Absolute best places to enjoy food and drink on patios in Victoria!
With the year we’ve all had, it’s exciting to see the return of the sun! And with warmer days ahead, we can begin to safely return to doing some of the things we all love most. In Victoria, with its stunning natural and architectural beauty and vibrant culinary scene that means finding a spot on a sunny, safely distanced patio! With a focus on local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients, Victoria’s restaurants utilize the best of the island to create menus that are forward-thinking and delicious. There are so many amazing restaurant patios around Victoria it can be overwhelming to find the right one! We’ve rounded up our favourite places to sit, relax, enjoy the sun and eat some delicious food.
Specialty Foods
When it comes to finding fabulous vegan fare and a great patio, you can’t go wrong with Virtuous Pie. This family owned venture is known for their downright delicious vegan pizza and creamy, plant based ice cream and that isn’t all! This veggie Valhalla also offers mouthwatering appies like vegan mac and cheese and italian meatballs. So if you’re looking for somewhere to treat yourself to delicious comfort food and be healthy, this is the spot to be.
If you’re looking for a cozy, farmhouse style patio and a super tasty, healthy meal, Nourish Kitchen and Cafe is a must. Located in a beautiful heritage building in James Bay, this little kitchen restaurant takes a holistic approach to food by creating dishes that feed mind, body and soul.
Casual Eats
Calling all craft beer enthusiasts! The Drake Eatery has a mind-boggling draught list, incredible casual eats and a large patio to enjoy these warm days. Not a beer enthusiast? No problem! The knowledgeable and friendly staff can help you pick something delicious or choose one of the wines from the small but perfectly curated wine list to sip in the sun.
Located just over the blue bridge in Victoria West, is the local favourite Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub. With 5 different patios to choose from, you are sure to find a spot outside to enjoy a meal with a view. If you’re coming from downtown Victoria, this pub makes for a good destination for a stroll along the Songhees Waterway.
Big Patios
Located right in the heart of downtown Victoria in Bastion Square is Victoria’s Sunniest Patio at The Local. With their large menu and classic North American fare this is a great staple in Victoria’s dining scene. The fantastically warm, sunny patio is a great spot to enjoy your meal and do some people watching but don’t forget to bring your sunglasses!
Tucked away at the far end of Wharf Street is one of Victoria’s busiest and prettiest patios at Canoe Brewpub. This hard working restaurant and brewpub offers a large selection of elevated casual dishes and creates some of Victoria’s most popular beers. The large, brick patio offers lots of shaded tables to enjoy your meal while looking out onto the city’s Upper Harbour.
Brunch
If you’re hankering for a fantastic brunch, you can’t go wrong at Jam Cafe. This little local favourite is where you’ll find incredible, southern inspired and homestyle dishes that hit the comfort food spot. The sidewalk patio is the perfect spot to enjoy an amazing brunch and watch the world go by.
Shine Café has been one of the most popular brunch spots in Victoria for almost 20 years! This long standing local hotspot has a huge menu of breakfast and brunch staples and lovely socially distanced patio seating at both downtown and Stadacona locations. With the focus on fresh ingredients and friendly service this is the perfect place for anyone looking for a classic breakfast.
Something Special
If you’re looking for a special dining experience, why not dine at one of Victoria’s top restaurants located on one of the most iconic verandahs in the city? Q at the Empress is a stunning, award winning restaurant steeped in history but with a modern edge. The Pacific Northwest cuisine is inspired by regional ingredients and close partnerships with local farmers, suppliers and producers. Enjoy fine dining service on the verandah as you watch the sunset over the bustling Inner Harbour.
Any night can be a special night when you dine at Boom + Batten in Victoria West. Their elevated but accessible menu filled with local, sustainable ingredients is the perfect way to enjoy a relaxed, fine dining experience. With stunning views of the Inner Harbour, a laid-back, elegant atmosphere and beautiful dishes this is a perfect place to celebrate a special occasion…or any occasion. It’s that good.