Prado (Gastown) Launch Party

A new Prado has opened up on  100 W. Hastings Street at Abbott Street in Gastown. I used to live on Commercial Drive myself, so I am familiar with Prado’s delicious coffee and community orientated space. I recall it being very busy in Commercial Drive, so I have no doubt it will take off in Gastown. I was invited to their Launch Party.

Sammy Piccolo and his team opened up the doors earlier this week. Piccolo, a long-time fixture within Vancouver’s coffee scene, has more than a decade of experience, having worked alongside his brothers to open and build up the Caffé Artigiano name before selling the business back in 2006.

Piccolo is a four-time World Barista Championship Finalist, first ever winner of Word Latte Art Championship, winner at the Coffee Fest Latte Art Championship, and four-time top-three placement for Canada at the World Barista Championships. With an impressive line-up clearly presenting his passion for coffee, it reflects in the construct and the design of the new Prado space which Piccolo pulled together. He sourced a mix of antique and playful pieces to help set the stage within a relatively modern-looking space punctuated by crisp white, turquoise and wood.

Catering was done by Tacomio next door! It was very delicious. I will have to stop by and review them. The ladies had to run next door and pick up their food: lots of passersby were heckling a few for their delicious food.

Their extensive coffee menu is made up of 49th Parallel Coffee specialty coffee and teas. They also have artisan sandwiches (coming soon), pastries and craft beer. Prado also has free wireless for the working type. I like sitting in cafes and doing work myself and the biggest draw to Prado is that there is an abundance of natural light, which I tend to not get enough of in this city.

I would like to thank Danica Jeffery who invited me to this wonderful event!

Depicted is the Grilled Cheese. Sourdough, medium aged cheddar, fresh mozzarella and asiago, this disappeared off the table as soon as it was set down.

This sandwich is “The Lana”. Cranberry bread, brie, honey caraway butter, pear and arugula, it’s hearty but the pear helps liven the palate with its sweet bite infused with the honey and brie.

The Prosciutto is sourdough bread, manchego, tomato and caramelized onion jam and arugula. A perfect hearty sandwich for those who are hungry!

I have no doubt Prado will be a hit.