GREATER VICTORIA’S DINING FIELD GUIDE SUMMER/FALL 2016
COMPLETE DINING DIRECTORY RATING SYSTEM
FEATURE RESTAURANTS
5
A Field Guide for Your Appetite
CAN DO
28
Nourish the community
DINING DIRECTORY
32
Everything Victoria Has to Offer
DEAR READER, Each year, I get so excited about TASTE MAG! It’s thrilling to work with the amazing people and establishments that make Victoria so mouthwatering; it’s a lot of hard work too but when I gaze down at this glossy cover and think about the great relationships I’ve formed and the amazing food I’ve eaten, I feel truly honoured to be able to do what I do. This year is no exception.
Publisher Patricia Jones Publisher: Patricia Jones Writer: Jessica Archibald Art Director: Mark McDermott Graphic Designer: Leah McCrone Photography: Rebecca Wellman Research: Robert Sassade a kiss media group solution www.kissmediagroup.com Copyright 2016 by Kiss Media Group Ltd. No part of this publication may be duplicated or reproduced in any manner without the prior written permission of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. However, the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions.
For all advertising and distribution inquiries: tel: 250.900.5538 email: info@kissmediagroup.com
Chef Marcelo Najarro proudly heads up the 10 Acres Kitchen l Commons team after cooking at some of the finest hotel kitchens in El Salvador followed by Blue Water in Vancouver.
On the Cover
10 Acres Farm raised pork with organically grown baby carrots, hakurei turnips, asparagus and edible flowers.
Essentially, we’ve taken the guesswork out of eating out, whether you’re packing a picnic, enjoying a romantic evening or grabbing some tapas with your friends. It’s too easy ending up at the same old places eating the same old things. TASTE makes it easy to try something new!
WHAT’S INSIDE? Our feature restaurant profiles from PAGES 5-27 give you everything at a glance – the scene, menu highlights, bragging rights… Looking for lighter fare? Maybe an early morning perk or an after dinner espresso? Look no further than PAGE 45 for Victoria’s amazing café scene and all it has to offer, from lunch to art to live music. The Capital’s mixologists are as intriguing as the places they work. Hit PAGE 43, a tongue-in-cheek guide to the varying species of Victoria Bartender. For a similar giggle, PAGES 46-48 breaks down the Victoria drink scene by category. Indispensable as always is the locals-driven directory spanning PAGES 32-42 – an interactive resource where you can source your destinations, rate your experiences, and scribble in the margins ‘til your heart’s content. And last but not least, learn about CAN DO, the inspiration behind our new menu blog, PAGES 28-31.
GO EXPLORE!
Cheers, Patricia Jones Publisher
tastemagazine.ca TasteMag
The issue you’re holding is by far the best iteration of this publication to date. We’ve evolved and the results are really exciting! We still bring you the best Victoria’s restaurant scene has to offer, whether you’re hell bent on a beer and burger or lusting for oysters and Prosecco. But this season’s issue is also your field guide – because let’s face it, in a city with almost more restaurants than residences, you’ll need one!
_TASTEMAG_ tastemag 2
Join Us HIGH TEA Wednesday - Sunday 11am - 7pm
309 Belleville Street Victoria 250-381-3456
HUNTINGDONMANOR.COM @huntingdonhotel
THIS IS
TASTE Victoria – renowned for its friendly folk, temperate climate and world-class restaurants. But British Columbia’s capital is also one of the most edible cities in the country, from artisanal offerings, oceanic catches and homegrown produce and livestock, to the best craft beers this side of Portland. Victoria is all about local sustainability. That’s why it tastes like nowhere else.
What to expect: Looking for ocean-inspired dining? Find the freshest seafood at The Docks. Attention sushi lovers! Try Ebizo, Koto, Sen Zushi and Shiki Sushi for all the maki, nigiri and sashimi your little heart desires. Xiang Rui has perfected the delicate art of authentic Chinese cuisine but if you’re looking for the fresh taste of Southeast Asia, look no further than Sabhai Thai. Looking for something fresh from the farm? Head to 10 Acres. They are easy to find as they are both in the same location in the heart of the inner harbour. Hankering for somewhere to hangout? Pop into Milestones and Willie’s Bakery & Café for the perfect patio experience or feast with the whole family at Old 4
Spaghetti Factory. The Keg is your go-to for everything steak while Heron Rock Bistro and Fire + Water Chophouse are the perfect places for casual dining in a top-notch atmosphere. Looking for that authentic Pacific North West vibe? Check out Table 21, Lure and Mo:Lé. If you’d prefer to take a bite out of Britain, ‘ave a butchers at The Guild Freehouse and Haultain Fish and Chips. Vous avez faim? Waltz your way to a European experience at Veneto, Restaurant Matisse and newest kid on the block, Saveur.
HAPPY EATING! IS YOUR MOUTH WATERING? TURN THE PAGE TO DISCOVER MORE!
10 ACRES BISTRO | KITCHEN | COMMONS
FARM TO TABLE MAINS: $10 - $19 ADDRESS: Bistro: 611 Courtney Street Commons: 620 Humboldt Street Kitchen: 614 Humboldt Street HOURS: Bistro: 12pm-12am (Sun-Thurs) 11am-1am (Fri-Sat) Kitchen: 5pm-11pm Everyday Commons: 11:30am-1am (Mon-Sat) 12pm-12am (Sun) PHONE: Bistro: 250.220.8008 Kitchen: 250.385.4512 Commons: 250.940.0735 ON THE WEB: 10acres.ca 10AcresBistro
THE SCENE
Charcuterie Board
The hub of all things fresh from the local land and waters, 10 Acres offers up a pretty literal interpretation of farm-to-table: they own the farm! They even take FRESH to the decor with three newlyrenovated venues to choose from to satisfy your moods or cravings. You can enjoy some fresh air and fresh food in the euro-styled Bistro, relax while having a exquisitely prepared seasonal dinner in The Kitchen, or meet up for classic cocktails, local beers, & daily menu delights at The Commons.
KITCHEN MENU HIGHLIGHTS • The chef designed menu draws inspiration from their farm produce & livestock, along with locally grown ingredients & Vancouver Island seafood.
Death by Chocolate
• Try small plate specialties including Freshly Shucked Oysters, House-made Sushi Rolls, or Grilled BC Octopus with a white bean salad, chorizo vinaigrette, and black olive purée. • Sensational seafood dishes include: Salt Spring Island mussels in white wine, butter, and garlic sauce, with frites. Or, enjoy Our Farm Pork Chop with späetzle, braised red cabbage, roasted golden beets, and zucchini. • In the mood for a great steak? Their hand-cut choices include tenderloin, & dry-aged striploin served with bordelaise sauce, vegetables from 10 Acres farm, & gruyere-gratin potatoes or frites.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Vancouver Island’s Premier Seafood Destination for over 20 years. Passionately committed to supporting locally grown, sustainable ingredients and sourcing from like minded farmers, food purveyors + fishermen. Late night drink specials, DJs or Live Music 7 nights a week.
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SUSHI BAR PRICE RANGE: $1.95 - $16.95 ADDRESS: 604 Broughton Street
EBIZO JAPANESE RESTAURANT
HOURS: 11:30 am - 1:45 pm (Lunch Tues - Sat) 5 pm - 8:45 pm (Dinner Tues - Sun) PHONE: 250.383.3234
Ebizo-Japanese-Restaurant-LTD
“...a locals’ favourite...” Assorted Sashimi
THE SCENE A cozy, authentic Japanese atmosphere makes the Ebizo experience memorable for lunch or dinner. And with 40 dining room seats and an 8-seat bar, there’s always a comfortable corner whether you’re looking for an afternoon or intimate evening in front of the 46” flat screen TV. Feel like lying low? Ebizo offers an outstanding take-out menu as well!
MENU HIGHLIGHTS: • Experience favourite starters such as Vegetable Tempura, Albacore Tuna Tataki, Venison Tataki and Smoked Duck. Deluxe Assorted Sushi
• Sashimi classics include Tuna, Salmon and Octopus, while Sashimi Donburi offerings feature Tekka Don, Ikura Don, Chirashi, and Unagi Don. • Enjoy all the Nigiri you can wave your chopsticks at! Tamago, Tako, Tobiko, Inari, Ebi, Hamachi, Ahi, Unagi, Uni… it’s all here. • Sushi combinations come in Roll & Cone dishes, the Ebizo Combination or the decadent Deluxe Assorted Sushi plate. Don’t miss the house specialty, the Ricky Roll, a medley of prawn tempura, tuna, salmon and avocado. Lunch and dinner options from Bento Box Specials to New York Steak Teriyaki.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
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Ebizo Japanese Restaurant has been one of Victoria’s most popular sushi bars for over 14 years. Conveniently located between the city’s tourist-oriented Government Street and the commercial hub of Douglas Street, it’s no wonder that this locals’ favourite enjoys such a diverse and colourful clientele.
FIRE & WATER FISH AND CHOP HOUSE
WESTCOAST APPETIZERS: $9 - $16 MAINS: $16 - $29 ADDRESS: 728 Humboldt Street HOURS: 6:30 am - 11 pm PHONE: 250.480.3800 ON THE WEB: marriottvictoria.com
marriottvictoria
THE SCENE
Asian Steak Salad
One of the coziest hotel restaurants in Victoria, this room exudes warmth and comfort while being one of the coolest kids on the block. Their big, bright patio is the perfect place to gather friends to enjoy a pint of local ale or house-made sangria, while the warmth of the indoor fireplace provides the perfect setting to imbibe. Chef Neil and his culinary team always impress, delivering fresh and seasonal offerings that put a whole new spin on West Coast dining.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Exceptional Breakfast Buffet everyday that boosts Omelet,
French toast, and Waffle stations along with all of your favourites. Juices, Coffee and Tea included, too!
