While the holiday season has come to a close, local food banks including the Greater Vancouver Food Bank continue supporting 8,500 people each week across the Lower Mainland. Communities including Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, and the North Shore rely on donations provided by the food bank. Located in the heart of Gastown, the iconic Water Street Cafe is a local favourite. A community staple for more than 30 years, the restaurant is no stranger to challenge and adaptation. Despite the impact of Covid-19, Water Street Cafe continues giving back to the community.
½ Price Pasta to Support the Vancouver Food Bank
From January 1 to January 21, Water St. Cafe guests can enjoy 50% off pasta in exchange for a non-perishable food donation to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. We visited the Water Street Cafe for a rainy weekend lunch and were delighted with the welcoming dining room with its bright view of the neighbourhood. Wall-to-wall windows provide every table with an open view of historic Gastown.
Covid-19 Safety
Covid-19 safety measures are clear, supported by staff and tasteful. When we entered the restaurant, we were delighted to meet Eli Brennan, the restaurant host and owner. Masks are required for entry, and guests are invited to use hand sanitizer prior to joining the dining room. Covid-19 safety protocol is clearly communicated through tasteful signage. Separate doors are used for entry and exit, while washrooms are equipped with soap for handwashing and hand sanitizer for safety. The floors are marked with directional arrows while tables are socially distanced with clear barriers enhancing safety without compromising the aesthetic of the restaurant.
Sipping Sunshine
Mimosas were on special for $5 during our weekend visit, a regular feature for Saturdays and Sundays. The cocktail was well balanced with refreshing and pulpy orange juice.
The Wine List at Water St. Cafe allows BC vineyards to shine, particularly from the Okanagan Valley. On-site options include classic varietals and blends from Canadian and international vintners.
Savouring Artfully Seasoned Pasta At Water Street Cafe
All pasta listed on the Water St. Cafe menu is available at ½ price during this promotion.
Morning Carbonara
Morning Carbonara was beautifully seasoned with rich, briny flavour from start to finish. Prepared with guanciale (Italian cured meat product prepared from pork jowl or cheeks), free run egg yolks, parmesan and scallions, the carbonara is topped with one whole egg; crack the yolk to add another visual and flavour dimension to the spaghetti.
Rigatoni with Italian Sausage
Locally prepared Italian sausage, roasted fennel, plum tomato and cracked chillies are the heart of this light and savory dish. Rigatoni provides a satisfying al dente snap with each bite, and fresh basil brightens the dish even further. The flavour of this sauce remained with me for the rest of the day.
Meatballs & Pappardelle
Luscious pasta served with dense meatballs handmade with pork, beef, and veal, this dish is a savory symphony of comfort and luxury. Rich tomato sauce accompanied with parmesan, fresh basil and cracked pepper complement the pasta and meatballs, providing a hearty meal light enough for lunch or a satisfying dinner.
Breakfast Poutine At Water Street Cafe
You cannot miss this dish! Gnocchi is a house specialty at Water Street Cafe; imagine poutine made with fresh, crispy house-made gnocchi, sausage mushroom gravy, cheese curds, green onion and a fried egg. The rich gravy is incredibly light and delicious, particularly when paired with light potato gnocchi pillows.
Overall Impressions
Water St. Cafe is a beautiful and comfortable space to enjoy downtown culture with a taste of classic Italian flavours. Each dish provides a satisfying portion, but I would suggest sharing family-style to experience the diversity of each dish. Support the Greater Vancouver Food Bank while enjoying a generous discount on fresh pasta in a safe and beautiful environment at the Water Street Cafe.
Address Of Water St. Cafe:
Water St. Cafe, 300 Water Street, Vancouver, BC Canada, 606 689-2832, waterstreetcafe.ca
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