12 Must-Try Restaurants in Nanaimo

Supratik Das
Supratik Das Food & Recipes Places to Visit
12 Min Read
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As the calming winds and the winter enters with calmness, Canada shines on offering heartwarming food which gets your day special. From warm soups for the winter to the classic Canadian delicious dishes, you are offered bountiful numbers of choices and authentic dishes served from many regions of this world like Asian cuisines, Italian dishes, and French dishes that a few of these restaurants in Nanaimo offers.

Nanaimo, known as the hub city, is located in the heart of Vancouver Island and is a destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. With its breathtaking views of the ocean and its proximity to the coast, Nanaimo is a perfect spot for those looking to indulge in water activities such as scuba diving and kayaking.

Visitors can savor the flavors of locally-sourced seafood, international cuisine, and farm-to-table fare, all while taking in the beautiful views of the city and the sea in these few restaurants in Nanaimo offers. Don’t forget to experience the city’s culinary delights when visiting Nanaimo, you won’t regret it as this list will only show you the best Nanaimo restaurants.

A few of the Best Restaurants in Nanaimo

Many unspoken gems could’ve made it to this list, but unfortunately, there is only space for 12. So, these are the 12 best Nanaimo restaurants, that are set to win your heart.

1. Nest Bistro

A French and Italian combined restaurant in Nanaimo that has earned a name for itself as it offers only the finest combination of the most exquisite cuisines the world has ever seen. Fresh-made local seafood in this relaxed atmosphere will soothe your soul.

The services are optimum and take requests for personal customizations and restrictions. Nest bistro also offers takeout orders for the comfort of people eating at home. The fresh seafood risotto will amaze seafood enthusiasts and bring even more seafood lovers to this place. 

The nest bistro
Image Source: Google

Best Dishes to Order

Seafood Risotto and Sicilian Pizza.

2. Smokin George’s BBQ Restaurant

Smokin George’s BBQ is a beloved Nanaimo restaurant that is located in the heart of downtown. It is specifically renowned for its mouth-watering BBQ ribs and homemade BBQ sauce served with pulled pork, Smokin George’s BBQ is a must-visit destination for BBQ lovers. 

smoking george's
Image Source: Google

The atmosphere at Smokin George’s BBQ is casual and laid-back. This Nanaimo restaurant has an ambient feel to it, with wood-paneled walls and vintage BBQ memorabilia decorating the space. The staff is professional and welcoming, making it a desirable destination for a casual dinner with your close ones or your friends. One of the best BBQ restaurants in Nanaimo offering great food without a doubt.

Best Dishes to Order

Whole Rack of Ribs and Pig Only Plate.

3. Crow & Gate Pub

Crow & Gate Pub is one of the most popular Nanaimo restaurant serving fast-food which has quickly become a popular restaurant in Nanaimo. Located in a prime spot in the heart of the city, the restaurant offers delicious food, friendly service, and a casual atmosphere that keeps customers coming back for more.

crow & Gate pub
Image Source: Google

This Nanaimo restaurant offers an atmosphere that is jolly and upbeat, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends. Crow & Gate Pub is also a great spot for events, with ample space for large groups, and catering service available for any kind of event.

Best Dishes to Order

Harvest Salad and Pan-fried Oysters.

4. Firehouse Grill

As soon as you walk into Firehouse Grill, the warm and inviting atmosphere of this historic remain will make you feel right at home. Get your hands on some of the best food that is healthy as well as tasty. From sashimi to the famous onigiri you’ll find it all and more in this great spot. Firehouse grill offers excellently authentic Asian cuisines with a vintage outlook that is delightful.

firehouse grill
Image Source: Google

Best Dishes to Order

Miso Soup and Crab Cakes.

5. Zalathai Thai Restaurant

As soon as you step inside Zalathai, the warm and inviting atmosphere will transport you to the streets of Bangkok. The décor is subtle and soft making the ambiance cozy and intimate. Flavorful Thai dishes along with absolutely stunning seafood options will make you come back for more every time. Zalathai is one of the best Thai restaurants in Nanaimo that offers the best delicacies among most of the Thai restaurants.

Zalathai Thai Restaurant
Image Source: Google

Best Dishes to Order

Lime Leaves Wrap or traditional Pad Thai.

6. Nori Japanese Restaurant

Nori Japanese restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for exquisitely accurate and authentic Japanese food. Nori offers an abundant ranges of traditional Japanese delicacies to suit your taste buds. This is a widely one of the best Japanese restaurants in Nanaimo.

