What is happening in Victoria's food scene this week?

Good morning foodies!

This week we are bringing you a story on Cafe Brio’s changing ownership as well as a round up of the bakeries across the city that are making festive holiday treats.

Talking about holiday baking, do you usually make your own festive treats or do you pick them up at a local bakery?

😍 5 spots to try right now

🍜 JiangYun Noodle House: Chow down on fabulous noodles at 830 Fort. 

🍺 Swift Brewing: Sip on craft beer in a retro cozy atmosphere at 450 Swift.  

🍕 Serena's Pizzeria and Hoagies: The new joint is serving up Philly-style ‘za at 766 Fort.  

🍸 Cenote Lounge: Check out exciting cocktails at 768 Yates.    

🍲 Sookjai Thai Restaurant: Share delicious Thai fare at 893 Fort.

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

FEATURED

Cafe Brio is changing hands

After 27 years of running one of Victoria’s finest dining experiences, Greg Hayes—the restaurateur behind several successful dining rooms across the city—is stepping down. 

Hayes and longtime partner Silvia Marcolini have sold the business to chef Sam Harris and bar manager Vincent Vanderheide in a deal that is expected to be complete in January 2024.   

Read Tasting Victoria's feature on Cafe Brio's change of ownership here.   

SPONSORED BY LURE

WinterLURE – Exclusive Dining Domes

Get ready to cozy up under the stars! WinterLURE is back and bringing a fresh and exciting twist to your dining experience.  Chef Curtis promises you and your friends a tasty, fun, and unique adventure.  The privacy of the dining domes makes for an ideal setting for romantic dinners, special celebrations, and intimate gatherings with friends and family.  Every dome is equipped with a bluetooth speaker so you can connect and listen to your own playlist. 

This immersive dining experience takes diners on a culinary journey with a diverse seven-course menu. The overall concept of transforming simple ingredients into complex flavours and elevating the dining experience is sure to leave a lasting impression and a wonderful way to enjoy the winter season.

Visit the LURE website for more information and reservations.

FEATURED

12 Victoria bakeries to pick up holiday treats

It is universally understood that one of the best parts of the holiday season is all that festive baking that you get to enjoy. Whether you are looking to complete your holiday spread—or simply do not have the time to do your own baking—Victoria’s bakeries have you covered. 

From classic holiday staples to inventive festive treats, we have compiled a list of local bakeries whipping up delicious goodies in time for Christmas. Check it out!

🗞️ News

New venture from Nubo opening in Cook Street Village Feb. 1. Taisho Japanese Grill & Bar will take over the space of Collective Wine Bar. 

New beer release supports marmot conservation. Proceeds from Vancouver Island Brewing’s Wild Marmot Dunkel will go to Marmot Recovery Foundation to protect one of the Island’s most critically endangered animals. Limited edition and draught only. 

Neighbourhood pub announced for Esquimalt Town Square. The proposed 2,900-square-foot pub is expected to open in late spring. [Victoria News]

New cocktail almanac from Clive’s Classic Lounge featuring 12 cocktails from the fall-winter season.

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🗓️ Events

Laila Biali Wintersongs: The Canadian singer and pianist will perform original songs and classic tunes tomorrow at McPherson Playhouse, 7:30pm.

Punk Rock Holiday Market: Shop handmade goods from over 40 vendors and enjoy live music from the Angry Snowmen at the Da Vinci Event Centre this Saturday, 11am-11:55pm.

Last Minute Market at Phillips Brewing & Malting Co.’s Showcase Gallery this Sunday featuring over 20 vendors, music, and beer. 1-5pm.

Sleigh the Day: This afternoon of holiday festivities on Sunday includes craft making, caroling, artisan vendors, and hot beverages. On Government between Humboldt and Courtney. 1-4pm. 

Feast of the Seven Fishes: Enjoy the traditional Italian-American Christmas feast at Nowhere *A Restaurant this Sunday, 5pm. Reserve a spot for the annual event.  

The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe: Kaleidoscope Theatre Production will perform the classic C.S. Lewis tale at The Roxy Theatre. Until Dec. 26.

 💸 Deals

• $5.75 moon pints and $9 deep fried pickles at Moon Under Water Brewery & Pub during daily happy hour, 2-4pm and 8-10pm.  

• $8 fried chicken sliders and $9 mezcal jungle punch at Part and Parcel during happy hour from Tuesday to Friday, 3-5pm.  

• $5.95 margaritas and $6.50 jägerbombs at El Furniture Warehouse during daily happy hour, 2-5pm.

🧑‍💻 Jobs

• Executive Director at Capital Bike

• The Dining Room Restaurant Manager at The Butchart Gardens

• Digital Marketing Specialist at Westin Bear Mountain Resort & Spa

• Dental Assistant at Oaklands Dental

• Early Childhood Educator at Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group

📸 Post of the week

Can you spot the tree in this creative “cheese log”? A local foodie put together this spread featuring cream cheese, goat cheese, garlic, chives, old cheddar, lemon zest, hot sauce, parsley coated with dried cranberries and pistachios.

That’s it!

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