Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1215222
12 | Destination Greater Victoria 2020 | 800-663-3883 F O O D & D R I N K Practically every neighbourhood in Greater Victoria has its own farmers' market, but the James Bay Market could be the most whimsical. It's an open- air bazaar that runs every Saturday, May to September, where local farmers and artisans set up right on the grass, serenaded by live bands. Year-round markets include the Esquimalt Farm- ers Market (outdoors May through September, in the Es- quimalt Recreation Centre the rest of the year) and the Vic- toria Public Market. Housed inside the old Hudson's Bay building downtown, the lat- ter features The Very Good Butchers – not purveyors of meat at all, but producers of organic, plant-based meat al- ternatives like Ribz, pepperoni, Smokin' burgers, bangers and Stuffed Beast. They have a lile sit-in restaurant too, so you can try their Very Big Mac and gluten-free, vegan Mac 'n Cheeze. Driving out of downtown up to The Roost Farm Bakery & Vineyard Bistro in North Saanich is a different kind of farm-to-table experience. It's a farm with a winery, bistro and bakery all in one location. The wheat grass you see blowing in the wind is milled on-site and used in the establishment's freshly baked breads. You can stroll the vineyard, take a tour, do a tasting and then sele in at the bistro to taste food that's grown within sight of where you're siing. On the way back to town, swing by Country Bee Honey Farm for a jar of infused honey – great paired with your favourite dishes. The Glenrosa Farm Restaurant offers a similar on-location experience, but with the ultimate storybook view. Imagine sipping the Island's Unsworth Pinot Noir rose on the patio of a lemon-yellow heritage house that overlooks rolling fields and a weather-beaten grey barn in Metchosin. Brunch, lunch and aernoon tea make this the perfect midday stop in the sprawling farmlands just outside of downtown Victoria. Down on the FARM Cruise the MARKETS GUIDED DINING Try a food tour with A Taste of Victoria, Off the Eaten Track or Feast Concierge & Tours. SATURDAY GRAZING Find the likes of De Vine Wines & Spirits and Sheringham Distillery at Moss Street Market. Much of Saanich remains rich and scenic agricultural land, helping supply the city's eateries Expect to be surprised by what's on offer at James Bay Market (above); or try the meat-free hamburgers at The Very Good Butchers (left) MATT SHANNON; (JAMES BAY MARKET) KATE KING; THE VERY GOOD BUTCHER; ISTOCK