A mild coastal climate makes for ideal growing conditions on Vancouver Island, and you can partake in the agricultural bounty at numerous restaurants in Victoria, B.C. Wild mushrooms, farm fresh eggs, sustainably caught seafood and grass-fed beef—locally sourced ingredients are the norm, not the exception. Whether you’re in town for a long vacation or just a quick trip, check out our recommendations for some of the best places to eat in Victoria, B.C. to sample the regional cuisine.
10 Acres Bistro
611 Courtney St.
Farm-to-table ingredients are on full display at 10 Acres Bistro, where much of the eggs, meat, organic vegetables and herbs are sourced from 10 Acres’ own farm on the North Saanich peninsula. The menu changes daily depending on the season and availability, but popular selections include prawn pasta with mushrooms and pesto, maple-glazed Chinook salmon and their signature rotisserie chicken.
CANOE Brewpub
450 Swift St.
One of the best Victoria restaurants for dinner and a view is . Grab a spot inside the historic 1894 building or out on the massive waterfront patio—it overlooks a private marina on the Inner Harbour—and settle in for a relaxing meal and a handcrafted beer. Nearby farmers and producers supply the meat, seafood and other goods used in all menu items, which range from tasty burgers and wings to flat breads and seasonal salads.
Nourish Kitchen and Cafe
225 Quebec St.
Vegans, vegetarians and health-conscious eaters wondering where to eat in Victoria, B.C., will want to add Nourish Kitchen and Cafe to their itinerary. Open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, the cozy restaurant—located in an 1889 heritage home—serves up nourishing foods made with farm fresh eggs, cashew cheese, raw beets, house-made bone broth and other healthful ingredients. Free Wi-Fi and an upstairs study area encourage diners to linger over a coffee, cocktail or tea.Read More
The Pink Bicycle
1008 Blanshard St.
Mouthwatering burgers are the main attraction at , a tiny lunch and dinner spot that gets rave reviews. In addition to the classic Pink Bike Cheese Burger (grass-fed beef topped with smoked cheddar and a special sauce), the self-proclaimed gourmet burger joint whips up interesting hand-held creations like BBQ bison burgers, spicy black bean burgers and wild Pacific salmon topped with maple syrup mayo. Don’t miss the poutine side dish—it’s only $5 during a weekday happy hour (2-5 p.m.).
Red Fish Blue Fish
1006 Wharf St.
You may need to wait in line for an hour (or more), but the fish ‘n’ chips are well worth it at Red Fish Blue Fish. The eatery—just a small quick-service counter in an upcycled shipping container—draws crowds for its fresh and sustainable fish ‘n’ chips made with tempura-battered cod, wild salmon or halibut as well as fish tacos and chowder. Seating is first-come, first-served at a long counter overlooking the harbor.
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Restaurant
308 Catherine St.
Popular with tourists and residents alike, Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Restaurant offers locally sourced pub grub in a scenic spot on the West Victoria waterfront. Choose from brick oven pizzas made with amber ale cheese, house-smoked pulled pork sandwiches, beer-battered halibut and chips, charcuterie tasting plates and wild Pacific fish cakes. More than two dozen beer taps showcase other regional ingredients; beers brewed on-site incorporate cold brew coffee, chocolate, sea salt and tea from Vancouver Island purveyors.
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