The Dishes is a new Scout column that asks Vancouverites to walk us through a map of their ideal day and night on the town. We’re talking breakfast, lunch, happy hour, dinner and late night cocktails. Tax and tip included. The archive for all The Dishes is here.

This week, we turn to chef Alessandro Vianello, the very pre-occupied talent who oversees the busy kitchens of Wildebeest, Bufala, Lucky Taco and Bells and Whistles.

Good morning! What’s for breakfast/brunch?

We are definitely going to Dinesty Dumpling House on Robson for Xiaolongbao, congee and other delicious dumplings. Super great atmosphere and handmade-to-order dumplings. The wrappers are so thin and hold the most savoury filling that is perfect in the morning, or any time of day. Love this place.

Where should we meet for coffee/tea?

Cafe Calabria on Commercial Drive. The coffee is fast, on point, and with no ego attached. Plus I love going in and speaking Italian with Frank and his sons. It really makes me feel like I’m in Italy having coffee with my Dad.

Now we’re hungry again. What’s for lunch?

The Pad Thai and whatever the special is at Sen Pad Thai on Granville Island. I love the balance of the sauce, sweet and sour, the texture and freshness. Hands down, best Pad Thai I have ever had. Angus knows whats up!

Who has you figured out at Happy Hour?

Rodney’s in Yaletown. Cheap oysters and wine — can’t go wrong. It’s loud, fun, energetic, and always great conversation when I want to unwind. The oysters are always fresh, and I find a lot of places don’t shuck oysters properly, but they do at Rodney’s.

What’s for dinner?

We are going to Pidgin in Gastown to eat the rice cake bolognese and the potato, cod roe, dashi and furikake dish. The rice cake bolo is like my Mom made it and then Chef Wes throws a bunch of spicy Korean chilli paste into it. Out of control.

What’s for dessert?

Earnest Ice Cream, salted caramel all the way! I don’t really know what to say about this ice cream except that if you haven’t had it your life is not complete.

Where are you taking us for late night cocktails?

We are going to The Diamond in Gastown for Penicillins or Paper Planes, and multiple shots of Buffalo Trace. The cocktails are always delicious, no matter what you order. The Diamond has this great atmosphere; it’s like Cheers every time I go. “Where everybody knows your name”.

Images courtesy Jonathan Norton.

Like the look of that fried chicken sandwich up top? Get it at Bells and Whistles.