African and Caribbean Restaurants in Victoria

February marks Black History Month, a time to learn about and celebrate the cultural past of Black people in BC and Canada. In Canada, this year’s theme is “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations,” recognizing the diversity of Black Canadians, the importance of Black leadership, and the legacy being built for future generations. 

In Victoria, there are many opportunities this month to explore Black history through local events, and one way to celebrate the culture is through food. We’ve put together a list of African and Caribbean restaurants and food businesses in Victoria to check out and support. Each of these restaurants contributes to Victoria's rich culinary scene.

Blue Nile African Restaurant

Blue Nile African Restaurant specializes in East African cuisine, offering both buffet and menu-style dining options. It provides an unforgettable East African dining experience without the need to travel thousands of miles. The restaurant just reopened at a new location downtown.

The menu features a wide variety of healthy organic dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options. Signature dishes include Zebhi Dorho, tender chicken served in a flavourful berbere (spicy) sauce, and the Meat Lovers Combo, a combination of doro zebhi (chicken stew), kye siga zebhi, siga kilwa (beef stir fry), tumtumo (lentils), and hamli kawlo (cabbage and vegetable mix). 

Address: 1724 Douglas St. 

Messob Ethiopian Cuisine

Messob Ethiopian Cuisine, serving Victoria since 2002, offers an authentic Ethiopian dining experience. The restaurant is known for its traditional dishes served on injera, a sourdough flatbread that complements the rich and flavourful stews. The menu caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options.