Pizzeria Bufala

From the exterior, Pizzeria Bufala is aesthetically eye-catching. Impressively, the front window is half full of wine corks which raises the question, just how many are in there?

Indoors, the bright open space has a West Coast meets Italy feel with wood details and ledges filled with collections of olives and olive oil. The room features booths around the perimeter to cozy up in and two long communal centre tables with string lights overhead, conjuring up thoughts of dining outdoors on a warm night as you gather with a group of friends to feast, laugh and raise a glass.

James Iranzad and Josh Pape are the industrious business partners behind Bufala, which has been part of the community since 2014.

Their company Gooseneck Hospitality operates two other very distinct restaurants in Vancouver (Lucky Taco in Kitsilano and Wildebeest in Gastown). Next up to bat is Bells & Whistles, opening in September in East Vancouver’s Fraserhood district.

Commenting on his friendship with Josh, James says, “We met through the industry and clicked. We became fast friends.”

James’ excitement and passion for what he does is obvious. He mentions how fulfilling it is to operate a variety of unique restaurants and points out the creative element always keeps things interesting.

“With Bufala we wanted to offer something contemporary, something a little unexpected. The design brings a clean, fresh atmosphere. I love this corner restaurant with natural light overlooking the greenery of West Boulevard which is quintessential Kerrisdale,” James remarks.

As owners/operators they support the establishments from the business side. James describes them as, “Passionate eaters and passionate cooks at home.” James oversees operations (he admits to spending a lot of time on the phone), while Josh spends his time hands on at all of the restaurants. He was originally a bartender and worked at prestigious restaurants; he has earned numerous accolades including bartender of the year.

James and Josh both grew up in the Kerrisdale area. James says, “I always had a fantasy about opening a restaurant here and Kerrisdale has embraced Bufala.”

Bufala was born out of a passion for pizza and the belief that all communities need a gathering place.

Fresh, made from scratch pizzas in the traditional Napolitana style take centre stage. Blistered to perfection in an 800-degree stone oven, James describes the pizzas as “Not fussy. We let the ingredients speak for themselves.”

The menu rotates throughout the year but you can always count on finding a half a dozen classic pizzas and another six options with a contemporary twist. For example, on the summer menu sausage pairs with zucchini ribbons.

The twelve-inch pizzas slice into six pieces and share beautifully. Intended as a family experience, order a few and sample different tastes. “We encourage sharing. Pizza brings out the best in people. Everyone likes pizza,” James says with a smile.

Currently James’ favourite menu items are the Calabria pizza with spicy sausage, red peppers, garlic, manchego, and marinara. To top it off he likes to add white anchovies. He mentions the salads are also beautiful and he loves Bufala’s meatballs.

He and Josh like to support local growers. “Due to the unseasonal wet and late spring everything is late this year. Tomatoes will still be amazing in September and the Caprese salad is not to be missed,” James says. This highlight of September features buffalo milk mozarella, heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil and olive oil with flaky sea salt.

The wine and beer selection is excellent — we are so proud of it.

In addition to the food menu James points out Bufala’s beverage program is bar none. “Josh’s cocktail menu is amazing — he puts so much thought into it,” he says. Bufala serves beer brewed by friends in East Vancouver, so you can count on it being fresh and tasty. James adds, “We like to support our community. The wine list is equally well considered and is appropriate for the menu.”

Italian wines are the star attraction to marry with the Napolitana pizzas.

Patrons often visit once or twice a week. Some come from the neighbourhood, while others come from across Metro Vancouver to experience the restaurant that took home gold in Vancouver’s Magazine’s 27th Annual Restaurant Awards in the category of Best Pizzeria.

James concludes, “Kerrisdale has embraced our restaurant and it’s an honour we do not take for granted. We are happy to be part of the community.”

Pizzeria Bufala, 5395 West Boulevard, Vancouver BC, V6M 3W4, Telephone 604-267-7499

www.bufala.ca