tasting victoriaEst. 2019Vancouver Island
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What is happening in Victoria's food scene this week?

Plus, what to sip on this spring, farmers markets across the city, and 49 Below launches popsicles

Sarah Madsen·Apr 4, 2024·8 min read
Tasting Victoria
Newsletter №041

Good morning foodies!

This week we are bringing you a roundup of some of the beers, ciders, and wines we are most excited to sip on as the weather warms up, as well as a guide to the farmers markets that will be popping up across the city in the coming weeks.

We are stoked for farmers market season to be back in full swing. It is always such a great opportunity to see all the talent and expertise from local makers and producers.

Do you go to farmers markets?

  • Yes! I go every week
  • Yes, I usually go a few times during the season
  • Yes, I try to go at least once
  • No, but I would like to this summer
  • No, I'm not interested in farmers markets
  • Other (tell us in the comments!)

Subscribe to participate in polls.

😍 5 spots to try right now

🍩 Fern Cafe and Bakery: Vegan breakfast, burgers, and baked goods at 1115 North Park.  

🍸 Clive's Classic Lounge: Award-winning cocktail bar in Chateau Victoria at 740 Burdett.  

☕ Milano Coffee: Artisan coffee shop with delicious drinks and baked goods at 817 Government. 

🍣 Uchida Eatery: Japanese lunch fare at 633 Courtney. 

🍳 OEB: The popular brunch restaurant is now open at 856 Yates.

Know a great place we should add here? Reply back and let us know!

FEATURED

Here’s what you need to sip on this spring in Victoria

Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. / Facebook

As the streets become lined with fluffy pink blossoms that branch out from cherry and plum trees, it is clear that spring has sprung.

Whether you are surrounded by laughter on a patio or relaxing in your back garden, what better addition is there to the recent sunshine than a cool and refreshing drink. 

From hazy beers and fruity sours to dry ciders and tangy white wines, these are the drinks we are most excited to enjoy this spring.

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FEATURED

7 farmers markets in Victoria we can’t wait to visit this summer

@mossstmarket / Instagram

Summer is right around the corner, and with that, we’re already thinking about farmers market season.

They say that April showers bring May flowers—the hopeful start of spring is also the unveiling of locally grown produce, artisan goods and lazy weekend afternoons strolling through a market full of enticing smells that make for the perfect spring and summer meals.

Here are a few farmers markets we can't wait to visit.  

🗞️ News

Tugwell Creek Honey Farm and Meadery closes: The Sooke-based producers of mead and honey products have retired.  

49 Below is expanding: The craft ice cream shop is launching Kulapops, its very own popsicle company. Available at 2575 Cadboro Bay. 

Moon Under Water has a dog menu: Treat your pup to dog beer, chicken stew, and more at the craft brewery at 350 Bay this patio season. 

Anchovy beer and insulated beer pants? Check out these April Fool’s Day pranks from Whistle Buoy Brewing and Phillips Brewing. 

Floyd’s Diner Brentwood Bay building for sale: The brunch joint says it intends to remain in the property previously occupied by Sassy’s Family Restaurant long term. [Victoria Buzz]

Have you checked out the finalists? The final list of nominees is out for all 18 categories in the Tasting Victoria Best Restaurant Awards. Vote for your top choices and check out the list here.

Have a restaurant, business, or event to promote?

Get in touch with our team for small business-friendly advertising plans.

🗓️ Events

Asher Roth: The American rapper will perform at Capital Ballroom tonight. Doors 8pm, show 9pm.

Fern, A Drag Show: Vivian Vanderpuss, Woofie, and Bad Shah will perform drag numbers at The Fernwood Inn tonight. Doors 6:30pm, show 7:30pm.

Esquimalt Night Market: The market featuring local food and craft vendors is back at 614 Grenville tomorrow night. 5-9pm.

The Courtney Room x Pluvio Restaurant: Warren Bar and Lily Verney-Downey of the Ucluelet restaurant will serve up delicious food during The Courtney Room’s Guest Chef Series this Sunday.

Champagne and Cake Show: See what professionals from the wedding, event, and celebration industry have to offer with this event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. This Sunday at The Wardroom at CFB Esquimalt. 1-5pm.

Brewmaster’s Dinner Series: Bartholomew’s Pub and Small Gods Brewing join together on Wednesday for a four-course beer pairing dinner. 6:30pm.

 💸 Deals

  • $14 miso chicken wings and $12 sangria at Vista 18 during happy hour from 3:30-6pm. 

  • $5 sleeves of beer and $2 off slushy cocktails at Beacon Brewing during happy hour from Mon-Fri, 3-6pm.   

  • $14 sticky pork ribs and $15.95 flatbread at 10 Acres Commons during happy hour from 2-5pm and from 9pm to close.   

  • $11 eggs benedict at Vis-à-Vis from Mon-Fri before 11am.

🧑‍💻 Jobs

  • Lighting and Scenic Technician at The Butchart Gardens

  • Brand Advocate / Farmer’s Market Sales Staff at DEVINE Distillery. 

  • Director of Finance at Belfry Theatre

  • VP Fund Development and Communications at YMCA YWCA of Vancouver Island

📸 Post of the week

humboldtbarvictoria on Instagram
@humboldtbarvictoria
View on Instagram →

Humboldt Bar adds desserts to its menu. Enjoy macarons, lemon tarts, or tiramisu ice cream alongside your cocktail at 722 Humboldt.

That’s it!

If you enjoyed today’s newsletter, consider forwarding your friend; if not, let us know down below.

What did you think of today's newsletter?

  • 😋😋😋 Tasty and delicious
  • 😕 So so, needs some spice
  • 👎 Send it back

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tasting victoria
Est. 2019Vancouver Island
Don't waste a meal.

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