From the interwoven communities of the Comox Valley to Campbell River, the Central Island is bursting with food-passionate folk. There’s no doubt the pandemic has hit many of the restaurants here hard. But, like in Victoria, the communities are supportive beyond belief of their local eateries.

If you’re trying to stay in ketosis or generally cut down on carbs, you’ll know that it can be tricky to dine in or take out while sticking to meals with lower sugar and starch. However, If you simplify your options by sticking to the basics of low carb—greens, meat, cheese, eggs—you will find an abundance of options across Victoria. Whether that means ordering straight off the menu or slightly modifying a meal to swap out a starch for greens, you’ll find that most places will be able to accommodate your preferences.

Searching for a perfect Island staycation? Look no further than Brentwood Bay Resort, tucked in the peaceful harbour located close to the Mill Bay Ferry. Offering luxurious hotel rooms, a spa, marina, restaurants, eco-adventures, and outdoor patio space, this destination will provide you with the perfect balance of outdoor adventure along with the opportunity to pamper your body and tempt your palate.

Red Barn Market is a locally owned Victoria business that sources Island-raised, Island-made, and Island-grown products first. Red Barn Market was first opened in 2002, and the business has since grown into seven locations in the Greater Victoria area.

Vis-à-Vis, meaning “face to face” in French, offers a personalized and engaging experience. The stylish and quaint Vis-à-Vis Bouchon Bar is located in the heart of Oak Bay Village. Bouchon equates to a type of restaurant typically found in Lyon, France that serves traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. The emphasis in a bouchon is not necessarily on haute cuisine but rather a cordial and warm atmosphere. There are small tables and front-row seats at the bar, where visitors are able to interact with the bartender while sipping on a glass of wine, locally crafted beer, or signature cocktail.

Vancouver Island really knocked it out of the park, with an impressive five local eateries making the cut.

Keep reading to find out what makes them all worthy of acclaim — and our insider’s pick for the must-try dish at each.

Customer service is a term that can’t be ignored in the restaurant industry. Superior customer service, along with amazing food and ambiance, ensures that guests will want to return time and time again.

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Come learn a new recipe from one of Canada’s most renowned chefs, Executive Chef Kristian Eligh from the TopTable Group. Chef Eligh is currently working on opening Victoria’s first TopTable restaurant and will be joined by Victoria Master Bartender Jayce Kadyschuk who will walk you through how to prepare a signature cocktail.