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7 Farm-to-Table Restaurants
Perfect for your Next Event
Posted on October 25, 2018
Set on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria regularly experiences some of the mildest winters in Canada, enjoying first blooms at a time when other cities are still battling snowstorms. This enviable climate allows Islanders to grow, harvest, nurture and prepare local dishes far beyond the typical growing season experienced by the rest of the country. With strong roots at their core, many restaurants around Victoria have embraced a local cuisine, bringing a flourishing farm-to table-scene to the city. Here are some of the local restaurants that have embraced the farm-to-table movement:
10 Acres Commons | Bistro | Kitchen
What they don’t grow and ethically raise on their farm in North Saanich, they source from like-minded farmers, food purveyors and fishermen. With three distinct flavours and atmospheres under the 10 Acres brand, choose from three varying atmospheres and capacities so you can choose the right fit for your group. Your delegates will experience some of the freshest flavours on Vancouver Island here.
Image courtesy of 10 Acres
Merridale Cidery & Distillery
Take a scenic drive to the Cowichan Valley and dine in Merridale’s family orchard. With ingredients grown on their property and transformed into apple cider vinaigrettes, cider-poached pears and apple blossom honey, Merridale is truly orchard to table. The property offers several locations for year-round functions either indoor or outdoor, for groups of 150+. Curate a unique experience with add-ons like guided tours and tastings.
Image courtesy of Deddeda Stemler
Q at The Empress
A space fit for a queen, the Q at the Empress prides itself on Pacific Northwest flavours sourced locally and ethically. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in the heart of the inner harbour, delegates will thank you as they delight in nourishing and delicious flavours. Andtheir spacious restaurant offers plenty of room to get creative with their team.
Image courtesy of Q at the Empress
The Roost Farm Bakery & Vineyard Bistro
Nestled in North Saanich, The Roost is truly the definition of farm to table. A family affair, one of the owners, Sarah Bohl grew up on the 10-acre farm location, and her dad still grows the wheat used to make their fresh bread, raises their chickens and grows the berries and veggies. Between serving delectable soul food and offering a unique event space, this venue is a lovely sampling of island offerings.
Choose to book a private event under their event tent, covered vineyard patio or secret garden. Find more information about their event spaces here.
Image courtesy of The Roost
The Courtney Room
A new player in Victoria’s culinary scene, and recently named a contender for Air Canada’s Best New Restaurant of the Year, The Courtney Room lives up to the hype. Whether gathering at the bar for fresh-shucked oysters or indulging in their full tasting menu with your group, the ingredients are fresh, seasonal and perfectly prepared.
Image courtesy of @stephforrer
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe
Making farm-to-table accessible, Nourish was built on Hayley Rosenberg’s passion for working in the garden and re-imagining natural and whole ingredients. Their seasonal dishes reflect their philosophies and love of holistic nutrition. Set in a heritage home a short walk from the Inner Harbour, the converted space can be rented in its entirety for an event, or each floor can be rented to accommodate smaller groups. Try a Nourish Curated Workshop for an interactive learning experience guaranteed to impress your guests.
Zambri’s
In the heart of downtown Victoria, Zambri’s serves incredible Italian food with locally sourced elements. Between two private space rentals as well as audio visual capabilities, Zambri’s is a great venue for business meals, presentations, receptions or holiday parties.
Image Courtesy of Zambri’s
More farm to table restaurants in Victoria:
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub
Vista 18 West Coast Grill + Wine Bar
Fireside Grill
The Beach House