Where to find fresh, creative dishes conceptualized by some of the city’s best chefs, that are sure to please the palate.

By Cinda Chavich

Winner: Zambri’s

BestRestaurants-ZambrisChefDrivenChef Peter Zambri. Photograph by Jeffrey Bosdet. 

Peter Zambri is one of the city’s best-loved chefs and together with his sister Jo, delivers beautiful Italian “soul food” at Zambri’s. It’s a bright, modern space with an excellent wine list, professional staff and a green, carbon-neutral ethos. Zambri’s has space for large groups, but singles can grab a seat at the bar too. It’s a comfortable and convivial place to dine, whether you’re craving a simple plate of pasta or an inspired, multi-course Italian dinner.

Zambri’s, 820 Yates St., 250-360-1171, zambris.ca

 

Runner Up: Saveur

At Saveur, chef Robert Cassels cooks every night, melding his French style with local ingredients for truly innovative tasting menus that offer a culinary journey in protein- or vegetable-forward courses.

Saveur, 658 Herald St., 250-590-9251, saveurrestaurant.ca

 

Runner Up: Wild Mountain Food & Drink

Chef Oliver Kienest looks to local farmers and fishers for his inspired seasonal cuisine at Wild Mountain Food + Drink, where ingredients are literally foraged in the forest or beach outside his kitchen in Sooke.

Wild Mountain Food & Drink, 1831 Maple Avenue S., Sooke, 250-642-3596, wildmountaindinners.com

Honorable Mentions: OLO, The Courtney Room


More Best Restaurants

The 2018 Best Restaurants were selected by a panel of judges. Meet the judges here

Best Overall Restaurants 

Best New Restaurants 

Best Casual Restaurants 

Best Hidden Gems

Best Chef-Driven 

Best Upscale 

Best Cocktail Bars 

Best Brunch

Best Food Trucks

Best Farm-to-Table

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This is from the July/August 2018 issue of YAM