Carb loading near Davie and Howe

[moltmonster]

Hi Chowhounders. I have a friend coming in to do the first Half half marathon in February, and he's looking for a place for a decent pasta load up the night before. Any recommendations? I used to live in the West End, but it's been a few years. I'm guessing nothing too fancy (no Umberto's) but tasty and good quality.
Thanks for your help!

[moltmonster]

I knew I could count on you guys for inspiration. Kinnickinnik, you are wise - pre-race is NOT the time to experiment! I'll pass these suggestions along with a nod to the Vancouver Chowhounders as the source! Thanks!

[kinnickinnik]

You can get a cheap and cheerful pasta fix at the Basil Pasta Bar (Davie btwn Granville and Seymour)- nothing fancy but you can specify your own sauce, topping combos and it's all pretty fresh and tasty.

Pre-run isn't the time to experiment too much so the ability to create his own dish might appeal.
http://www.basilpastabar.com/menu.html

[farman]

Haven't been in years, but I seem to recall Cafe Luxy/Luxy Bistro used to have pretty big portions and wasn't too expensive.

[LotusRapper]

If a bit of travel is viable, go check out Anton's Pasta Bar on Hastings in Burnaby:

http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/14/180073...

And go get stuffed silly !

[grayelf]

Does it have to be Italian? There is an outpost of Peaceful at Davie and Seymourish that is chock full of noodles :-).

[LotusRapper]

And their famous beef/green onion pancake rolls:

http://www.granvilleonline.ca/food/best-chinese-restaurants-vancouver-richmond-burnaby

http://www.granvilleonline.ca/files/u...

[grayelf]

Or the potato roll for a double shot of carbs....

[LotusRapper]

Ok now I'm gettin' hungry !

[YVRChow]

Yes, Peaceful is a good option for noodles too. (Although I much prefer their location on Broadway near Cambie). I'd also recommend their cumin beef flatbread for more carbs. But the noodles are delicious, here are some shots for you to get an idea

[LotusRapper]

Use Google Map, and search "Italian", you get:

http://g.co/maps/8ez93

Your likely best "affordable" choice would be Bellagio Cafe in that area.