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Victoria is a city filled with charm and romance and the restaurant scene has a lot to do with it. From cozy, intimate spots with candlelit tables to upscale eateries with ocean views, Victoria’s restaurant scene offers a variety of options perfect for a romantic evening with someone special. Whether you’re looking for good food, a cozy vibe, or a unique dining experience, here’s a list of must-visit restaurants that set the stage for romance in the heart of Victoria.
Toptable Group's newest restaurant Marilena is the elevated dining experience that Victoria has been anticipating for years. 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. Aside from the food, the service is excellent, they have an expansive wine list, and the experience in general at the restaurant makes it a perfect spot for date night or any special celebration. The restaurant came in first place as Canada’s best new restaurant in the Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list.
Address: 1525 Douglas St.
This classic brasserie is the epitome of French fare and wine in Victoria, changing their menu daily, reflecting on their approach to using seasonal and locally available products cooked in a classic French-country style. The ambiance makes you feel as if you are in France, with low lighting, and a casual vibe. The restaurant does not take reservations and instead utilizes a first-come, first-served model. There’s usually a line-up outside before the restaurant opens. Popular items on the menu include the mussels, stuffed Medjool dates, onion soup, steak frites, and the burger. The drink menu is also extensive as well, where the owner and sommelier Marc Morrison has chosen a range of beers from Belgium and France. Following the lead set by the bistro menu, Morrison's wine selection at Brasserie L'Ecole is primarily composed of value French wines. The list, like the menu, is frequently updated to reflect the non-stop arrival of new products.
Address: 1715 Government St.
A renowned fine dining restaurant located in North Saanich. With stunning views of the Saanich Inlet and charming old-world décor, the restaurant offers a truly picturesque dining experience in an elegant and classic setting.
Deep Cove Chalet specializes in classic French cuisine, offering dishes crafted with the finest local ingredients. The menu frequently changes based on seasonal availability, focusing on fresh seafood, local meats, and produce from nearby farms. Some signature dishes include items like:
Fresh local seafood, such as scallops, lobster, and fish prepared with French culinary techniques.
Meat dishes, like duck or beef Wellington, often with exquisite sauces and pairings.
Decadent desserts, including rich, traditional French desserts like crème brûlée and soufflé.
The wine list is extensive, with a particular emphasis on French wines and some local selections, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Call 250-656-3541 or 250-656-2601 to make your reservation.
Address: 11190 Chalet Rd.
Inspired by Northern Italian cuisine with a Pacific Northwest twist, Il Terrazzo Ristorante has served Victoria for three decades in an old town courtyard and it is a local staple. This lively, unique dining experience offers a diverse, well-rounded menu and extensive wine program. It’s truly got something for everyone, from classics like caprese salad, traditional thin crust pizzas, and tiramisu, to unique creations such as the linguine marco polo, made with chicken breast, toasted cashews, mango, fresh basil and pimentos in a creamy lemon sauce.
Address: 555 Johnson St.
Cafe Brio is a downtown Victoria classic: a rustic Italian restaurant with a menu driven primarily by local produce and seasonal goods, considered to be one of the Island’s best dining experiences. Everything is made in-house from scratch, from the table bread to the cured meats that accompany an antipasto board. After 27 years of service, the restaurant is under new ownership and in excellent hands with chef Sam Harris and bar manager Vincent Vanderheide.
The space is cozy with rustic décor, featuring warm wood tones, soft lighting, and an open kitchen that invites guests to witness the culinary action. It has an intimate dining room as well as a charming patio that’s perfect for a romantic dinner.
Address: 944 Fort St.
The Courtney Room is a must-try in Victoria, especially when looking for a spot for a romantic night out or celebration. Located within the historic Magnolia Hotel, The Courtney Room exudes timeless elegance with its high ceilings, soft lighting, and sophisticated décor. The restaurant's chic but cozy vibe makes it an ideal spot for intimate dining, providing the perfect backdrop for a special evening. The restaurant’s service is exceptional and the menu focuses on Vancouver Island ingredients.
The menu features beautifully crafted dishes like fresh oysters, perfectly seared steaks, and local seafood, all designed to impress. For date night, the chef’s seasonal tasting menu is a great option, allowing couples to try a variety of flavours and share the experience together.
Address: 619 Courtney St.
Ugly Duckling stands out as one of the best spots for a romantic date night 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.
Whether celebrating an anniversary or simply enjoying a romantic dinner, Ugly Duckling creates an atmosphere that makes the evening feel like a special occasion. Their commitment to offering an exceptional dining experience leaves a lasting impression. For couples looking for an intimate dining experience where the food is just as memorable as the ambiance, Ugly Duckling is a top choice for date night.
Address: 543 Fisgard St.
Picture this: a full omakase experience enjoyed at a quaint counter overlooking the experienced sushi chef making your meal right in front of your eyes. Chobap Sushi Bar is a newly opened omakase restaurant on Courtney Street that is home to exactly that, offering a unique and exclusive dinner experience that visitors are sure to come back to again and again.
Omakase is translated to “I’ll leave it up to you” in Japanese, which means that the menu here frequently changes depending on chef Clark’s mood and access to fresh seafood that day. The private and exclusive dining environment makes Chobap Sushi Bar an ideal destination for a romantic, one-of-a-kind dining experience
Address: 610 Courtney St.
The recently opened restaurant located at the newly restored Rosemead House offers an intimate setting and cozy atmosphere, inviting connection and conversation, allowing couples to focus on each other. The interior of the restaurant honours the building’s more-than-a-century-old history in Esquimalt.
The unique dishes invite couples to explore and discover new flavours together, enhancing the dining experience. The menu encourages sharing, which can make for a more interactive and engaging dining experience. Janevca Restaurant stands out as an excellent option for a romantic night out in Victoria. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a delightful meal together, Janevca offers a memorable dining experience.
Address: 429 Lampson St.
