IDENTITY SYSTEMS + VISUAL LANGUAGE
Dante Italian Sandwich became one of Vancouver’s fastest-growing restaurant brands, known for its bold visual identity, viral social presence, and delicious Italian sandwiches.
From its first location on Robson Street to rapid expansion on Commercial Drive and at Bentall Centre, Dante’s growth was driven by a strong, cohesive brand built to attract attention, earn loyalty, and scale.
I led the brand from the ground up, developing the logo, colour palette, visual language, and illustration system that shaped every touchpoint of the business. The core brand mark features a custom wordmark with a pillar in the “T” and a line illustration of a Vespa carrying an oversized Italian sandwich — playful, instantly recognizable symbols that set the tone for the entire identity.
Photo Credit: Rich Won
The brand system was extended across several pieces including:
• Packaging and sandwich wraps
• Clean and elegant takeout bags
• Business cards and merch
• Digital menu screens
• Interior graphics
• Illuminated exterior signage and awnings
• Window vinyl and storefront treatments
• A-frame sidewalk signage and hoarding
Every element was designed to feel authentically Italian, visually cohesive, and highly shareable to make Dante stand out on the street, online, and on social.
ENVIRONMENTAL + In-STORE DIGITAL
The digital menu screens were designed to showcase the food at its best — warm, inviting, and unmistakably Italian. Carefully styled photography and vibrant colours work together to communicate the quality and craft. These screens give Dante the vibe and consistency of a major brand without a large agency behind it.
WEBSiTE
I also designed and built the Dante website, extending the brand experience into digital and supporting ongoing growth, online visibility and ordering.
With strong reviews, consistent press attention, and a rapidly growing customer base, Dante has become a benchmark for modern restaurant branding in Vancouver.
Dante Italian Sandwich has been described in local press as bringing “a taste of Tuscany to downtown Vancouver,” with Tuscan-inspired sandwiches and an atmosphere rooted in authentic Italian character. Critics and local guides have noted the brand’s craft and traditional spirit.
“A taste of tuscany in downtown Vancouver”
— The Georgia Straight
— The Georgia Straight
Dante reflects my approach to brand building: thoughtful strategy, strong visual systems, and a willingness to do things differently. From identity to space, packaging, digital, and experience, every element was designed to feel considered, distinctive, and enjoyable.
