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Nook
Categories: Restaurants Italian Restaurants Pizza Italian, Pizza
781 Denman StreetVancouver, BC V6G
Neighbourhood: West End
(604) 568-4554
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
65 reviews for Nook
Review Highlights
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"Great gnocchi and thin crust pizza." In 3 reviews -
"...really enjoyed both the white bean olive tapenade crostini..." In 5 reviews -
"...salamis, olives, crostini with chicken liver and white bean..." In 4 reviews
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65 reviews in English
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Review from Diana L.
My friend and I ordered 2 out of 4 of the specials. This was my first visit, and I automatically fell in love with the atmosphere and decor of the restaurant. It is small and cozy. l love the casual feel with great food. We had a burrata sample plate and a gorgonzola, rapini thin crust pizza. The pizza was spectacular. The flavours were out of this world.
One thing I found super cool about this place was that it give free pizza to the folks waiting in line. How nice is that? It makes you look forward to waiting in line ;). -
Review from Deniz T.
4/9/2012
Nook is above all pretentiousness. They are not drown in technicalities or rules and regulations of Mediterranean cuisine like other places. Some of them are so proud of their flour, oven, olive oil, canned tomatoes that they forget the heart and soul of this style of cooking is strong, tip top seasoning for it is very as is. In this town usually rustic and simple translates as messy, over the top and/or bland. How do I know, I cook for life and lived in the Mediterranean for the first 25 years of my life.
Nook's dishes are substantial, simple, well seasoned ( to be honest, I have not tried their pastas) and reasonable. Their pizzas are remarkable yet very casual. Very decent tomato sauce, fresh toppings, superior crust to anything in this city of that caliber. Their appetizers and specials are always good. Last but not least you can get a soft cooked eggs on your pizza if requested. Absolutely one of my favorite toppings... Tear a little crust and smother the yolks around... Mmmmm...
I will be back, like tonight.Listed in: My top Vancity Eatries
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Review from Yvonne C.
Vancouver, BC
3/29/2012
The fact that patrons have to use a sign-in board is quite frustrating; it is my first time here and it was so busy that I didn't notice there is an unspoken system to put your name down on the board, let alone get to the board and figure out the ordering from the mess of names there. Of course other patrons are regulars and will not bother to let you know that you have to sign in.
Fresh pizza slices were offered to the waiting patrons though, so it was quite thoughtful of them. But the server didn't tell me clearly to sign in even when I asked if I need to put my name down; she said someone, "brad", will take my name, or at least that's what I heard over the loud music and chattering. You have to put your name down yourself, which reads from left to right, btw.
Why do some restaurants insist on making their patrons fight over who can be seated first themselves? It's a confusing and unfair system to new patrons that favors regulars. I was unfamiliar with the system and wrote my. I wrote my name down on the wrong sign of the board and was scolded by "brad".
Two stars, so far, before trying the food....
'k I had the Orechiette and it was just ok, so 3 stars overall. -
Review from Veggie Girl M.
Vancouver, BC
5/23/2012
5 stars says it all.
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Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
3/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
Nook was solidly ok, and I would definitely go back, but I couldn't help but think dreamily of Campagnolo as I ate the orecchiette. It was a little on the bland side, and my mum was similarly underwhelmed by her puttanesca.
The space is cute, and the service was good - but nothing wowed me. And I like being wowed! Maybe next time, Nook. -
Review from Jennifer L.
Vancouver, BC
1/15/2012
Really REALLY good margherita and the burrata pizza.. The service was friendly and efficient as well. I really like how the server was so cool with the fact that i kept changing my mind (because I know how annoying I can be!)
but nonetheless, we ordered just enough food for five people (3 pizzas and 2 pastas!)
The orrecchiette was too delish! And rigatoni was bomb too!! I would recommend this place over Nicli (also very good!!) but I prefer the crust, the cozy atmosphere and overall great service! -
Review from Hikaru N.
Vancouver, BC
4/14/2012
Nook is a well hidden little Italian restaurant on Denman. If one if not aware of Nook, it would be very easy to overlook between the many fast food places on or near this block of Denman. The menu is a little bit different as you do not have the traditional selections, and I preferred it that way. I cannot complain about the food, as it was quite good, but the portions were small. If the portions were bigger, I would give this 4 or 5 stars for sure. The other major drawback like all the other popular Vancouver restaurants is the dreaded waiting line. Beware of this if you cannot go right after they open around 5PM.
