Can’t Miss Bites at the Victoria Public Market
In keeping with the old-world style for which Victoria is so well-known, it should come as no surprise that the city’s foodie central is housed in a historic building.
The Victoria Public Market at the Hudson has set up shop in a former HBC department store. The four-story building first opened its doors in 1921. But due to its location on the fringe of downtown, the Canadian retailer moved. Today, communal tables have replaced beauty counters. Rotisseries and pie crusts stand where women once ogled hats and new shoes. Because now, the vaulted ceilings and expansive floor is home to Victoria’s only year-round market.
The food-hub showcases a diverse range of farm fresh and locally sourced artisan foods. At its center is a Community Kitchen, where cooking demos, lectures, and seminars are frequently held. And while wares from local artisans are sure to catch your fancy, it’s the grassroots food vendors that are the real draw.
Savory Pork Meatballs at Roast
At Roast, you’ll find a wide selection of roasted meats and savory sandwiches. But perhaps one of the best menu items of all are the shop’s tender beef and pork meatballs. They come smothered in a rich arrabbiata that’s so succulent you might think about slurping up the remnants. Of course, you could also walk down to the market’s West Coast Pantry and pick up a loaf of local, organic bread to soak up the goodness.
Indulgently Good Vegan Cuisine at The Very Good Butchers
On an entirely different end of the food spectrum, The Very Good Butchers are dishing up plant-based delights even the most carnivorous will enjoy — like a hearty Rybwich sandwich and the shop’s luscious dairy-free poutine.
The World Needs More Pie
Nearby, the humming ovens at Victoria Pie Co. are constantly being fed a selection of freshly rolled and filled sweet and savory pies, including the exquisite apple-blueberry. Time your visit right and you can even get one fresh out of the oven!
Additional Fabulous Market Bites
- Handmade pasta at La Pasta. In particular, the fusilli pesto topped with generous dollops of fresh ricotta.
- Al pastor pork tacos at Taco Stand al Pastor. The sister to the Market’s popular Roast sandwich shop, this taco stand specializes in al pastor pork tacos marinated in adobada sauce. The pork is spit-roasted and sliced to serve with roasted pineapple.
More Fun Things to do in Victoria
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This 24-hour birthday fly away will give you, your friends and your family a taste of Victoria’s rich history, cutting-edge technology and rocking good time vibe.
