Good morning, foodies,
It’s that time of year—Victoria’s farmers markets are blooming with fresh produce, handmade goods, and serious spring and summer vibes. Whether you're after juicy berries, artisan sourdough, or just a sunny stroll with a coffee in hand, we’ve rounded up a guide of farmers markets to check out this season.
We are also bringing you all the details on Oak Bay’s new restaurant: Liv Café and Bistro. Over in the news section, you’ll find more info about a new ramen restaurant that has soft-opened downtown, a beloved restaurant that has been sold, and another that is closing in June.
Now let’s get to it.
Do you go to farmers markets? |
😍 5 spots to try right now
🧁 Ooh La La Cupcakes: This bright boutique bakeshop is known for its playful flavours and yummy, fluffy cupcakes. Drop in for a classic red velvet or try one of their rotating monthly specials at 1391A Hillside.
🐟 Finn’s Seafood Restaurant: With unbeatable Inner Harbour views, Finn’s patio is back for the season—perfect for fresh oysters, prawn tacos, a seafood pasta, or a cocktail at golden hour.
🧀 Ottavio Italian Bakery: A charming Oak Bay staple for traditional Italian products, baked goods, gourmet cheeses, and fresh-made deli sandwiches.
🍣 Vic Sushi: A tiny counter-service gem in Vic West serving up fresh and affordable sushi rolls.
🔥 The Persian Grill House: Kebabs, falafel, and samosas shine at this warm, family-run spot serving authentic Persian cuisine at 110 Burnside.
Know a great place we should add here? Reply back and let us know!
FEATURED
Your 2025 guide to Victoria’s farmers markets
Esquimalt Farmers Market. Instagram.
Fresh produce, local makers, and community vibes are here. Our roundup of this year’s markets has everything you need to shop local all season long. From the popular Moss Street market to the cozy charm of Metchosin’s countryside, here’s when and where to find the freshest food and warmest community spirit around Victoria this summer.
SPONSORED BY 1440 MEDIA
Fact-based news without bias awaits. Make 1440 your choice today.
Overwhelmed by biased news? Cut through the clutter and get straight facts with your daily 1440 digest. From politics to sports, join millions who start their day informed.
FEATURED
Now Open in Oak Bay: Liv Café and Bistro, a new spot for fresh, seasonal fare
Liv Café Bistro. Facebook.
Bringing global flavours to a quiet corner of Oak Bay, this charming new café is the passion project of Chef Milton Rebello (a Fire Masters finalist) and ceramic artist-chef Louise Lu. Expect bright, seasonal dishes, house-made craft sodas, and weekend brunches that already have locals buzzing. Dinner service is coming soon—but you’ll want to visit now.
🗞️ News
H-Mart officially opens its doors at Mayfair Mall on May 22.
Kinton Ramen has soft-opened at 813 Wharf St. There will be a grand opening soon.
Marhaba Restaurant, a fusion of Arabic and Indian food, is officially opening its doors today in Saanich.
Hanks * A Restaurant has been sold to its head chef, Mark Taggesell. Nowhere * A Restaurant is closing its doors on June 1.
Here’s a list of places where you can get Dubai chocolate bars and Dubai chocolate strawberries.
Langford’s Bacon, Beer and Bourbon Festival announces a pause this year. [Victoria Buzz]
Soak in the beauty of The Butchart Gardens while enjoying a casual, savoury meal in The Blue Poppy Restaurant. Opening 11:30am – 3:30pm daily.*
*Sponsored Listing
Have a restaurant, business, or event to promote?
Get in touch with our team for small business-friendly advertising plans.
🗓️ Events
Bray’s 2nd Anniversary Party: Celebrate two years of Bray’s with welcome drinks, surprise bites, friends and family discounts, and good vibes all day long. Everyone’s welcome—from regulars to first-timers—on Sunday, May 18.
Averill Creek Open House: Visit Averill Creek for their spring open house. Bicycle Pizza and Cold Comfort will be on site with lunch options, and Westholme Nursery’s pop-up shop will get your garden started! Enjoy $2 wine tastings, discounts on cases, and a fun afternoon at the winery. May 17.
Phillip’s Tasting Room Anniversary + Roast Kitchen Party: Celebrate a new kitchen collab with Roast and the Phillips Tasting Room’s 7th birthday with live DJs, specialty cocktails, birthday cake, and a full menu of sandwiches and snacks tomorrow, May 16.
James Bay Market: Browse local produce, handmade crafts, and baked goods, and enjoy live music at this vibrant market. Saturdays from 9am to 3pm.
Victoria Chef’s Table Macaron Dinner: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind multi-course dinner at Bon Macaron, featuring local chefs, with each dish inspired by a macaron flavour on Friday, May 30.
Are you hosting a food event? Let us know
💸 Deals
• $1 tacos and $6 margaritas and Coronas at The Rack Bistro on Tuesdays.
• $11.99 pasta dish at The Canadian Brewhouse on Thursdays, all day. Choose from basil chicken penne, Alberta wagyu ravioli, creamy grilled chicken alfredo, triple play mac 'n cheese, or barnburner beef stroganoff.
• $12.50 1lb. wings at Swan’s Pub on Wednesdays, all day.
• $15.99 lunch set at Momi Noodle: hot rice, two fresh sides, and a soup.
• $28 all-Canadian sourced prime rib dinner at Jones BBQ Langford on Sundays from 4pm until sold out. This dinner includes smoked prime rib, loaded baked potato, roasted tri-colour carrots, two Yorkshire puddings, and jus.
🧑💻 Jobs
Server/Bartender at Baan Thai
Culinary management at Cactus Club
Server at Jam Café
Barista/Bartender at The Breakfast Shop
📸 Post of the week
Are you a meat lover? This 16oz. ribeye from Wind Cries Mary is incredible. It is the perfect dish for sharing. If you are in the mood to be surprised, opt for the Chef’s Tasting Menu.
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? |
