Heartwood Kitchen — Restaurant in Ucluelet

This place was so great, that even though we're from Nanaimo with no plans to move, we debated coming out every couple weeks to a month even during the off season just for their all day brunch.

The staff were polite and attentive despite how busy they got around late morning towards noon, and it was also a very casual setting. We were disappointed the garden seating wasn't open unfortunately due to the current covid concerns I think, or perhaps the spotty weather, but we were seated on the patio and it was still lovely seeing the well kept garden. They have a completely open kitchen too, which I really appreciate, and it's built in a literal white picket fence home. Very small town style, certainly fitting for their very home-y aesthetic.

The food itself honestly blew us away, their Ukee Fried Chicken is a little spicy for more sensitive tastes but for me it was a perfect blend of sweet and spicy that wasn't overwhelming and didn't mask the flavor of the french toast it was served on. We were eager to try all they had to offer so we got some extra sides as well to try, their pork sausages were alright and the smashed potatoes were a perfect texture. We found the chicken went incredibly well with syrup, especially if the spice is a little much for some more than others.

The eggs benny was fantastic too, the hollandaise had a lovely tang to it and I was very impressed. I find most places have a pretty tame, mild, almost flavorless and disappointing hollandaise- this was a perfect subtle flavor. The ham was a bit thick and soft for our tastes but that's more of a preference for us towards a crunchier texture, but the eggs were picturesque and the whole styling of the plates was just... incredible. The fresh fruit garnish was a fantastic touch as well and they really pay attention to their fruit selection, even the cantolope which neither of the three of us have preference for was well ripe and we didn't mind it as a compliment to the meal. Their coffee as well was very smooth even served black and clearly not over roasted.

Overall, if you're in town I seriously recommend this place. We'll absolutely be going again in the hopefully very...

We visited this restaurant in September and haven’t had a chance to write about this experience till now. Food was okay and the service once you’re seated is pretty good, but the queue system or lack thereof is an operational disaster and a complete waste of time. The restaurant was full and there were a few other parties waiting on the lawn. I spoke with one of the servers, asking for a table for two, and she said to wait outside and that she will let me know once a table is ready, probably 20 minute wait. I asked if she needed my name or number and she said no. One by one, parties were called in as tables became available. I did ask for an update on the wait and was told “should be a few more minutes”.

We were the last ones standing outside and I could’ve sworn we weren’t the last to get in the “queue” but okay. Servers weren’t coming outside anymore as their patio guests had all left. 40 minute wait at this point, during which many parties left the restaurant.

More than an hour passed. At this point all other restaurants in town that we knew of were closed and we couldn’t go anywhere else for dinner. We were still standing outside at the stairs.

I tried to get the attention of the server who greeted me at the beginning.she comes out and greets me as if she’s seeing me for the first time.

“Hi”

“Hi” I didn’t say anything more as I thought she was going to give me an update about the wait.

“Are you looking for a table?” “Yes….?!” “For two?” “Yes???” “Okay. Come on in!”

She completely forgot about us, or forgot that we even asked for a table more than an hour ago. We went in - there were plenty of empty tables.

Even if it was unintentional that she completely forgot us, why wouldn’t she or anyone working at the restaurant bother greeting a guest who’s been standing at the entrance facing you for more than an hour? A simple “hi there have you been helped?” During our wait at the steps right at the entrance, she and many other servers passed by the door, saw us standing there and made eye contact several times.

That was an hour of my life I’ll...

A Perfect Wedding Catering Experience – Heartwood Restaurant

We were beyond thrilled with the catering service provided by Ian and Heather for our wedding at Sproat Lake with 40 guests. Honestly, the food was the highlight of our entire weekend – no exaggeration! Every dish, from the local meats to the seafood and vegetarian options, was outstanding. Our guests, who had traveled from all over BC, were absolutely delighted by the variety and quality of the food.

Ian and Heather were incredibly attentive throughout the entire planning process, even during the busy summer months. They were always responsive to our questions and needs, which made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. On the big day, Heather served our group effortlessly, ensuring everything went off without a hitch, and they even took care of cutting the cake for us.

The personal touches didn’t end there. Knowing that we were heading to Tofino/Ucluelet after the wedding, Ian and Heather invited us to their Heartwood Restaurant in Ucluelet. Ian treated us to another exceptional meal, and wouldn’t let us pay. It was such a kind gesture and a perfect way to wrap up our wedding celebrations.

From start to finish, the entire experience with Ian and Heather was exceptional. If you're considering catering for any event, we can’t recommend Heartwood enough. Their food, service, and care made our wedding day unforgettable. A heartfelt thank you again to Ian and Heather – you truly made our celebration one...