Fisherman’s Pot
• Dive into the Pacific Seafood Tasting Platter with rock crab and citrus cilantro aioli, candied salmon, smoked Albacore tuna and creamy tartar sauce. • Tasty Pulled Korean BBQ Bison Short Ribs with a delightfully sweet & sticky BBQ sauce, hosin sesame butter, asian slaw and jalapeno corn bread. Or try everyone’s favourite, the Sesame-Crusted Wild BC Salmon!
• For Dessert, indulge in the must have house-made flourless Chocolate Cake with salted caramel & Rosemary creme anglaise.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Newly appointed Executive Chef, Neil Antolin, grew up in a family of chefs who ran their own successful catering business in Wales. He then honed his craft in Vancouver, Bermuda, and Whistler before settling on Vancouver Island. Chef is as passionate about Victoria as he is about food and drink.
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PUBS APPETIZERS: $5 - $14 MAINS: $16 - $28
THE GUILD FREEHOUSE
ADDRESS: 1250 Wharf Street HOURS: 3 pm - midnight (Mon - Thurs) 3 pm - late (Friday) 9 am - late (Saturday) 9 am - midnight (Sunday) PHONE: 250.385.3474 ON THE WEB: theguildfreehouse.com theguildfreehouse @GuildFreehouse @theguildfreehouse
Local Seafood
THE SCENE Step through the doors of this 1880s heritage building and enjoy elegance at it’s most comfortable. Pop in during Happy Hour and share the Guild’s passion for local microbrews. If you’re famished, you’ll find mouth-watering West Coast twists on British cuisine. From sausages to sauerkraut and beef pies to seafood specials, at the Guild, it’s all about locally sourced, in-house made food. Cheers!
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Enjoy dishes that will send you to the heart of London like
Scotch Egg & Classic Fish Pie
Fish & Chips with mushy peas, Beef, Mushroom & Stout Pie or Cumberland Beer and Cheese Sausages with mashed potatoes and hazelnut brown butter. • Get cozy with a steaming bowl of Split Pea & Ham Soup. • Savour local seafood specials that are second to none like
Smoked Albacore Tuna Nicoise, Smoked Salmon or the ever impressive Fresh Catch features. • For dessert, treat yourself to The Guild’s take on a definitive
British sweet: Sticky Toffee Pudding with coconut ice cream. • A draught list that boasts over 100 local craft beers is in rotation
so you’ll always be able to try something new plus the amazing flights menu allows you to sample the best of the bar.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
From exclusive microbrews and small batch bourbons to Chef Sam’s local, elevated take on fine British fare and the comfortable ambiance of The Guild - this restaurant is the definition of ‘craft’. 8
HAULTAIN FISH & CHIPS
FISH & CHIPS MAINS: $10 - $20 ADDRESS: 1127 Haultain Street HOURS: 11:30 am - 7:30 pm (Tues - Sat) PHONE: 250.383.8332 ON THE WEB: haultainfishandchips.com
HaultainFishAndChipsCafe
“...the most heavenly fish & chips ever.” THE SCENE
Appetizers
Week after week, year after year, residents and non-residents of Victoria return to Haultain for the familiar faces, cozy atmosphere and delicious batter made fresh daily by owner and Chef, Mary Schmidt. A traditional old English recipe combined with the freshest and finest fish is served up with potatoes that were peeled and cut into tasty fries that day. Cozy up in a booth and enjoy the most heavenly fish & chips ever.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Everything on the menu is made fresh daily with traditional recipes including the delicious coleslaw and zingy tartar sauce. • Let your appetite and your taste buds choose from either Halibut or Cod served up with generous sides of French fries or homemade coleslaw.
“The Special”
• If you love the home cooking but aren’t in the mood for fish & chips, try another menu item like a Prawn, Oyster, Scallop or Calamari plate or a variety of Seafood Burgers. • Wanting take-out? No problem. Unwrap the family favourite at home and see the ear-wide grins form over the whole gang. You can always change it up by adding some homemade Perogies, Chicken Strips, or Popcorn Scallops.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Victoria residents have been dependent on Haultain Fish & Chips for their legendary lightly battered fresh fish with homemade tartar sauce and traditional fries since 1924. Nestled in a residential neighbourhood, Haultain is a short drive from the Inner Harbour and has been voted Victoria’s favourite fish & chips for years.
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BISTRO MAINS: $13 - $28 ADDRESS: 4 - 435 Simcoe Street
HERON ROCK BISTRO
HOURS: Breakfast & Lunch 9am - 4pm (Mon - Fri) Dinner 4pm - 10pm (Everyday) Weekend Brunch 8:30am - 4pm PHONE: 250.383.1545 ON THE WEB: heronrockbistro.ca heronrockbistro @heronrockbistro
Snapper & Bacon Po ‘Boy
THE SCENE Only a short walk from Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour, Heron Rock is a bistro in every sense of the word. Whether stopping in for a morning coffee, an afternoon drink from their extensive beer and wine list, or an evening meal, this establishment is one place that locals and visitors alike can emphatically agree upon.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Heron Rock Bistro’s menu is French inspired cuisine, heavily influenced by the regional bounty of Vancouver Island.
• Try the famous Hollandaise from Heaven served 7 days a Triple Eggs Benedict
week until 4pm or the Poutine made with cheese curds, gravy and hand-cut Kennebec potato French fries.
• Experience Heron Rock’s signature dishes including
the Chicken & Avocado Salad with free-run egg, cherry tomatoes and Stilton vinaigrette, or the SaltSpring Island Mussels & Fries: one of many dishes featuring fresh West Coast seafood.
• Cowichan Bay Chicken & Dumplings (pictured above) featuring local naturally raised birds and homemade manchego cheese & semolina dumplings.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
10 10
Tucked away in the historic little neighbourhood of James Bay is the Heron Rock Bistro - a city staple that, for ten years, has not only offered excellent food but great Live Music Monday, Friday & Saturday featuring blues, gypsy jazz, funk and soul.
THE KEG STEAKHOUSE + BAR
STEAK & SEAFOOD MAINS: $14 - $45 ADDRESS: 500 Fort Street 3940 Quadra Street (Saanich) HOURS (FORT STREET): Dining Room: 4:30 pm - 11 pm Bar: Sun-Thurs 4:30 pm - 11 pm Fri-Sat 4:30 pm - midnight HOURS (SAANICH): Open from 4:30 pm daily PHONE: 250.386.7789 250.479.1651 (Saanich) ON THE WEB: kegsteakhouse.com thekegsteakhouseandbar @TheKeg @thekegsteakhouse
THE SCENE
Keg Size Caesar
Quality, comfort and value are the three key ingredients that make The Keg Steakhouse + Bar experience unlike any other. When it comes to steak, The Keg serves only the finest cuts, aged for tenderness and seasoned with a very special blend that lends a unique flavour. For those looking for a lighter touch, The Keg’s bar menu has everything from signature cocktails to casual plates. For a great night out, look no further than the Victoria Kegs.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • The Keg menu features tender, juicy steaks, slow-roasted Prime Rib, succulent seafood, irresistible desserts and of course, an outstanding wine list.
• Evenings begin with appetizers including Shrimp Cocktail,
Tuna Tartare
Mushrooms Neptune, Tuna Tartare, Baked Brie and Crab Cakes.
• Enjoy a Keg Classic Dinner – your choice of Sirloin (Top or
Teriyaki), Prime Rib, New York or Filet, all served with a Caesar or Wedge Salad, vegetables, mushrooms and your choice of potato. Seafood lovers will enjoy a variety of catches including Salmon, Black Cod, Alaskan King Crab and Atlantic Lobster.
• Poultry choices include our Thai Chicken, Bacon Wrapped
Chicken and Supreme Chicken with succulent BBQ pork back ribs.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar has been serving great steaks to its guests for over 40 years. Quality has been a cornerstone of the Keg’s success since the first restaurant opened in Vancouver in 1971. The Keg is focused on providing exceptional service and quality food in a comfortable atmosphere for its guests.
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WEST COAST APPETIZERS: $6 - $16 MAINS: $16 - $29
LURE RESTAURANT & BAR
ADDRESS: 100 Harbour Road HOURS: 6:30 am - 11 pm (Sun - Thurs) 6:30 am - 1 am (Fri - Sat) PHONE: 250.360.5873 ON THE WEB: lurevictoria.com LureVictoria @LUREvictoria @lurevictoria Duck Breast
THE SCENE Victoria’s Hottest Patio is back! Chef Dan Bain and Restaurant GM Randy Burla continue to create that “Lively, Fresh, Local” experience with the launch of their new summer menus. The summer menus really say fresh - exactly what you crave while sipping your favourite cocktail on a sun-soaked patio. Sunday Afternoon Patio Parties featuring local DJs are the perfect spot to chill out after trying out LURE’s incredible Weekend Brunch Menu. LURE features an amazing selection of local bites for sharing, along with full meal culinary favourites, cool cocktails and local craft beer. LURE is that place to be seen, that place where locals hang out all year round!
Wild Pacific Salmon
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Wake up to the Weekend Brunch “Dungeness Crab + Scallion Fritters” with poached eggs, charred leek & dill cream, and organic local greens.
• Share a bite with friends off the All Day Menu. Small plates feature a variety of mouth-watering dishes. • Enjoy lunch and dinner favourites like Phillips Battered Halibut & Fries, House Pulled Pork on a Brioche Bun or Pacific Wild Salmon with buttermilk and dill, tomato relish, confit potatoes and local vegetables.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
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Welcome to Victoria’s Hottest Patio, offering the most incredible views of the Inner Harbour. Your experience at LURE is a perfect combination of awesome food, the right atmosphere and the right people. What are you waiting for?
