You know how it is. You want to go out to a restaurant with your family, and need something that appeals to multiple generations. Perhaps you’re celebrating something special, or welcoming guests from out of town. You need a menu that is suitable for picky diners from 4 to 40 to 80, is flexible enough to handle the needs of the littlest guests and the oldest ones (and all the members in between). It’s no easy feat, and so nice to have a special restaurant in your back pocket – with a stunning view – to call on.
For Victorians, and for me, that restaurant is The Marina.
And in particular, Sunday Brunch.
Now it wasn’t always that way. Back when I was a child, the Oak Bay oceanfront perch where The Marina rests now wasn’t a restaurant, but Sealand of the Pacific. From 1969-1991, Sealand operated as a public aquarium, tourist attraction and educational experience. I used to go down regularly – I lived in the neighbourhood – and watch the Killer Whales, sea lions and seals perform tricks. Now, I go down and watch the sushi chef perform. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, and popular local Chef Jeff Keenliside’s practiced and skilled hand with local seafood and ingredients has earned the restaurant many repeat customers. The Oceanwise certified restaurant is sustainable across the board, utilizing local and seasonal producers across all menus. The view is exemplified by a wall of glass, allowing the panorama of bustling marina life as a backdrop to your meal. All the seats in the tiered restaurant are situated to take full advantage of the view. The stylish sushi bar anchored in the centre of the ovaloid space is one of the more creative in the city (ask to see what isn’t on the menu).
But it is for Sunday Brunch that The Marina Restaurant is best known. It’s a Victoria institution for a reason, a reservations-essential date where multigenerations come en masse to feast on housemade specialties from fresh seafood to Belgian Waffles to decadent desserts. I like any meal where sipping cocktails feels natural – mimosas and gin fizz’ pair with everything – trust me.. The $32.95/adult (less for seniors and children) admission is worth it just to see the looks on your guests’ faces when they take in the spread, and then the view, and then they eat.
Tip – After brunch, pick up some seal food at the on-site provisions shop and take it down to the docks to feed the eager seals. Some of the beautiful mammals are acclimatized to the treats, they’ll do tricks for you.
The Marina Restaurant
1327 Beach Drive, Victoria, BC
www.marinarestaurant.com
Follow on Facebook @marinarestaurant
Track on Twitter @themarinarest
