Today we were visiting the newest Artigianno location, housed within Yaletown’s Roundhouse. They have replaced the neighbourhood’s casual Italian cafe without missing a beat.
This is not what you know Artigianno’s chain to be, both in design aesthetic and offerings. Clean fixtures and a pop of green. This is ann elevated space that is fresh and clean, you expect a food listing to match. They do have more fulsome dishes than at other comparable cafes, but I would still consider it a concise and simple menu. The largest difference is that this is their first bar that serves cocktails and wine; the latter made with their brand of coffees and teas.
We grabbed the back booth and got comfortable. Considering their tie to coffee, we had get a couple of Espresso Martinis, but decaf because it was 5pm. Kettle One Vodka, Kahlua, and Artigiano Private Reserve Espresso. A smooth martini with an easy finish, parallel to their roasted coffee.
We then went ahead and tried their other 2 specialty cocktails. The Caffè Negroni is a mix of Campari, Sweet Vermouth, Aviation Gin, and Artigiano cold brew. Their take on the classic Italian cocktail was more sweet in orange, not to my pretence, but it was complimentary to the food as a result.
I preferred the Earl Grey Sour with Artigiano Earl Grey-infused Aviation Gin, fresh lemon juice, and cane syrup. It reminded me of dessert with the lemon on the tongue and lavender in the after note. Together, a popular combo that washes you mouth. This one is best as a pairing with dessert.
With a limited menu we were able to try it all. All their food is made with consciously sourced ingredients including organic and non-GMO, where possible. And they do not use industrial seed oils, artificial colourings, or additives. Their goal is to always partner with local farmers, producers, and suppliers. This is uncomplicated food that allows for the ingredients to speak for themselves.
We started with the Crispy Risotto, served as triangles instead of the circular balls every where else. Sitting in a pool of spiced marinara, with fresh basil and Parmigiano Reggiano. It was garlicky with sharp cheese. Each bite a crispy crunch, with even breading. There was a tang from marinara, that had a nice saltiness to it. This was a great appetizer to help open up your appetite.
Not traditional, but I do like a good pineapple pizza. The Pineapple Tropicale is Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomato sauce, caramelized pineapple relish, smoked ham, crispy prosciutto, arugula garnish, and a balsamic glaze. The salty bacon and fresh mozerella together sings when bridged by the balsamic. I didn’t expect the pineapple pulp, and felt it lost as a result. In fact, you can’t even see it in the photo. I wanted a cheesy sauce with sweet note with this, but was left with a leaner pie.
The lighter toppings did match the dough, as the bread tasted healthy. Their organic bread and sourdough pizzas are baked in-house daily. Although there was so much crust that you are left feeling like you need a dip for it. Tasty but at the end of the day you eating plain bread.
The Sweet Sicilian had more flavour between the two. Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomato sauce, spicy soppressata, goat cheese, and a honey drizzle. The goat cheese and honey were the perfect contrast. The cheese coating your teeth in a pleasant way. The Fresh basil and salty meat play second fiddle and don’t overwhelm. I just would have liked more honey on the side to dip into, and maybe some chilli flakes or chilli oil for zip.
And for dessert, we couldn’t walk away without trying their Classic Tiramisu. Once again it tied in to their brand of coffee. Ladyfingers soaked in Artigiano Private Reserve Espresso and a splash of Amaretto, layered between fresh mascarpone and cream. This was done quick and easy, cafe style. Much like the pizza an above
You can’t walk into this expecting gourmet, despite the setting. At the end of the day this is a nice nice way to have a simple meal with sprinklings of the coffee from a brand you know.
Artigiano Roundhouse
126 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y1
(604) 336-3628
caffeartigiano.com