MILESTONES RESTAURANT
CASUAL EATING ROOM MAIN COURSES: $14 - $28 ADDRESS: 812 Wharf Street SUMMER HOURS: 11 am - 10 pm (Mon - Thurs) 11 am - 11 pm (Friday) 10 am - 11 pm (Saturday) 10 am - 9:30 pm (Sunday) PHONE: 250.381.2244 ON THE WEB: milestonesrestaurants.com
milestonesrestaurants @milestonesca
THE SCENE
Grilled Seafood Salad
Delicious food, a roof top patio and ocean-side deck are just a few of the enticing qualities of Milestones in the heart of Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Wherever you’re seated you’ll feel like you’ve just entered the metropolis of Victoria as you take in the funky atmosphere and flurry of ocean-side activities like a docking boat, beautiful sunset, or a fire juggling busker pedaling his unicycle.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Bright spring food, cool summer salads, savoury autumn
soups, and warm winter dishes will gently remind you of the current seasonal fare.
• Milestones has a selection of veggie options like Butternut Squash Ravioli and Tomato Basil Brown Rice Spaghettini.
Milestones’ Original Signature Bellini
• Discover a drink list filled with unique and flavourful cocktails for you and your friends to try. Some notables are the Original Signature Milestones’ Bellini or our Caramel Apple Martini and the well priced regional and imported wines.
• Never miss out on Milestones award-winning brunch as it’s offered up to 4pm daily.
• Milestones has created an exclusive Gluten-Free menu with a selection of our delicious appetizers, entrées and desserts.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Exceptional guest service complemented by a menu inspired by the freshest and finest ingredients is what you’ll find here. Relax and experience one of Milestones renowned mixed drinks in an oversized martini glass and dishes influenced by ingredients from around the world.
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CASUAL EATING ROOM APPETIZERS: $2 - $6 MAINS: $9 - $15
MO:LÉ RESTAURANT ALL DAY BRUNCH
ADDRESS: 554 Pandora Avenue HOURS: 8 am - 3 pm (Mon - Fri) 8 am - 4 pm (weekend brunch) PHONE: 250.385.6653 ON THE WEB: molerestaurant.ca
MoLé-Restaurant @molerestaurant
Polenta and Eggs
THE SCENE A decade later, Mo:Lé is still nailing it; their elevated West Coast brunch is legendary. With the exposed brick interior, local art pieces and incredibly attentive, loving service, it’s no wonder customers keep coming back for more. Located between Market Square and Chinatown, this Victoria institution is all about spreading love.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Vegans, celiac and meat-eaters unite! With inventive, elevated, lovingly prepared dishes, at Mo:Lé Restaurant everyone gets some love. Tomato Chipotle Sausage Hash
• Get dessert for breakfast with the Spelt Banana Pancakes. Yes they’re healthy but you’ll have to keep reminding yourself that while you eat them. Or spice things up South-of-the-border style with the Huevos Rancheros and Fish Tacos. • Try the inventively delicious Polenta and Eggs or Potato Gratin and Eggs. Take matters into your own hands with the alwayspopular Build Your Own Breakfast. With so many high quality, hand made components to choose from, you can’t go wrong. • For the traditionalists, there isn’t a Benny or Omelette in town that can compete and if you’re hankering for something more lunch-like, the Mac and Cheese is a winner. Plus there are Burgers, Wraps and Sandwiches for every tastebud.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Yup, you’ve probably heard of these guys. If it isn’t a rave review from En Route Magazine then it just might be the spot they clinched on You Gotta Eat Here. Bottom line, Mo:Lé is a culinary rockstar. 14
NORTH 48 RESTAURANT
CASUAL EATING ROOM APPETIZERS: $7 - $16 MAINS: $16 - $26 ADDRESS: 1005 Langley Street HOURS: 11:30 am - 10 pm (Tues - Thurs) 11:30 am - 11 pm (Fri - Sat) PHONE: 250.381.2428 ON THE WEB: northfortyeight.com
north FORTY-EIGHT @north_48 @north_48
THE SCENE
Chicken & Waffles
Nestled in the heart of downtown just steps from the Inner Harbour, Victoria’s newest hot spot is home to cutting-edge comfort food and expertly crafted cocktails. From its lively dining room to its eclectic tiki bar, this modern diner offers familiar favourites with a refreshingly contemporary twist.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • House-made is the name of the game at North 48, and that includes their ketchup, plus their line-up of Batch 48 Hot Sauces and Srirachas. • Savour The Burger, a twist on the classic hamburger that comes stacked with ground-in-house beef, caramelized onion and house-cured bacon patty on a fresh baked brioche bun. Did we mention the truffled frites?
Tiki Drinks
• Dive into the Duck Wings, one of Chef Sam’s original creations. Slow braised and served up hot and crispy, this cult favourite comes covered in a choice of hot, really hot or buffalo sauce. • Comfort cuisine doesn’t get better than Chicken & Waffles. Imagine buttermilk-soaked free-range chicken breast with a crispy coating of corn and rice flour atop a fresh corn, green onion, and cheddar waffle, topped with Chili Maple Honey. Getting the picture?
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Find out for yourself what makes North 48 worthy of its place amongst Canada’s Top Ten Best New Restaurants of 2014! Add to that Trip Advisor’s 2014 Certificate of Excellence and it’s hard to find a reason not to put this intriguing modern diner on your to-do list.
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CASUAL EATING ROOM APPETIZERS: $6 - $10 MAINS: $10 - $18
THE OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY RESTAURANT
ADDRESS: 703 Douglas Street HOURS: 11:30 am - 10 pm PHONE: 250.381.8444 ON THE WEB: osf.ca
OldSpaghettiFactoryCanada @spag_factory
Seafood Fettucini
THE SCENE Located steps away from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, The Old Spaghetti factory is by far Victoria’s Best Dining Value. Big inviting booths comfortably accommodate the whole family, and they’ll want to join your for sure! Can you say Spumoni? Great food, affordable prices, and a truly unique setting have visitors and locals alike winding up for lunch and dinner.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Enjoy All-Inclusive Entrées that come with sourdough bread, salad, ice cream and coffee or tea. Cocktails
• Choose one of their Spaghetti Entrées served with any of our six sauces made in house daily: Tomato, Rich Meat, Spicy Meat, Clam, Mushroom or our classic Mizithra Cheese with Browned Butter. • Try made to order pan dishes such as our popular Penne with Chicken or our Pesto Linguine; delicious pan-fried jumbo prawns, peppers, Red Thai Curry and cilantro served on a bed of fresh linguine noodles. • Our menu also includes a wide range of delicious selections such as Chicken Parmigiana, New York Steak, and our BBQ Baby Back Ribs.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
All-inclusive entrees, convenient location, and great food make this venue a Victoria family favourite. 16
RESTAURANT MATISSE RESTAURANT
FRENCH PRICE RANGE: $19 - $33 ADDRESS: 512 Yates Street HOURS: 5:30 pm onward (Wed - Sun) PHONE: 250.480.0883 ON THE WEB: restaurantmatisse.com
MatisseRestaurant @rmatisse
THE SCENE
Rack of Lamb
Tucked behind the wrought iron gates at the corner of Yates and Wharf Street, the Restaurant Matisse experience awaits with soft candlelight, fresh flowers and the music of Edith Piaf. John Phillips and his gracious staff present elegant dishes that marry French Classics with local ingredients. Indulge your senses with one of Victoria’s premiere dining experiences.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Contemporary classics such as Lobster Bisque, Escargots a la Bordelaise and possibly the best Creme Brulée in the world.
• Duck Confit, Rack of Lamb and Game Dishes are featured
on the menu as well as a varied selection of fresh, local and exotic Seafood. All prepared with seasonal availability in mind.
Creme Brulée
• Enjoy the relaxed, four course Prix Fixe. Start with the lobster
bisque or Soup du Jour, followed by the Provencal dressed salad, then a choice of main courses. Examples include Catch of the Day, Chicken Supreme and Beef Rossini. And of course, finish with your favourite dessert.
Everything at Restaurant Matisse is created fresh in house, including a daily amuse, assortment of breads as well as tantalizing sweets that can only be described as dessert art.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Restaurant Matisse boasts numerous accolades including Restauranteur of the Year, Critic’s Choice, Best French Menu, Five Stars from the Victoria Times Colonist and the coveted, prestigious Forbes Four Stars of Excellence for 14 years in a row. A visit here means French cuisine at its finest.
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TIBET TO THAILAND MAINS: $10 - $17 ADDRESS: 2493 Beacon Ave., Sidney 2800 Jacklin Road, Langford
SABHAI THAI RESTAURANT
HOURS: 11:30 am - 2 pm (Lunch) from 5 pm (Dinner) PHONE: 250.655.4085 (Sidney) 250.590.5039 (Langford) ON THE WEB: www.sabhai.ca
Sabhai-Thai
“...mouth-watering Thai food...” Chicken Satay Skewers
THE SCENE With two locations in Greater Victoria, Sabhai Thai restaurants are lively family owned establishments that feature mouth-watering Thai food at more-than-reasonable prices.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Start with the unforgettable Gratong Taung – minced chicken seasoned with garlic, cilantro, onions and corn, served in golden cup shells with mild Thai plum sauce or the Tom Kah Goong, a hot and sour coconut soup with prawns, mushrooms, cilantro, lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Sweet and Spicy Red Snapper
• Fans of spicy will love the Kee Mao (Drunken) Noodles, flash fried in Thai seasoning sauce with tender sliced chicken, chilies, onions, garlic, egg, fresh sweet basil and bell peppers. • Nothing beats Thai green curry. Sabhai’s Gaeng Keow Wan Gai comes with chicken, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers and fresh sweet basil. • Oceanic favourites include the Panang Pla (Red Snapper) simmered in creamy curry sauce with bell peppers and fresh kaffir leaves.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
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Sabhai Thai has won the Saanich Peninsula Readers’ Choice Award for Best Ethnic Restaurant every year since 2007 and received 4.5 stars from Times Colonist Restaurant critic Pam Grant as well as a top 5 best restaurants in Victoria ranking in Urban Spoon.
