In the heart of Nanaimo, Vancouver Island’s coastal gem, a culinary evolution is quietly unfolding.
Indeed, when those taste buds start talking, Nanaimo’s got the answer in spades: from hometown haunts cooking up coastal classics to international eateries or even romantic restaurants housed in historic mansions, ‘Hub City’ certainly offers top-notch cooking at every turn!
Whether your culinary kryptonite lies in Pacific Northwest prime cuts, plates piled high with the local seafood or wood-fired pizzas, we do not doubt that you’ll find a restaurant to your liking in this charming coastal town. Best of all, Nanaimo’s eateries are known for their hyper-local and quality ingredients that practically ooze freshness.
So, grab your fork and join us as we take a deep dive into the best restaurants in Nanaimo!
Melange Restaurant
Let’s kick off our list of best restaurants in Nanaimo with one of our favourites: Melange!
Known for its locally sourced ingredients and innovative offerings, this restaurant is quite hard to get into since it’s always booked up.
We’re huge fans of the varied menu which includes dishes from different global cuisines. While we’re quite partial to their Pork Belly Ramen and their Pork Belly Buns, Melange Restaurant is also famous for its selection of Mumbai Street Snacks.
If you’re looking for brunch ideas, you can always consider their Orzo Salad with Poached Eggs or Poached Eggs Hash.
Just remember to make those reservations well in advance!
- Address: 223 Commercial St Unit #101, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5G5, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-740-0163
- Opening hours: 11.30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
The View Oceanside Grill
Water views and wonderful eats – what can be better than that?
Well, that’s along the lines of what you can expect from The View Oceanside Grill, located inside the Best Western Dorchester.
Easily one of the top places to eat in downtown Nanaimo, this restaurant is a seafood lover’s dream come true! Think plump, juicy prawns gratinated with aged cheddar and panko. Scallops, seared to perfection and topped with a soft poached quail egg. Luscious lobster meat bathed in velvety lashings of clarified garlic butter.
In addition to these classics, the restaurant also offers veggie sides like the Flash-Fried Brussels Sprouts.
Bear in mind that The View Oceanside Grill does not currently offer take-out services. Reservations are limited to 6 guests per group.
- Address: 70 Church St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5H4, Canada
- Phone: +1 778-441-4229
- Opening hours: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday to Thursday and Sunday), 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)
The Nest Bistro
Next up on our list of best restaurants in Nanaimo is The Nest Bistro, one of the best-kept secrets in British Columbia!
Not only does this place offer the ideal setting for a romantic date, but it also features a delightful fusion of fine Italian and French cuisine. Talk about enjoying the best of both worlds, right?
With a refined interior and outdoor patio seating, The Nest Bistro also has an interesting wine selection that changes seasonally. As far as the menu is concerned, we’re quite partial to their bestselling Spinach Lasagna Verde which (literally) oozes a creamy herb-and-pistachio pesto.
- Address: 77 Skinner St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5G9, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-591-2721
- Opening hours: 4.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. (Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays)
Bistro Taiyo Japanese Restaurant
If you’re looking for authentic Japanese cuisine, head over to Bistro Taiyo Japanese Restaurant set in downtown Nanaimo.
The restaurant is quite small and often packed with locals and tourists alike, so be sure to reserve your table in advance. Outdoor seating is available for groups.
Don’t leave without trying their inside-out Philadelphia Roll, brimming with cream cheese filling, avocado, and cucumber. Along with an extensive sushi menu, the restaurant also features classic Japanese fare like Donburi, Udon noodles, and Yakisoba.
Takeaway is available, but deliveries have been temporarily suspended.
- Address: 321 Wesley St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T5, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-716-8861
- Opening hours: Noon to 8 p.m. (Monday to Saturday), Closed on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Smokin’ George’s BBQ Restaurant
As far as barbecue restaurants are concerned, it’s pretty hard to beat Smokin’ George’s BBQ restaurant!
Easily one of the top restaurants in Nanaimo, Smokin’ George serves southern-style BBQ, often adding their own additive twists to the classics. This is one of the best places for enjoying all sorts of chicken, homemade sausage, pulled pork, pork ribs, beef briskets and more!
Generous portions mean that groups are easily catered for. In fact, they’ve got a ‘Feasts’ section on their menu which features larger sharing platters accompanied by fries, cornbread, slaw, and beans.
And that’s not all: given how scrumptious their grilled meats are, Smokin’ George’s BBQ restaurant also offers a selection of frozen dishes that you can store at home and defrost whenever you want some comfort food.
- Address: 4131 Mostar Rd #5, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6A6, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-585-2258
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Alexandra’s Bistro
Here’s one restaurant that never fails to hit the spot!
