My psychology professor once told my class that student drinking is the number one cause of failure at university. I know, I know — this statistic can’t possibly be referring to you. But I also know you’re reading this article right now. Don’t worry, I won’t tell. Because really, you’re doing the responsible thing by figuring out how to cure your hangover so you can get back to . . . um . . . studying. Here are some of the tastiest hangover cures in Victoria, tailored to your specific hangover mood.
When you’re feeling guilty for what you’ve done to your liver and want some healthy damage control, go to:
ReBar Modern Food
ReBar is a vegetarian restaurant in the heart of Bastion Square. The bright and hilariously random décor makes you feel like dancing, but it’s nothing compared to the smoothie and juice bar. Concoctions full of fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, vitamins and electrolytes will get your body back up and running so that when you feel like dancing, you’ll physically be able to. ReBar also offers classic brunch foods with a vegetarian twist and an array of organic baked goods and desserts to eat once the juices have worked their magic on your poor, hungover tummy.
Price range: $12–$18/meal; $5–$8/juices and smoothies
Brunch served: 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Address: 50 Bastion Square
When you remember all too clearly how much you embarrassed yourself last night and don’t want to see anyone you know, go to:
James Bay Coffee and Books
This charming little café/used bookstore humbly provides one of Victoria’s best breakfasts at extremely broke-friendly (a.k.a. student-friendly) prices. Expect simple, home-cooked food that will feel like a hug from your lovely but disapproving mother. It’s quiet and out of the way (I’ve never seen anyone I know in there). As an added bonus, if you do happen to see someone you know, there are lots of bookshelves you can hide behind. And if you’re feeling particularly ambitious (being the responsible young go-getter that you are), James Bay Coffee and Books is a lovely place to study away your hangover.
Price range: $5–$7/meal
Breakfast served: All day, every day (7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday – Saturday; 8 a.m. 9p.m. Sunday)
Address: 143 Menzies St.
When you can’t remember why you thought it was a good idea to leave your bed and want to be back in your blankets, go to:
Willie’s Bakery & Café
Seriously — they have blankets! Wrap yourself up in one, sip on some hot coffee and look in awe at the breakfast menu. It’s full of all the classics you would expect — eggs benny, waffles and french toast — but offers variations that are creative enough to satisfy any hangover craving you may have. The café has an indoor section, a courtyard and an enclosed patio. Try to get a seat outside — your aching body will love the fresh air.
Price range: $11–$15/meal
Breakfast served: All day, every day (Nov 1–April 30: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday; 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Includes statutory holidays except Christmas.)
Address: 537 Johnson St.
When you’re pretty sure you’re still a little drunk and you need something hearty to soak that booze up, go to:
Bubby’s Kitchen
Bubby’s Kitchen is everything warm and inviting, from the natural wood furnishings and soft pastel décor to the menu. It offers the perfect balance of yummy breakfast food and heartier lunch-type meals. It also happens to have what I believe are the best chocolate-chip cookies I have ever tasted, among many other inventive and delicious baked goods. If you have dietary restrictions like no meat or gluten, Bubby’s Kitchen will fix you up a meal, no problem.
Price range: $5.50–$13/meal
Brunch served: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Address: 355 Cook St.
When you don’t understand why everyone keeps complaining about their hangovers and you really just want to keep the party alive, go to:
The Reef
This Caribbean-themed Victoria treasure will not only facilitate your continued partying, it will also take away your guilt by making you feel like you’re on vacation. And, of course, it will fill you up with a yummy, exotic brunch. When you’re there, start with some complimentary johnny cakes (Jamaican cornbread buns) to soothe your tummy and you’ll be ready for anything. The Reef is a refreshing change from usual brunch. Even the meal names are enough to elicit hungover giggles: everything is written as it would be pronounced with a Jamaican accent. It’s upbeat and bright, and it and has a fantastic drink list. Need I say more?
Price range: $6–$18/meal
Brunch served: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Address: 533 Yates St.
