😋 What is happening in Victoria's food scene this week?

Good morning foodies,

This week we are bringing you a story about restaurants and eateries that have opened in Victoria this year so far; whether you’re looking to try something new or just want to stay in the know, as well as a roundup of restaurants we recommend checking out in the Saanich Peninsula: upscale dining experiences, breweries, cideries, bakeries, and more.

Don’t forget to check out the news section to learn about a ramen shop that moved to a new location downtown, a new coffee shop that has opened in North Park, a new breakfast spot, and more!

We're taking a little spring break 🌸
The newsletter will be pausing next week while we take a short vacation, but we’ll be back in your inbox on Thursday, April 24 with more local food features, news, openings, and events. Thanks for reading and see you soon!

😍 5 spots to try right now

🍜 Don Don Oak Bay: Fresh and delicious sushi, Japanese donburi, Korean food, poke, udon and more, featuring dishes like Rock & Roll with seared scallops on top, at 2027 Oak Bay Ave.​

🥐 La Roux Patisserie: Upscale French bakery known for fresh, warm croissants and rich, dark coffee, providing a delightful patio experience. ​

🍝 La Pasta La Pizza: Serving a variety of traditional and innovative pasta dishes and pizzas, made with fresh ingredients.​

🍣 Chobap Sushi Bar: Premium omakase experience offering authentic sushi crafted by chef Clark in an intimate 8-seat setting.​

🍳 Avalon Restaurant: A gem in Victoria, offering delicious breakfast options like eggs benedict and pancakes at reasonable prices.​

Know a great place we should add here? Reply back and let us know!

FEATURED

12 new restaurants that have opened in Victoria this year, so far

From long-awaited returns to brand new neighbourhood spots, Victoria has welcomed an impressive variety of new eateries in just a few short months. Whether it’s traditional Persian food, cozy cafés, fresh-baked pastries, or inventive pop-ups, there’s something for everyone.

We’ve put together a roundup of the restaurants, cafés, and pop-ups that have opened their doors so far in 2025—perfect if you’re looking to try something new or just want to stay in the know.

Check them out.

SPONSORED BY TINHORN CREEK

Tinhorn Creek Sunset Concert Series

Get ready for an incredible season at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards in Oliver. The beloved Concert Series is making a grand return, bigger and better than ever, with three fantastic nights of live music and fine wine. Don’t miss your chance to be part of these unforgettable evenings, set against the stunning South Okanagan scenery. Secure your spot now!

Krystle Dos Santos - May 31 | 7pm

Krystle Dos Santos is a two-time Western Canadian Award-winning singer/songwriter, known for her powerful vocals and eclectic style.

Antonio LaRosa - July 19 | 7pm

Antonio Larosa is a country-rock artist from Vancouver, BC, known for blending classic rock grit with country soul and modern elements.

Said The Whale - Sept 13 | 7:30pm

Said The Whale has been a staple of the Canadian music scene since 2007. Backed by a loyal fanbase and with a JUNO Award under their belt, the Vancouver band has built a reputation for heartfelt songs, massive hooks, and dynamic live shows.

VIP and General Admission tickets available for purchase here!

FEATURED

Restaurants to check out in the Saanich Peninsula

If you’re looking for your next culinary adventure, look no further. The Saanich Peninsula offers more than just stunning views and peaceful getaways—it’s also home to a vibrant culinary scene. From cozy bistros and elegant dining rooms to cheese shops, bakeries, and cideries, the area is full of spots worth planning a drive around.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite restaurants and eateries in the Peninsula, each offering something special—whether it’s wood-fired pizza, French cuisine, award-winning cider, or ice cream and waffles by the sea.

Check them out.

🗞️ News

Kizuna Ramen moved to a new location downtown at 1314 Douglas St. The new space is home to Good Filling Sankaku as well, a local business offering gluten-free, handmade onigiri rice balls. 

A new coffee shop opened this weekend in North Park: Wairua Cafe.

Big Swell West Coast Eatery just opened its doors downtown. Offering brunch from Tues.-Sun. 

The Esquimalt Farmer’s Market is now open for the season. 

Ramen Arashi is opening a new location in Langford soon. [Retail Insider] 

Phillips and Whistle Buoy Brewing launched together a Frutlupz Hazy IPA. One sip will transport you back to childhood—the special occasions when you were actually allowed to eat pure sugar for breakfast. 

Best Happy Hour in Victoria, as voted by readers.

Have a restaurant, business, or event to promote?

Get in touch with our team for small business-friendly advertising plans.

🗓️ Events

Lunchtime Concerts at Market Square: Enjoy live music every Friday in April and May at Market Square's lower courtyard, presented by the Victoria Festival Society. Bring your lunch and enjoy local performances.

Charelli’s Annual National Grilled Cheese Fundraiser: Join Charelli’s on April 10 for their 10th annual and last grilled cheese fundraiser. Enjoy artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches paired with signature tomato soup and house-made ketchup. All proceeds support the Victoria Chapter of the ALS Society of BC.

A Vermouth Masterclass & Pairings: As part of Victoria Cocktail Week, Matadora Taperia and Esquimalt Vermouth are doing two immersive masterclasses on April 15. Learn all about vermouth—from its historic roots to European aperitivo culture—with some tasty pairings.

Easter Weekend at Bilston Creek Farm: Enjoy a family-friendly Easter celebration with an egg hunt through the orchard, food vendors, and farm-fresh treats the weekend of April 19 and 20.

Easter Brunch at The Empress: Celebrate Easter Sunday with a decadent brunch buffet at the Crystal Ballroom, featuring carving stations, seafood, pastries, and more, on April 20.

Forjado Tequila Dinner: Fathom is hosting an exclusive five-course dinner on April 24 in collaboration with Alante Spirits, featuring Tequila Forjado—a premium tequila making its international debut in Victoria. Curated by sous chef Diego Jimenez, the menu will showcase authentic Mexican dishes paired with Forjado’s lineup of pure, all-natural, high-quality tequilas. 

 💸 Deals

• Daily specials starting at $5.99 at Royal Spice, including aloo tikki chaat on Mondays, gobi garlic on Tuesdays, and more.
  

• $5 duck wings and $6 drinks at Pagliacci’s during happy hour, 3-5pm daily.
  

• $18.50 lunch specials at Bikimbap from 11:30am-2:30pm, including salad ramen, bulgogi, chicken galbi, kimchi fried rice, and more.
  

• $22 lunch buffet at Turmeric Indian Cuisine daily from 11:30am-2:30pm.
  

• $5 off your meal at any of the Bay Centre’s eateries on weekdays. Redeem offer at guest services.  

🧑‍💻 Jobs

• Line cooks and servers at My Chosen Cafe

• Catering chef and cook at HOB Fine Foods 

• Server at LURE Restaurant

📸 Post of the week

The sushi tray of our dreams😍 Nubo Japanese Tapas just launched their new aburi tray and the aburi super tray. The first one includes three signature sushi rolls, four pieces of chef’s choice aburi nigiri, and six pieces of the new oshi. The latter includes four populous premium sushi rolls, six pieces of chef’s choice aburi nigiri, and nine pieces of the new oshi. We hope you like it! 

That’s it!

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