Victoria’s Best Eats: A Local’s Guide to the Ultimate Foodie Adventure
Victoria’s Best Eats: A Local’s Guide to the Ultimate Foodie Adventure

Victoria’s Best Eats: A Local’s Guide to the Ultimate Foodie Adventure

Did you know Victoria, BC, boasts the most restaurants per capita in Canada? With 4.6 restaurants for every 1,000 people, it’s no wonder this vibrant city is a paradise for food lovers. While I can’t claim to have tried them all, I’ve made a pretty solid dent in the dining scene over the years. Here’s my not-so-short list of favourite breakfast, lunch, and dinner spots for your next visit to Victoria!


Breakfast: Start Your Day Deliciously

Whether you’re craving hearty breakfast plates or freshly baked goods, these spots will fuel your adventures:

  • The Village Restaurant
    Known for its vibrant vibe and stellar Bennys, this is where locals and visitors flock for breakfast classics with a twist.
  • The Ruby
    A retro-inspired diner serving up unforgettable breakfast burritos and crispy fried chicken with waffles.
  • Crust Bakery
    This award-winning bakery is famous for its buttery croissants and decadent pastries.
  • Pure Vanilla Bakery & Cafe
    A neighborhood gem serving up coffee, freshly baked breads, and irresistible cinnamon buns.

Lunch: Midday Musts

From cozy cafés to waterfront patios, Victoria has a lunch spot for every mood:

  • Charlotte and the Quail
    Nestled in the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific, this tranquil spot pairs garden views with delicious fare. Their lattes and salads are amazing.
  • Glo Restaurant + Lounge
    A waterfront patio and a stellar happy hour make this an excellent pick for midday bites or after-work cocktails.
  • Part and Parcel
    Locally sourced and seasonally inspired, this casual eatery is known for its creative sandwiches and bowls.
  • Artisan Bistro
    A French-inspired spot offering fresh, locally driven lunch options and excellent wine pairings.
  • Be Love
    This vegetarian restaurant is a haven for clean, nutrient-packed dishes that don’t skimp on flavor.
  • Boomtown Burritos
    Burrito perfection with fresh ingredients and bold flavours—ideal for a quick yet satisfying lunch on their outdoor patio.
  • Fol Epi/Cafe Fantastico
    This duo bakery and coffee shop serves artisanal bread, pastries, and strong coffee to match.
  • Kahuna Burgers
    Island vibes meet burger bliss—don’t miss their signature creations.
  • John’s Place
    A beloved diner serving comforting favorites like Belgian waffles and Reuben sandwiches.
  • Tacofino
    Iconic West Coast tacos with a laid-back vibe that will have you coming back for more.
  • Fujiya
    A go-to spot for fresh and affordable sushi on the go. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite before your next adventure.
  • Bon Macaron
    This boutique patisserie offers an incredible variety of macarons, from classic flavours to creative twists like lavender or black sesame. Perfect for a midday treat or dessert to-go! You can even take a class and learn how to make them yourself.

Dinner: Dine and Unwind

Victoria shines when the sun sets. These dinner spots are guaranteed to impress:

  • Marilena Cafe
    Certainly lives up to all the hype, a beautiful spot and amazing food to celebrate a special occasion.
  • Fireside Grill
    Cozy ambiance meets locally sourced menus—perfect for a romantic evening or a family gathering.
  • Boom and Batten
    Sweeping waterfront views and an amazing happy hour make this an unforgettable dinner choice.
  • Ithaka
    A slice of Greece in Victoria, this family-run gem is known for its authentic Greek dishes. Make sure you try the flaming cheese.
  • Virtuous Pie
    Vegan pizza and ice cream? Yes, please! Creative flavors that even meat lovers will adore.
  • Pagliacci’s
    A cozy spot offering live music and pasta that’s been a local favorite for decades.
  • The Japanese Village
    Teppanyaki theatrics paired with mouthwatering flavors—fun for the whole family!
  • Il Terrazzo
    A must-visit for pasta lovers, featuring rustic Italian dishes in an intimate setting. Make sure to make a reservation, they fill up fast.
  • Nowhere (no website, yet every local’s best-kept secret!)
    Tucked away and moody, this is the ultimate spot for a special date night.

Explore Victoria’s Food Scene Like a Local

No matter where you choose to dine, Victoria’s culinary scene will leave you wanting more. From casual cafés to fine dining, there’s always something new to discover. Did I miss your favorite spot? Let me know in the comments below or on Instagram @PlanitAdventures!

Plan your visit and bring your appetite—Victoria is waiting to wow you. If you are looking for something to do while you are in Victoria, check out this post.

Related Posts

2 Comments

Leave a Comment