Looking for the best Victoria restaurants? You’re in the right place!
If you don’t have time to finish reading this article, go ahead and jump straight to Il Terrazzo or 10 Acres Bistro for some of the best food in town!
However, Victoria is a hub of amazing restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and more! The food scene in the capital city keeps expanding, with several new eateries dropping in every year.
Below, I’ve compiled some of the best Victoria restaurants that are worth putting on your favourites list. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
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1. Il Terrazzo
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With its charming old town courtyard setting, this Italian gem transports diners straight to Italy. The Frutti di Mare della Casa, brimming with prawns, mussels, and scallops in a zesty lemon parsley cream, is a stellar option.
The Cannelloni di Maiale promises a culinary journey to Italy, while the Osso Buco, featuring melt-in-the-mouth braised veal shank over saffron risotto, is pure decadence.
Attentive service and an inviting atmosphere complete the unforgettable dining experience.
What to order: Frutti di Mare della Casa, Cannelloni di Maiale, Osso Buco
Address: 555 Johnson Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1M2
2. 10 Acres Bistro
Photo Credits: Eat10Acres
Photo Credits: eat10acres
Photo Credits: Eat10Acres
Photo Credits: 10 Acres Restaurants & Farm
Embracing a farm-to-table philosophy, this bistro offers a delightful culinary experience on its cozy heated patio.
The French Onion Soup, rich and savory, is topped with cheese, bacon bits, and crunchy croutons. The Halibut & Chips features perfectly fried, honey beer-battered fish that’s crispy outside and moist inside.
For a comforting dish, the chicken pot pie, stuffed with their famous rotisserie chicken, is one of the best. Fresh, local ingredients shine in every bite.
What to order: French Onion Soup, Halibut & Chips, Rotisserie Chicken, Pot Pie
Address: 611 Courtney Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1W8
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3. Pagliacci’s
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Photo Credits: pagliaccisvic
Photo Credits: pagliaccisvic
Photo Credits: Pagliacci’s Restaurant
Entering this timeless establishment is like stepping back into history.
The Hemingway Short Story, a stuffed tortellini dish, delights with its tender pasta and rich bacon cream sauce. For seafood lovers, Mr. Robert’s Seafood Lasagna layers crab, shrimp, spinach, and cheeses in a perfectly creamy marinara sauce.
Generous portions ensure you’ll have leftovers to enjoy later. The lively atmosphere, complete with live jazz, makes it a vibrant dining destination.
What to order: Hemingway Short Story, Mr. Robert’s Seafood Lasagna, Edgar Allen Poe’s Crab Cakes
Address: 1011 Broad Street, Victoria, BC V8W 2A1
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4. Brasserie L’Ecole
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Photo Credits: brasslecole
Photo Credits: brasslecole
French comfort food anyone? Brasserie L’Ecole serves up local ingredients with a French twist. Cozy and western-styled, it’s a friendly nook for a foodie. Their French Onion Soup is packed with all the good stuff, while the Steak Frites is a crave-worthy classic. Choose your cut, pick your doneness, and get ready to melt.
What to order: Soupe à l’Oignon Gratinée (French Onion Soup), Steak Frites
Address: 1715 Government Street, Victoria, BC, Canada V8W 1Z4
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5. Il Covo Trattoria
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Photo Credits: ilcovotrattoria
Photo Credits: ilcovotrattoria
Photo Credits: Il Covo Trattoria
This cozy French eatery excels in delivering a memorable dining experience with its seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
The French Onion Soup is a must-try, packed with onions, cheese, and a flavorful broth. Steak Frites is another highlight, offering perfectly cooked steak options like the 8 oz certified Angus sirloin.
Friendly service and a charming interior make it a delightful spot for a special night out.
What to order: Stinco D’agnello (lamb shank), Pappardelle Ai Funghi
Address: 106 Superior Street, Victoria, BC
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6. Wind Cries Mary
Photo Credits: windcriesmary.vic
Photo Credits: windcriesmary.vic
Photo Credits: windcriesmary.vic
Photo Credits: windcriesmary.vic
Tucked away downtown, this casual dining spot exudes a laid-back vibe perfect for a relaxed meal.
Start with the Bison Tartare, a fresh and flavorful dish served with corn chips, arugula, and radish. The fried chicken, served with an array of house-made hot sauces, is a can’t-miss and a favorite among loyal diners.
For a rich and creamy treat, the Burrata rounds out a satisfying meal. The dark, candlelit atmosphere and excellent service make it an ideal choice for a special evening.
What to order: Bison Tartare, Fried Chicken, Burrata
Address: 45 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC
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7. Uchida Eatery
Photo Credits: uchidaeatery
Photo Credits: uchidaeatery
Photo Credits: uchidaeatery
Photo Credits: uchidaeatery
For a taste of simple yet exquisite Japanese cuisine, this farm-to-table eatery ticks all in the checklist.
The Negitoro Don, featuring succulent albacore tuna on sushi rice with kinshi egg and wasabi, is a quick sell-out for a reason.
The Tuna Zuke Don, with soy-marinated tuna sashimi and a medley of fresh toppings, is equally delightful.
Each dish reflects meticulous preparation and the high quality of organic, locally sourced ingredients – every bite a flavor-packed experience.
What to order: Negitoro Don, Tuna Zuke Don, Salmon Don
Address: A22-633 Courtney Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1B9
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8. Bodega
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Photo Credits: bodegabarvictoria
Photo Credits: bodegabarvictoria
Photo Credits: bodegabarvictoria
For top-notch Spanish Tapas and Sherry, this local gem is a frequent favorite.
