Victoria’s Bodega Tapas and Wine Bar

Often it takes a friend to introduce you to what has been there all along. That was the case just the other day when a friend suggested we go for some bites and a glass of wine.

Although I spend considerable time in Victoria I am still discovering great, new to me, places. It’s no wonder there are so many more to discover, have you any idea how many eateries there are in Victoria? Everything from bubble tea to exquisite cuisine. There is something for everyone right here in Victoria.

For every 1,000 residents, there are more restaurants, eateries, pubs, and bars than in any other Canadian city. With 67 eateries per 10,000 residents.* No wonder I don’t know all the places, but I’m learning where the really good spots are.

We just happened to arrive shortly after 3 pm on a Wednesday, very timely as the Bodega’s Happy Hour runs from 3 to 5. This is ideal and compare it to some other Happy Hours that are really only an hour. That’s too rushed. I should also note here that the Happy Hour menu is extensive and varied with many items to choose from. The Happy Hour pricing will make you happy here.

Head over to the Bodega on Broad Street, open till 10 pm Sunday to Thursday and until 11 pm Friday and Saturday. This is a popular place, and for good reason.

A cozy space with tables and high tops as well as a glassed patio section adjacent to the bustling alleyway. Anchored by a bar and dark, rich furnishings the Bodega feels immediately both welcoming and comforting. A respite from the hussle and bussle of the workplace and tourist filled streets.

Come on in, sit down, relax and enjoy yourself for awhile.

We indulged in a couple of items from the Happy Hour menu, not an easy feat because every item was so tempting. In the end we took the safe route and started with a reasonably priced Cheese Board, a selection of three cheeses, roasted almonds, a fruit compote, figs and preserved apricots, served with a basket of baguette. We decided on one other dish so we chose a dish of warm Prawns poached in a garlic butter sauce and served with a generous portion of fresh focaccia bread. Just enough to satisfy our hunger without spoiling our appetite for a later dinner.

I opted for the white wine on offer for Happy Hour, a pleasant and satisfying Vinho Verde from Portugal at a very reasonable Happy Hour price of $7. for a good pour.

So thanks good friend for introducing me to a new spot that I know I will be returning to often.