, and one that interestingly is very reminiscent of La Buca in both layout and decor. The focused menu is reasonably priced, and has plenty of fresh-sheet options. Be sure to sample the creamy risotto made to order for two, the oh-so-tender braised beef cheeks, or one of the daily fresh pastas. Drive by any given night and you’ll see a full room and happy diners.
And if Kerrisdale is your haunt, consider Suvai Restaurant (2279 W. 41st Ave.) where ladies who lunch flock in hordes for solid bistro cooking such as crab and shrimp cakes and dressed-up burgers and sandwiches. In the evening, lighter mid-day fare is replaced with such choices as butternut squash soup, pan-roasted halibut, and roast rack of lamb with garlic mash. The room makes for a cosy rest after browsing around the many boutiques that line 41st Avenue.
