Our favourite dishes in Victoria so far this summer

Summertime can be the chance to get outside and socialize, and here at Tasting Victoria it has also been the time to try some new dishes from across the city. From these tasting endeavours, we have fallen in love with some absolute favourites that we cannot wait to share. Although recent gloomy weather may suggest otherwise, there is still plenty of time left this summer for a tasting outing of your own. 

From hearty dinner plates and late night cocktails to midday sandwiches and baked goods, these are the foods and drinks that we think you should try before summer is out!

Wild albacore tuna from Wind Cries Mary 

Located in Bastion Square, Wind Cries Mary specializes in modern west coast cooking, utilizing locally-sourced ingredients. Its albacore tuna is a show stopper. Crusted in fennel, this tuna has an earthy anise-like flavour that complements the crisp taste of the rare served fish. The tuna lies on a bed of quinoa, yam, fresh tomatoes, and almonds which provides a warm and comforting element to the dish. Round out the meal with the restaurant’s roasted beets and a sunkissed negroni—a bitter gin-based cocktail with green strawberry, anise, and rhubarb.  

Address: 45 Bastion Square, Victoria
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 4pm-1am

Roasted veggie and havarti sandwich from Little June 

In the heart of Fernwood, Little June is a hub of community comings and goings. Its large window panes look out on the bustle of shoppers, dog walkers, and impromptu meetups. Located inside the cafe, resides one of the city’s most delicious vegetable sandwiches. Toasted between two slabs of thinly-cut crusty bread, this sandwich is packed with roasted zucchini, roasted pepper, and roasted eggplant. Piled on top of a generous layer of hummus, these veggies are topped off with havarti and fresh leafy greens. Best enjoyed with a maple shay shay, a comforting maple latte.   

Address: 1301 Gladstone Ave., Victoria 
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 7am-5pm