As it turns out, some Tasting Victoria readers’ favourite food is Italian, according to a recent poll; and we couldn’t agree more! From mouth watering pastas to cheese dripping pizzas, there is a reason it’s a fan favourite. Therefore, here’s a list of some of our favourite Italian restaurants in the city!

Pagliacci's

Pagliacci's has been a staple fixture of Victoria’s food scene since it first opened its doors over 40 years ago. Its selection of pasta dishes is fantastic, from fettucini featuring crab lemon cream sauce and baby shrimp to butternut squash ravioli in a beet puree, there is an option for any pasta lover. Options from the grill are no less amazing, with veal chops being a particular highlight.

Address: 1011 Broad St., Victoria

Hours: Monday- Thursday, 11:30am-10pm; Friday and Saturday, 11:30am-11pm; Sunday, 10am-10pm

Instagram: @pagliaccisvic

Fiamo

Fiamo’s menu is a romantic take on traditional Italian cooking, with additional influences drawn from French, Spanish, and Mediterranean cuisines. Its cozy patio seating is the perfect place to enjoy a Sicilian pizza or chicken stuffed with prosciutto and ricotta. The restaurant also offers an international wine menu so that each dish has an impeccable counterpart.

Address: 515 Yates St, Victoria

Hours: Monday- Sunday, 4pm-1am

Instagram: @fiamovictoria

Prima Strada

Prima Strada has two locations in Victoria where you can enjoy their delicious Neapolitan pizza. Its wood-fired pizza comes in a variety of tasty combinations including pancetta and leek and Capicollo ham and Genoa salami. Finish off your meal with the housemade gelato and sorbetto.

Address: 1990 Fort St, Victoria; 230 Cook St, Victoria  

Hours: Wednesday- Sunday, 11:30am- 8pm; Wednesday-Sunday, 12-9pm

Instagram: @primastrada

Zambri’s

Zambri's describes its offerings as “Italian soul food.” This is certainly an apt characterization of the decadent dishes, which range from crispy pork shoulder to orecchiette with sausage and broccoli puree. Enjoy a classic cocktail with your food like a Venetian Spritz or an Amaretto Sour too—we sure do!

Address: 820 Yates St, Victoria

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 5-9pm; Friday-Saturday, 5-10pm

Instagram: @zambrisrestaurant