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Review from S C.
1/10/2012
Well came to this cute spot in Vancouver by reference of the valet guy from the hotel we were staying at. Finding the restaurant was ok but fitting inside of it not that great. It's small and cozy but once the croud gets there not that charming. Was told by our server about this lovely appetizer with bread. ..antipasto...and prosciutto and when delivered only two slices and we were four people.
Then the pizza special ($18) for the day was brought to us with salami...sausage...mmmm but not enough for four so another one was ordered.
But he is the sad part with one soda a beer and two drinks...over $100 and still hungry! No going back unless I am on my own and with some money to through away! -
Review from John P.
3/20/2012
BELLISIMO!
We went in on a whim and were delighted on all fronts. We sat at the bar enjoyed the relaxed engaging service. The barman (sorry I don't remember his name) is a man of many of many talents. He is responsible for the wine list and when I asked for a full bodied fruit forward wine he delivered the perfect taste. He also makes the antipasto very expertly at the bar.
We were with our 11 year old son who had a great time as well. A kid of simple tastes, he ordered a cheese pizza with no elaboration needed. Score!
We ordered a pizza with proscuitto and arugula. This was made with great care and, yes loving attention by the kitchen as we watched. It was simple and delicious.
We ate, drank and a enjoyed. We shall return. -
Review from Scott P.
7/13/2011
Back in San Francisco where I left my food heart, I have been missing an amazing pizza joint called Pizzeria Delfina. Almost anyone who knows thin crust pizza in SF knows this place.
Last night I had the best experience at Nook. I was brought back to San Francisco as soon as I had my first bite. The crust was perfect and the sausage, sweet onion combo was outstanding! We had a hard time figuring out the starter so our barman suggested the special. It was the most amazing, creamy, light Burrata cheese with prosciutto, sweet cherry tomatoes,basil and some amazing olive oil. All this to top your freely grilled bread on the panini press. Really amazing!
Something else that really impressed me was the way they took care of the people waiting to get a seat. It is a small place and of course the demand is great for a seat. One of the staff brought out a pizza Margarita and gave the guests who were waiting a snack. This added touch makes Nook my favourite nook.
I am a huge fan and when my permanent residence is Vancouver this fall I will be a regular customer at Nook. Go see for yourself or at the very least call ahead for takeout and walk up to the beach, grab a bottle of wine at Denman Spirits and enjoy a sunset.
P.S
One more star if it wasn't so loud! -
Review from Ellie I.
Vancouver, BC
4/2/2012
It's a good, solid restaurant when you can get a table but it's not so extraordinary or unique that I'd wait for a seat. This is not a "destination restaurant" but I'll call it a really good neighbourhood restaurant. Fresh, tasty, simple Italian food.
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Review from Anthony C.
Vancouver, BC
While I was out walking with my friend, and fellow Yelper, Kevin, we passed by Nook and its unusually sparse dining area. Apparently, waiting for a table at Nook is nothing short of ordinary so seizing the moment, we walked in and grabbed what we've affectionately dubbed "The Nook at Nook".
I don't know about y'all but when I've been out walking around Stanley Park and start to feel my blood sugar drop like it's hot, I'm not thinking of prosciutto, cheese and oil drenched carbohydrates. Really, all I wanted that day was a bowl of Corn Flakes and some Mini-Eggs; but I am a man of simple tastes and an ever expanding waist line. Thankfully, Kevin was there to convince me that Nook was one of the best restaurants Vancouver has to offer.
I won't leave you hanging so here is my verdict (as if the four stars didn't already give it away): I LOVED IT.
What was I even thinking when I doubted the prospect of prosciutto, cheese and oil drenched carbohydrates? I love carbs. I love when things are drenched. I freaking love oil. Our pizza and bruschetta combo was amazing and the atmosphere was fantastic seated in the Nook. People watching is always more fun when you feel like you're forced into it. As far as service goes, I didn't have any problems with it but then again we chanced to walk in during a slow period. Sure, I felt bad for the suckers standing at the door watching me sip my water in slower/fewer increments but I couldn't help but enjoy myself. When I have an inkling of power, you will bow to my whims.
