Top 20 Must Try Dishes & Drinks In Victoria

This place is an institution since the 1980’s and they claim to have the best seafood chowder on Vancouver Island…and we agree! This howder is a creamy, hearty soup packed with fresh, locally sourced seafood like clams, salmon, and white fish. Try not to go on a cruise ship arrival day as the line-ups will be long but totally worth it.

Victoria is considered the Craft Beer Cradle of Canada and Driftwood brewery is a very popular local brewery that produces amazing beers. Locals LOVE the Fat Tug IPA – a 7% bomb of a Pacific Northwest style of IPA and served at pretty much any good pub in the city.

A more modern selection for a dish but something they have had on their menu since at least 2019. Island-grown potatoes that have been fried in duck fat and served alongside their own buttermilk ranch dressing. They are super creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and have become a locals favourite.

I know, I know, we didn’t pick their afternoon tea. We think if you are going to visit The Empress you should go for something a bit stronger, their famous Empress Gin and tonic. This purple gin has been infused with tea and it has become one of the fastest selling gins in the world! Hot Tip – you get free popcorn when you sit at the bar and it is worth the visit even if you are not a gin lover!

Victoria is the Brunch Capital of Canda – and this place is the grandfather of scene slinging eggs since 1984. They are famous for their generous portions, perfectly poached eggs, and house-made hollandaise sauce that’s rich, creamy, and tangy.  Combined with the cozy, retro diner vibe and consistently friendly service, their eggs Benedicts have become a beloved staple in Victoria’s breakfast scene.

This is a local favourite for spice lovers. Stacked with hot capicollo, Abruzzo salami, house-made La Bomba spicy spread, sweet balsamic onions, zesty aioli, Asiago cheese, and fresh spinach, it’s all grilled to perfection on their rosemary olive oil focaccia. Bold, savoury, and perfectly balanced, this sandwich packs a punch and lives up to its devilish name.

The famed Victoria Creams are little heritage-rich delights that have been enchanting chocolate lovers since 1885. These bite-sized confections feature luxuriously smooth whipped-cream-style centers coated in rich dark or milk chocolate. Today, there are 20 flavours, ranging from strawberry and caramel to ginger, maple, peppermint, and more!

Nestled right across from Beacon Hill Park, the soft serve at Beacon Drive‑In is a nostalgic treat that locals have adored for decades. Swirled into classic cones and often dipped in chocolate, this old‑school dessert has been voted Victoria’s best soft serve for nearly three decades. Whether you’re strolling through the park or craving a retro frozen indulgence, Beacon’s creamy, picture‑perfect soft serve is a timeless must‑try.