FRENCH
SAVEUR
APPETIZERS: $11 - $18 MAINS: $21 - $32
RESTAURANT
ADDRESS: 658 Herald Street HOURS: 10 am - 2 pm (Weekend Brunch) 5 pm - 10 pm (Tues - Sat) PHONE: 250.590.9251 ON THE WEB: saveurrestaurant.ca SaveurRestaurant
“...a can’t miss gourmet brunch...” Potato Stone
THE SCENE Chef Robert Cassels built his new location from the ground up. Featuring burnt wood feature walls, exposed brick, quartz bar tops, crystal chandeliers, red leather and an open kitchen, this intimate 30-seat space is a charming collision of rustic and contemporary set in a heritage building right in the heart of Victoria’s famous Chinatown District.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Saveur restaurant specializes in seasonally inspired Five Course Chef’s Tasting Menus plus a la carte Dinners, Bar Snacks and Chef-Inspired Cocktails.
• Enjoy Tasting Menu items such as Scallop with smoked beet,
Scallop
hazelnut, watercress and frozen goat’s cheese mousse or the Duck with pea risotto, oyster mushroom, carrot emulsion and pickled cherry. Vegetarian? Try favourites like the 8 Hour Tomato with marinated cucumber, smoked pea purée and mint or the Potato Stone with cauliflower purée, mushroom soil, pickled mushroom and Parmesan froth.
• It doesn’t get much better than the Gourmet Weekend Brunch featuring favourites such as Duck Confit Eggs Benny with orange-scented Hollandaise and the Mascarpone Stuffed Red Velvet Toast with Bourbon maple syrup.
COMPLIMENTARY
BAR SNACK
WITH PURCHASE OF A COCKTAIL OR BEVERAGE.
Not valid with any other offer. No cash value. One coupon per customer. Valid until Dec.15, 2016.
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SUSHI BAR APPETIZERS: $5 - $8 MAINS: $12 - $20
SEN ZUSHI RESTAURANT
ADDRESS: 940 Fort Street HOURS: 11:30 am - 2 pm, 5 pm - 9 pm (Mon - Sat) PHONE: 250.385.4320 ON THE WEB: senzushi.com
SenZushiVictoria @SenZushiBC
Ebi-Mayo
THE SCENE Nestled in Victoria’s Antique District, Sen Zushi is an experience in Eastern culinary culture with traditional décor and some of the city’s finest Japanese fare. A favourite with local sushi lovers, this gentle collision of traditional charm and contemporary flare provides a not-to-be-missed casual dining experience.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Sen Zushi’s famous 200-item menu visually communicates all your mouthwatering options.
• Try the Special Kappa Maki, a contemporary take on traditional Special Kappa Maki
sushi. Rolled in thinly shaved cucumber instead of rice, this item makes for a stylish appetizer as well as a healthy main dish choice.
• Sen Zushi’s head chef carefully chooses their Udon Noodles from the Sanuki-Udon district of Japan to create dishes such as the delicious Goma Miso Udon; a non-traditional twist on an old favorite, featuring a creamy sesame sauce and tasty chunks of chicken.
• Try the memorable Teriyaki Chicken; juicy chunks of chicken covered in thick and glossy house-made teriyaki sauce.
• Sen Zushi values variety. That’s why they regularly showcase over 20 types of fish for sushi and sashimi... and Asahi beer on tap!
BRAGGING RIGHTS
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Japanese owned and operated, Sen Zushi provides an authentic taste experience that showcases the best of both traditional and contemporary cuisine – something that has earned them the Times Colonist 5-star rating from food critic Pam Grant.
SHIKI SUSHI RESTAURANT
SUSHI BAR PRICE RANGE: $1.50 - $12.95 ADDRESS: 1113 Blanshard St. 601-3995 Quadra St. (Saanich) HOURS: 11 am - 9:30 pm (Mon - Thurs) 11 am - 10 pm (Friday) 12 noon - 10 pm (Sat) 12 noon - 9:30 pm (Sun) PHONE: 250.381.8622 778.265.8822 (Saanich) ON THE WEB: shikisushi.ca Shiki-Sushi
“...you’ll always find something new...” THE SCENE
Vegetable Sushi Platter
With a central location that straddles the tourist and business sectors, Shiki enjoys a diverse, relaxed clientele. And it’s deceptively cozy for a 120-seat dining room which doubles beautifully as a party venue, complete with window-bar seating. Factor in the ever-changing monthly Specials Menu and you’ll always find something new to experience here!
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Popular items on the All You Can Eat menu include both the deep-fried Agedashi Tofu, and the deep-fried Sesame Chicken Kara-Age. All You Can Eat is available 5-9 pm every night and 12-3 pm Saturdays and Sundays. • Noodle dishes come in a wide variety that includes the Shiki Nabeyaki Udon or Soba – a delicious seafood hotpot. Bento Boxes are always a hit for a good ‘square’ meal. Try the Chicken Teriyaki and Beef Teriyaki favourites. • Try the Flame Nigiri Platter, an amazing array of scallops, saba (mackerel), toro (tuna belly), ika (squid) and salmon, torched to perfection and served beautifully. • Ask about Shiki Sushi’s fantastic selection of vegetarian dishes! • Asahi and Kirin beer are available as well as wines from Europe, Australia and the US.
Shabu-Shabu
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Owner-operator Tony Ng brings 20 years industry experience to Shiki, an establishment that has been prominent in the downtown Victoria scene for over 5 years. Feel like lying low? Their speedy and comprehensive delivery service provides a unique, convenient way to enjoy the sushi experience either from home or from the comfort of your hotel suite.
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TAPAS APPETIZERS: $5 - $10 MAINS: $13 - $25
TABLE 21 RESTAURANT
ADDRESS: 777 Douglas Street HOURS: 6 am - 11 am (Daytime) 4 pm - 10 pm (Evening) PHONE: 250.940.3127 ON THE WEB: table21.ca
tabletwentyone @table21vic
Chicken and Waffles
THE SCENE Victoria’s newest uber-chic restaurant wins our vote of where you must go for share plates! Located inside the comfortable and stylish Doubletree by Hilton in the heart of downtown, the room has a great old-school feel to it with its sit-down counter in the middle of the room complete with comfy swivel chairs. They say it is an experience in casual 18 elegance, but I say it is an experience not-to-be-missed.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Delicious salads such as the Grilled Romaine Salad that’s dressed up with candied bacon, shaved grana padano, croutons, and house made Caesar dressing.
Ancho Chilli Pork Belly
• Small bites done just right such as the assorted Warm Mixed Olives, house-made Garlic and Sea Salt Langos, and the perfect sweet and savoury combo, Rosemary Spiced Nuts! • Meat lovers will fall for the Ancho Chili Pork Belly, Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus, Fried Chicken & Sweet Potato Waffles, and Coconut Curry Mussels. • Veggie fanatics keep coming back with favourites such as the Spinach Ricotta Ravioli, Ponzu Chili Zucchini Noodle, and Hot Cambozola Tartine.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Hands down, this is Victoria’s best spot for Happy Hour! In fact, they give you two windows a day to enjoy their ever-evolving food and drink specials: 4pm-6pm and again from 8pm-10pm, Tuesday-Saturday. 22
VENETO TAPA LOUNGE
TAPAS APPETIZERS: $8 - $16 MAINS: $14 - $24 ADDRESS: 1450 Douglas St. HOURS: 4 pm - 1 am PHONE: 250.383.7310 ON THE WEB: www.venetodining.com
venetolounge @Veneto_Lounge
THE SCENE
The Veneto Charcuterie Board
Located in the chic boutique Hotel Rialto, Veneto Tapa Lounge is one of Victoria’s true lounge experiences. Classic libations carefully constructed to exacting standards pay homage to the history and origins of the cocktail. Add a high-concept savory tapa-style menu and you have one of the city’s most stylish urban dining destinations.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Veneto’s concept dining is as brilliant as it is simple: small plates with big flavors. Choose from a variety of tasty morsels to pick and graze while imbibing on some of the city’s best potables. Think Iron Chef meets classy cocktail lounge and you’re getting the idea… • Standout sharing plate items such as Crispy Pork Belly, Pan-Seared Chili-Basil Scallops, Szechuan-Peppered Calamari, or the crisp Duck Confit Poutine all take bar food to a whole new level.
Assorted Veneto Cocktails
• Prefer something a little heartier? Experience the revolving Fresh Sheet, which celebrates tapa-style fresh and seasonal entrées. • Veneto boasts a large wine cellar, an on-tap selection of fine craft beers and a cocktail list that is sure to impress even the most seasoned aficionado.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Executive Chef Tod Bosence combines unique variations of Old World favorites with his own personal creations for a modern take on tapa-style dining. Couple this stunning menu with a no less impressive cocktail list and you’ve got one the best contemporary lounge experiences in the city.
