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Victoria is known as the city of brunch with so many fantastic options littered throughout the city. But what about those times where you want something more than brunch options? Luckily, Victoria has plenty of other great food options as well. When I was living in Victoria, I had a few favourite haunts and now when friends and family head to the island, these are the places I recommend they check out.
Ferris’ Oyster Bar and Grill
Oysters are the name of the game here at Ferris’ Oyster Bar and Grill. Whether you like them on the half shell, smoked or fried, get your oysters any way you like them. My favourite item is the oyster burger. Lightly breaded and fried up to perfection between two perfect buns, served with a side of regular potato and yam fries. Yes, you can get them mixed. Why more restaurants don’t do this, I don’t know. You get the best of both worlds. There are plenty of other options from sandwiches to pasta to more seafood. For something a little more upscale, head upstairs to Ferris’ Upstairs Oyster Bar for a more intimate experience.
536 Yates St, Victoria, BC V8W 1K8
Website
Pagliacci’s
Photo: Boris Mann
Pagliacci’s is an institution in Victoria. Be ready for long lines before you get to inhale the delicious aroma. Dishes are huge – the half portion size is plenty. With punny New York and movie-inspired names for dishes like “I’ll Have What She’s Having” and “Forrest Gump”, both you and your taste buds will be singing. Better save room for dessert. Their checkerboard cake is huge and to die for. And of course, their New York Style Cheesecake is a must.
1011 Broad St, Victoria, BC V8W 2A1
Website
Red Fish Blue Fish
The “cod dog” on the left and good ‘ol fish and chips on the right.
When you’re in Victoria and by the water, you need to have seafood. That’s where Red Fish Blue Fish comes in. Grab a basket of fresh fish and chips and take a stroll along inner harbour. The lightly battered fish and crispy fries will have you wondering why you ever enjoyed fish and chips elsewhere. If you’re looking for something slightly different, pick up one of their tacones – a hand rolled taco filled with your favourite seafood option. Enjoy lunch al fresco people watching and observing boats and they come in and out of the harbour. Be prepared for long lines, but they move quickly.
1006 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8
Website
Note: They close during the winter months.
Rebar
For those looking for a plant-based meal that is filling as is tasty, then a visit to Rebar is a must. This restaurant is an institution in Victoria with lines out the door during meal time. Items on the menu range from almond burgers to noodle bowls to enchiladas. They’re also open for brunch on the weekends. If you don’t want to wait, you can even pick up a cookbook and try your hand at recreating your favourites at home.
50 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1J2
Website
What are some of your favourite places to eat in Victoria?
CORRECTION: This article originally recommended Hernande’z Cocina. Since publication, this restaurant has since shut down.
P.S. Eating Victoria in Three Meals & Top Five Things To Do in Victoria, BC
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Little Jumbo hands down and Fol Epi. Perhaps living in California I am biased about corn over flour tortillas. Ha!
I think I’m gonna have to get myself back over to Victoria asap to try both of those places. I haven’t heard of either of them!
I’m almost bold enough to say that I think Little Jumbo may be my favorite restaurant in BC….and I eat a lot. And the pastries and bread at Fol Epi rival the best in Vancouver. It’s all in my food guide for Vic! Happy eating!
Hi Adelina, I’m visiting Victoria in two days and this was such a nice helpful blog post. I was wondering if you know any cheap restaurants or places to stop by for breakfast near downtown Victoria? We’re trying not to go over budget.. 😉 Also do you know what food (pancakes, waffles, scones…?) Victoria. Any recommendations appreciated, thank you! Can’t wait to get a taste of Victoria!
Sorry I was saying if you know what food (pancakes, waffles, scones…?) Victoria is known for
Hey there! Great question. There are tons of brunch options that are fairly affordable in downtown Victoria. Just be aware that they may have lines especially on the weekend. I wrote about my favourite brunch options here, but if I could only pick one, I’d go with Jam Cafe. Here are a couple more food options from a more recent trip I took to Victoria. In terms of what foods Victoria is known for, I would say fish and chips (from Red Fish Blue Fish as mentioned above), or anything that highlights local produce in the area. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions about Victoria 🙂
Thank you so much for your reply! We ended up dining at the Old Spaghetti Factory (so good!!) and Red Fish Blue Fish (absolutely worth the money) 🙂
Fantastic! I’m glad you had a great time in the city.