Hope Key Restaurant — Restaurant in Victoria

I have to admit, I am absolutely shocked that this restaurant has a 4.4 rating from ~200 people. I usually only write positive reviews about a restaurant, however, this restaurant is the exception. The buffet food served was bland, dry and had been sitting by the entrance to the front door which opens out onto a busy downtown street (unsanitary). The chow mein had just come out so I tried some and it was very much undercooked and dry. I love chow mein, but I could not stomach this one. All of the meats were breaded and covered with way to much sauce. In addition, cabbage, carrots, and onion comprised most of the vegetables (there were a few pieces of broccoli in the mixed vegetables and corn in the wonton soup).The only saving grace of this restaurant (in my experience) was how welcoming and lovely the owners/servers were. The service was great and the only reason that I tipped. It is possible that they could have had an off day in the kitchen, but my friend and I will not go back to this...

I walked by this restaurant many times and was very curious to check it out, and finally went here a couple of weeks ago. I was really only interested in the decor and cozy atmosphere; and was surprised by the unique vegan options, huge portions and wunderbar service.

I had the Spicy Tofu Veggie Vermicelli hot pot and it was really really good. They had an option of 1-10 for spiciness and the spices they used were made from scratch in house. The portion was huge and I got 2 meals out of it. I want to try some of their other vegan options next time!

My friends had combo dishes with meat and they were really happy with their meals saying that it was some of the best Chinese food they'd ever had.

I didn't tell the servers it was my birthday dinner, but they made me feel like it was and went out of their way to accommodate my dietary restrictions and brought me free egg rolls (that didn't actually have any egg in them).

The family who run this place...

So far the best place for bubble tea I've found in victoria. The owners/operators are adorable, so friendly and hospitable, they really make you feel like theyre stoked to be serving you. The tapioca pearls are noticeably fresher and softer than any other bubble tea ive had. They seem very premium, and they certainly dont skimp on them either! They give what other places call extra pearls by default. They also have jellies. And even though its not on the menu they gladly made me a slushy version, with the slush consistency being exceedingly fine and smooth. Have tried their coconut and their Taro, both fantastic. Plus, the price! The large size is only $6.30 tax in!

About the restaurant: each chair is custom painted with a different nickname so you can pick one with a style that suits you which is fun! And a great conversation starter. The atmosphere is very cozy and quaint, no distracting music or tvs just space for...