It's been in the works for a while, so an update is due: Vancouver restaurant group Gooseneck Hospitality is nearing the finish line with its planned River District locations of two of its concepts.
Hot on the heels of the announcement this week that Vancouver pub-style and Joey-sibling chain Local Public Eatery is opening this spring in the massive, growing development in the city's south riverside zone, Gooseneck confirms that pizza-centric spot Bufala (going in at 3489 Sawmil Cres) and casual taqueria Lucky Taco (at 8547 River District Crossing) should be welcoming its first diners later this spring or early this summer.
Bufala is Gooseneck's Italian concept with roots in its modest Kerrisdale location, and another somewhat flashier location that opened a couple of years back on the North Shore. Lucky Taco is their casual Mexican cantina currently operating a single location in Kitsilano.
“When we were looking at opening another Bufala and Lucky Taco in Metro Vancouver, the one major criteria was they had to be located in a friendly, family-oriented community, similar to their current locations, and certainly River District meets that and more,” says James Iranzad, Partner, Gooseneck Hospitality, in a media release.
Iranzad adds that both concepts will feature some unique offerings for their River District outposts.
Bufala's fare focuses on pizza, pasta and other Italian-style sides and mains. On the menu at Lucky Taco is an impressive roster of tacos alongside shareables like loaded tots (called Mexi Fries), nachos, and plenty of mezcal and tequila cocktails.
Gooseneck is no stranger to multi-unit ventures; sibling to Bufala and Lucky Taco is Bells & Whistles, the laid-back modern sports-themed hangout with locations on Fraser and Dunbar. The restaurant group has wrapped up a couple of other of its projects in recent years: Award-winning upscale Gastown spot Wildebeest and the short-lived cafe-grocer hybrid Oh Carolina.
Down at the River District, Bufala will occupy a 3,300-square-foot space with 80 indoor seats and ultimately 45 more on the planned patio. Lucky Taco, next door, is about a third of the size with 30 seats inside and 25 to come later on the patio. Local design firm Ste. Marie Studio is credited with both restaurant designs. For Bufala that means booth seating, an open kitchen, and large marble-topped bar. Lucky Taco will be bright and lively, with a mural in the works, and neon and greenery.
“Everything's coming together for both Bufala and Lucky Taco,” adds Iranzad. “We’re excited to unveil the two concepts in River District, and we look forward to welcoming everyone once we open soon.”
