End of an Era for Vancouver's Italian Dining Scene
A beloved fixture of Vancouver's culinary landscape is preparing to serve its final meals. The Poor Italian Ristorante, which has operated for 16 years at its prominent East First Avenue location, will close permanently following dinner service on December 21, 2025.
The restaurant made the emotional announcement this week, marking the end of a significant chapter for the Hastings-Sunrise neighborhood establishment. Located at 3298 E 1st Avenue at the corner of First and Rupert Street, the distinctive eatery has long stood out in an area dominated by gas stations and parking lots.
Community Impact and Closure Details
In their official statement, the restaurant team expressed deep gratitude to the community that supported them through more than a decade and a half of operation. "We've shared so many special moments with our guests and are profoundly thankful to everyone who has made Poor Italian Ristorante part of their lives," the announcement read.
While the closure announcement didn't specify reasons, evidence points to broader changes in the neighborhood. A rezoning application displayed at the building address received approval from Vancouver City Council on October 22, 2024. The approved development plans call for 63 secured rental units alongside commercial space at street level, signaling the transformation of the area.
Broader Restaurant Industry Challenges
The Poor Italian Ristorante joins several other Vancouver eateries that have shuttered or announced planned closures this year. The local hospitality sector continues facing significant headwinds as operational costs rise and customer traffic patterns change.
Earlier this summer, Ian Tostenson, president and CEO of the B.C. Restaurant and Food services Association (BCRFA), highlighted the severe financial pressures facing the industry. He noted that approximately half of restaurants in the province were either losing money or barely breaking even.
In their farewell message, the Poor Italian team issued a poignant call to action, urging Vancouver residents to actively support small, independent restaurants in their communities while they still can.
The restaurant will remain open until its December closure date, operating Thursday through Sunday for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with Friday lunch service available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