If you're going to Nook, aim for the window Nook. Honestly, I don't mean to use the same word over and over because that drives me crazy and I feel like I'm slowly tearing my English degree apart...BUT it is the best descriptor for the restaurant. Were we sat at a different table, I think I still would have enjoyed the experience because the food is quite amazing, but having our own private...Nook...(sigh)...really made this dining excursion stand out for me.
See, I can eat at places other than McDonald's. -
Review from Valentina C.
Vancouver, BC
1/11/2012
Pizza & starters were good, pasta not really, didn't have much flavour and the lasagna was cold inside, but I was happy about the pizza...
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Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
Watching my ricotta, roasted pepper, tomato pizza come together on a thin crust and then flamed in their wood burning oven was a most pleasant want to enjoy a late dinner. The intensity of the flavours that emerged were as brilliant as the flames emerging from the 500+ degree oven. One pizza was decent to share for a light meal (3 thin slices each). Had we been starving, I would have also ordered a salad. And afterward, we capped off the evening with an affogato, cooling off our jacked up mouths and giving us that much desired (even if unnecessary) late night java kick.
So why 3? Service. Sure, it was pleasant, but we were welcomed at the front door, then forgotten til we found our own way to the back of the not-so-busy space. Then, after sharing the dessert list with us, but not taking an order, our server disappeared, well actually she just was preoccupied with cutlery rolls, while the rest of the staff ate. Meanwhile we looked to get someone's attention and finally when we were about to snap our fingers to hopefully hail our cheque we snagged the attention of a passing by staffer. Happy for the affogato, but my impatience wore down as thin as the crust of our za by then. -
Review from Steven S.
1/29/2011
In a city which treats the glorious thing that is pizza in the way walmart treats fashion, Nook is a refuge. Having lived most of my life in NYC and spending way too much time in Italy if that statement can even be a bad thing, I know and love pizza. When I moved here I was gastrically traumatized by the state of the simple pie. Then I found nook.
The Pizza's are as this is written probably the best in BC.The space is nice, small and very very friendly. The staff is great and not robotic cookie cutters.
If you love good pie or have never experienced good pie, Nook will ruin pretty much every other pizza you will eat in the YVR,Listed in: The Duvets of Comfort Food
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Review from Crystal D.
Vancouver, BC
2/12/2011
YUM! We ate at Nook for the first time tonight and it was delicious!! I really enjoyed both the white bean olive tapenade crostini and the prosciutto, arugula and roasted garlic pizza. Mmm this Italian approves of their tomato sauce, olive oil and prosciutto :)
I can't believe this restaurant is in my neighbourhood and I'm just learning about it today! I love finding smaller, family run restaurants with reasonable prices and good food.
It was extremely busy too. We only had to wait about 20 minutes but there was a lineup out the door the entire time we were there. It was good to see that most were regular customers, as they'd just walk in and put their name up on the board like they'd been there before. Thank goodness, or else we might not have known what to do to secure a table ;)
I'd definitely go back! -
Review from Jeff K.
Vancouver, BC
11/15/2011
This place is God's gift to taste buds. The pizzas are gourmet and on the pricey side but worth it. The staff were impeccably nice and go out of their way to make your experience enjoyable.
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Review from Suiki S.
Vancouver, BC
3/23/2011
Food - 4 stars
Ambiance - 3 1/2 stars
Décor - 3 1/2 stars
Service - 3 stars
Value - 4 stars
Nook is located on the corner of Robson and Denman st in Vancouver - It's a cozy little neighbour pizzeria that serves the BEST Prosciutto pizza in town. The Décor is inspired by the modern classic Euro diner - a 12 -seated bar lined with chrome barstools with red upholstery and cream- tiled walls and floors. Surrounded by low lit lighting and Reggae/rock music, the atmosphere is very intimate and relaxing.
Their menu is simple offering salads, crostini, antipastos and 6 types of pastas and pizzas. Nook offers great value with nothing over $17 on their dinner menu. The star of the show here is certainly their Pizzas.
