Catching Up With Chef Ryan Zuvich of Nanaimo’s Lastella Trattoria
Our restaurant is a lively casual Italian shop set in the Old City Quarter of Nanaimo. Hand made everything is our general model. While it’s a casual place our food philosophy and ultimately our style is ingredient driven, traditional method with a conservative modern touch.
Where do you eat in your city?
Nanaimo is blossoming as a food town, we’ve seen some serious growth in the past 10 years. Our current favourites are the Milton Street Public House & The Mahle House but there are more keen shops opening all the time.
What would be your ideal food day?
I’d love to say a day spent in some European hub eating everything in site but really time is precious and any day spent with my family eating as fortunately well as we do is pretty ideal.
What ingredient do you always have on hand?
Good olive oil, good salt, fantastic pickles, fresh vegetablesGood olive oil, good salt, fantastic pickles.
What’s your go-to recipe when you’re eating at home?
Lately it’s been roast chicken and vegetables. It’s easy to put together and provides a few leftover dinners/lunches. Soups, sandwiches, pastas, all in all super versatile.
What cookbook would you suggest for a gift for your foodie friends this year?
Nomas guide to fermentation; I have that on my wish list this year.
Any hints on what dish you will be preparing for the Great Kitchen Party?
We’ll be smoking some delicious things and also deep frying delicious things!
Who is coming with you?
One of the great things about this event is how it inspires everyone. Last year we saw our team come together with ideas and passion, this year is no different. Our entire kitchen team is coming and Mr. Kalen Harris of Shatterbox Coffee in Victoria, of course.