Start with the signature Charcuterie Board, featuring a mix of cheeses, meats, and sauces.
The Beef Carpaccio is a god among men, with flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully. End your meal with the house-made sorbet, and be sure to ask about the day’s flavor.
The friendly, attentive staff and warm ambiance make every visit special.
What to order: Bodega Board, Beef Carpaccio, House-made Sorbet
Address: 1210 Broad St, Victoria, BC V8W 2A4
9. NUBO Japanese Tapas
Photo Credits: nubotapas
Photo Credits: nubotapas
Photo Credits: nubotapas
Photo Credits: nubotapas
Inspired by Izakaya dining, this Japanese sushi bar offers a modern culinary experience.
The TakoYaki, octopus balls that are tender and perfect for sharing, is a hit with kids. For sushi lovers, the Victoria’s Secret Roll combines spicy tuna with guacamole and cucumber.
Non-fish eaters will love the Cowboy Roll, featuring sliced Angus beef torched at the table.
With a range of vegan options and attentive service, it’s an amazing spot for fresh and flavorful Japanese tapas.
What to order: TakoYaki, Victoria’s Secret Roll, Cowboy Roll
Address: 739 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC V8W 1N9
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10. John’s Place Restaurant
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Photo Credits: johns_placeyyj
Photo Credits: johns_placeyyj
Photo Credits: John’s Place Restaurant
Feel at home at John’s Place Restaurant, a cozy downtown spot with a menu that has something for everyone. The Belgian Waffle is a classic, but for burger aficionados, the Bacon & Brie Burger is the way to go. Featured on TV, this spot’s comfort food will keep you coming back.
What to order: The Belgian Waffle, Bacon & Brie Burger, Sid Caesar Salad
Address: 723 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8
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11. Red Fish Blue Fish
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Walking into this charming downtown spot feels like a warm hug from your favorite grandma.
The Belgian Waffle, featured on “You Gotta Eat Here!”, is a treat you can customize with options like gluten-free batter or a Churro-style twist.
For burger lovers, the Bacon & Brie Burger, topped with grilled bacon, pickled onions, and creamy brie, is a delightful indulgence.
With a welcoming vibe and hearty portions, it’s a perfect place for comfort food.
What to order: Fish and Chips, Albacore Tuna Tacone, Chowder
Address: 1006 Wharf Street, Victoria, BC
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12. Jam Cafe
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Photo Credits: jamcafeyyj
Photo Credits: jamcafeyyj
Photo Credits: David Charabin
This family-owned eatery serves up comfort food with a rustic-city charm.
The Chicken French Toast, where thick-cut brioche meets buttermilk fried chicken, is drizzled with hot honey sauce and maple bourbon BBQ glaze — a sweet and savory masterpiece.
The Charlie Bowl, with crumbled buttermilk biscuits, hash browns, bacon, and ham topped with mushroom gravy and sunny-side eggs, will revolutionize your breakfast game.
Be prepared for large portions and a delightful brunch.
What to order: Chicken French Toast, The Charlie Bowl, Fried Chicken & Waffles
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13. Fuego Old Town Eatery
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Photo Credits: fuegoyyj
Photo Credits: fuegoyyj
Photo Credits: fuegoyyj
Fuego Old Town Eatery is a laid-back Mexican spot known for its homey vibe.
For a unique twist on classic breakfast fare, try the Cornbread French Toast, where battered cornbread is paired with bacon or avocado.
The El Porco Benny offers slow-roasted pulled pork and caramelized apples on crispy pappas patties, topped with perfectly poached eggs and smoky chipotle hollandaise – an exceptional dish that’s hard to forget.
The patio seating adds an extra touch to the enjoyable meal.
What to order: Cornbread French Toast, El Porco Benny, GF Veggie Omelette
Address: 1435 Store Street, Victoria, BC, Canada V8V 3C6
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14. Dumpling Drop
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Photo Credits: dumplingdrop
Photo Credits: dumplingdrop
Photo Credits: dumplingdrop
In the heart of Chinatown, this quaint shop is a haven for dumpling lovers. The vegan dumplings are a surprise, crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside.
Pair the tender, flavorful pork belly dumplings with their Thai Iced Tea for an unbeatable combination.
Don’t forget to add their house-made chili oil to elevate your meal to the next level.
What to order: Pork Belly dumplings, Classic Vegan dumplings, Thai Iced Tea
Address: 556A Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC V8W 1N7
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Looking for a place to stay in Victoria?
After a stomach- and soul-filling meal from one of these restaurants, you can head out to explore the best of everything that Victoria has to offer.
There’s no better way to digest the delicious food you ate than to explore the city, right?
Our guide on the Best Things to Do in Victoria list will leave you with a multitude of exciting options to choose from.
How We Create Our “Best” Lists
All Noms Magazine’s “best” lists are created using multiple factors and signals to help readers find the best restaurants, things to do, and places to stay at. Some of these factors and signs include personal experiences, correspondence with locals, and compiling experiences from review sites.
Each list is also created to be balanced (in terms of price, cuisine type, ambiance, and more) as possible. This means that the lists are not specifically created in ranking order. You should be comfortable picking from any of the spots on the list and generally have a good time. But of course, YMMV (your mileage may vary) and everyone may have different experiences/palates.
