Best New Pizzerias in Vancouver

September 29, 2011

Following the guidelines of l’Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana to the letter, this stylish Gastown hotspot bakes perfect 90-second margheritas—blistered and pillowy rim, thin middle, bright San Marzano tomatoes, dazzingly melted fior de latte—in a wood-fired oven. 62 E. Cordova St., 604-669-6985. Nicli-antica-pizzeria.ca

The Bibo

Pizzaiolo from Naples? Check. Basil from Liguria? Check. Porcini from Piemonte? Check. It doesn’t get more authentic than this. Try the Formula One margherita with buttery DOP buffalo mozzarella. 1835 W. Fourth St., 604-568-6177. Thebibo.com

Pizzeria Farina

It’s all about the dough—soft, yet sturdy enough to slice and survive the trip home—at this funky pizza counter and takeout joint. Toppings are classic, except for the honey, apple, and ricotta dessert offering. 915 Main St., 604-681-9334. Pizzeriafarina.com

Novo Pizzeria and Wine Bar

The most mainstream of the bunch, fitted with slick black leather banquettes, high tops around a bustling bar, and crispy crusts that don’t flop. Located next to Fifth Avenue Cinemas, it’s the perfect date-night place to share a salami-and-olive pie after a flick. 2118 Burrard St., 604-736-2220. Novopizzeria.com

Verace Pizzeria Napoletana and Enoteca
Owner Roberta King Lee learned how to make pizza in Naples, where she also discovered that Italians are not as strict about pizza as we think. Go for her asparagus, truffle oil, and goat cheese creation. 189 Keefer Place, 604-669-5552. Veracepizzeria.com