For Dinner - We had
Burrata and Prosciutto Crostini - This particular crostini was a daily special feature - it was divine and heavenly - their burrata is one of the best I had in Vancouver - soft and buttery. They have 3 regular selection of Crostini on their menu: chicken liver, white bean and ricotta. The table next to us mentioned the chicken liver is quite lovely too.
Spaghetti Bolognese $15 - Pasta noodle was not made in house. Sauce
was not full bodied nor flavourful.
Prosciutto Pizza $17 - Loaded with tons of roasted garlic and arugula - Simply to die for - Crust was done perfectly - thin and crispy. -
Review from Valerie J.
Vancouver, BC
1/7/2011
We were setting at the bar because it was very busy!
And it was awesome to sit there! The bartender was doing some appetizer and it was nice to see it! I know what I will take next time!!!
For this time, we had a pizza and tiramisu and pinacotta! I can tell it was Very delicious! It is the first time I ate a tiramisu like this in Vancouver! The best in town!
So I'm looking forward to come back to try something else!
I recommend it!! -
Review from Melissa E.
Vancouver, BC
2/10/2011
Whoa! Amazing Italian in Vancouver? Say whoat?
Indeed, i've been here three times now and every time i've brought new people and no one has ever been anything but ecstatic. I am a bit of a snob when it comes to Italian cause I make a mean thin crust pizza myself so if I'm going to eat out, it better be good.
This place has not let me down.
Admittedly I have never had the pasta but I've seen it and smelled it and it seemed freakin awesome. I've usually had the special appis and pizzas so can't remember what they were called other than...AWESOME! Thin crust, really fresh ingredients so you can actually taste the food and not only the cheese.
The last time we were there we sat at the bar (all good things happen at the bar) and ended up spending a good 6h chatting, drinking and eating with the bartender and 3 new friends. Hilarious.
This is one of my top restaurants in Van...and for me, that is saying a lot. -
Review from Sunny S.
Vancouver, BC
12/26/2010
I am becoming a bigger fan of intimate restaurants with warm atmospheres whom serve simple yet mouth watering creations. If you happen to be in the mood for one, I suggest Nook, nestled on Denman Street just off of Robson. They do not take reservations therefore suggesting that you try to get there before 7 pm. I would also suggest going in with 3 other friends so you can share several dishes in one sitting.
You definitely need to try one of their homemade pizzas, (after tasting one, you may want to take one to go). Don't forget to check out the "Specials" chalk board. I ended up having the "Burrata on Toasted Bread" which was to die for and "Fresh Fig (from a farm in Langley) paired with Prosciutto". I rounded out the rest of my meal with the "Gnocchi with Baby Meatballs", and "Spaghetti Bolognese". I was so stuffed, you had to roll me out. -
Review from Ami S.
Vancouver, BC
12/7/2011
Nook is my favourite restaurant! It's beautiful decor, friendly staff and delectable food make me a regular at this place. The food is always fresh and delicious. There usually is a wait to get in Thursday - Saturday, but it's worth it. I like to sit at the bar as the bartenders make the cristini's and serve wine at the same time. It's always a really fun atmosphere. I've been going since it has opened and have seen it grow. It's a wonderful spot in the West End.
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Review from Hipstamatic Foodie B.
Vancouver, BC
11/10/2011
A lovely and cozy place in the West End. If you are a lover of Italian cuisine then add this to your to-do list. Their appetizers are AMAZING. The burrata is to die for! Will cost as much as your main course, but trust me, you have never put something so heavenly into your mouth. Great atmosphere, very relaxed and chill. Be prepared for a line up, this a popular place!
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Review from Dan R.
2/16/2011
Tasty Italian food at reasonable prices in BC? Yes!
The restaurant itself was small but had an inviting yet attractive decor. As a beer drinker, I appreciated that they had a small selection of Italian beers on the menu in addition to their wines.
The food itself turned out to be delicious on all accounts. I had a pizza, which is less like the big American style and more trendy with fewer but more flavorful toppings with a thin, chewy crust and very little tomato sauce. The salads were well proportioned and appetizers were all a great deal- they aren't afraid to feed you like a real Italian family but still manage not to go overboard with their serving sizes.
