Vera Pizzeria is a new face in South Osborne, and although they’ve only been slinging ‘za since Dec. 8, they’re generating a steady stream of interest. The Italian casual dining spot specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza as well as classic and contemporary versions of Italian cuisine. 

Vera’s goal of providing customers with an authentic Italian experience is reflected in its name: In Italian, Vera means true.

The entrance to this cozy restaurant is right beside the kitchen, offering a peek into the preparation process as soon as you walk in the door. We are promptly welcomed by the host/server and invited to choose a table. 

Vera has the feeling of a small house, with the restaurant on one half, the kitchen on the other. Each table is lit with a candle, and the large window that spans the front of the restaurant is adorned with white Christmas lights. 

Seven small wooden tables are paired with benches and chairs, each seating parties of 2-4. Local woodworker Ben Borley contributed his skills, a small detail that mixes a bit of Winnipeg distinction into the pizzeria’s appeal.

The combination of these warm lighting elements, the lightly finished wood, and modern black aluminum pot lights make Vera feel fresh yet comfortable. But while the atmosphere and quality service are definitely important, the biggest attraction of Vera is the food. 

Favourites include the Polpette al Forno appetizer: four San Marzano tomato braised meatballs with parmesan, herb and bread. I ordered our server’s favourite pizza, the Rucola E Prosciutto, which is prepared with prosciutto, tomato, parmesan, fior di latte and fresh arugula. This thin crust pizza is a tasty and light meal, and the fresh arugula provides a beautiful finishing touch.

For dessert, a Buttermilk Panna Cotta topped with nut brittle, satisfyingly sweet with a pudding-like texture. It was so tasty that I ordered a second one.

Meals are reasonably priced, with pizzas ranging between $11-16, and appetizers and desserts priced from $5-10. The delicious selections are quite minimal, limited to pizzas (of course), and one appetizer, salad, and dessert. The sparse menu reflects their motto: “Keep it simple, stupid.”

The beer list runs one entry longer than the wine list and is subtitled cheekily. Standard Lager makes the cut, but is described simply as “frugality.” While simple, they don’t skimp on the soda offerings either and feature a few flavours of Fentimans, San Pellegrino and Brio.

Vera’s location and unique decor could also help it rise in popularity. The washroom decor is particularly intriguing, with psychedelic wallpaper that reminded me of Alice in Wonderland.

While the restaurant is only open for dinner, Vera is conveniently located near the Park Theatre, offering the perfect opportunity to combine dinner with a show.

Published in Volume 69, Number 17 of The Uniter (January 21, 2015)