Victoria's Culinary Scene Beyond Fish & Chips: Must-Try Seafood Pasta

Let’s be real—Victoria’s food scene is so much more than just fish and chips! If you’re only here for a half-day or day trip and still don’t know where to eat, well… let’s fix that. 😉 Here’s your ultimate guide to the best seafood pasta, buttery pastries, and coffee spots that’ll make your visit unforgettable. 📍 Red Fish Blue Fish (Check the latest menu at the end!) 🍟 Fish & Chips – The Iconic Must-Have! Yes, it’s touristy, but this is THE spot for a reason. Their BC Halibut is the star—massive, flaky, and fried to golden perfection. The wild salmon taco? Decent, but stick with the classic. 🍲 Clam Chowder Soup – The Ultimate Dip Pair your fish with a steaming cup of creamy clam chowder—perfect for dunking fries or that crispy fish. Sit by the dock, soak in the sunshine, and let the ocean breeze do the rest. Pure bliss. 🌊😌 Why It’s Special: ✔️ Sustainably sourced seafood ✔️ Waterfront views ✔️ Generous portions 📍 II Terrazzo (The Cozy Italian Hideaway) 🍝 Frutti di Mare della Casa – Seafood Lover’s Dream This house-made seafood pasta is next-level good. Imagine al dente noodles swimming in a white wine cream sauce, loaded with mussels, clams, shrimp, squid, and fresh fish. Every bite tastes like Victoria’s ocean in the best way possible. 🍷🦐 Vibe Check: ✔️ Intimate, rustic trattoria feels ✔️ Perfect for date nights ✔️ Always buzzing—reservations recommended! 📍 Crust Bakery (Where Pastry Dreams Come True) 🥧 Lychee, Raspberry Rosewater Pastry – The Showstopper A local favorite for a reason! This pastry is a masterpiece of flavors: sweet lychee, tart raspberry, and floral rosewater custard, all wrapped in buttery, flaky layers. If you only get one thing, make it this. Other Must-Tries: ✔️ Seasonal fruit tarts ✔️ Almond croissants (so crisp, so good) Pro Tip: Go early—they sell out fast! 📍 Hey Happy (Coffee with Island Vibes) ☕ Coconut Milk Iced Latte – The "Island-Style" Drink Think of it as Victoria’s answer to the famous "Coconut Latte"—but even better. Creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced. Pair it with one of their aesthetic pastries (almost too pretty to eat… almost). Why We Love It: ✔️ Chill, artsy café vibes ✔️ Great for a quick pit-stop during walks ✔️ Super Instagrammable Final Thoughts? Victoria’s food game is strong, and these spots prove it. Whether you’re here for: ✔️ The best fish & chips by the water ✔️ Decadent seafood pasta ✔️ Buttery, fruity pastries ✔️ A damn good coffee …you’re in for a treat. Don’t waste your trip—eat like you mean it! #VictoriaBC #VictoriaEats #VancouverIsland #TravelCanada #FoodieGuide 🍽️✨