Q at the Empress

This upscale dining restaurant is in a beautiful room, but is open to the often very boisterous bar, which interferes with what otherwise would be an elegant experience.

The menu offers a nice selection of appealing starters, but a somewhat limited selection of entrees.

We visited twice, because there are, frankly, not a lot of fine dining options in Victoria.

Standouts were the Crunchy Leaves (basically a Caesar salad) and the beautifully plated asparagus entree.

Least impressive was the sable fish, a large steamed chunk that was pretty much flavorless.

Service both nights was excellent.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/q-at-the-empress-victoria?osq=Q

Little Jumbo

This delightful little restaurant has a speak-easy feel without any affectation. \

Cocktail quality is front and center here, with an ever-changing list of thoughtful twists on classics and creative new concoctions.

The menu is equally well thought-out, with a varied list of starters and sharing plates, and a handful of impeccable entrees.

The staff were the real highlight, with friendly and efficient service. The entire restaurant was being handled by just two people; from front desk to bar to table service, and they made it look easy.

Highly recommended.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/little-jumbo-victoria?osq=Little+Jumbo