Now, don’t be fooled by its homely atmosphere and cozy décor. Alexandra’s Bistro offers amazing Greek dishes that’ll have you returning for more.
Although we love their classic Moussaka and Spanakopita, what really sets Alexandra Bistro apart is their Chicken, Prawn, or Lamb Souvlaki. We were quite pleasantly surprised to realize that in addition to authentic Greek fare, Alexandra’s Bistro also features pasta and Indian dishes on its menu.
Bear in mind that the restaurant is only open for dinner.
- Address: 2220 Bowen Rd #21, Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H9, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-729-7134
- Opening hours: 4 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
Firehouse Grill
Sushi can be pretty innovative on its own, but the Firehouse Grill takes it up a notch by offering the most creative ways of serving this scrumptious dish!
With a historic yet contemporary interior, the restaurant has a delightfully laidback setting- the kind where you can kick back and get as messy as you’d like while chomping down on their ridiculously plump, juicy burgers smothered in molten asiago cheese and BBQ sauce!
Yep – it’s not just about creative sushi: in true grill-house fashion, the Firehouse Grill does serve burgers as well. Popular options include the Big Willy (topped with bacon and BBQ sauce), Californian (topped with spicy tuna, fresh avocado, and molten mayo) and the Fire Hydrant (topped with asiago cheese and house-pickled jalapenos).
And if you’re not teetotal, believe us when we say nothing washes a grilled feast down better than their Blonde Ale.
- Address: 75 Front St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5H9, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-716-0323
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Milano’s Ristorante
We sure hope you’re ready for a slice of the Mediterranean, because that’s exactly what awaits at Milano’s Ristorante!
A local favourite- not surprising since this is among the best restaurants in Nanaimo- Milano’s dates all the way back to 1974. Back then, it was named ‘Romeo’s’ and was located in Victoria, B.C.
With a relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired setting, Milano’s Ristorante specializes in pasta and pizza, as well as authentic Italian fare. All their dishes are prepared fresh daily, using fresh and quality ingredients.
Their menu is really extensive though but if you’re not quite sure where to start, their Pasta Corfu (Linguini noodles with seafood, garlic butter and white wine) is always a safe bet. Finish strong with a Skör Cheesecake which is drenched in homemade caramel sauce.
- Address: 6551 Aulds Rd #300, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6K2, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-390-5060
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Jalapenos Mexican Food
One of Nanaimo’s most beloved family-owned establishments, Jalapenos Mexican Food is often said to be a second-to-none place for savouring homestyle Mexican cuisine in the city!
For starters, their menu is pretty extensive, so there’ll always be something new for you to try. The restaurant’s unpretentious but traditional Mexican décor perfectly complements their authentic offerings like the Mexican Plate which consists of an enchilada, crispy beef taco, and cheese tostada, all served alongside rice and beans of course!
Personally, we found ourselves going back for their Taco Trio Plate which is just as scrumptious as it sounds! This one features a pulled pork carnitas, a steak taco, and a pork Al Pastor taco.
The restaurant is also renowned for its super warm service and hearty portions. Lunch specials are available daily.
- Address: 450-B Wakesiah Ave, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3K9, Canada
- Phone: +1 778-441-4020
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. (closed on Monday)
Zalathai Thai Restaurant
Okay, we can’t put together a list of the top restaurants in Nanaimo without mentioning Zalathai Thai Restaurant – a place that’s as exotic as it’s popular!
Although you’ll never find a Thai restaurant in Nanaimo that rivals the ones in Thailand, Zalathai certainly comes close. The restaurant definitely pulled out all the stops to put together an exceptionally delicious collection of authentic Thai dishes. Think Jun Pad Pu (crab), Lime Leaves Wrap, Som Tum (papaya salad), and the like.
You’ll also find daily lunch specials like Moo Gratiem (garlic pork), Pad Pak Raum (stir fry vegetables), and of course, the traditional Green, Red, and Yellow Curries. It wouldn’t be a Thai menu without these!
- Address: 22 Victoria Crescent, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5B8, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-591-6988
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday and Tuesday, Friday and Saturday), 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Wednesday), 12 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Weekend)
The Breakfast Nook
If you’re looking for a great breakfast, how about a date at The Breakfast Nook?
Specializing in all-day brekkie fare, this place also offers a varied selection of drinks, including ice-cold juices, Americanos, classic French Press, and Cappuccinos.
What we like the most about The Breakfast Nook is how it’s got comfort eats as well as lighter dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy Fruit Bowl with a slice of Rye Toast or something more substantial like their Breakfast Hash (my personal favourite), this place certainly has you covered!
