Craving a taste of Italy?
Look no further than +39 Pizza Pasta Bar, a Calgary restaurant serving up fresh, local ingredients in a welcoming ambiance.
+39 Pizza Pasta Bar
Chef Angelo Contrada is a well-known (and loved) Italian expat who’s been feeding Calgarians for decades. We caught up with him last month to learn more about his latest venture, +39 Pizza Pasta Bar, founded with Tony and John Nicastro.
Having owned and operated a handful of Italian eateries in Calgary, he says he finds simple joys in gardening with his dad, cooking in his kitchen and mentoring young adults.
“I love the kitchen, it’s where I feel peace. I love seeing people eat my food, making them happy and teaching kids how to cook,” he says.
Contrada’s new restaurant is connected by a new hallway to a grocery store with a cafe. “Customers can buy their coffee and pastries next door and wander over to sit down. At 3 p.m., the café closes and +39 opens,” he says.
The concept came together quickly and he envisions the outdoor patio will come alive this spring with a TV for sports aficionados and a fireplace to chase the chill. Live music started last month making +39 a destination with no cover charge to enjoy local tunes with a cocktail or glass of wine. The menu is approachable and simple with salads, antipasti, pastas and pizzas. Many of his previous team members have returned to work with him including Chef Matt Sprouse who crafts his magic making the pizzas.
+39 Pizza Pasta Bar | 2220A Centre St. N.E. | 403.276.2030 | 39pizza.ca