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VICTORIA She’s Vancouver’s freckled, fun-loving little sister with windswept hair, tanned knees and billowing summer dress. But there’s more going on behind those sky-blue eyes than most visitors realize…
The City City Centre/Inner Harbour/Old Town/Chinatown/Antique Row
Most locals prefer the collective term downtown but in truth, the area directly underneath the pin in your map App consists of several distinct neighbourhoods: Douglas Street splits the City Centre down the middle with great food and entertainment in the blocks unfolding east and excellent shopping hand-in-hand with elegant bistros to the west. The iconic Inner Harbour is a must-see but once you’ve depleted your camera’s battery and picked your jaw back up from the sidewalk, visit Old Town. It’s just a short stroll north along Government Street, down the narrow brick alleys and passed the trattorias to it’s rustic, wood-beamed heart,
COOK ST. Villiage
A LITTLE ABOUT HER Market Square. Wander one block further and you’ll find yourself amid the delivery trucks and swirling dim sum steam bustle of Canada’s oldest Chinatown. For the road slightly less traveled, meander up Antique Row, the oftenoverlooked length of Fort Street running east from Douglas Street. It’s home to art galleries, auction houses and curiosity shops as well as some of Victoria’s best-kept gastronomic secrets.
The Villages
James Bay/Cook Street/ Fernwood/Oak Bay
However you’re navigating the city, Victoria’s satellite villages are impossibly quaint and surprisingly accessible. Separating the city from the sea, James Bay Village is a sleepy cluster of coffee shops, bookstores and quiet Saturdays. From there, it’s a short stroll through the rolling green expanse of Beacon Hill Park past the duck ponds and cricket pitch to Cook Street Village, a bona-fide storybook hamlet that sits (to all intents and purposes) in the middle of a forested
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grove. Known for its amazing food, Cook Street offers everything from pub fare to artisan pizza to Ethiopian cuisine. Just east of the city centre sits Fernwood Village clustered around the iconic Belfry Theatre. One of the city’s oldest neigbourhoods, it plays home to a unique mix of hippies, hipsters and happy families in character homes. Oak Bay Village is a quarter-hour bus ride east of the city. Situated behind Victoria’s self-styled tweed curtain, it’s a community that’s preserved the imperial culture of Old Britannia unlike anywhere else outside the UK. Pubs, sweet shops, fish’n’chips… it’s all here, and only minutes from the famous tearoom on the Willows Beach esplanade.
The Environs Saanich/Langford/Sooke// Metchosin
Thanks to the gentle geography of the region, these Greater Victoria satellite environs are a scenic drive away from wherever you happen to be staying. Saanich (which comprises much of the city’s suburban sprawl) is a tranquil collection of townships peppered by parks,
beaches, nature sanctuaries and golf courses. Just a short drive up Highway 1, you’ll find the booming community of Langford with its box stores and brewpubs and world famous Bear Mountain resort and country club. Interested in getting away from it all? Don’t worry. Sooke and Metchosin (which make up the westernmost part of the Capital Region) are lush paradises of Vancouver Island rainforest framed in surfkissed beaches that embrace the Pacific.
The Seaside Sidney
A twenty-minute drive north along the Saanich Peninsula, Sidney is an oceanic community nestled on the east coast of Vancouver Island facing the tiny Gulf Islands that dot the misty Georgia Strait. Punctuated by marinas and serenaded by seagulls, this little town boasts three-and-ahalf kilometers of waterfront so it comes by its adorable name fairly. When the concept of daytrips was invented, Sidney was undoubtedly what they had in mind. 25
CASUAL EATING ROOM DRINKS: $3 - $5 MAINS: $10 - $15
WILLIE’S CAFE & BAKERY
ADDRESS: 537 Johnson Street HOURS: 8 am - 8:30 pm (daily) PHONE: 250.381.8414 ON THE WEB: willies.ca
WilliesCafeBakery @williesbakery @williescafebakery
Fish Tacos
THE SCENE Located in the heart of Old Town and the Lojo Shopping District, BC’s oldest bakery is now open from morning till late serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. From the original brick walled space to the newly renovated year-round outdoor patio, there’s no tastier way to experience a piece of the Capitol’s history.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Willie’s is a memorable experience as locals and visitors brush shoulders en route to some of the most mouthwatering experiences that café-bakery culture has to offer.
Eggs Benedict
• Dive into the house specialty, a selection of nine different
Eggs Benedict! For something more traditional, there’s an excellent assortment of omelettes and grilled items, too. On the other hand, why not step outside the box with local favourite, the Banana-Pecan French Toast with maple cream cheese topping and a side of maple Dijon glazed bacon.
• Fresh Everything is the best way to describe lunch and dinner
at Willie’s, from Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Deli Sandwiches, Smoked Salmon Salad, Grilled Haddock Tacos, and Homemade Soup. Of course, there’s a great selection of beer, wine and cocktails, too!
BRAGGING RIGHTS
26
Willie’s newly-expanded state-of-the-art kitchen is just part of the reason why this Victoria landmark has received Trip Advisor’s Award of Excellence, touted by Chatelaine Magazine as “Victoria’s best brunch destination”, and ranked by Huffiton Post as one of the Top 20 restaurants in British Columbia.
XIANG RUI RESTAURANT
CHINESE APPETIZERS: $4 - $7 MAINS: $11 - $14 ADDRESS: 980 Blanshard Street HOURS: 11 am - 9 pm PHONE: 778.433.3696 ON THE WEB:
“...a favourite dining spot for local Chinese gourmands..”
THE SCENE
Chinese Hamburger
Victoria’s newest Chinese food sensation, this warm and intimate restaurant is just off the beaten path, a five minute walk from the Inner Harbour. Worthy of the buzz it’s earned from local Asian food lovers, Xiang Rui is the only restaurant in the city that serves authentic Northwestern Chinese home-style cuisine. The exceptionally courteous staff serves up owner and Chef, Owen Guo’s delights, customized for each diner’s palate.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS • Sample the region. You can’t go wrong with the chef’s recommended, unique dishes, including the authentic and aromatic Chinese Hamburger (pork or beef), spicy summertime favourite Rice Noodle with Vegetables or Fried Potato with Green Pepper and Eggplant.
Stewed Mushroom & Vegetable
• If spicy isn’t your thing, the menu offers numerous delectable dishes that appeal to more sensitive Western tastes, including Egg Rolls, Chicken Chop Suey or Beef with Noodle Soup. • The kitchen staff makes their Dumplings in-house, so be sure to try them in the variety that appeals to you: Pork, Beef or Vegetable. The noodles are also fresh and delivered in a variety of styles sure to please discerning palates.
BRAGGING RIGHTS
Xiang Rui has the greatest number of authentic Chinese dishes, making it a home away from home for mainland Chinese tourists and a favourite dining spot for local Chinese gourmands. 27
CAN DO CAN DO By Patricia Jones, Publisher of TASTE MAG, and founder of CAN DO! Nourish the Community.
records because I looked “white enough” to get into a good home. This is how I became a Jones.
The #tastethis menu blog series is lovingly curated in memory of my Mom, Uncle Steve,and memories of Gomerich Farm in South Wellington.
“Waste-not, want not” was an expression that permeated our Aysgarth Street home. I hated that expression. I heard it every day, several times over. I heard it pretty much every time we left something on our plate, went to throw something out that was still useable, or neglected to pick up a pop bottle on the roadside. My mom or dad would utter, “Waste not, want not”, and we would know the drill. But of course, we were poor and lived in Harewood, right? We were lucky kids and
I didn’t really get the phrase “keeping up with the Jones’.” It sure didn’t fit my experience as part of a family called Jones. I thought we were poor. I believed this because my dad would show me the lint from his empty wallet. I believed him when he said, “We can’t afford it.” Which is something he always said. We were a blue collar family that lived pay check-to-pay check on the fringes of Harewood, a tough Nanaimo neighbourhood. My dad was raised in BC mining towns and my mom was raised on an orphanage in Bradner with two of her five siblings. All four Jones kids were adopted eighteen months apart in the mid-to-late 1960’s from the Catholic’s Children Aid. The 16 year old Cree mother that gave birth to me was instructed by social workers to erase my native heritage from my adoption 28
NOURISH THE COMMUNITY
much better off than “all the starving children in China”, and all those families that “didn’t have a pot to piss in.” This was before such a thing as political correctness. It was the ‘70’s, and parents then said such things. To us kids, recycling equalled penny candy, and we were more than happy to do it. Allowance? That’s what rich kids got or lazy parents gave to their kids, we were told. Yes, the Jones kids scrounged for our play money and had paper routes for our holiday savings. Ah, the family paper route. Wednesday nights we worked as a six man team to deliver over 1000 papers on the Super Saver route. The money we earned got stashed in washed, repurposed Chinese food containers from Wei’s Café. Containers back then were made of study plastic. Not only did they hold our holiday savings carefully labeled with a jiffy marker, but they were our bins for crayons and you name it. Garbage to most families was Tupperware to us. Camping was our family holiday. According to dad, our taxes paid for Crown lands so we owned the provincial campgrounds. It was the same routine every holiday morning – breakfast then the beer bottle run began. After we filled up the back of our truck, we cashed in our haul for loot. But picking up beer bottles was not just about making money - it was our duty as co-owners to clean the campsites. That was the Jones family holiday. We shopped at the local Co-op because we “owned it” too. Mom dutifully marked the prices with the black crayon provided and we packed our own bags, all resulting in significant savings. We held a Plan 24 account at the local credit union. We owned that too, of course. We didn’t get our food the way the most kids
Patricia and her Mom picking fruit in the Okanagan
in our neighbourhood did. We picked our own berries from the sides of Gomerich Road and ate apples that had been pecked by birds. Half our backyard was a vegetable garden and my parents cleverly disguised working in the garden as fun. Most eggs, berries, and cordial came from Auntie Mary’s farm. Most fruit came from road stands or was hand-picked by us from Okanagan orchards. Our vegetables came from either our backyard or Uncle Steve’s farm. Snacks were mutant three legged carrots, crazy shaped tomatoes, peas, and beans. Eggs had brown speckled shells and dark orange yolks, often doubled up. We actually got to meet the cow before it went to the butcher and visit the chickens who gave us their eggs. We learned at a very young age the meaning behind “running 29
Everything was eaten in season or preserved for future seasons. Aside from camping, summer’s were spent canning. My mom had four sets of little hands to help prepare all the fruits and vegetables for preserving. This was a service we performed for the privilege to stay up past bedtime to watch the Love Boat and Fantasy Island. We canned peaches, pears, cherries, beans, beets, and carrots. Cukes and onions were for pickling. There was a constant assembly line making fruit pies, apple sauce, zucchini bread, cookies, and jam. Enough food to feed an army. Enough food to feed the Jones kids and all of the other kids that showed up to 440 Aysgarth Street around dinner time.
