lTogether With
Good morning foodies!
I feel like we’re officially in the heat of the summer, and know we are because Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival has officially started. Hearing the sweet backbeat and skank wafting through the downtown core from Ship Point is always a sure fire way to get me in the summer mood.
What about you?
What's the first sign of summer? |
5 spots to try right now
Deadbeetz Burgers: Catch the food truck or the store front at 1950D Oak Bay Ave. for some of the best burgers in the city.
Swift Brewing and Good Time Tasting Room: The most retro waterfront brewery next to Craft Beer Market at 450 Swift St.
Wind Cries Mary: Impressive cocktails and tapas at 45 Bastion Square.
Macondo Colombian Kitchen: Arepas, paisa, and exotic juices in Cook Street Village at 1109 Mackenzie St.
Whistle Buoy Brewing: Great beer in the heart of Market Square.
Know a great place we should add here? Reply back and let us know!
FEATURED
First look: Marilena Cafe and Raw Bar
The newest Toptable Group restaurant is four years in the making. Photo: Ryan Hook / Tasting Victoria
Prior to dining at Marilena this week, I didn’t really know who the Toptable Group was, or for a matter of fact, who Francesco Aquilini was either.
But there was so much buzz about Toptable’s restaurant opening at 1525 Douglas St., I couldn’t help but be intrigued.
And it just so happens, I went; and it’s exactly what Victoria has been anticipating.
SPONSORED BY SEOUL CHICKEN
Support local businesses in your area
Summer is finally around the corner and there are so many new and upcoming local businesses.
Out in Langford, there is Seoul Chicken hidden away in the corner of Millstream. A family owned business that opened during COVID-19. The pandemic really impacted the restaurant industry, but now that things are starting to turn around—Seoul Chicken is excited to welcome you in.
They have a new patio and an excellent summer menu! You can find corn dogs, ice cream, and Korean style fried chicken. It’s double fried to create that thin, crackly, crispy skin while maintaining its juiciness on the inside. The chicken is then tossed in a sweet & spicy sauce served with a side of pickled radish.
FEATURED
4 Italian restaurants in Victoria to visit this month
Photo: Pagliacci’s / Facebook
As it turns out, one of Tasting Victoria readers’ favourite food is Italian, according to a recent poll; and we couldn’t agree more! From mouth watering pastas to cheese dripping pizzas, there is a reason it’s a fan favourite.
News
Tombo will replace Foi Epi bakery on Fort Street and signs have already gone up saying an opening is scheduled this summer.
Saanich Peninsula winery announces closure. Rathjen Cellars cited the pandemic, burnout, and the challenges of a startup as the reasons for its closure.
Victoria’s 24th annual Ska & Reggae Festival runs Wednesday to Sunday this week, with an exciting lineup of local and international artists, as well as amazing food options.
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Events
Psychedelic jungle funk band, Apex Breaks, will perform a free concert today at Ship Point Harbour starting at 4pm.
Whistlemania at Whistle Buoy Brewing Company in Market Square will take place this Saturday with live wrestling and music in celebration of the craft brewer’s 4th anniversary.
TD Victoria International JazzFest. The 10-day-long musical festival kicks off today at various locations across the city.
Rendez-vous Victoria: Enjoy a series of outdoor concerts in celebration of francophone culture, June 22-Aug. 8.
Deals
Half price wings on Wednesdays at Leopold’s Tavern
Shafts are $6.29 on Thursdays at 1550’s Pub Style Restaurant
Union Pacific Coffee has a Tuesday $2 latte deal: this isn’t advertised, so ask the barista for a 12oz or 8oz latte with regular milk for $2.
$6 Tuesdays at Craft Beer Market. Grab a $6 burger and select drinks, with extra toppings for $3, every Tuesday down by the harbour.
Jobs
Director of Food and Beverage at Holiday Inn
Shift Manager at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar
Vessel Crew at Vessel Liquor
Server at Revera Living
Cooks at Butchart Gardens
Are you a local business in Victoria?
Victoria food and drink lovers are hungry to hear from you.
Contact Tasting Victoria for small business-friendly advertising plans.
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