ABOUT US
Welcome to acquafarina, Vancouver’s Michelin Guide recommended fine-dining destinations in the heart of downtown. Here, we redefine Italian cuisine with old-world elegance and a modern twist, offering an exquisite culinary experience made to be remembered.
Paolo Cattaneo
chef de cuisine
Meet Paolo Cattaneo, the accomplished Chef de Cuisine at acquafarina in Vancouver. Hailing from Como, Italy, Paolo’s culinary journey started in the picturesque landscapes of his hometown. Trained in Como, he developed a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. Paolo’s career soared when he interned at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Italian Alps, immersing himself in the world of haute cuisine. London beckoned next, where he contributed his culinary expertise to the acclaimed Oblix in The Shard, expanding his culinary repertoire.
A pivotal moment in Paolo’s journey was his involvement in EXPO MILANO 2015, collaborating with global culinary visionaries. His lifelong passion for food, rooted in his childhood, continues to drive him to explore flavors worldwide. At the heart of Paolo’s work in hospitality is daily interaction with a diverse array of people. Each encounter is an opportunity to share stories, create lasting memories, and introduce guests to the rich tapestry of flavors he’s uncovered throughout his culinary journey.
As Chef de Cuisine at acquafarina, Paolo thrives in Vancouver’s vibrant culinary scene. Here, he seamlessly blends traditional Italian techniques with global inspirations, creating unforgettable dining experiences that reflect the city’s multicultural ambiance. Paolo Cattaneo, a culinary virtuoso with an unwavering passion, elevates the art of cuisine at acquafarina, captivating taste buds and hearts alike.
Barry Jackson
bar director
Barry Jackson began his hospitality career at just fifteen years old and since then has worked behind the wood at some of the top restaurants in Vancouver including Elisa, Blue Water and Gotham.
He begins his creations by first deciding which spirits he wants to play with, then carefully considers what the kitchen is using in an effort to craft cocktails that best reflect the seasons and spirit of the menu. It’s a system that has served him well; in his twenty years as a bartender he has created over 800 original cocktails (yes, he has them all written down) and he doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon, not when the team at acquafarina are so supportive of the out-of-the-box and unusual flavour combinations he develops.
Take for example his Division Bell cocktail inspired by the classic caprese salad, created with mezcal, tomato infused aperol, caffo maraschino liqueur and finished with lime and basil oil, an utterly unique take on a classic Italian dish, designed to be imbibed alongside the luxurious pizzas and pastas on the Acquafarina menu.
In fall seasons he’ll play with porcini mushroom infused gin, and on his off days you’ll find him wandering the aisles at the nearby T&T market in his constant pursuit of new and adventurous flavours and ingredients.
Barry Jackson
Operation Director
Caleb was born and raised in Vancouver BC. His passion for food started at a young age, cooking with Grandma and squeezing fresh juice with Grandpa. His passion for the hospitality industry grew as he got older starting in the kitchen at Umbertino’s at the young age of 13 working nights and weekends while in the hospitality career prep program in high school.
When Caleb turned 16 he joined the Spectra group that owned Milestones and started in the dish area and worked his way up to Sous Chef at 18 then Chef at 19. Caleb went on to help open new Milestones in Kirkland Washington, Whistler and West Vancouver. Caleb stepped away from restaurants for a few years, though still doing catering jobs on the side, and getting his real estate license.
The hospitality industry was always a priority and he joined Cactus Club Restaurants where he spent 10 years managing, developing and helping new store openings in Metro Vancouver and Toronto Ontario. He joined The Social Corner Group in June 2023 as the Director of Development.