The Cowichan Valley is famous for its beautiful landscapes, rich agricultural heritage, and a growing food scene in British Columbia. Among the gems in this area are a variety of excellent pizza restaurants offering wood-fired and artisanal pizzas that showcase local ingredients and flavours. If you’re a pizza lover exploring the Cowichan Valley, you’re in luck! Below, we begin exploring the 4 best Cowichan Valley pizza restaurants, each offering a unique and delicious experience.
Pizzeria Prima Strada – Cobble Hill
First on our list of exploring the 4 best Cowichan Valley pizza restaurants and located in the charming community of Cobble Hill, Pizzeria Prima Strada is a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts seeking authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Known for their unwavering commitment to the traditional methods of pizza making, Prima Strada stands out for its use of imported Italian ingredients and the time-honoured technique of cooking pizza in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant’s cozy and welcoming atmosphere creates an ideal spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
The pizzas at Prima Strada feature a thin, slightly chewy crust with the classic charred bubbles that are characteristic of Neapolitan pizza. Popular menu items include the classic Margherita, made with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil, as well as the Capricciosa Verde, topped with basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and red onion. The restaurant also provides a selection of antipasti, salads, and desserts to complement the pizza offerings.
Pizzeria Prima Strada’s commitment to quality extends beyond just the ingredients; the pizzas are handmade with care and baked to perfection in a traditional wood-fired oven. Whether you’re a local or a visitor passing through, this pizza spot is a Cowichan Valley favourite that consistently delivers on flavour, authenticity, and experience.
Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market – Cowichan Valley
If you’re seeking a truly rustic pizza experience in the Cowichan Valley, Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market should be at the top of your list. Located near Cowichan Bay, this pizzeria specializes in handmade wood-fired pizzas that are cooked to perfection in a traditional oven. What makes Stoked stand out is its commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, which adds a unique Cowichan Valley twist to its pizzas.
The pizzas at Stoked are known for their perfect balance of crispy crust and flavorful toppings. The Spicy Pepperoni pizza is a crowd favourite, offering just the right amount of heat combined with rich cheese and fresh tomato sauce. Another popular option is the Margherita, which showcases the simplicity of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes. Each pizza is crafted with care, and the result is a delicious, mouthwatering meal that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
Stoked offers a casual, laid-back dining experience with outdoor seating that lets you soak in the natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley while enjoying your meal. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and their commitment to creating a positive dining experience is clear. Whether you’re dining on-site or taking your pizza to one of the nearby parks, Stoked delivers a fantastic pizza experience that embodies the spirit of the valley. Well worth the drive, Stoked makes our list of exploring the 4 best Cowichan Valley pizza restaurants.
True Love Pizza – Salt Spring Island
A short ferry ride from the Cowichan Valley, True Love Pizza on Salt Spring Island is worth the trip for any pizza lover. Known for its artisan wood-fired pizzas and organic sourdough crust, True Love Pizza has developed a loyal following thanks to its dedication to quality and flavour. The restaurant’s sourdough crust is fermented for 24 hours, resulting in a deliciously chewy yet crispy texture that is the perfect base for a variety of toppings.
True Love Pizza emphasizes using organic, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. This commitment to fresh, seasonal produce is evident in every bite of their pizzas, from the Royale with Cheese, featuring puttanesca sauce, black olives, anchovies, and Grana Padano, to their rotating seasonal specials that change based on what’s available from local farms. Gluten-sensitive diners will also appreciate the gluten-friendly options, although it’s important to note that these pizzas are not fully gluten-free.
True Love Pizza offers a unique blend of creative toppings and traditional pizza-making techniques, making it a standout in the region. The restaurant’s cozy, casual atmosphere reflects the laid-back vibe of Salt Spring Island, and its focus on community and sustainability only adds to its charm. For those willing to venture off the mainland, True Love Pizza is an essential stop.
Moo’s Pizza – Lake Cowichan
Located in the heart of Lake Cowichan, Moo’s Pizza has become a loved spot by locals and visitors. Known for its hearty and satisfying pizzas, Moo’s offers a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, from classic pizza lovers to those who prefer more creative, gourmet options
What sets Moo’s apart from other pizza restaurants in the Cowichan Valley is its focus on generous portions and value. Whether you’re indulging in their Moo’s Meat Lovers pizza, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, and bacon, or enjoying the fresh flavours of the Veggie Delight, you’ll find that Moo’s doesn’t skimp on toppings. The pizzas here are known for their flavours, hearty crusts, and commitment to using high-quality ingredients.
In addition to their signature pizzas, Moo’s offers a relaxed, friendly dining atmosphere that invites guests to kick back and enjoy their meal. The casual setting makes Moo’s the perfect place for a post-hike meal or a family dinner out. With its welcoming vibe and reputation for great service, Moo’s Pizza is a can’t-miss stop for pizza lovers exploring the Cowichan Valley.
Cowichan Valley Pizza Restaurants Summary
There you have it, our list of exploring the 4 best Cowichan Valley pizza restaurants. The Cowichan Valley and its surrounding areas are home to some of the best pizza restaurants on Vancouver Island. From the traditional Neapolitan-style pies at Pizzeria Prima Strada in Cobble Hill to the hearty, generously-topped pizzas at Moo’s Pizza in Lake Cowichan, there’s something to satisfy every pizza craving. Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria brings a rustic charm with its wood-fired offerings and commitment to local ingredients, while True Love Pizza on Salt Spring Island delivers artisanal sourdough pizzas that are as creative as they are delicious.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these Cowichan Valley pizza restaurants are sure to impress with their dedication to quality, flavour, and hospitality. Each spot offers a unique take on the classic pizza, ensuring that your culinary adventure through the valley is both satisfying and memorable. So, the next time you’re in the Cowichan Valley, be sure to treat yourself to a slice (or two) from one of these top pizza spots.
Ready to explore more of the Cowichan Valley and beyond? Contact Vivid Tours today to plan your next unforgettable adventure!