A “Community Pantry” made possible by utilizing the principal of “waste not, want not” within a commitment to wellness and sustainability. Fresh Veggies from 10 Acres Farms
around like a chicken with your head cut off,” thanks to Uncle Joe who would laugh while we screamed. Buying fish in a store was unheard of - our fish came from Uncle John’s boat and we had it at least twice a week – salmon, cod, halibut. There was always a big flap when he came with a halibut – it took up the entire bathtub and sent our mom into a filleting mania. Fertilizer came from the fish plant where my mom worked seasonally, from Uncle Steve’s horses, or from our kitchen scraps. 30
It wasn’t until my thirties that I clued in that we weren’t poor. My dad worked for the CPR and earned a good salary. Enough to raise four kids. We had a 2000 square foot home, truck and trailer, and bought the best we could afford. My parents were socialists, waaaaay left of centre. My dad told me
that Jesus would vote NDP if he walked the earth today. I’ve spent most of my life trying to “Rise above my raising.” I escaped Harewood for higher education back East, flew to Japan for even more education, and lived most of my adult life in the surreal Whistler bubble, working hard and playing hard. I’ve gone to great lengths to run from my “poor past” and do the things “only rich people did.” And yet, it is funny how much nothing really changes: I’m still a tomboy who wears sneakers and sweats; My current “paperroute” (i.e., a media company) is now massive and extends over two provinces to over 1200 locations. I prefer camping and small space living – I love the tiny home movement - and my plate usually consists of meat and two veggies. I finally accept, appreciate and respect the way my parents raised me and us Jones kids. Their values and practices around hard work and sourcing quality food for their family makes sense. Actually, it more than makes sense it shows incredible commitment to social and ecological values of wellness
and sustainability. It is the only way forward. No more shame for me in this this lifetime. Scrounging is in. Hand-me-downs are fashionable. Even ugly vegetables are cool. CAN DO - Nourish the Community, is a “Community Pantry” made possible by utilizing the principal of “waste not, want not” within a commitment to wellness and sustainability. We are a group of people who volunteer our time to gather, preserve, distribute, and educate. We glean neighbour gardens and growers’ farms. We pick the fruit and berries that no one else will, and accept perishing perishables from grocery outlets just-in-time. Today’s goodness is saved for tomorrow’s dinner table. The CAN DO Community Pantry feeds our community’s working poor, disabled, elderly, and students. CAN DO is an initiative of the Positive Pathway Foundation, reconciling our past, healing our future.
PLEASE ENJOY OUR #TASTETHIS MENU BLOG AT WWW.TASTEMAGAZINE.CA AND DONATE A WEE BIT TO OUR CAUSE IF YOU FEEL INSPIRED.
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THE
PINNACLE
TASTE DINING DIRECTORY
Choices, choices, choices. We’ve enlisted the help of Victoria’s elite concierge, community members, and the city’s in-the-know hair stylists to compile Victoria’s most comprehensive dining directory. The Pinnacle Taste Dining Directory provides you with lots of mouth-watering options broken down into a variety of Victorian dining themes. We give you the what, where, and how much plus a fun rating system lets you track your experiences as you have them, so you can share them with friends or reference them next time you plan on dining out. And don’t just keep your opinions to yourself! Take your voice online to TasteMagazine.ca, where you can cast your vote for the establishments you think most worthy of winning a 2015 PINNACLE TASTE AWARD Victoria’s award for culinary excellence. So whatever your mood, wherever you are, however big your appetite... we’ll get you to your table!
$ = $10 and under
$$ = $11to $20
$$$ = $21 and over
AGE OF THE EMPIRE Once the westernmost outpost of the British Empire, Victoria rings of Old Blighty in more ways than the monarch whose name she carries. From High Tea to roti, you’d be hard pressed to find a better culinary experience in the Commonwealth. MY RATING
FISH & CHIPS Haultain Fish & Chips - Pg. 9 Barb’s Fish & Chips Fairfield Fish & Chips Irish Times Old Vic’s Fish & Chips Red Fish Blue Fish 32
1127 Haultain St. $$ Fisherman’s Wharf $$ 1275 Fairfield Rd. $$ 1200 Government St. $$ 1316 Broad St. $$ 1006 Wharf St. $$
MY RATING
CURRY HOUSES New Asian Village - Pg. 48 Da Tandoor Marsala Bites Saaz Sizzling Tandoor Spice Jammer Varsha Sips & Nosh House
1245 Wharf St. $$ 1010 Fort St. $$ 1015 Fort St. $$ 535 Yates St. $$ 637 Johnson St. $$ 852 Fort St. $$ 1600 Government St. $$
TEA ROOMS The Pendray - Pg. 3 Abkhazi Gardens Butchart Gardens Fairmont Empress James Bay Tea Room Oaks Restaurant & Tea Room White Heather
309 Belleville St. $$ 1964 Fairfield Rd. $$ 800 Benvenuto Ave. $$ 721 Government St. $$ 332 Menzies St. $$ 2250 Oak Bay Ave. $$ 1885 Oak Bay Ave. $$
PUBS The Guild Freehouse - Pg. 8 Bard & Barker Bartholomew’s Canoe Brew Pub Darcy’s Fernwood Inn Irish times James Bay Inn Moon Under Water Brewery Six Mile The Snug Pub Spinnaker’s Brew Pub The Bent Mast The Drake Eatery The Sticky Wicket Swans Brewpub
1250 Wharf St. $$ 1022 Government St. $$ 777 Douglas St. $$ 450 Swift St. $$ 1127 Wharf St. $$ 1302 Gladstone Ave. $$$ 1200 Government St. $$ 270 Government St. $$ 350B Bay St. $$ 494 Island Hwy. $$ 1175 Beach Dr. $ 303 Catherine St. $ 512 Simcoe St. $$ 517 Pandora St. $$ 919 Douglas St. $$ 506 Pandora Ave. $$ 33
ODYSSEY AND BEYOND Homer’s hero had to contend with gods and monsters during his Aegean adventures but undoubtedly hunger reared its ugly head, too. Walk in Odysseus’ sandals and explore the best food that Southern Europe has to offer.
TRATTORIAS + RISTORANTES Old Spaghetti Factory - Pg. 16 Bella Montagne Catalano Fiamo Il Covo Trattoria Il Terrazzo Pagliacci’s Zambri’s
MY RATING
703 Douglas St. $ 1999 Country Club Way $$ 619 Courtney St. $$ 515 Yates St. $$ 106 Superior St. $$ 55 Johnson St. $$ 1011 Broad St. $ 820 Yates St. $$
TAVERNAS Cenote Restaurant & Lounge Il Greco Ithaka Millos San Remo
768 Yates St. 2900 Tillicum Rd. 1102 Yates St. 716 Burdett Ave. 2709 Quadra St.
$$ $$ $$ $$ $$
PIZZERIAS Ali Baba Pizza Brickyard Pizza Famoso The Joint Prima Strada Romeo’s Pizza & Pasta 34
775 Fort St. $ 784 Yates St. $ 560 Johnson. $$ 1219 Wharf St. $ 105-230 Cook St. $$ www.romeos.ca $$
MY RATING
TAPAS Veneto - Pg. 23 Table 21 - Pg. 22 Bodega Chorizo & Co Northern Quarter Perro Negro Stage Wine Bar The Tapa Bar
1450 Douglas St. $$ 777 Douglas St. $$ 2120 Broad St $$ 807 Fort St. $$ 1724 Douglas St. $$ 536 Yates St. $$ 1307 Gladstone Ave. $$ 620 Trounce Alley $$
SILK ROAD Once, a four thousand-mile trade route connected the culture of the East with the Western World; but that was then. Today, you don’t need to take a voyage of Marco Polo’s proportions to enjoy the delectable treasures of Asia. You just need to know where to look.