- Address: 440 Selby St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2R7, Canada
- Phone: +1 236-628-2329
- Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday to Monday), 7 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. (Tuesday to Thursday)
Gabriel’s Café
Widely known for its breakfasts, Gabriel’s Café commands a great location smack at the city’s centre!
What makes this place one of the best restaurants in Nanaimo is that it’s committed to supporting local farmers and food producers. As such, you can expect fresh, farm-to-table dishes with locally sourced eggs, meats, and seasonal vegetables.
While it’s mainly known for its breakfasts, rest assured that Gabriel’s Café also offers an All-Day Menu packed full of delectable offerings like Poke Bowls, Burgers, Salads, and Rice Bowls. For something different, you can always try their North African tomato, chickpea, and yam stew which is usually served as a side.
Oh, and did we mention that you can easily order online for easier pickup if you don’t have time to dine in? Gift Cards are also available.
- Address: 39 Commercial St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5G3, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-714-0271
- Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Vault Café
If you want a bit more of a community atmosphere, head to The Vault Café which is easily recognizable by its baby pink facade.
This is the type of place where you’ll be tempted to linger a bit longer over your coffee while chatting among yourselves or with other customers. The interior is undeniably cozy, but unlike other cafes, The Vault also features live evening entertainment, often with open mics!
As far as the menu is concerned, you can expect classic Canadian fare like Poutine and potato soup. They often have specialties like the Reuben sandwich made from Montreal corned beef and regional specialties like the iconic Nanaimo Bar.
Thanks to its eclectic, eye-catching décor, The Vault is known for being one of the most Insta-Worthy spots in Nanaimo, so mealtimes tend to be a bit crowded.
- Address: 499 Wallace St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5B7, Canada
- Phone: +1 778-441-2950
- Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday and Tuesday), 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Wednesday), 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. (Thursday and Friday), 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. (Saturday)
Mambo Gourmet Pizza
When it comes to the best restaurants in Nanaimo, it’s not too often that you’ll find a basic pizzeria on the list- but don’t buy into its deceptively plain-ish appearance!
While it may look like yet another pizza joint, Mambo Gourmet Pizza sets itself apart with its incredibly fluffy crusts and unique combinations.
Opened in 1995, Mambo Gourmet Pizza also stood the test of time thanks to its innovative menu and signature 18” pies. You’ll find classic picks like Cheese, Hawaiian, and Pepperoni pizzas but also more creative ones like the Mando Pesto (chicken, onions, feta, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto).
Another beloved speciality is the Hangover Pizza which, true to its name, is loaded with pepperoni, bacon, ground ham, tomatoes, and mozzarella – basically, everything you need to soak up the booze after a fun evening!
Online ordering is available for both delivery and pickup.
- Address: 238 C Franklyn St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2X4, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-753-6667
- Opening hours: 11.30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Tuesday to Thursday), 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Friday), 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday and Monday), 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Sunday)
La Stella Trattoria
Famous for its delicious antipasti, pasta, and wood-fired pies, La Stella Trattoria is known as one of the best Nanaimo restaurants – and for good reason!
Nestled in a quiet area in the Old City Quarter, this restaurant is quite small, but they do have patio seating in warmer seasons. Their wood-fired pies are famous all over the city- not surprising since La Stella Trattoria is home to Nanaimo’s very first wood-fired pizza oven.
While their pizzas are among the most sought-after items on the menu, be sure to try their homemade pastas as well. These are made daily by hand and gluten-free options are also available. When it comes to cooking, the restaurant favours fresh, seasonal ingredients and old-school methods- and you’ll definitely taste the difference!
- Address: 321 Wesley St #1, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T5, Canada
- Phone: +1 778-441-4668
- Opening hours: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday to Sunday), 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Wednesday and Thursday), Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
The Mahle House
The Mahle House has been around since 1983 – so it’s definitely doing something right!
With almost a perfect 5-star score on Google reviews, this spot is not only one of the top Nanaimo restaurants, but it’s also one of the classiest. In fact, it’s located right in a 1904 Heritage House in Cedar, just 10 minutes south of the city.
Surrounded by an English ornamental garden, The Mahle House offers the ideal setting for a romantic lunch date, especially on a warm summer’s day.
Because the restaurant only uses seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, you can expect all dishes to be super flavourful. For something special, you can visit the restaurant on Wednesday evenings to try their weekly 5-course Chef’s menu.
The regular menu isn’t available on Wednesday evenings, but it does feature mouthwatering offerings like the Bison Carpaccio, the House-Cut Truffle Fries, and the Pan Roasted Halibut (fresh and local!).
Now, the price definitely is on the higher side, but if you feel like splurging, we can assure you that it’s more than worth it!