Nook comes in where Vancouver seems to fall short on occasion. It's great food, a great atmosphere in a great location... and affordable! -
Review from Richard M.
3/21/2011
Sat at the bar and enjoyed some tasty antipasto before dinner. The salamis, olives, crostini with chicken liver and white bean tapenade were all great.
Started dinner at the table with a great pizza margherita and prosciutto, arugula and roasted garlic pizza. Both pie's were thin crust and crunchy.
After a few more drinks we were ready to depart, fully satisfied and extremely full. -
Review from Kyle S.
Vancouver, BC
11/17/2010
Terrific little neighbourhood place. Nice retro-European interior design by architect Scott Cohen. Just the right size to create a friendly, boisterous vibe. Great staff who always remember you if you choose to become a regular. Can't be beat.
(Note: they don't take reservations, so lineups are inevitable on weekends. Best to go early or on a Tuesday night!) -
Review from Russel M.
8/4/2010
After a few recommendations we decided to try Nook last night. No wait and front window was nice. Then a taste of the $17- a glass wine before ordering a bottle, a no go. We decided to stick to water instead of reddish colored water for $70- a bottle.
The Service was fine but the food was only ok. We ordered:
Margarita Pizza
Meatballs
Salad
2 different Pastas
No dessert
Total 110- with tip. I'd rather pay a little more and go to CinCin anyday. -
Review from Daniella E.
Vancouver, BC
8/31/2010
The atmosphere is fun.. the service is fantastic. It's small and can get a little warm with the exposed kitchen. The place has a great feel all in all. And that's where my cheering for the Nook stops.
If your on a date or with a buddy and your looking for a place with a good vibe for a glass of wine and mediocre attempt at an italian meal.. sure go here. But the food alone speaks nothing to me but bland and boring. The Chicken Liver Crostini was good with a drizzle of a nice olive oil. That was out first dish so I thought we were off to a good start.
Then the disappointing entrees came.. soggy Procuitto Pizza and tasteless Pasta Bolognese. I had to ask for salt, pepper, balsamic, cheese and olive oil to give the dish the slightest bit of flare... or basic flavor. The meat and cheese on the pizza was ok.. tho the most integral parts being the crust and the sauce were not even close to Italian standards. I left all my crust on the plate. I think I was just eating the Procuitto by the end of it.
Still I had a good time based on the rockin' service and high energy atmosphere... I just came down from my Italian high horse and had another glass of wine with my handsome date. -
Review from Q B.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 1/12/2011
Went here again and took my gf.
Had the burrata duo again.
Was awesome just like the first time.
The pizza is one of the best I've had in Vancouver. (Serious pie is still better though)
The pasta dishes were a bit better at La Quercia but I still love this place.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/9/2010
Nice small restaurant. Their food is quite subtle tasting (not as punchy as I would have liked) but… Read more »
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Review from David F.
Vancouver, BC
8/27/2009
First of all, the pizza is first rate. Great crust and lovely flavour. Definitely one of the best pizza's in Vancouver. Sadly, it was my wife who had the pizza (well, she did share it with me), but I had the pasta.
It was the orechietti with sausage, fennel, rapini and chili. Sounded good because I like fennel, but whoops, they've run out of fennel. Okay, can I have a little of that nice roasted garlic instead? No. Okay then, I'll take it as it comes, sans fennel.
Of the more reasonably priced wines served by the glass (under $10 a glass) two were not available. That actually left only one wine. Okay, so short on wine and short on fennel. Big deal, what's the food TASTE like?
Already said the pizza was great, but sadly, the pasta was a disaster. Horribly over salted (and this coming from a person who likes salt) and a big pool of water at the bottom of the dish. It wasn't inedible because I was hungry, but really, I should have sent it back. I just had a horribly salty taste for the rest of the night and the wateryness was just not nice.
Maybe I had bad luck, but that was my experience. The pasta was really bad, but the pizza was great, although it was also on the salty side, but not so much of a problem (honestly, I'm not obsessed with salt!)
Service was interesting. Kind of aggressive in a friendly way. Like when they were out of fennel, no apology or offer to adjust, just 'that's the way it is, so what?' Kind of attitude.
