Hidden Gem

Victoria has a lot of restaurants but here's one that many visitors to the city (residents, too) may miss because of its location. It is the dining room at the Legislative Assembly Building. It's actually in the Legislature on the lowest floor. It's not well signposted or advertised and, to be frank, it's a bit difficult to find - several doors and stairways need to be negotiated - though security staff are very helpful in pointing out the way. However, the ambience and service are exceptional (look at those linen napkins!), the menu is varied, the food is excellent and the prices are about half what you would expect in such a venue (three of us had a splendid lunch with wine for $50 and change).

Lunch in Good Company

Well, no, I didn't have lunch yesterday with the Queen, but her portrait (above) was nearby while we ate. The dining room was in Victoria's Legislative Assembly Building and is one of Victoria's hidden dining jewels. Food, presentation and service were superb and prices more than reasonable. While the restaurant is meant for the convenience of legislators, it is open to the public. The Queen's portrait is in recognition of her Diamond Jubilee and is a smaller copy of the original that hangs in Ottawa. This one is displayed on the main floor of the legislature.