The Bon Vivant

Never mind pearls, Victorians know the real treasure to be found in oyster shells is the fresh, briny taste of the ocean. Whether you chew or swallow them whole, enjoy garnished or baked, once you get a taste for fresh BC oysters, you’ll be hooked. The next time the craving hits, here’s where to go for your shellfish fix.

Caesars are a staple in Canadian cuisine; they're right up there with poutine, Nanaimo bars, maple syrup and Kraft Dinner. The unlikely combination of vodka, Clamato and Worcestershire sauce with some celery, asparagus or even bacon thrown in for the grand finale, doesn't sound like it should work. But it does. Here's where to go in Victoria to enjoy some of the best Caesars in town.

Charcuterie, a French method of cold meat preparation, has taken off in Victoria and the results are delicious. The intense flavour created by the curing of pork and other cuts of meat, pairs wonderfully with artisanal cheeses, pickles and condiments for an elegant and social snacking experience. If you're looking to get in on the culinary fun, head to one of these charcuterie hotspots.

For years, BC’s liquor laws didn’t allow happy hours, but that all changed in 2014. With new minimum drink prices in place, bars and restaurants in Victoria are now free to offer deals throughout the day. Here are a few places that have really taken advantage of the changes, with food and drink specials that’ll keep you happy for longer than an hour.

Kick up your heels and let your hair down. It’s time to enjoy a night out with your favourite ladies! We’ve found the best local hangouts – a mix of fun, lively bars and excellent restaurants – for your next girls’ night out in Victoria.

Sometimes you just need a plate of fried food after a night of club-hopping. Or, an elegant meal following an evening at the theatre. Or, pizza to refuel after an all-night study session. Whatever the reason, your hunger needn’t be bound by "the rules" of when to eat dinner. When you’re hungry, you’re hungry – so, dig in at one of these late-night eateries.

Whether you need a night out on the town or would rather spend a low-key evening at a local pub or restaurant, Leslieville has the cocktail bar for you. Toronto is known for its variety of watering holes and Leslieville doesn’t disappoint. There’s always a new place to explore in this neighbourhood! Here are the hippest hangouts for cocktail hour in Leslieville. [Image credit: iStock.com/Ezhukov]

At some point in the new millennium, ‘going for a drink’ evolved into a spectator sport. Bartenders are the new celebrity chefs and some bars even take reservations so they can treat clients to limited edition spirits mixed in new and delicious ways. Check out these nine hot spots that feature talented mixologists.

Many breakfast lovers will stop at nothing to stand in line for the best Bennies, crispy bacon or delectable pastries. Others want to by-pass the crowds and lineups, opting instead for a simple, quick and easy brunch menu for dining and dashing. Here is a list of great Toronto brunch bistros:

There is nothing quite like a comprehensive wine list to match a beautiful food menu, but sometimes you want to try something different to drink with each course. The answer is a visit toone of Toronto’s fantastic wine bars and taverns, where talented sommeliers have done the hard part, creating a large list of wines by the glass and wine flights, leaving you to enjoy the fruit of their labours.

Perhaps you’ve been out with the family to Riverdale Farm, or you’re on your way to a party at a friend’s place nearby. Either way, it’s warm out and you’d like to celebrate with a drink or meal on a patio. So where should you go? Enjoy some quality time outdoors at these Cabbagetown eateries with great patios.

Some of the best restaurants in Toronto are on trendy West Queen West. Many offer food that should be enjoyed with wine to truly highlight the flavours, textures and styles. Food and wine are meant for each other at these restaurants, so bring your appetite and prepare to quench your thirst with some vino.