A few key points about Ucluelet (you-CLUE-let):
1. To get there, you drive across the middle of Vancouver Island as far as you can go, and when you get to the end of the road (aka the Pacific Ocean) then turn left.
2. Though somewhat in the shadow of Tofino’s world famous resorts and restaurants, Ukee (as it’s affectionately known) is only 40 kilometers (25ish miles) away, and a little secret gem for surfers and R&R seekers.
3. The word Ucluelet is a local First Nations word meaning “safe harbor.” Archaeological evidence indicates the presence of First Nations for at least 4,300 years.
4. It was on the west coast of Vancouver Island, just 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Ucluelet, that Captain James Cook of the British Navy first set foot, in 1778. In 1870, fur sealers settled in the area, establishing a trading post in Ucluelet Harbor. Ucluelet began to grow along with the sealing industry and became a bustling little town.
Today, Ukee is still between a bustling little town and fluctuating seasonally, but centered on extraordinary opportunities for fishing, outdoor adventure and recreational activities. Located beside Long Beach in BC’s Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, people come to Ucluelet for surfing, hiking, kayaking, fishing, diving, camping, whale and bear watching, beachcombing and storm watching. And, amazingly, fine west coast dining. Norwoods, a chic and cozy wine bar and bistro on the main street of Ucluelet, wouldn’t be out of place on the main street of Vancouver. Stylish and sophisticated décor, sharp and knowledgeable service, a tight and boutique-BC-centric wine list and, oh yeah, Chef Richard Norwoods accomplished Pacific northwest cuisine—all in this tiny town where Wellies and windbreakers are the dress code of choice. Delicious fine dining in an entirely unpretentious location—with kick-ass wines? On the wild, far western edge of the continent? Take a walk on the wild side.
Chef Norwood’s tight relationships with producers are evident on the menu (literally–there are more than two dozen local producers listed on the first page), and in a town so intrinsically connected with the ocean, it’s an easy bet that seafood is a sure bet—and all certified Ocean Wise (a conservation program created to educate and empower consumers about the issues surrounding sustainable seafood), naturally.
In the spring and summer, the freshest catch lands off the boats down the street and is quickly ushered into the tiny open kitchen. Fall looks heavily to the forests dense with wild mushrooms, and in winter, hearty root veg and simmering cuts of local pork and beef will ward off storm watching chills. Chef Norwoods’ travels through Europe are echoed on the menu, with a deft blend of regional and international flavors and techniques. I recommend starting off with fresh oysters (the FRESHEST) and a glass of Blue Mountain Brut while watching the line prep for the busy night ahead. Then place yourself in Chef Norwood’s purview and let him decide the rest of your dinner. Oh—save for the wines. For expert guidance, let manager and sommelier Livio Porcellato suggest his favorite pairings from his enomatic machine, or prepare to dive deep into the bottle list, well priced and thoughtful. Reservations are highly recommended any month of the year.
Norwoods Restaurant || 1714 Peninsula Rd., Ucluelet, Vancouver Island || norwoods.ca
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