28 Victoria is known for its gorgeous gardens, walkable downtown, and endless outdoor activities, but did you know it also boasts more restaurants per capita than anywhere else in Canada? Step off the ferry and you’ll find yourself immersed in a food-loving city with a thriving, sophisticated, ingredient-driven, and multicultural dining scene that rivals many larger destinations. Add in warm hospitality and plenty of affordable options, and you have a culinary gem that any savvy foodie will appreciate. Beyond its exceptional restaurants, Victoria also hosts a variety of lively food festivals throughout the year. The calendar kicks off with events like Culinaire, the Victoria Whisky Festival, and the Hot Chocolate Festival. In summer and fall the feasting continues with favorites such as Brewery & the Beast, The Thirsty Chef, RibFest, the Flavor Trails Festival, Crabfest, and the Victoria International Wine Festival. It’s also easy to find a culinary experience beyond the standard three square a day--there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the local food culture. Join a guided walking food tour, take a cooking class, try wild seaweed harvesting, or indulge in the city’s most iconic culinary tradition, afternoon tea. Love seasonal ingredients? You’ve come to the right place. Vancouver Island grows more diverse crops than anywhere else in Canada, and those fresh ingredients show up everywhere from refined tasting menus to hole-in-the-wall mom- and-pop eateries where local herbs, berries, and plenty of passion make their way into every dish. And if seafood is what you’re craving, buckle up, Victoria is a true seafood paradise. From salmon to sea asparagus and everything in between, the bounty of the Pacific is very much alive and proudly on the menu. Whether you’re travelling solo or bringing the whole family, vegan and health-focused or searching for a juicy steak and bold red wine, this city truly has something for every appetite and you certainly won’t leave hungry. James Bay Haunted dining rooms, stunning waterfront patios, modern cocktails, and seafood options galore are just a few reasons to consider James Bay your favorite foodie destination in the city. Home to historic Victorian-era houses and gorgeous private gardens, there is plenty to see, do, and taste in Victoria’s oldest neighborhood. For a sophisticated night out, visit the stunning Il Covo, classic Italian nestled inside an early-1900s brick building, or head to Fathom to sip from a collection of more than 200 whiskies. For waterfront dining, try Aura for refined farm-focused cuisine with an extensive wine list, or Breakwater Bistro to enjoy dinner while watching the sunset. If you’re after something more casual, stop by The Bent Mast or the James Bay Inn, both classic neighborhood pubs with plenty of character and a reputation among ghost-story enthusiasts for the occasional mysterious sighting There are plenty of family-friendly dining options in the area, including the colorful and lively Fisherman’s Wharf. Highlights there include Pirate Pizza for a fresh slice and Barb’s Fish & Chips, known for its delicious chowder and fish & chips. For a memorable outing, consider afternoon tea at The Pendray Tea House, which offers a fun children’s tea service that young guests love, especially in the elegant mansion setting. And for something sweet, stop by Birdcage Confectionery for handmade chocolates, Duo Café for exceptional pastries, or Small City, Big Flavors: Why Victoria Belongs on Every Foodie’s Radar Victoria diners enjoying Chinatown’s restaurant scene, including Mexican fare from MAiiZ Nixtamal Eatery & Tortilleria. Fathom’s dinner menu highlights regional and seasonal ingredients, including local seafood. By Bonnie Todd, Off the Eaten Track
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