Gone are the newly weds and nearly deads; the new Victoria is a vibrant hub where mixologists thrive, indie boutiques flourish and an excellent café is around every corner. You’ll find the freshest ingredients and the friendliest folks. Here is my guide for your next visit to the British Columbia’s provincial capital.
STAY
An elegant boutique hotel (only 64 rooms in total), Magnolia has been beautifully redesigned into a chic modern design while somehow still maintaining that old-fashioned charm that has made it a staple in downtown Victoria. Just moments away from the inner harbor of Victoria, Magnolia boasts a stunning spa, a top-rated bar and restaurant, along with numerous other amenities. If anything, the view of the harbor from your room is worth the visit.
EAT
If meat is on your mind, you’ll want to stop in at ROAST Carvery at the public market for some fresh meatballs or raclette cheese over baby potatoes. Truly a meat lover’s paradise, you also won’t be able to get enough of their local sodas and desserts!
TREAT
Delight in this pure European treat as you head for a jaunt sea-side. With both sweet and savoury macaron flavours available, it is hard to pick just one but we couldn’t resist the White Truffle & Sea Salt.
SIP
Good design and great coffee go together so well! Just minutes from Victoria’s harbor, Heist Coffee has made a name for their impeccably crafted espresso drinks. Using locally roasted Bows & Arrows Coffee and keeping a simplistic home on Courtney Street, this a spot you’d want to make your regular morning stop.
SHOP
Newly opened on Douglas Street, the Victoria Public Market is a bustling destination for foodies and vendors alike. From great eats via , the latest addition to the renown Vij’s family of restaurants to the for the best fleur de sel this side of the ocean, this market is rapidly filling up with the best of local BC producers. Drop by on Wednesdays for their weekly Farmers’ Market featuring fresh produce, preserves and baked goods.
