Food is a powerful thing. It brings people together, associates memories to flavours, and creates opportunities for new experiences. Whether it’s meeting with extended family for dinner or quickly stopping at a cafe for an Americano, food plays a pivotal role in your full experience a place. Like many destinations, Nanaimo has no shortage of great, local cuisine. But in a city so large, it’s not always easy to find those great, hidden gems. 


That’s where a food tour comes in.

Tours can either be done on your own with one of our itineraries or facilitated through a local expert from Vancouver Island Expeditions

Hop On A Food Tour With Vancouver Island Expeditions

Locally owned and operated by people who live and work in Nanaimo, these food tours are masterfully planned to feature the best culinary experiences, from seafood to sweet treats and everything in between. Experience a little bit of everything, or opt for a tour that’s more specific, there are plenty of options for every preference. 

Between destinations, you’ll be led on-foot or shuttled in the comfort of the company van. Along the way, your guide will provide fun facts about the history and culture of specific locations to create a fully immersive experience. Even long-time locals often learn something new!

Curious to learn more? Visit Vancouver Island Expedition’s website to see a full list of tours and availability. 

 

Go Exploring With A Self-Guided Tour

Eager to go at it on your own? We’ve got you covered. Here are a few great itineraries to help set you on a delicious path.

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Nanaimo Bar Trail

Nanaimoites are serious about their namesake bar. The love for the Nanaimo Bar has transcended from the quintessential sweet treat West-coasters know and love. Now, you can savour the tri-layered treat in various forms, including cheesecake, ice cream, or a martini.

Get the full Nanaimo Bar Trail Map.

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Craft Beverage Tour

The craft beverage scene in Nanaimo has blown up in recent years. Breweries, coffee roasters, a distillery are mixing up something new all the time.

  • White Sails Brewing
  • Wolf Brewing
  • Longwood Brewery
  • Arbutus Distillery
  • Regard Coffee Roasters
  • Gulf Island Roasting Co.
  • Millstone Estate Winery
  • Chateau Wolff Estate Winery & Vineyard

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Must-Try Local Restaurants

  • Gabriel’s Cafe
  • Mon Petite Choux
  • Cold Front Gelato
  • Burnt Honey Dessert Company
  • Asteras
  • La Stella Trattoria
  • Firehouse Grill
  • The Nest Bistro
  • The Dinghy Dock Pub
  • Eve Olive
  • & many more!

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Check out the Sip & Savour page for a full list of all things food and drink in Nanaimo!