The people behind La Forchetta – which I give a narrow edge for the title of Burnaby’s best Italian restaurant (you can argue with me and I’ll listen) – did a frantic pivot to get in on the patio advantage by applying for and finally getting permission to add a patio – in their parking lot.
They also were probably the first restaurant in Burnaby to install plastic barriers to protect diners during the pandemic.
That’s how far their commitment has gone to survive and thrive.
Now, they have beefed up their menu with a dynamite dish that will keep me going back again and again.
Located in the Capitol Hill area of north Burnaby, La Forchetta is a fine dining restaurant that has pastas and pizzas, but with elegant features that just take the dishes to another level.
Take the appetizers. I often just order a few of them and then munch away without ordering an entrée because they so good. Like the burrata appy that comes with tomatoes so fresh they taste like they picked them off the vine five minutes before.
But it’s the latest dish that has rocked me. It’s the insalata di mare, which is a seafood salad that comes with loads of shrimp, calamari and more, plus more of those great tomatoes and arugula. Then they drizzle on a divine vinaigrette. Add some of their incredible bread and it’s the best salad you’ll find in Burnaby.
Imagine going through all of the bad times of the pandemic and still finding the energy to come up with new dishes.
La Forchetta has great desserts, like a toe-curling panna cotta but they have also added a dessert gnocchi that is another incredible innovation.
Look, we’ve all been through a lot with COVID-19. You deserve a great meal. This is one of them.
Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter @shinebox44.