- Address: 2104 Hemer Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9X 1L8, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-722-3621
- Opening hours: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. (closed on Monday and Tuesday)
Milton Street Public House
Known for its bustling neighbourhood vibes, Milton Street Public House is one of our favourite places to eat in Nanaimo.
This is the kind of place where friends usually gather for a relaxed bite and something to eat after work. Friday nights can get particularly busy, so be sure to plan ahead if visiting then.
Milton Street Public House is especially famed for its Fried Calamari and Salt Cured Pork Rinds served with grainy ginger mustard and sherry vinegar. As far as mains are concerned, you’ll have a choice of hearty sandwiches, pastas, flatbreads and grilled combos like the Milton Pub Plate which features andouille sausage, cheddar, house pate, pickle, and a side salad.
- Address: 247 Milton St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2K5, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-591-1090
- Opening hours: 12 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. (Sunday to Thursday), 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)
Longwood Brew Pub
We’d be remiss to create a guide to the best restaurants in Nanaimo without mentioning the Longwood Brew Pub!
With two locations in Nanaimo (a brewery on Boxwood Road and a Brewpub Restaurant on Turner Road), this establishment is said to be the very first brewpub in central Vancouver Island.
Because it’s committed to sustainability, this mountain-view hangout spot only uses fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. In fact, they don’t filter their beer, allowing it to retain its natural flavours, nutrients, and minerals.
In true pub fashion, you have heaps of snacks on offer including Baked Crab Cakes, Mini Yorkshire Beef Sliders, Calamari, and Tempura Prawns. You can even get chicken wings by the pound. These are infused with house beer sauces.
Their entrée menu is short but bursting with flavour. You can expect pub classics like Longwood Ale Battered Fish and Chips, Baby Back Ribs, and the like.
- Address: 5775 Turner Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6L8, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-7298-225
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Asteras
Tucked away in the Old Quarter, this little eatery may look humble, but did you know that it won three Best of the City awards?
A beloved Greek restaurant in Nanaimo, Asteras Greek Taverna is especially known for its simple, no-frills approach to Cretan cuisine.
Everything is made using fresh and simple ingredients to ensure that authentic taste. All their dishes are made from scratch and flavour is introduced by boiling actual chickens instead of dropping a bouillon cube into the chicken stock. No shortcuts there for sure!
The restaurant itself is housed in a quaint old house with warm colours and cozy, candlelit tables. In fact, the romantic vibe means that Asteras has seen more than its fair share of proposals in the past.
When you’re there, don’t miss the generously portioned Spaghettini with Greek Meat Sauce and Grated Saganaki Cheese and (of course!) the classic Moussaka. Couples can always treat themselves to one of their Sharing Platters, served alongside rice, potato, tzatziki, pita, rice, and Greek salad.
After your meal, you can always kick back with a glass of wine while enjoying live music late into the night.
- Address: 347 Wesley St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3A7, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-716-0451
- Opening hours: 11.30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Tuesday to Friday), 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday), closed on Mondays
Penny’s Palapa
For something different, you may wish to visit Penny’s Palapa, a floating restaurant that serves up authentic Mexican dishes with a West Coast twist! No wonder it’s said to be among the best Nanaimo restaurants!
First things first though: because of its location on the water, this restaurant is only open seasonally, so do call ahead. Their 2023 season is officially closed but they’re already accepting reservations for their new season in April 2024.
In addition to its terrific location, the restaurant offers an awesome selection of tacos, including Halibut Tacos, Pork Pastor Pacos and my personal favourite, the Chili Lime Prawn Tacos which consists of 3 soft tortillas, pico de gallo, seasoned prawns, zesty yogurt sauce and slaw.
Various types of botanas and enchiladas are also available.
- Address: 10 Wharf St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2X3, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-753-2150
- Opening hours: 11.30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Eve Olive
A great spot for vegans and vegetarians, Eve Olive specializes in plant-based dishes inspired by various cultures around the world.
As such, you can expect to find everything from classic American dishes to Mediterranean-inspired favourites!
With a great selection of cocktails, beers and wines sourced primarily from local wineries, Eve Olive offers both indoor and patio seating. Some favourites off the menu include the Thai Coconut Curry served with linguini rice noodles and the Pulled ‘Pork’ Style Mushroom Burger which pairs superbly with a pint of the local draft beer.
- Address: 5281 Rutherford Rd #102, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5N9, Canada
- Phone: +1 250-585-5337
- Opening hours: 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Looking for More Things to Do in British Columbia?
When it comes to Nanaimo and the rest of Canada for that matter, we’ve got you covered. From restaurant ideas to fun attractions, check out our many detailed travel guides about British Columbia.
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