Evening Sip, Savor, Stroll Tour

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Victoria’s vibrant food scene without the hassle of planning, the Evening Sip, Savor, Stroll Tour offers an engaging and delicious experience. This guided walk takes you through three of the city’s top dining spots, pairing food and drinks in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from 17 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find it a highlight of their trip.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers curated wine and food pairings from local and international vineyards, making the most of Victoria’s renowned culinary offerings. Second, the tour’s expert guides ensure you learn about each venue and the dishes served, adding depth to the tasting experience. Third, it’s a hassle-free way to sample multiple restaurants — no reservations or long waits needed.

One potential consideration is that at 2 hours 30 minutes, the tour is a bit on the shorter side, so it might feel rushed if you’re a slow eater or drinker. It’s best suited for those who appreciate good food, enjoyable drinks, and engaging guides, especially if you prefer a guided experience over solo restaurant hopping.

Ultimately, this tour appeals most to travelers who want a taste of Victoria’s culinary scene in a relaxed, social setting — ideal for foodies, first-timers, or anyone wanting an authentic local experience.

Good To Know

• Curated Food and Drink Pairings: Carefully planned at each stop to showcase local wines, cocktails, and regional bites.
• Visit Three Award-Winning Restaurants: Experience the best of Victoria’s dining scene without the hassle of reservations.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kathy make the tour informative and engaging, sharing insights along the way.
• Convenient and Hassle-Free: Skip long waits and enjoy a seamless, curated experience.
• Includes Alcoholic Beverages: Each stop features a sample of wine or a crafted cocktail, enhancing the tasting journey.
• Accessible & Small Groups: Max of 12 travelers, making it intimate and personalized.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: L’Apero Wine & Cheese Bistro

The tour kicks off at 1028 Blanshard Street, where you’ll settle into the charming ambiance of L’Apero, a spot renowned for its wine and cheese pairing. Here, you’ll indulge in a decadent Raclette — a Swiss alpine cheese melt that’s both hearty and sophisticated. Reviewers like Carol describe it as “a nice relaxing evening,” emphasizing how the cheese is melted right over a fire, adding an authentic, interactive element to the experience.

This first stop sets the tone for the evening: a blend of comfort and elegance, with expertly selected wines from British Columbia and around the world. The pairing of cheese and wine is planned to showcase the regional flavors, making each sip and bite a mini lesson in local gastronomy.

Second Stop: Courtney Room’s Pacific Northwest Flavors

Next, the group strolls to 619 Courtney Street, home to the award-winning Courtney Room. Chef Brian Tesolin’s creations here highlight the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, with appetizers carefully curated to reflect the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients. Reviewers like Matti praise the “wonderful” dishes and “delicious” cocktails, noting that the food showcases local flavors beautifully.

This part of the tour is a perfect opportunity to explore the farm-to-table concept, with small bites that are both visually appealing and flavorful. The wine pairings enhance the freshness of the dishes, creating a harmonious tasting experience you’re unlikely to forget.

Final Stop: The Empress Hotel’s Historic Charm

The last stop takes place inside the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, a true symbol of Victoria’s grandeur. The tour ends at Q at the Empress, a restaurant celebrated for its historic setting and refined menu. Guests can enjoy a dessert paired with a gin and tonic, rounding out the culinary journey with something sweet and refreshing.

Reviews highlight that Kathy, the guide, makes this segment memorable — “she was very knowledgeable and engaging,” says Lev_G. The historic hotel adds a touch of elegance, and the setting is perfect for a relaxed, special end to your evening.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes all your alcoholic beverages, with each restaurant providing a sample of wine or a crafted cocktail. Snacks span from the wine and cheese pairing at the first stop, to farm-fresh bites from the Courtney Room, and finishing with a dessert and drink at the Empress Hotel. This variety offers a well-rounded taste of Victoria’s culinary talent.

What’s not included is gratuity, so consider tipping your guide if you enjoyed their insights and service. The tour is designed to be accessible, with a moderate physical fitness level needed to walk between stops comfortably.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: 1028 Blanshard Street, Victoria, BC, at 7:00 pm. The tour concludes just a 5-minute walk away from the start at the Empress Hotel.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Group Size: Maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Price: At $148.47 per person, the tour offers good value when you consider the curated experience, drinks, and quality food.
• Booking in Advance: On average, travelers book 49 days ahead, indicating its popularity.

Why We Think It’s Worth It

With multiple reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, the delicious food, and the overall atmosphere, this tour appears to deliver on its promises. The fact that it avoids the typical restaurant reservation stress makes it a smart choice, especially for visitors unfamiliar with Victoria’s dining scene.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for food lovers and casual drinkers who want to explore Victoria’s culinary gems without the hassle of planning. It’s also quite suitable for those interested in learning about local wines and regional ingredients, thanks to guides like Kathy who share interesting tidbits.

Travelers who enjoy social outings, small-group intimacy, and a balance of sightseeing and tasting will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors wanting a manageable, enjoyable way to get a taste of Victoria’s vibrant food culture.

FAQ About the Evening Sip, Savor, Stroll Tour

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, allowing ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1028 Blanshard Street and ends about a five-minute walk away at the Empress Hotel, inside Q restaurant.

Is the tour suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, it is designed for those with a moderate fitness level, involving walking between stops and standing for short periods.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, each stop includes one alcoholic beverage, such as wine samples or cocktails, enhancing the tasting experience.

What kind of food is served?
You’ll sample cheese and wine, Pacific Northwest-inspired appetizers, and dessert, all from award-winning restaurants.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 12, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.

Do I need reservations for each restaurant?
No, the tour handles all reservations, saving you the hassle and wait times.

Final Thoughts

The Evening Sip, Savor, Stroll Tour offers a well-balanced combination of excellent food, curated drinks, and engaging storytelling — all within a relaxed walking format. It’s ideal for those eager to taste Victoria’s best restaurants without the stress of planning, making it perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a taste of local flavor.

With knowledgeable guides, gorgeous venues, and carefully selected pairings, this tour provides a memorable culinary evening that captures the essence of Victoria’s hospitality scene. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the city’s vibrant food culture in a friendly, intimate setting.