Brunch at Virtuous Pie

Virtuous Pie in Victoria, BC, opened its doors to the public in December of 2019 and has been impressing locals ever since. If you have already frequented Virtuous Pie you will know that they are famous for their vegan pizza and ice cream. Kelsey McInnes, general manager at Virtuous Pie, is thankful for the reception they have received in Victoria.

“We are well-loved by the vegan community, but it’s the surprise we get from those who don’t participate in a vegan diet that is so rewarding,” she said.

McInnes explains that brunch at the restaurant began as a popup but “the feedback was so strong that we’ve been trying to offer it regularly ever since.” Locals will be happy to know that the Victoria location now offers brunch every weekend. Of the four Virtuous Pie locations—two in Vancouver and one in Oregon—the Victoria location is the only one currently offering this amazing brunch menu.

Fabulous location

Located on lower Pandora Street in downtown Victoria, Virtuous Pie is an impressive venue with its high ceilings, bright windows, and spacious interior. This welcoming setting offers standalone tables, booths, as well as a sit-up bar. More importantly, there’s a fabulous menu with lots of options, whether you are vegan or not.

And then there’s brunch

Now that brunch is offered on Saturdays and Sundays, you have the perfect reason to visit Virtuous Pie to highlight and up-the-ante on your weekend plans. Chef J.J. Murray has embellished existing brunch items and also created some new and delightful dishes that guests are raving about. Start your brunch experience with a mimosa, 2% Jazz coffee, cold brew, or an iced matcha milk tea, and then pair it with the warm cinnamon roll knots accompanied by cashew maple butter dipping sauce. Guaranteed to be the best way to start your morning.

On to the brunch mains

While breakfast pizzas are enticing, we opted to try the breakfast sandwich and the marionberry and yoghurt French toast, both of which did not disappoint. Made with tofu egg, vegan Italian sausage, tofu cheddar, arugula, tomato jam, and cashew Hollandaise, this sandwich is served up on a fresh Brioche bun with a side of crispy garlic herbed tater tots. The marionberry and yoghurt French toast offers a tasty option to those who crave something on the sweeter side for brunch. This rendition is made with Wildfire Bakery sourdough, marionberry compote, vanilla yoghurt, icing sugar, and maple syrup. What’s not to love? Over and above these menu items or the pizza offerings, there are options such as the garlic knots with dip, The Cure Bowl, or a “Superfunghi in the Morning” Benny. This weekend brunch won’t disappoint.

Chatting with chef Murray

During our visit, it was great to have a chance to speak with chef J.J. Murray who brings a wealth of experience to Virtuous Pie, having worked previously at Brasserie l’Ecole and with Cactus Clubs. Originally from Texas, Murray immigrated to Canada, studying with Rob Feenie (Iron Chef Canada) and completing training in Toronto, Edmonton, and France. Prior to arriving in Victoria, Murray held the position of Senior Sous Chef for all of Western Canada’s Cactus Clubs. He’s excited to be at Virtuous Pie and loves this “great dynamic of people in the kitchen where no one is too egotistical.” A vegan himself, Murray is passionate about vegan cooking and loves to explore vegan swap-outs—he believes “there’s an answer for everything if you’re willing to look.” Expect great things from Murray who is already planning some special events at the restaurant, particularly leading up to Valentine’s Day.

So if you haven’t already visited Virtuous Pie, be sure to check out this brunch with friends and family. Like most Victorians, we are always on the lookout for new brunch venues, and this is definitely one to add to your bucket list.

Virtuous PieAddress: 530 Pandora Ave.Instagram: @virtuous_pieMonday – Thursday 12 pm – 9 pmFriday 12 pm – 10 pmSaturday & Sunday 10 am – 2 pm

Written by Dorothy Hawes @any­_excuse_for_a_partyPhotos by Jenny Hawes @by_jennyh