These downtown gems offer views and vibes –– and a chance to enjoy the summer sun
Illustration by Natasha Jackson.
Craft Beer Market
Budget: $$
Open: Daily 11:00 a.m.–midnight, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
One of the most popular open patio restaurants in downtown Victoria is Craft Beer Market. It opened its doors in September of 2022, replacing Canoe Brewpub, and has been buzzing with tourists and locals alike ever since. This multi-level establishment offers impeccable views of the water and a wide selection of beverages: wines, cocktails, and 110 draught beers on tap.
The Local
Budget: $$
Open: Daily 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., 11:30 a.m.–midnight Friday and Saturday.
Located on Wharf Street in downtown Victoria, the Local boasts a sunny patio decorated with flowers. Ideal for people watching or catching the sunset by the water while sharing a meal with your loved ones –– as long as the bustle of downtown does not bother you.
Breakwater Cafe + Bistro
Budget: $
Open: Wednesday–Sunday, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
The Breakwater Cafe + Bistro on Dallas Road is the perfect open patio restaurant set against the dreamy backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the Breakwater Lighthouse. You can expect to see cruise ships and boats galore. If you are lucky you might even catch a glimpse of some marine life like otters, seals, or an orca! And, best of all, you need not break the bank while dining here.
Friends of Dorothy
Budget: $$
Open: Varying hours Wednesday–Monday.
This eclectic and visually appealing gay bar opened its doors in 2020 and has since become the premier restaurant where LGBTQ2s+ folks and allies can enjoy a meal. Their open patio space is perfect for savouring their wide selection of artisanal cocktails and mocktails while soaking in the lively ambiance of lower Johnson Street.
Wind Cries Mary
Budget: $$
Open: Daily 4:00 p.m.–1:00 a.m.
Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the rustic patio of Wind Cries Mary is ideal for crafting your first novel while sipping an old fashioned.
Boom + Batten
Budget: $$$
Open: Daily 9:00 a.m.–9:30 p.m., 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Boom + Batten is an upscale, over-water restaurant with perfect waterfront views that offers west coast-inspired culinary options. This eatery is wheelchair- and scooter-friendly, boasting ample accessible seating for everyone to enjoy the panoramic view without spatial limitations.
Glo Restaurant + Lounge
Budget: $$
Open: Daily 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Located near Selkirk Landing, Glo Restaurant + Lounge is just a short water taxi ride away from downtown Victoria. Offering waterfront views, their open patio is ideal for catching sunsets away from the bustle of downtown.
Spinnakers Brewpub
Budget: $
Open: Daily 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
The oldest brewpub in Canada, Spinnakers opened in 1984 and has been serving delicious meals with spectacular views ever since. Their multi-level dog-friendly patio space provides a stunning backdrop of downtown Victoria’s skyline.
LURE Restaurant & Bar
Budget: $$$
Open: Daily 7:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m., 7:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Like its name suggests, LURE beckons tourists and locals alike. With a spectacular view of the inner harbor, this restaurant –– located inside the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort –– offers fine local cuisine and creative cocktails. With live music every Friday, you cannot miss the chance to dine on this restaurant’s patio.
Aura Waterfront Restaurant & Patio
Budget: $$$
Open: Daily 3:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Located at the Inn at Laurel Point Hotel, Aura Waterfront offers a panoramic view of the inner harbor along with a selection of seasonal Pacific Rim inspired cuisine, wines, and microbrews. Their patio is the prime spot to witness the harbour boats, seaplanes, and whale-watching charters in action.
