Nanaimo has a variety of restaurants to suit your culinary tastes. Numerous family restaurants, pubs, funky cafes, ethnic restaurants and fine dining establishments are placed throughout the city. Enjoy a four course meal downtown, or hop on the quick ten-minute ferry to eat at the Dinghy Dock Pub, Nanaimo’s floating pub situated on Protection Island. Check out a few of my favourite restaurants below.
Gina’s Mexican Café - Enjoy Nanaimo’s best margaritas and Mexican food at Gina’s Mexican Café, (the fish tacos are a must!) Operating for over 25 years, Gina’s has become somewhat of a Nanaimo staple. It’s funky atmosphere, delicious foods and tasty drinks are what keeps everyone coming back for more. Get there early as you might have to wait, but the wait is more than worth it, especially with a margarita in hand!
Cactus Club - For a casual meal with a bit of an edge, Cactus Club is a great choice. With its extensive menu and great selection of drinks, Cactus Club is one of Nanaimo’s favourite spots to eat or grab a couple of drinks and appies. Go for a date, or pop by with your buddies to watch the game. Enjoy casual classics or ethnic inspired creations, and don’t forget to try the Bellini’s!
Dinghy Dock Pub - For the experience alone, one must go to Nanaimo’s floating pub, the Dinghy Dock. Located on Protection Island, just a quick ten-minute ferry ride from Nanaimo’s downtown waterfront, the Dinghy Dock Pub is a Nanaimo favourite. Enjoy a great meal of seafood or try some of their great pub fare all while sitting Oceanside!
Astera’s Greek Taverna – For a more upscale meal and atmosphere, Astera’s Greek Taverna is an exceptional choice. Located downtown Nanaimo in the Old City Quarter, Astera’s is found in a beautiful Heritage home, over 100 years old. The menu boasts authentic Greek favourites, all house made as well as delicious desserts and a considerable wine selection.
Simon Holt - Locally owned and operated, Simon Holt is a great spot to go for a date, with friends and family or just to sit in the bar/lounge area and watch the game. With daily drink specials, made-in-house fare and a large patio space, Simon Holt is a new Nanaimo hot spot. Simon Holt boasts a large patio area, including a rooftop patio with ocean and mountain views and is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.
The Keg - The well-known and classic choice of The Keg never fails as a great restaurant choice. Stop by Nanaimo’s downtown Keg Location and enjoy their grilled to perfection steaks, succulent ribs or delicious chicken and seafood options. With an extensive wine list and classic steakhouse fare, The Keg is always a great choice.
Kasira - For the more adventurous, Kasira’s boasts fine, authentic Thai Cuisine. Located in the North end of Nanaimo, Kasira’s menu offers many different Thai dishes, including lots of vegetarian options. The quaint, Thai style atmosphere and delicious tastes are enough to keep people coming back for more.