Nook is obviously using quality ingredients and they take their food seriously, but they need work. Good, reasonably priced Italian is not so common in Vancouver so I hope this place improves. Having said that, it isn't actually that cheap. Single pizza or pasta for $16 each. Starters at $10 and $12. Limited menu. No green salad. I'm not saying it's expensive, but it's not cheap and the lowest price glass of wine is $8.50, if they have it. -
Review from Angela M.
Vancouver, BC
8/23/2010
There are many pro's about this place. I love the setting, I love Brad the waiter, he knows his stuff and is full of helpful suggestions. A guy who seems to go the extra mile for you. I have eaten here at least 6 times.
I must preface my comments with the following caveat - I am Italian.
As far as appetizers go I adore the Gorgonzola Crustini. The Caprese while complete with all the requisite toppings was bland. Not enough seasoning to bring it all together.
We were a table of three and all had pasta dishes. I have now eaten ALL of the pasta and can tell you there is but one worth ordering, not including daily specials. It is the sun dried tomato with cream.
The Putanesca was overwhelmingly seasoned with anchovy. It was the worst I have ever eaten. It simply did not taste good and I regretted ordering it from the first bite.
Many of the pasta dishes are way too salty. I simply don't get this. The explanation from the waitress, or perhaps justification, is that the meats added are high in salt and thus provide the saltiness. I don't see why that can't be adjusted. It makes for an unpleasant dish and the need for much water later on. As I mentioned earlier I have had pasta there on all 6 of my visits and this is a theme you can't escape.
The pizza, which I have not ordered but had a slice of, tasted good.
This seems to be a restaurant that needs to change the menu and address some basics. I do love this place but am bored of the menu and fed up with the same issue which clearly is not viewed as a problem internally (over salted food). -
Review from Judy H.
Vancouver, BC
8/3/2009
After positive reviews in the paper and thumbs up by a couple of friends, I was excited to check out Nook, a relative newcomer to the West End. How disappointing.
It was a hot summer night, and there's no ventilation inside the restaurant. It's like a sauna in there -- we walked in, and almost walked right out. If it weren't for the fact that a table for two was available right away, we probably would have left. Maybe we should have.
We ordered the chicken liver with capers crostini ($6) which was just ok. It was basically pate, and I like pate, but I was expecting chicken livers -- something a little bit different from pate smeared on toast. Capers were fried beyond recognition or taste.
When the caprese (buffalo mozzarella and tomatoes & basil, $10) arrived, we nearly gasped. The portion was so small, given the price -- maybe 5 cherry-size tomatoes sliced in half, with a chunk of cheese. It tasted okay, but not worth $10.
When the pancetta (and... I can't remember) pizza ($15) arrived, we actually gasped out loud because nearly half of the pizza's surface was charred black. We looked up at the waitress, and asked in disbelief, "is it supposed to be this burned?" She sheepishly answered yes, but offered to do it again if we didn't like it. Uh huh.
When she took it back to the man-in-charge-of-pizza (not the owner-chef) standing no more than 10 feet away, he angrily tossed the whole pie into the trash. It took another 15 minutes for the replacement to arrive, and though not charred on top, the bottom was still severely burnt black. I don't know -- crispy is one thing, but why would I pay money to eat soot?
The pancetta was super salty, as pancetta can be, but there was nothing else on the pizza to offset or balance the saltiness. It was almost inedible, but we were so hungry by then. In short, the pizza was a disaster.
In conclusion. Strike 1: I was fanning my face with the menu the whole time because it was so unbearably hot in there. Strike 2: The Caprese is a ripoff. Strike 3. When the table next to us cleared, a waitress used a scented chemical-smelling cleaning spray and a rag to wipe it down, and we had to sit for the rest of the evening smelling Pinesol-like fumes. Strike 4. They had the audacity to serve us a $15 pizza that should have gone into the trash to begin with.
So nope. We're not going back. Probably ever. -
Review from Simon V.
8/7/2010
Nook had been on my list of places to try for a little while, and the other day my friend and I decided to give it a go after a day at the beach. Nook's a pretty casual joint, but we were wearing beach attire and we definitely brought the place down a bit. Despite this, the staff was very welcoming and friendly.
