Cioppino’s Serves Up Old World Charm

Chef Giuseppe Posteraro feels he has achieved what he set out to do. “The mission was to create a world class Italian/Mediterranean restaurant,” explains Pino, as he is known among locals. “I wanted to provide customers with creative meals and excellent service in a relaxed environment. Vancouverites were behind us all the way.”Posteraro opened Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill and Enoteca in 1999, following stints at reputed restaurants around Europe and in Singapore. He believes that it is a perfect balance of tradition and evolution that brings people back. “It’s that mix of personable service and familiar faces with the highest standard of professionalism and consistency.”

Of course most would argue that the chef’s extraordinary skill plays a key role in Cioppino’s success. Renowned for his exceptionally light Italian-inspired dishes, including house-made pastas, the 2008 and 2014 Vancouver magazine Chef of the Year has long been garnering attention and acclaim as one of the city’s top culinary talents.

Posteraro believes that Vancouver’s small-town vibe and unparalleled access to local products make working in the city more fun, although he says that ultimately inspiration comes from within. Long list of accolades considered, Posteraro is still most proud at the end of a long night.“A successful evening with perfect food creations, great service and happy customers; that is what makes me happy,” he shares humbly.

You’d be hard pressed to find this award-winning chef without a smile from ear to ear. “How lucky am I to do what I love and never have to work a day in my life?”