Harvest to Table in Greater Victoria

Set on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island, Greater Victoria regularly experiences some of the mildest winters in Canada, enjoying first blooms at a time when other cities are still battling snowstorms. This enviable climate allows Islanders to grow, harvest, nurture and prepare local dishes far beyond the typical growing season experienced by the rest of the country. With strong roots at their core, many restaurants around Greater Victoria have embraced local cuisine, bringing a flourishing farm-to-table scene to the city. Read on to discover what local restaurants source seasonal offerings grown nearby. 

Please note that all businesses mentioned have taken the necessary steps to adapt their business to safely serve you during this time. Please check directly with the business you wish to visit for their COVID-19 safety protocols and new hours. 

Agrius Restaurant 

Agrius is a contemporary restaurant located on Yates Street in downtown Victoria and inspired by French cuisine with a focus on flavour. Specializing in dinner, they are known across the city for their freshly baked breads, cured meats and organic ingredients. With menus dictated by seasonality, Agrius sources their ingredients directly from producers, farms and foragers. You’ll come for the food but linger for the atmosphere. 

Image by @jackymchui

10 Acres Commons| Bistro | Pier 

What they don’t grow and ethically raise on their very own farm in North Saanich, they source from like-minded farmers, food purveyors and fishermen. With three distinct flavours and atmospheres under the 10 Acres brand, you’re guaranteed a seasonal and fresh culinary experience.  

Image via @eat10acres

Marina Restaurant 

Tucked away in Oak Bay, the Marina Restaurant is where you can enjoy fresh West Coast offerings while overlooking the ocean. Their seafood is locally and sustainably sourced and offers a feast for your senses. 

Image via @themarinarestaurant

Zambri’s  

Specializing in Italian cuisine, this award-winning restaurant serves up delicious Italian soul food blended with “environmentally-conscious food creations.” Open for lunch and dinner, discover these classic flavours first-hand downtown Victoria. 

Image via @zambrisrestaurant

Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub 

Spinnakers is not your classic pub. They are Island-grown (no pun intended) and have supported farm-to-table dining for over 30 years. Partnering with 35 local farmers and producers to serve fresh, local foods year-round, you’re guaranteed an authentic taste of Vancouver Island. 

Image via @spinnakersbrewpub

Q at the Empress 

A space fit for a queen, the Q Restaurant and Bar at the Empress prides itself on Pacific Northwest flavours sourced locally and ethically. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in the heart of the Inner Harbour, your body will thank you as you delight in nourishing and delicious flavours. 

Image via @qattheempress

Saveur Restaurant 

Offering fine dining in a casual setting, Saveur’s French-inspired cuisine changes regularly based on seasonal offerings available on Vancouver Island. Located in Chinatown, Saveur is a feast for the senses. Here their commitment to sourcing local ingredients is “combined with exquisite flavours, textures and presentation.” 

Image via @saveurresto

The Beach House 

Located in Cordova Bay, The Beach House is perfectly situated on the Pacific Ocean and offers a stunning vista as you indulge in west coast contemporary fare that’s truly the bounty of the season.

Image by @tastingvictoria

Fireside Grill 

Located on the Saanich Peninsula, Fireside Grill is a cozy and delightful restaurant featuring two heated patios and dishes crafted from flavours found right on their doorstep.  

Image via @fireside_grill_victoria

Wind Cries Mary 

Located in the historic Bastion Square, Wind Cries Mary is a hidden gem serving up the bounty of the Island. The family-style menu incorporates local fare caught, produced, foraged and supplied by locals. They also offer one of the best cocktail menus in the city! 

Image via @windcriesmary.vic 

The Roost Farm Bakery & Vineyard Bistro 

Nestled in North Saanich, The Roost is truly the definition of farm to table. A family affair, one of the owners, Sarah Bohl grew up on the 10-acre farm where Roost is located, and her dad still grows the wheat used to make their fresh bread, raises their chickens and grows the berries and veggies. Between serving delectable soul food and their freshly baked goods and coffee, you’ll find the hours slip by easily in this rural country setting. 

Image via @theroostfarm

Nourish Kitchen & Cafe 

Making farm-to-table accessible, Nourish was built on Hayley Rosenberg’s passion for working in the garden and re-imagining natural and whole ingredients. Their seasonal dishes reflect their philosophies and love of holistic nutrition. If you’re out exploring the Saanich Peninsula, we highly recommend checking out Nourish’s sister restaurant, Charlotte & the Quail at the Gardens at HCP for a tranquil experience founded on the same philosophies.

Image via @nourishvictoria taken by @juniperphoto_

Finn’s Harbour Front Restaurant & Oyster Bar

A visit to the West Coast wouldn’t be complete without a tide-to-table experience, complete with an oyster bar! Finn’s Harbour Front Restaurant & Oyster Bar is ideally situated on the harbour and is committed to sourcing fresh and sustainable seafood. From seafood linguini to Island rockfish, you’ll be delighted by the freshness of the catch. 

Image via @finns_restaurant_victoria

Aura Waterfront Restaurant & Patio

Aura Waterfront Restaurant is the newest addition to the Inn at Laurel Point and offers globally-inspired small plates with farm-direct ingredients. Aura’s unique plates range from deep-fried sushi to tater tots and are a delight for the senses. 

Image via @innatlaurelpoint

Looking for a deeper connection to Island Flavours? Take your senses on a journey and discover the rural delights of the Saanich Peninsula along the Greater Victoria Flavour Trails. Bring the story to life by visiting the makers, bakers and growers before indulging at these farm-to-table restaurants. 

Header image of Charlotte & the Quail by Field & Forest