Who would want to live in a place where good food is hard to find? Well, unless you’re a local, chances are you don’t. If you live in Victoria, British Columbia, chances are you’re used to mediocre food. But if you’re visiting the capital of British Columbia or live here for any other reason, here’s a secret: Victoria has some of the best restaurants in the whole country.
We’re not just saying that because this is the capital city of British Columbia. We’re not just saying that because we’re biased toward the city. There are so many world-class restaurants in Victoria because the city offers something different from most other places.
You see, while most Canadian cities are known for their meat pies and poutine, Victoria is known for its food.
Best Restaurant in Victoria, Canada
The capital is home to some of the best restaurants in Canada, with the likes of Le Grand Bistro, The Broken Record, The Dandelion and more.
1. Le Grand Bistro
The best restaurant in Victoria, Canada is Le Grand Bistro. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the most famous and best Parisian and French restaurants in the world. Chef Alain Ducasse and his team have been serving classic and modern French cuisine in Victoria since the hotel opened in 2001.
With dishes like foie gras and sea bream, as well as a three-course menu for $58, Le Grand Bistro is an excellent choice for a special meal.
2. The Broken Record
Another top choice for a delicious meal in Victoria is The Broken Record. Chef Rob Feild has been creating modern and classic British dishes since he came to Canada from the U.K. in 1998. He worked in the famed Savoy Hotel in London before coming to Canada, and his experience shows in his food.
The Broken Record is known for its fine Scottish dining, with dishes like sea bream with salsa verde, and a three-course menu for $58.
3. The Dandelion
If you’re craving a more relaxed atmosphere but still want great food, try The Dandelion. Chef Jeremy Sas is a James Beard nominee and two-time winner of Canadian Food and Wine’s Best Chef in British Columbia.
The Dandelion is known for its creative and delicious menu, which changes seasonally and features dishes like Japanese seared yellowfin tuna with ginger miso and celery root.
A three-course menu for $58, as well as a great selection of wines and cocktails, makes The Dandelion a great choice.
4. The Cobalt
When you’re looking for a great steak in Victoria, look no further than The Cobalt. The restaurant is housed in a historic building and is owned and operated by the North West Company. Situated in the heart of downtown, The Cobalt is in a great location.
The restaurant is known for its USDA Prime steaks, which are priced at $50 and up. The steak is seasoned in both The Cobalt’s kitchen and an on-site dry-ageing facility, ensuring great flavor and texture.
5. Barque Smokehouse & Brasserie
If you’re looking for an excellent place to drink in Victoria, look no further than Barque Smokehouse & Brasserie. Owned by former Iron Chef Michael Smith and his wife, the restaurant is situated on the waters of Gorge Waterway.
Smith’s cuisine is French-German fusion, and the restaurant is known for its smoked meat dishes, including its signature smoked meat sandwich. A three-course menu for $58, as well as a great wine and cocktail selection, makes Barque Smokehouse & Brasserie a great date-night option.
6. The National on the Bay
Located along the scenic waters of Douglas Channel, The National on the Bay is one of the most luxurious hotel restaurants in all of Canada. The hotel is located in the National Historic Landmark District of Old Victoria and was the setting for “The Great British Bacon Hunt,” the inspiration for “Address Unknown.” The National on the Bay is also a member of Leading Restaurants of the World.
A three-course menu for $58, and a great wine and cocktail list, make The National on the Bay a top choice.
7. Cafe Deux Soleils
If you’re in the mood for some Quebecois cooking, head to Cafe Deux Soleils. Located in the heart of Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the restaurant is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
A three-course menu for $58, as well as a great wine and cocktail list, make Cafe Deux Soleils another great choice.
8. The Yorkville
When you’re craving some great Mediterranean cuisine, The Yorkville is one of the top restaurants in Victoria. The restaurant is situated in the Yorkville neighbourhood, which is known for its quaint and charming cobblestone streets.
The Yorkville is a great place to start when you’re looking for a delicious Mediterranean meal. A three-course menu for $58, and a great wine and cocktail list, make The Yorkville a great choice.
Conclusion
There you have it: the five best restaurants in Victoria, Canada. These are the places you should visit if you’re looking for delicious food in a charming environment.
If you’re visiting or living in Victoria, these are the places you need to eat at. And if you’re not, these are the restaurants you should visit when you’re in the area.
These are the top restaurants in Victoria, and they’re all world-class. So if you’re planning a trip to Canada’s westernmost city, make sure to stop by at least one of these restaurants.