MY RATING
NOODLE HOUSES Foo Ramen Bar John’s Noodle Village I Kyu Noodles Noodle Box
762 Broughton St. 823 Bay St. 564 Fisgard St. www.thenoodlebox.net
$ $ $ $
SUSHI BARS Ebizo - Pg. 6 Sen Zushi - Pg. 20 Shiki Sushi - Pg. 21 Shiki Sushi - Pg. 21 Azuma Japanese Village Koto Shizen Sushi
604 Broughton St . $$ 940 Fort St. $$ 1113 Blanshard St. $$ 3995 Quadra St. $$ 615 Yates St. $$ 734 Broughton St. $$ 510 Fort St. $$ 1706 Government St. $$ 35
SILK ROAD CONT. MY RATING
TIBET TO THAILAND Sabhai Thai Langford - Pg. 18 Sabhai Thai Sidney - Pg. 18 Baan Thai La Petite Saigon Little Thai Place Pho-Ever Phoa Hoa Siam Thai Sookjai thai Tibetan Kitchen Vietnam House
2800 Jacklin Rd. $$ 2493 Beacon Ave. $$ 1117 Blanshard St. $$ 101 Langley St. $$ www.littlethai.com $$ 1669 Pear St. $ 765 Fort St. $ 512 Fort St. $$ 893 Fort St. $$ 680 Broughton St. $ 3189 Quadra St. $$
KOREAN A Mart Korean Grocery King Sejong Korean Garden Koryo BBQ Sura
652 Yates St. 650 Yates St. 3945 Quadra St. Bay Centre 1696 Douglas St.
$$ $$ $$ $ $$
CHINESE FOOD Xiang Rui - Pg. 27 Don Mee’s Golden City Jade Fountain Chinese Ming’s Restaurant Ocean Garden Restaurant
36
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980 Blanshard St. $$ 538 Fisgard St. $$ 721 Fisgard St. $$ 3366 Douglas St. $$ 1321 Quadra St. $$ 568 Fisgard St. $
33 35
THE NEW WORLD They came for freedom, farmland, fresh starts, even El Dorado’s gold but they stayed for the food. Settlers the world over contributed to the mosaic that is the cultures of the Americas but the one thing they share is beautiful cuisine inspired by the terroir of the land and the two great oceans surrounding it.
MY RATING
AFRICAN The Blue Nile African Restaurant Messob Ethiopian Cuisine Le Petite Dakar
612 Head St. $$ 1109 McKenzie St. $$ 711 Douglas St. $$
BARBEQUE Pig BBQ Joint Hanks Untraditional BBQ
1325 Blanshard St. 1001 Douglas St.
$ $
126 Douglas St. 341 Cook St. 911 Yates St. 1209 Douglas St. 1008 Blanshard St.
$ $ $$ $$ $$
BURGERS Beacon Hill Drive In Big Wheel Burger Bin 4 Burger Lounge Fatburger Douglas Pink Bicycle
BREAKFAST & BRUNCH Mo:Lé - Pg. 14 Willie’s Cafe & Bakery - Pg. 26 Blue Fox Cora Jam Café Shine Café The Village Restaurant
554 Pandora Ave. $ 537 Johnson St. $ 919 Fort St. $$ 850 Douglas St. $ 542 Herald St. $ 1320 Blanshard St. $ 2518 Estevan Ave. $$ 37
MY RATING
CARIBBEAN The Reef Restaurant Victoria Stir It Up Trini To D Bone
533 Yates St. $$ 760A Yates St. $$ 650 Burnside Rd. $$
CASUAL EATING ROOMS Milestones - Pg. 13 10 Acres - Pg. 5 Argyle Attic Belleville’s Watering Hole & Diner Brown’s Social House Earl’s Ferris’ Oyster Bar Flying Otter Grill Fuego Old Town Eatery Hawk & Hen John’s Place Little Jumbo Local Kitchen Meat & Bread Moxies Grill & Bar North 48 Roast The London Chef The Tartan Toque Tre Fantastico Wheelies Motocycle Café Yates Street Taphouse
812 Wharf St. $$ 611 Courtney St. $$ 777 Courtney St. $$ 427 Belleville St. $$ 809 Douglas St. $$ 1199 Government St. $$ 536 Yates St. $$ 950 Wharf St. $$ 560 Johnson St. $$ 531 Yates St. $$ 723 Pandora Ave. $$ 506 Fort St. $$ 1205 Wharf St. $$ 721 Yates St. $$ 1010 Yates St. $$ 1005 Langley St. $$ 1701 Douglas St. $$ 953 Fort St. $$ 1010 Yates St. $$ 810 Humbolt St. $$ 2620 Rock Bay Ave. $$ 759 Yates St. $$
FAMILY FAVOURITES Bill Mattick’s Restaurant Hot and Cold Café The Pita Pit Pluto’s Restaurant Redd’s Roadhouse Sassy’s Family Restaurant Shine Café Stone’s Throw Restaurant 38
5333 Cordova Bay Rd. 1-313 Cook St. 1221 Wharf St. 1150 Cook St. 3020 Blanshard St. 6719 W. Saanich Rd. 1320 Blanshard St. 642 Johnson St.
$$ $$ $ $ $$ $$ $$ $$
MY RATING
STEAK & SEAFOOD The Keg - Pg. 11 The Keg - Pg. 11 Kitchen | Commons - Pg. 5 Fire & Water - Pg. 7 Blue Crab Seafood House Nautical Nellies Seagrille Steamship Grill + Taphouse The Docks Vic’s at Harbour Towers
500 Fort St. $$ 3940 Quadra St. $$ 614 Humbolt St. $$ 728 Humbolt St. $$ 146 Kingston St. $$$ 1001 Wharf St. $$ 849 Verdier Ave. $$ 470 Belleville St. $$ 1208 Wharf St. $$ 345 Quebec St. $$
MEXICAN Hernande’z La Taquisa Fuego Old Town Eatery Puerto Vallarta Amigos
735 Yates St. 1017 Blanshard St. 560 Johnson St. Fisherman’s Wharf
$ $ $$ $
VEGETARIAN Mo:Lé - Pg. 14 Be Love Bliss Café Lotus Pond Nourish in the Harbour Re-Bar Venus Sophia
554 Pandora Ave. $ 1019 Blanshard St. $$ 556 Pandora Ave. $ 617 Johnson St. $$ 225 Quebec St. $$ 50 Bastion Square $$ 540 Fisgard St. $$
WEST COAST Lure - Pg. 12 North 48 - Pg. 15 Aura Café Brio Camille’s Fireside Grill Haro’s The Marina Olo
45 Songhees Rd. $$$ 1005 Langley Street $$ 680 Montreal St. $$$ 944 Fort St. $$$ 45 Bastion St. $$$ 4509 W.Saanich Rd. $$ 9805 Seaport Pl. $$ 1327 Beach Dr. $$$ 509 Fisgard St. $$ 39
EUROPA Europe - land of whimsy and culture, home of small streets, smaller cars and all things quaint and magical. We can’t promise cobbled alleys and storied city squares but Victoria’s mouth-watering tributes provide a sensual journey back to the beauty of the Old World.
MY RATING
FINER FARE Butchart Gardens Deep Cove Chalet Empress Room The Dining Room Sooke Harbour House
800 Benvenuto Dr. 11190 Chalet Rd. 721 Government St. 1175 Beach Dr. 1528 Whiffen Spit
$$$ $$$ $$$ $$$ $$$
FRENCH Restaurant Matisse - Pg. 17 Saveur - Pg. 19 Brasserie L’Ecole The Pacific Lounge
512 Yates St. $$ 658 Herald St. $$ 1715 Government St. $$ 463 Belleville St. $$
GERMAN Rathskeller Schnitzel Haus
1205 Quadra St.
$$
BISTRO Heron Rock Bistro Crooked Goose Forester’s Bistro & Bar Lido Bistro O Bistro 40
4-435 Simcoe St. $$ 4136 Wilkinson Rd. $$ 643 Latoria Rd. $$ 1234 Wharf St. $$ 500 Oswego St. $$
A T R I P A R O U N D T H E W O R L D F O R Y O U R TA S T E B U D S ferrisoysterbar.com
Seriously good seafood
A local institution
A love letter to Spain
Mediterranean inspired
536A YATES ST. 250.360.1824
536 YATES ST. 250.360.1824
538 YATES ST. 250.360.1824
619 COURTNEY ST. 250.480.1824 MY RATING
POLISH SülT Pierogi Bar
609 Yates St.
$$
2470 Beacon Ave.
$$
648 Broughton St. 830 Fort St. 9805 Seaport Pl. 1114 Blanshard St. 805 Government St.
$ $$ $ $ $
SWISS Bistro Suisse
DELICATESSEN Broughton Street Café & Deli Choux Choux Charcuterie Georgia Café & Deli Italian Food Import Sam’s Deli
40
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CANDY LANE The Freshest Ice Cream On Earth.™
Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down but you don’t have to take it from Mary Poppins – just ask anyone who’s had the pleasure of indulging in the sweeter side of the Capital. There’s no denying that you’re spoiled for choice… so spoil yourself!
MY RATING
BAKERIES
1COUPON OFF
$
Present this coupon and receive $1 OFF when you order a medium size ice cream cone or larger with one mixin’* The choices at Marble Slab Creamery are seemingly endless, dozens of rich, homemade ice cream flavours, hand made and dipped waffle cones and a multitude of mixins.
Willie’s Cafe & Bakery - Pg. 26 Agrius Bubbly Rose Bakery and Café Dutch Bakery + Coffee Shop Fol Epi Origin Gluten Free Bakery
537 Johnson St. $ 732 Yates St. $$ 1002 Cook St. $ 718 Fort St. $ 398 Harbour Rd. $ 1525 Pandora Ave. $
CHOCOLATIERS Bernard Callebaut 621 Broughton St. $ Rocky Mtn. Chocolate Factory 909 Government St. $ Rogers’ Chocolates 913 Government St. $
DESSERT Marble Slab Creamery Bay Centre $ Oh Gelato 1013 Government St. $ Rogers’ Chocolates Soda Shop 913 Government St. $ Our ice cream cakes are homemade in our stores from the finest ingredients. *Valid only at our Downtown Victoria Location. Limited to 1 per customer. Not valid with any other offer.