We ordered a pasta with chorizo and a prosciutto/arugula pizza, and were blown away by both! The pasta was perfectly cooked. The pizza pretty much melted in the mouth. The ingredients were simple but tasty (and not too salty). Definitely some of the best italian food we've ever had, and the price was more than right. Highly recommended. -
Review from Erin M.
Vancouver, BC
7/23/2010
A friend who recently moved to Vancouver from Italy raved about Nook as the best quality-for-price value, and we recently went with a large group (8 people).
I enjoyed the margherita pizza, and a small nibble of a creamy penne with wild mushrooms. Wasn't as fond of the escarole salad.
Service was so-so. The waitress took the order for one-third of the table, then walked away when the rest weren't immediately ready to order. Made it seem like it was a hassle to bring drinks. -
Review from Erika S.
Vancouver, BC
10/17/2010
This little restaurant is great!
The decor is truly inspired by an Italian cafe and has not strayed back into a North American version of this.
The pizza is the best I have had in a long time.
If the service was a bit more attentive I would give them 5 out of 5.
e -
Review from Andrew O.
11/17/2010
Tasty, cozy little Italian spot surrounded by Asian restaurants. Started with the roasted fennel and mozz salad, tasty but spiked with some very strong olives. For the main course we had the pasta special, a spinach ravioli in tomato sauce. Ravioli were a bit under-stuffed in my opinion, but everything tasted very fresh, the sauce was quite zesty. For dessert we had a tiramisu which was delicious and light.
Overall I enjoyed the meal but thought it was pretty pricey ($60 for 1 salad, 1 main, 1 dessert and 2 glasses of wine). Then again, I'm a tourist and don't know what a 'deal' is here. -
Review from Gale L.
Vancouver, BC
7/28/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Nicely done! Kind of homey and very tasty. Yep I like it.
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Review from John A.
Vancouver, BC
4/1/2011
One of my 3 go-to places! LOVES the rigatoni boscaiolo (rich, roasted garlic-y flavour bomb!!) Proscuitto and Arugula pizza is perfect every time, and the service is really lovely and personal, without being "too much". Woo-hoo! For Nook! Also guy behind the bar is a lovely fella who really seems to like what he does.
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Review from Ardis H.
Vancouver, BC
1/20/2012
Worth a visit!. I just moved into the neighborhood and was looking for a low key italian restaurant with good thin crust pizzas - and I've found it! My first visit I tried the Margherita, which was good, although I would have preferred a bit more basil and the crust was good, but not great. On my second visit, I tried the prosciutto with arugula and roasted garlic. This time the crust was perfect and the toppings were excellent...high quality prosciutto, fresh arugula and that lovely roasted garlic! Maybe not a pizza to chow down on prior to engaging in close conversation with non-garlic lovers...but in every other situation, a winning selection! The staff is friendly, the wine list while limited has some real gems, and the interior is small, but pleasantly situated. The prices were reasonable for the pizzas, the burrata and other appetizers seem a bit spendy for the contents. I'd love them to offer a few more salad varieties...but all in all, I shall return!
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Review from caroline l.
Vancouver, BC
9/23/2010
From the team that brought us the recently closed and long-time downtown community hot spot Tapastree brings us Nook, a neighborhood gem that focuses on fresh local products and simplicity. Nook, a cozy restaurant is quickly gaining a rep for being a new local hotspot known for their simple and affordable menu. They have a short and simple menu and wine list so don't come in expecting a culinary smorgasboard, like truffle infused, red wine reduced...
I had the orecchiette pasta $17 with Italian sausage, fennel, rapini and chilies. A simple but well done dish, the pasta was cooked andante, the way I like it. My friend had the spaghetti with Bolognese sauce, tomato based sauce with beef. Both dishes could have used a little less salt but, the pasta was not swimming in a pool of oil as seen at many other Italian restaurants. I give them extra points for their noticeable effort in the quality of the ingredients.
As compared to the growing list of Italian restaurants popping up through Downtown Vancouver, Italian Kitchen, Trattoria Kitchen, Cibo Trattoria Restaurant is comparable, not only in the quality of the food but, also the value. The pasta dishes at Nook range at $14 -$17 versus Italian Kitchen at $16-$18.
