Eat Up Some Serious Italian Summer Vibes at Caffè La Tana, Feb. 25th & 26th

Looking for a tasty and escapist way to break up your weekday routine? Next week, Pastry Chef Oliver Bernardino and Chef Phil Scarfone (Culinary Director, Banda Volpi) are coming together to bring Vancouverites their version of a “Roman night bakery”, on Tuesday the 25th and Wednesday the 26th only.

Just for two services, Caffè La Tana will be turning out a special dinner menu, designed by Scarfone, with Bernardino stepping in to take care of the sweet stuff. Not “just” desserts, though – this is where the “night bakery” concept kicks in…We’re talking a thoughtful assortment of pastries inspired by Bernardino’s personal experiences summering in Italy, combined with that special something that takes over Commercial Drive (aka Little Italy) during the warmer months. Think, maritozzi (traditional cream-filled Italian brioche-like buns), Nutella “cigars”, and zuppa inglese (liqueur-soaked custard-and-sponge-cake layer cake) imbued with an Amaro kick.

You can choose to eat up all the Italian summer ambience by locking in your reservation for the dine-in menu online here – and then plan on loading up with one of everything from the bakery selection for when you need another nostalgic hit (later as a midnight snack, or for breakfast – we’re not judging). Or, embrace the laid back vacation vibes by strolling on by the Commercial Drive restaurant at your leisure: walk-ins for dinner service are also welcome; and the pastry selection will be available for one and all to purchase from the counter to-go! Just don’t take too relaxed of an approach, in order to make sure there’s still something left over for the taking. The event kicks off at 5pm on both the 25th and 26th (and continues until the vague hour of “late”).

WHY WE CARE
Seriously, what could be more appreciated this time of year (the month of February is always a killer) more than a midweek transportive dining experience? We think that few things say in vacanza better (besides an actual Roman holiday, of course). Plus, we love a good come-up – and a delicious dessert/pastry – any day of the week and regardless of the time of year. Add to that, we’ve been loving watching Bernardino’s progression in the industry (for further proof, simply check out our 2022 “New Breed” feature on the young pastry chef here). It’s nice to see well-established and respected industry vets, like Scarfone, supporting and encouraging the new generation of passionate, talented chefs by giving them these sorts of opportunities to show the public what they can do. So take advantage, Vancouver! Show up!