Nori Japanese Restaurant
Image Source: Google

Pork belly buns are also a must-try dish at Nori, which are steamed buns filled with succulent pork belly and a variety of flavorful toppings. These buns are very popular street food in Japan and are a great option for those looking for a lighter portion of a meal. Nori also offers a wide range of seafood dishes.

Best Dishes to Order

Prawn Tempura and Pork Belly Ramen are served with poached eggs which makes it a Nanaimo staple.

7. Nana Sushi

Nana Sushi is one of the famous Asian restaurants in Nanaimo. Varieties of seafood dishes like crab cakes and its very unique pizza dishes are served only at this restaurant. The York Style Pizza is a perfect combination of flavors and textures and is an assured hit for pizza lovers. All in all Nana sushi might be one of the best unique restaurants in Nanaimo offering a relaxed setting.

Nana Sushi
Image Source: Google

Best Dishes to Order

Sushi Pizza and York-style pizza makes it one of the most unique dishes serving restaurants in Nanaimo offers among many Asian food options.

8. Dinghy Dock Pub

Besides extensive menu, this popular pub is known for its great ambiance and friendly service. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy delicious burger, a fresh salad, or a hearty bowl of soup, you’re sure to find something you will love on the menu at one of the best Nanaimo restaurant.

Dinghy Dock Pub
Image Source: Google

A must-try beverage it serves is the Iced tea which is simply a delightful relaxing tea that will refresh your mind. The staff is friendly and provides excellent service, as they go out of their way to make sure that every guest has the best dining experience.

Best Dishes to Order

Ice tea and burgers make the perfect combination in this restaurant.

9. Alexandra’s Bistro

If you are looking for a romantic date with your partner, Alexandra’s Bistro offers the perfect spot and ambiance. This elegant restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious seafood pasta dishes that will make your taste buds sing as it is made with fresh and perfectly cooked pasta, and a variety of seafood including succulent shrimp, plump scallops, and tender calamari. Restaurants in Nanaimo have a lot of competition but on the basis of Italian and Greek food, Alexandra’s has got an edge.

Alexandra's Bistro
Image Source: Google

A variety of delicious pasta varieties are sure to impress you, as well as a friendly relaxing setting that is complimented by great service. It also offers excellent Greek and Indian delights that are sure to get you excited.

Best Dishes to Order

Greek platter for two served with a variety of Greek dishes makes it one of the best Greek restaurants in Nanaimo offers.

10. La Stella Trattoria

Pizzas like the Potato or Calabrese are also fantastic options, but everyone loves the traditional Mortadella with rosemary cream and Italian sausage.

La Stella Trattoria
Image Source: Google

An organic café serving exquisite food served with extremely polite service making it one of the best restaurants in Nanaimo offers.

Best Dishes to Order

Enjoy the homemade bread for starters and Calabrese for the main course.

11. Tandoor Junction

Tandoor Junction serves its extraordinary chicken and lamb dishes with a mix of authentic Indian spices which makes it a delight for first-timers as well the as the people who come back again for the delightful Indian dishes. This makes Tandoor Junction one of the best Indian restaurants in Nanaimo offers.

Tandoor Junction
Image Source: Google

Best Dishes to Order

Butter chicken and lamb curry with some garlic naan will do just amazing for any newcomer.

12. Astera’s Greek Taverna

If you’re in the mood for some delicious Greek cuisine, look no further than one of the best Greek restaurants in Nanaimo offers the best Astera’s Greek Taverna in Nanaimo. This cozy restaurant offers a relaxed setting and an extensive menu of authentic Greek dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Astera serves one of the best Greek salads among restaurants in Nanaimo that will surely amaze you.

Astera's Greek Taverna
Image Source: Google

Best Dishes to Order

Roast lamb with chicken souvlaki and lamb souvlaki. Also, the Greek salad is worth a try.

Conclusion

Nanaimo is a hub city located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, that offers many mouth-watering dishes that are set to put you on the point of great taste. Many restaurants in Nanaimo offering to have open-air seating, and the views of Nanaimo harbor make it a special place for dining at its finest and a relaxing setting with friends. Many restaurants, such as Gabriel’s café, Cactus Club as well the Riches restaurant, are worth the recommendation. These restaurants in Nanaimo have a lot of common features, which can also be considered the basic amenities many fail to provide.

Last Updated on by Sanjana

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