The Paprika Bistro, an Oak Bay institution since 1998 is no more, but owner Geoff Parker couldn’t be more excited.
That’s because he’s launching a new restaurant named Padella at the same Estevan Avenue location. Parker says that the new venture will do away with the stigma of being a special occasion, expensive fine dining restaurant.
“Even though we were working to change that over the past few years with Paprika, it’s been difficult to change the image. We needed a fresh start, with the sort of restaurant we’ve always wanted,” he said.
Parker says that in these economic times people still want great food but want to ensure that they’re getting value for their money. “We’re going to more of a traditional, fresh, Italian cuisine,” he said.
And fresh and healthy seems to be the order of the day for Padella. The new restaurant will support and feature produce from local organic farms as much as possible. Meat products will also be from local, free range cattle and will be hormone and antibiotic free. Similarly, seafood will be fresh and locally caught, and cheese will be high quality products made here on the Island.
“We plan to feature the best ingredients at an affordable price,” said Parker.
He is also excited to announce a new head chef for his renewed enterprise. “We are thrilled to have Jean-Paul Turions in the kitchen. His experience and knowledge is unsurpassed,” said Parker.
As always, Parker will be working the front of house and is looking forward to welcoming guests to what he’s certain will fast become a favourite dining experience.
Padella opens its doors to the public Nov. 7.