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SWEET SHOPS British Candy Shop English Sweet Shop Oh Sugar Sweet Delights
638 Yates St. 736 Douglas St. 101-561 Johnson St. 2187 Oak Bay Ave.
$ $ $ $
AN ENTHUSIAST’S GUIDE TO
BARTENDERS OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST Venturing into the wilds of the Victoria libation scene is nothing short of a safari. Use this handy guide on your thirst-quenching expeditions and you’ll always find a welcome watering hole. Let’s get to know some of the wildlife behind the bar…
The hipster (Tightpantus Pretentious) Perhaps the most prolific member of the species, the Hipster can be found in almost every establishment in the Pacific Northwest. There are several markings to look for when identifying this breed of bartender, the most prominent being the impossibly tightly clad lower limbs. Garments south of the belt will appear to flout the laws of physics and biology altogether (despite their alleged comfort). Other conspicuous indicators include (but are not limited to) horn-rimmed glasses, tightly faded barber cuts, pioneer-caliber facial
hair, ironic waistcoats, and perpetual smirks. But exercise caution! These things alone do not make the Hipster. The most important identifiers are behavior and speech patterns. Does he rattle on about a band you’ve never heard of or talk about his fixed gear bicycle like it’s his soul mate? Does he own a French bulldog or suffer from an involuntary eye roll at the mere mention of Kings of Leon? In all likelihood, you have successfully identified the Hipster. Just don’t tell them that. They don’t do titles.
The hippie (Bleedingheartus Naturalist) The Hippie can be found throughout the Pacific Northwest but an unusual concentration proliferates on Vancouver Island. Apart from the telltale scent of patchouli floating in their wake, this breed has no consistent physical markings, making them most easily identifiable through their sounds. Does she fervently oppose 43
pipelines, plastics and GMOs? Does she almost reach a state of arousal over co-ops, recycling and organic anything? You’ve got yourself a Hippie. This peace-loving breed has one of the most fascinating migratory patterns in the entire bartending kingdom, with sporadic trips between Sombrio and South America but hey, when they’re in town, there’s no one else you’d rather have pouring your Jägermeister.
The Mixologist (Prohibitionae Purist) The most misunderstood of the species, the Mixologist endures a level of quiet persecution from other breeds of bartenders, due mostly to their snobbish fervor over the correct use of orange as a garnish and exacerbated by the sudden proliferation of Aviation and Negroni orders in sports bars. Despite this, Mixologist numbers have grown, as has their popularity. You can easily identify this intriguing creature by her ability to blind taste test and correctly identify a truckload of tequila brands, her aversion to olives in martinis, and her ability to rattle off the history, ingredients and methodology behind almost any preprohibition era cocktail. If you’re lucky, she’ll serve you the cocktail she’s been working on perfecting. If you’re very lucky, she’ll serve you the cocktail you ordered.
The oldtimer (Kidsthesedaysus) Rare in metro areas, this elusive breed of bartender does not adapt or evolve. At. All. Their name can be misleading, since similarly aged civilian counterparts aren’t considered old (service industry folk age in dog-years). This fascinating rarity is identifiable by his outspoken affection for heavy metal and dubious haircuts, and his firm aversion to seared tuna (not a real 44
burger, man). The Oldtimer harkens back to an era when smoking indoors was in, draft beer came in Molson or Budweiser, stubbies and Trans Ams were still bitchin’. That being said, there isn’t a better person to find behind the bar when you’ve got the blues; his heart is as warm as the pints of Canadian he’s slinging.
The babe (Ohmygodius Sohot) Arguably the superior breed of bartender, the Babe commands the attention of even the largest of parties. Phenomenal at all aspects the job, these perfect specimens rock the customer service, product knowledge and co-worker interaction like no one. But what truly set Babes apart from other breeds are their looks. The Babe is a babe – evident in the gaggle of admirers who frequent his bar regardless of what’s on tap. They might be notorious flirts but Babes are rarely single and herein lies their power – self-respect and an unusually stable relationship, typically with a Babe from another establishment. Yes, it hurts… but that’s what the booze is for.
The newb (Newbious Dayshiftus) The juvenile of the species has not yet found their niche. They often look too young to be employed, much less in a drinking establishment. You’ll often find them manning the daytime bar, hand shaking nervously at the beer taps, glancing furitively over their shoulder at the Boston Bar Manual, desperately hoping no one orders a cocktail. Later in the season, they’ll morph into one breed or another but for now, they’re babies, so be kind. You’re tipping tomorrow’s Hipster-Hippie-MixologistOldtimer-Babe.
OVER IT
COFFEE CULTURE IN A POST BEAN WORLD Once upon a time, a green mermaid flopped on to Victoria’s shores bringing an Italianate coffee menu as long as her tail. Meanwhile, locally owned shops were turning espresso into an art form: so began the dawn of the Post Coffee-Culture era. What exactly does Post Coffee-Culture look like? Coffee shops have become a nucleus for the community to support and advocate ideals, from fair trade partnerships and farmto-fork initiatives to chess tourneys and open mic nights. Bottom line? The coffee shop isn’t just about coffee anymore. It’s become a microcosm of our ideals and a forum for our dialogue as a community. Find locally sourced ingredients and amazing food at Fernwood Coffee’s Parsonage Café or Cascadia Bakery. If you’re in Chinatown swing by Habit, and grab a business card with your Americano, they’re mini art pieces! MY RATING
2% Jazz 2621 Douglas St. Bean Around the World 533 Fisgard St. Cascadia Bakery + Café 1812 Government St. Demitasse Café 1320 Blanshard St. Discovery Coffee 664 Discovery St. Dolce Vita Coffee Art 999 Yates St. Fernwood Coffee Company 1115 North Park Good Earth Coffee House 202 Harbour Rd. Good Earth Coffee House 1952 Bay St. Good Earth Coffee House 1971 Oak Bay Ave.
Discovery Coffee is rolling out a home barista program for the public that includes tasting, roastery nights and latté art. Take another stab at those rock star dreams, and hit an open mic night! The Cornerstone Café hosts artists on Wednesdays and Fridays, while Thursdays are brought to you by Wild Coffee. Friday sessions come courtesy of James Bay Coffee and Books and the Serious Coffee at Millstream, Saturdays are slamming at Artavi, and Sundays are sacred at the Serious Coffee on Cook Street. Every second and fourth Thursday, the Solstice Café hosts Tongues of Fire, a poetry collective out of UVic. Explore your eclectic side with tealeaf readings and stomp yourself silly at Bluegrass jam nights at James Bay Coffee and Books. No matter where you go in Victoria today, it’s not just about coffee – it’s about community.
SO...WANNA GRAB A COFFEE? MY RATING
Habit Coffee & Culture 552 Pandora St. James Bay Coffee & Books 143 Menzies Kate’s Café 1175 Beach Dr. Mirage Coffee 817 Government St. Moka House Coffee 345 Cook St. Paradiso Di Stelle 10 Bastion Sq. Parsonage Café 1115 N. Park St. Street Level Espresso 714 Fort St. Union Pacific Coffee Co. 537 Herald St. Wild Coffee House & Bistro 632 Yates St. 45
THIRSTY?
WET ROUTES WORTH NAVIGATING When it comes to watering holes, Victoria’s spoiled for choice. That’s why we’ve charted the choppy waters of indecision with sensible routes slaking a range of thirsts. Plot your course appropriately…
RUDYARD’S WALK In Victoria there exist places unaffected by time; rare pockets where it’s still 1928 but you’re not supposed to talk about it. Secrets like this keep best over drinks. Something elegant maybe, with an olive or a maraschino cherry. That’s the thing about Old World magic. It travels well. The Bard and Banker The Irish Times The Veranda
1022 Government Street 1200 Government Street 721 Government Street
THE BOULEVARDIER The Capital after dark: a soundtrack scored by punks and poets and players and troubadours, with DJ’s that don’t quit and dancefloors that don’t end. This city is too small to lose yourself in but that’s what the music’s for. Welcome to the scene. Club 9ONE9 Darcy’s Lucky Bar Smith’s Pub The Social Club Upstairs Cabaret 46
919 Douglas Street 1127 Wharf Street 517 Yates Street 777 Courtney Street 560 Johnson Street 15 Bastion Square
A SPIRITED STROLL There’s a weird alchemy to a well-built cocktail. Across this city, young impresarios cloister in piano lounges and hotel bars plying their careful trade with the quiet pride of future masters. The MY promising few can be found near the intersection of Classic and Contemporary. RATING
Clives Little Jumbo The Mint The Reef Veneto
740 Burdett Avenue 506 Fort Street 1414 Douglas Street 533 Yates Street 1450 Douglas Street
AN UNRESTRICTED PLEASURE Cozied between sun-kissed afternoons and sultry evenings sits Victoria’s patio culture. There’s something special about the balmy shade of an umbrella or the Van Gogh MY glow of a sidewalk bistro dinner. Alfresco isn’t a choice here. It’s a lifestyle. RATING Aura Browns Social House The Flying Otter The Garrick’s Head The Local Kitchen Milestones Rooftop Surfclub Tapa Bar
680 Montreal Street 809 Douglas Street 950 Wharf Street 1140 Government Street 1205 Wharf Street 812 Wharf Street 919 Douglas Street 620 Trounce Alley
BARRELING ALONG Victoria’s tap culture is defined by the small-batch sorcery practiced in its brewpubs. That they’re all within walking distance of one another is merely a hoppy coincidence. MY Don’t confuse this with a pub-crawl. It’s a pilgrimage. RATING The Argyle Attic Canoe Brewpub Moon Under Water Brewpub Spinnakers Brewpub Swans Brewpub
777 Courtney Street 450 Swift Street 350B Bay Street 308 Catherine Street 506 Pandora Avenue 47
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