Our Story

Ristorante La Piola has been a neighbourhood secret since it opened in 2002, offering fresh, local ingredients in the tradition of seasonal Northern Italian cuisine. Ever since Executive Chef and Owner Cory Pelan took the helm in early September 2008, there has been a buzz of renewed energy, culminating in his eventual purchase of the restaurant from current owner Alberto Pozzolo (Italian Bakery) on January 1st, 2010.

Chef Cory Pelan has been a fixture of Victoria’s culinary scene for the past 7 years, having spent the first years of his career training in Vancouver and Whistler, BC. Most recently at Arbutus Ridge Golf and Country Club and previously a part of the opening team of The Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa, he is now thrilled to have made the move into his very own neighbourhood. He is also the Past President of The Island Chef's Collaborative.

Fresh, local, seasonal, sustainable, ethical.

Ristorante La Piola follows ethical industry practices including the use of sustainable food products, from the vegetables purchased from Island farms to Oceanwise fish species harvested exclusively from local waters. Kitchen waste is composted whenever possible, reducing La Piola’s landfill impact by up to 75%.

Chef Cory Pelan is President of The Island Chef's Collaborative and an avid supporter of local farmers and businesses. It is not unusual to see a local farmer or supplier stop by to drop off their freshly picked goods. The proximity of the restaurant to the farms along Blenkensop and in Saanich gives patrons a tangible connection to their local bounty.

We are proud to support the following local producers: