7 new restaurants we can’t wait to visit this spring

Ugly Duckling. Website.

Victoria has no shortage of incredible places to eat, but every year a few new spots open that completely steal the show. Here are some of the best new restaurants in Victoria that are raising the bar and bringing fresh flavours to the table. 

Marilena Cafe & Raw Bar

Fine dining at its finest at Toptable Group's newest restaurant, Marilena, is the elevated dining experience Victoria has been looking for. The restaurant opened its doors in June of 2023 and has gained popularity among locals and visitors. The menu is crafted of West Coast cuisine with local and globally sourced seafood paired with high-quality sustainable ingredients that adhere to the highest standards. The restaurant was named Canada’s Best New Restaurant on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list and there is no doubt it should be on the list, it has great food and options for everyone.

Our Pick:
Pan-roasted halibut

Address:
1525 Douglas St.

Syriana Restaurant

Safaa Naeman moved from Syria to Victoria in 2017, and in 2021, she began catering full-time. People fell in love with her food, and in early 2024, she opened Syriana Restaurant, offering shawarma wraps, hummus with pita bread, falafel, tabbouleh, pistachio baklava, and more. The restaurant often has a line-up outside, causing the restaurant to extend its hours, so it’s no wonder Tasting Victoria readers voted for Syriana as one of the best new restaurants in the city and best hidden gem.

Our Pick:
Rice and meat combo

Address:
1258 Esquimalt Rd.

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Ugly Duckling 

Ugly Duckling stands out as one of the best new spots in the city thanks to its unique combination of refined cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and attention to detail. Every dish is not only delicious but also presented with artistic flair. The thoughtful plating adds to the dining experience, impressing those who appreciate the finer details of gourmet cuisine.

Our Pick:
Tasting menu

Address:
543 Fisgard St.

Other nominated new restaurants:

Shuck Taylor's

Victoria's seafood scene has a new star: Shuck Taylor's, a casual seafood spot that offers yummy fresh oysters and a fresh spin on classic dishes. Known for its varied oyster options and seasonal menu, Shuck Taylor’s is quickly becoming a favourite dining destination either for lunch, happy hour, or dinner. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to enjoy a great meal with friends, this restaurant is a great option.  

Our Pick: 
Freshly Shucked Oysters  

Address:
1324 Blanshard St. 

Rudi

Rudi takes comfort food to a whole new level. This new downtown restaurant, created by the beloved Wind Cries Mary team, delivers comfort dishes with a gourmet twist, prioritizing locally sourced ingredients and bold flavours. Think indulgent pasta dishes, perfectly cooked meats, and rotating seasonal sides that make every visit different than the next.

Our Pick:
Cacio e pepe

Address: 
710 Pandora Ave.

Bray's

Bray’s is a cozy gem serving great tapas in a beautiful location. With a menu focused on healthy yet flavourful dishes, Bray’s is perfect for those who want a meal that feels indulgent but doesn’t weigh you down. Their creative use of fresh, local ingredients paired with a relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for a nice evening out, a happy hour, or a casual weeknight dinner.  

Our Pick:
Salt Spring mussels

Address: 
410 Pandora Ave. 

Honourable mention: Chobap Sushi Bar 

Chobap wasn’t nominated as it opened after the nomination phase of our awards, but it is worth sharing on this list. An eight-seater omakase restaurant on Courtney Street, the restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind dinner experience where the chef selects and prepares a multi-course meal right in front of guests. 

The restaurant offers three different omakase menus: The Edition Omakase serves eight courses, including sashimi, nigiri, aburi oshi sushi, grilled fish, a handroll, and more. The Harmony Omakase is the same menu plus sake pairings. And the Elegant Chef's Collection menu is a grand 10 to 12-course dinner including dessert.

Our Pick:
Edition omakase

Address: 
610 Courtney St.